Nebraska Quarterback Dylan Raiola Undergoes Successful Surgery After Breaking Fibula in USC Game
LINCOLN, Neb. — Nebraska quarterback Dylan Raiola is recovering after undergoing successful surgery in New York to repair a broken fibula sustained during Saturday’s matchup against USC.
The freshman quarterback shared an update on social media Wednesday, posting a photo from his Manhattan hospital bed with the caption: “Successful surgery! Thank y’all for the constant love and support!! The road back starts now! God’s got it written!!”
Injury Occurred During USC Game
Raiola’s injury happened midway through the third quarter when he was sacked by a USC defender on a passing play. The hit caused him to fumble the ball as he fell awkwardly to the ground. Trainers rushed to the field immediately, and he was later diagnosed with a broken fibula.
Following the game, head coach Matt Rhule confirmed that Raiola will miss the remainder of the season, noting that recovery could take eight to ten weeks.
“This is a tough loss for the team, but Dylan’s in great hands,” Rhule said. “He’s a competitor, and we expect him to come back stronger than ever.”
TJ Lateef Steps In as Starting Quarterback
With Raiola sidelined, true freshman TJ Lateef will take over as Nebraska’s starting quarterback. Lateef, who made his Husker debut earlier this season against Akron, is expected to finish out the team’s final stretch of games.
Lateef has drawn praise from coaches for his poise and quick learning in practice. “He’s ready for this moment,” Rhule said. “We believe in TJ and what he can bring to the offense.”
What’s Next for Nebraska
Nebraska’s next test comes this weekend in another prime-time showdown against UCLA. Kickoff is set for 8 p.m. on Saturday, where Lateef will lead the Huskers’ offense for the first time as a starter.
Fans and teammates have flooded social media with messages of encouragement for Raiola, wishing him a full and speedy recovery.
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