Dylan Raiola, the starting quarterback for the Nebraska Cornhuskers, witnessed a historic upset this past week. In attendance during Nebraska’s overtime thriller against No. 18 Fighting Illini, Raiola has quickly become the face of the athletics program in Lincoln.
The win ended Nebraska’s six-game losing streak, improving their record to 13-8, while Illinois fell to 14-7.
Nebraska’s Overtime Victory: Cornhuskers Upset No. 18 Illinois
Nebraska’s Brice Williams led all scorers with 27 points as Raiola, sitting courtside, watched on. Illinois, 14-7 (6-5 Big Ten), has been without center Tomislav Ivisic, who was diagnosed with mono. His absence allowed other talents, such as forward Will Riley (16 points, 4 rebounds and 1 assist), to shine in crucial moments.
Underwood and Cornhuskers coach Fred Hoiberg embraced in the handshake line, as the former Chicago Bulls coach finally secured an iconic win after a long, bitter string of tight conference losses.
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Neither team excelled in every facet of the game. Illinois shot a dismal 36% from the field, while Nebraska shot 40%. The Cornhuskers maintained control in the first half, leading 40-31 at the break, thanks to superior shooting and fewer mistakes.
Illinois rallied in the second half to force overtime but was outscored 10-4 in the extra period—a fact Underwood did not address after the loss.
Illinois has lost four of its previous six games and will face Ohio State on Sunday, while the Cornhuskers seek their first two-game winning streak since the new year. Nebraska also plays Sunday, traveling to Eugene to face No. 16 Oregon.
The Presence of Star QB
Notably, Raiola—Nebraska’s star quarterback—was there to witness the upset, making the evening even more exciting. In an Instagram video posted by CBS Sports College Basketball, Raiola, who led his football team to a bowl victory over Boston College last month, erupted as the clock hit quadruple zeros.
This unexpected upset showcases Nebraska’s persistence and marks a turning point for the program, revealing potential for growth as both teams prepare for important contests. The victory boosts Nebraska’s confidence as they look to capitalize on the momentum in their next Big Ten game.
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