When the Colorado Buffaloes travel to Lincoln, Nebraska to face off against rival Nebraska this Saturday, it’ll be the first true test for both teams this season.
CU managed to hold off North Dakota State at home in the opener but will now go into enemy territory against a young team that boasts an exciting quarterback prospect.
Dylan Raiola was the No. 1 QB prospect in the country coming out of high school and won the starting job as a true freshman. In his only action so far, he went 19-for-27 for 238 yards and two touchdowns against a hapless UTEP team as Nebraska ran away with the game, 40-7.
Raiola has drawn comparisons to Patrick Mahomes for his appearance and play style, something both had leaned into.
He looked the part in his first start.
Now, the Buffs must do what they can to slow him down if they’re looking at a potential College Football Playoff appearance. Last week NDSU’s Cam Miller threw an efficient game going 18-for-22, throwing for 277 yards and a touchdown but also added 81 yards on the ground. It was enough of an effort to make the Buffs sweat out the game and defend until the clock ran up.
Raiola is a different beast, though he poses less of a threat on the ground and is four years less experienced than Miller. Still, he was at one point committed to both Georgia and Ohio State, so despite his youth, it’s unlikely his confidence will be shot easily.
Had this game been in Boulder, then perhaps he would’ve been easier to shake with the crowd against him but with the Buffs traveling their best bet is to silence what will be a loud and unruly Memorial Stadium.
Coach Prime understands the challenge ahead and was complimentary of the young Nebraska QB ahead of their match-up.
The Buffs' best defense might just be a better offense as this is a marquee matchup of signal callers. QB Shedeur Sanders was both extremely productive and efficient in the win over NDSU and lived up early to his status as a potential Heisman candidate and first-round NFL prospect. Explosive plays came in waves for the Buffs but tempo and control offense will be key by keeping the ball away from Raiola leaving him unable to get in rhythm.
Raiola wasn’t a part of the team last year but the Buffs should expect a team eager to avenge last year's game when CU rolled through the Cornhuskers, 36-14. Starting off his career with an L on his own field would be a great way to welcome him to the rivalry.
Cover courtesy of Nebraska Athletics/Huskers.com
Comments