Dylan Raiola’s weight has become a hot topic in Nebraska football circles lately. At 6’3, 230 pounds, he isn’t exactly chiseled. And this aspect troubled HC Matt Rhule who’ll depend on his second-year starter in 2025. Previously, he mentioned one of Raiola’s top areas of improvement is “getting his weight to the proper weight.” This statement paved the way for many to take the same stance, especially when the QB went viral after a clip of him surfaced looking a little too healthy. 

Huskers analyst Damon Benning echoed this necessity saying, “If one of your physically most gifted players, the natural leader, if he got like an elite level fitness, just imagine what that would do for the guys around him.” Is it a big deal? Maybe, maybe not. But with all the chatter, you knew his coach was going to get asked about it. 

Matt Rhule joined Coach Urban Meyer and Rob Stone on The Triple Option on February 27 to deliver his stance on Dylan Raiola. “I think for us, it’s him doing that [mastering all parts of the offense] while at the same time becoming dominant in the little things,” he said. “His weight, making sure that he’s a guy that can extend plays, making sure that he’s a guy who’s nimble and making sure that he’s a guy who can run.” Rhule believes that his 19-year-old would be a better version of himself at 225 pounds. And the good news is that his young star is aware of the need for change. 

Matt Rhule is optimistic because Dylan Raiola is “buying into that.” “He comes in every morning, does cardio before he throws and lifts,” he revealed. “He understands that he’s a big man and wants to keep his movement skills.” After all, this season isn’t just going to be about his weight; it’s going to be about him stepping up as a leader. “Last year, he was trying to win the job, now it’s him every day with those receivers,” Rhule added. 

The fitness debate wouldn’t have boiled to such an extent if Nebraska finished on a high note. But not everyone is thrilled with a 7-6 ending. CFB insider Wilson Dittman backed Rhule’s concerns saying, “Dylan Raiola is going to slim down this summer. But it’s interesting that Matt Rhule mentioned that he needs to go to his proper weight because it is probably the right idea again. I think him slimming down a little bit better, it’s going to be good for his mobility, good for his elusiveness, good for him to get outside the pocket, so that should be mentioned.”

Raiola’s freshman season saw ups and downs — 2,819 yards, 13 touchdowns, and 11 interceptions. But with year 2 on the horizon, he’s not the only one under watchful eyes because fans have found another reason to bash Matt Rhule. 

Matt Rhule faces fans’ wrath over his stance on non-conference games

Not everyone is thrilled with Matt Rhule’s response to Big Ten teams scheduling hard non-conference games — “Why in the world would a Big Ten team who’s already playing nine conference games, why would you ever play one of those games?” This is a discussion that stemmed from Ohio State’s scheduled matchup with Texas in 2025. 

Rhule’s remark didn’t sit well with fans who value a competitive mindset. “Don’t love that mentality,” one user posted. Many believe that top programs should embrace tough schedules rather than avoid them. 

The idea of shying away from non-conference challenges contradicts the expectations fans have for elite teams aiming for a national title. “That’s a weak mindset to sell at a program. No wonder these teams choke so often,” another user wrote. This reaction depicts the perception that avoiding high-profile games signals a lack of confidence. 

Rhule’s stance may even have unintended consequences in recruiting. “I’m not going to Nebraska if I’m a recruit,” another fan wrote. While it may seem like a passing comment, this mindset could block potential recruits in the future. 

Even Nebraska’s supporters are disappointed. “Weak… and I’m a die hard Huskers fans,” a fan commented. It reflects frustration from the fanbase who embrace competitive culture. 

Does it come down to fear as this person suggested? “He’s afraid,” they wrote. Fans are viewing Rhule’s stance as playing it safe rather than embracing challenges. 

With Nebraska coming off an underwhelming season, Matt Rhule already has lots to prove in 2025. And the solution to prove his critics wrong begins with Dylan Raiola.