With three Super Bowl rings in four appearances in a career of 7 years (now in his 8th), no doubt Patrick Mahomes has his fanbase. Call them the Mahomians, if you may. But on top of that, Pat has inspired many up-and-coming stars. Dylan Raiola is one. The Nebraska freshman is well-known in his own right. But more so because of his striking resemblance to the Chiefs QB. Right from hairstyle, his position, the hairband, and even the jersey number. Although the reason for Dylan donning #15 is different, that did not stop Pat from praising the kid.

“I know Dylan. I trained with him in the offseason. He’s a great kid and a great football player… He’ll make his own stamp in the game.” This was Patrick Mahomes’ reply when asked about his thoughts on Dylan Raiola’s similarities with him. Well, there is a comparison because Patrick is the benchmark in modern-day quarterbacking. And that comes with grit and consistency.

Yet with all the similarities with Mahomes, Dylan is not shy to let anyone know that the reason he wears the 15 number is not ‘Showtime’. Rather, it’s Tim Tebow. That’s right, as Raiola shared recently, “No, I wore 15 in my first year of football, actually Tim Tebow. A strong Christian person. He played football at Florida and I look up to people who have good character and are a good person.” It’s like trading a legendary quarterback for another. Tebow’s faith and leadership made him a standout in college football, and Raiola admired that.

While Patrick Mahomes is the name of the modern game, Tebow was a college football titan, snagging the Heisman and leading Florida to two national titles. Raiola’s switch from 15 to 1 and back again might be a nod to his respect for Tebow’s impact on the game. It’s like taking a page from a different playbook but still running a winning route.

No matter the reason for the jersey number, Dylan’s still imitating Mahomes. And it’s no secret. But the latest viral clip, with a frame-by-frame comparison, will get you wondering if this is a multiverse of some sort.

Dylan Raiola’s frame-by-frame emulation of the Patrick Mahomes roar

“It’s cool, honestly. I was that guy, grew up watching players. It helped me become the athlete that I am. It’s just telling me that I’m getting a little old.” Patrick Mahomes certainly got flattered by the constant Dylan Railoa similarities linked with him. And to be honest, he’s just getting accustomed to listening to it because, as time would fly by, his legend would only grow. Now, a clip surfacing in the new season has got everyone’s attention.

Why, you ask? Well, the Chiefs are chasing a 3-peat, and Pat led them to a Week 1 win. Meanwhile, Raiola’s Cornhuskers are off to a 2-0 start. Dylan’s stats? 73.7% completion, 423 yards, 3 touchdowns, zero picks. That’s some Mahomes-level cool under center! No wonder #15 himself was left impressed when asked about the similarities. Could this kid be the next big thing?

At least, he’s doing exactly everything like Pat and we mean it literally ‘exactly’. FOX College Football’s X handle shared a “wild side-by-side of Mahomes and Raiola”, showing off their eerily identical pre-game rituals. Picture this: Mahomes doing his signature jumps and roar, followed by Raiola mirroring every move. It’s like watching a young Mahomes clone, and fans are loving it. Has Raiola mastered his idol’s every move?

It’s like he followed his father, Dominic Raiola, to Nebraska, paid tribute to Tim Tebow during his college days, and now, with his eyes set on the pros, he knows it’s ‘compete with Mahomes or bust.’ But Raiola’s taken it up a notch—he’s not just trying to compete, he’s aiming to beat him at his own game. What do you think? Will Raiola live up to the Mahomes comparison or carve his own path? Let’s hear your thoughts!