“Proud of you lil bro”: Nebraska QB Dylan Raiola reacts to brother Dayton committing to the Cornhuskers

Dayton Raiola, a class of 2026 left-handed quarterback, made headlines Sunday evening with his commitment to Nebraska. Despite being unranked, Dayton received offers from Appalachian State and Charlotte but unsurprisingly chose the Huskers, following in his family's footsteps.

His older brother, Dylan Raiola, Nebraska’s star quarterback and a former five-star recruit, showed his support on Instagram:

“OHHH OHHH. Proud of you lil bro!! Love u pal.”

Screenshot, via Instagram

Dayton, though not as highly ranked as Dylan, marks the first recruit in Coach Matt Rhule’s 2026 class. He plays for Buford High School in Georgia, the same school where Dylan completed his high school career.

In a statement to HuskerMax, Dayton shared the personal significance of his decision:

“I feel like I would be making a mistake if I didn’t go to Nebraska,” Raiola said. “On top of my brother and uncle being there, my sister works in recruiting there now, and my dad was an All-American there.”

“The coaching staff at Nebraska really has shown me real love and I can feel it every time I go up there.”

Dayton Raiola is keeping the family tradition alive in Nebraska. His father, Dominic Raiola, was an All-American center and the first-ever winner of the Rimington Trophy in 2000. Adding to the legacy, his uncle Donovan is the Huskers' offensive line coach.

Dayton Raiola's passion for Nebraska glows bright

Dayton Raiola has been a regular visitor to Nebraska, attending key events like the program’s spring game and the Huskers’ Week 2 win over Colorado.

On Sept. 7, Dayton was in the stands, proudly cheering for his brother, who helped Nebraska secure a 28-10 victory.

Growing up around the Nebraska program, Dayton knew from a young age that he wanted to be a Husker.

“Every time I go up there to Nebraska, it feels like home,” Raiola said [H/t On3]. “It never gets old. There is no place like Nebraska is a true statement.”

Meanwhile, his older sister, Taylor, is part of the program too, serving as a graduate manager in the recruiting department.

The Nebraska Cornhuskers (4-1) head to Purdue for a Week 5 matchup.