Dylan Raiola’s ‘Hail Mary’ Moment Confirms Patrick Mahomes Comparison As Fans Remain in Awe of Nebraska QB

Nebraska QB Dylan Raiola stunned fans with a 52-yard Hail Mary to end the first half against Michigan, fueling comparisons to Patrick Mahomes.

The comparisons between Nebraska quarterback Dylan Raiola and Chiefs superstar Patrick Mahomes have always been fun for football fans, and after Saturday, they feel more justified than ever.

From their shared jersey number, 15, and similar hairstyles to the way they move on the field, Raiola has drawn attention since high school. He even works with Mahomes’ trainer and has a friendly relationship with the NFL star, who has publicly praised him.

Raiola says the similarities aren’t intentional, but it’s hard to ignore the resemblance, both in looks and in play style. After one play against No. 21 Michigan Saturday, though, they’re even more obvious.

PFSN 2026-2027 CFB Playoff Predictor
Play out the entire college football season with PFSN's CFB Playoff Predictor to see what it means for conference standings and the CFB playoffs!

Dylan Raiola’s First Half Hail Mary Versus Michigan Spark Fan Buzz

Saturday’s game against Michigan added another memorable moment to the story. Nebraska was down 17-10 at halftime, and instead of a typical end-of-half play, Raiola launched a jaw-dropping 52-yard Hail Mary from his own 48-yard line.

Wide receiver Jacory Barney Jr. caught it in the end zone, sending the crowd and social media into a frenzy.

Fans had fun leaning into the Mahomes comparison. “Successful Hail Mary’s: Dylan Raiola – 1, Patrick Mahomes – 0,” wrote one.


Others chimed in, “Dylan Raiola. Hail Mary. Patrick Mahomes could never 😉.”


Another is now convinced both players are the same. “Ok Dylan Raiola might be Patrick Mahomes.”


Even Underdog tweeted, “Dylan Raiola Hail Mary to end the half. Clearly better than Mahomes.”

Raiola may downplay the comparisons, but after a moment like that, it’s hard not to see the Mahomes magic in Nebraska’s young quarterback.

MORE: Is Dylan Raiola Related to NFL Star Patrick Mahomes? Full Story Behind the Lookalikes’ Connection

Now in the third quarter, the Cornuskers and No. 21 Wolverines remain tied at 17 in Lincoln, Nebraska on CBS. A win for the ‘Huskers would be the biggest in the Matt Rhule era, while a win for Michigan would mean the team remained perfect in HC Sherrone Moore’s two-game suspension.

More CFB Articles

LEAVE A REPLY

Please enter your comment!
Please enter your name here

More CFB Articles

‘Fuel to the Fire’ — National Analyst Warns Lane Kiffin’s LSU Now Has a Target After Kirby Smart Jab

National analyst Jake Crain has warned LSU head coach Lane Kiffin about handing premium bulletin-board material to elite SEC rivals.

‘Certified Nut Job’ — Urban Meyer Makes Feelings Clear on Ed Orgeron After $100,000 LSU Return

During a recent episode of the Triple Option podcast, Urban Meyer praised Lane Kiffin's decision to bring Ed Orgeron back to the LSU Tigers.

‘Disgusting’ — CFB World Outraged by Texas Tech’s Letter on Brendan Sorsby Amid Jerry Jones’ Support

Texas Tech President shared a letter on Brendan Sorsby on appealing the NCAA’s decision and instantly reactions started to pour in.