Bronx, NY— Nebraska signal caller Dylan Raiola delivered an impressive performance, throwing for 228 yards and a touchdown, as Nebraska built an 18-point lead and held off a late Boston College rally to claim a 20-15 victory in the Pinstripe Bowl on Saturday afternoon in front of a announced crowd of 30,062. The win marked Nebraska’s first bowl triumph since 2015 and its first winning season since 2016.
The Cornhuskers (7-6) set the tone early, establishing a 13-2 halftime lead with scoring runs from Rahmir Johnson and Kwinten Ives. Raiola extended the advantage in the third quarter, connecting with Emmett Johnson for a 13-yard touchdown on a pivotal fourth-down play to make it 20-2. Despite a strong push from Boston College (7-6) in the final quarter, the Cornhuskers’ defense held firm to secure the victory.
Raiola Shines Under Pressure
Raiola completed 23 of 31 passes, spreading the ball to 10 different receivers. Jahmal Banks emerged as his top target, hauling in four receptions for 79 yards. Head coach Matt Rhule praised his quarterback’s growth over the season.
“He’s improved so much, especially with his speed and decision-making,” Rhule said. “This team needed this win, and Dylan was a big part of making it happen.”
Early Dominance Sets the Stage
The Cornhuskers capitalized on strong defensive play and efficient offense in the first half. Rahmir Johnson opened the scoring with a 4-yard touchdown run early in the second quarter. After two failed fourth-down attempts by Boston College deep in Nebraska territory, Kwinten Ives powered into the end zone from 2-yards out, set up by Johnson’s 22-yard burst.
Boston College managed to get on the board in unconventional fashion when Ashton McShane blocked an extra-point attempt and returned it for two points, leaving Nebraska up 13-2 at the break.
Defense Sparks Momentum
Nebraska’s defense played a critical role in the third quarter, as John Bullock’s sack of Boston College quarterback Grayson James forced a fumble recovered by Elijah Jeudy at midfield. The turnover set up Raiola’s touchdown pass to Emmett Johnson on fourth-and-3, giving Nebraska a commanding 20-2 lead.
Boston College quarterback Grayson James kept the Eagles competitive, completing 25 of 40 passes for 296 yards. However, turnovers and missed opportunities plagued the Eagles, who failed to convert four fourth-down attempts, including two inside the 10-yard line.
Late Push by Boston College
Boston College rallied in the fourth quarter, starting with a 1-yard touchdown run by Turbo Richard. After a failed two-point conversion, the Eagles cut the deficit further with Jordan McDonald’s 2-yard touchdown following a blocked punt. However, Nebraska’s defense stood tall, preventing the Eagles from completing the comeback.
“We moved the ball well, but we just couldn’t finish drives,” Boston College head coach Bill O’Brien lamented. “You can’t win if you don’t score.”
Emotional Victory for Nebraska
Rahmir Johnson, playing in his final game, was named MVP after rushing for 60 yards on 10 carries. The victory was particularly meaningful for Johnson, who endured the loss of his mother earlier in the season.
“Even with everything that happened, I wanted to be here for my team,” Johnson said. “This win means everything to us.”
Nebraska totaled 363 yards of offense, including 127 on the ground, while its defense forced two turnovers and consistently pressured Boston College’s offense.
Takeaways
Nebraska: The Cornhuskers ended years of frustration with their first bowl win in nearly a decade, fueled by strong leadership from Raiola and Johnson. With the momentum from this victory, Nebraska aims to build on its success heading into the offseason.
Boston College: Missing ACC sacks leader Donovan Ezeiruaku, the Eagles struggled to generate defensive pressure when it mattered most. Despite moving the ball effectively, missed opportunities in the red zone proved costly.
Nebraska’s triumph in the Pinstripe Bowl signifies a turning point for the program, giving fans a reason to celebrate as they look forward to the future.
