OMAHA, Neb. — The Nebraska Cornhuskers just got a jolt of national spotlight — and it didn’t come from the gridiron. During a high-energy episode of WWE Monday Night Raw at the CHI Health Center in Omaha, sports personality and WWE commentator Pat McAfee lit up the arena with praise for Nebraska head coach Matt Rhule and his rising squad, igniting fresh excitement for the Huskers’ 2025 season.
As the camera cut to the crowd, Coach Rhule, sophomore quarterback Dylan Raiola, and standout running back Emmett Johnson were shown sitting ringside to thunderous applause from the Nebraska faithful in attendance. The WWE universe and college football fans collided in a unique moment of crossover energy, and McAfee made sure to capitalize on it.
“We’re in Omaha, Nebraska, and we’re thankful for this man right here — Coach Matt Rhule, college football icon,” McAfee bellowed, his voice echoing through the arena. “Dylan Raiola and Emmett Johnson are here too — Nebraska Cornhuskers in the house! The boys are beloved! They got hot in the second half of the season… and it feels like they’re all the way back!”
McAfee’s words weren’t just for show. Nebraska, under Rhule’s direction, finished the 2024 season with a 7–6 record and capped it off with a gritty win over Boston College in the Pinstripe Bowl — their first postseason appearance in nearly a decade. With the talented Raiola returning at quarterback and momentum growing around the program, expectations are high heading into the fall.
His co-host, Michael Cole, backed him up on-air, noting how Rhule has turned the tide in Lincoln. “This team is getting stronger every season. Rhule has them believing again,” Cole added.
The entire moment — blending college football prestige with WWE theatrics — became an instant viral hit, spreading rapidly on social media. Nebraska fans, hungry for national relevance, embraced the exposure and McAfee’s endorsement with pride.
The event wasn’t just a publicity stunt — it was a symbol of something bigger. Rhule’s rebuilding efforts are starting to pay dividends, both on and off the field. Players like Raiola are becoming household names. And when your football team gets featured in front of millions during primetime wrestling, it’s a sign you’re back on the national radar.
As the Cornhuskers prepare for what could be a breakout 2025 season, McAfee’s shoutout served as an unexpected but welcome boost. In a state where football is religion, this fusion of sports and entertainment brought new energy to Nebraska’s football culture — and may just mark the start of something special.
With the spotlight brighter than it’s been in years, the Huskers are ready to run with it.
