New York, NY. – Nebraska capped off its 2024 season with a hard-fought 20-15 victory over Boston College in the Pinstripe Bowl at Yankee Stadium. The win not only ended the Huskers’ eight-year bowl drought but also secured their first winning season since 2016, closing out the year with a 7-6 record under second-year head coach Matt Rhule.
The Huskers leaned on a combination of local talent, special teams ingenuity, and defensive resilience to hold off a late rally by the Eagles on a rainy New York afternoon.
Nebraska Sets the Tone
Harlem native Rahmir Johnson played a pivotal role, rushing for a touchdown and sealing the game on a critical fourth-and-1 carry late in the fourth quarter. Johnson, named the game’s MVP, exemplified the grit Nebraska displayed throughout the contest.
The Huskers’ defense set the tone early, stopping Boston College on four fourth-down attempts, including two near the goal line. Nebraska’s offense capitalized with two second-quarter touchdowns, both featuring strong performances from freshman quarterback Dylan Raiola. Raiola completed 23 of 31 passes for 228 yards and a touchdown, showcasing his potential as the leader of Nebraska’s offense heading into 2025.
A highlight moment came on special teams when Nebraska executed a fake punt in the second half, with punter Brian Buschini finding safety Isaac Gifford for an 8-yard gain to extend a drive. However, special teams miscues continued to plague the Huskers, including a blocked extra point returned by Boston College for two points and a blocked punt in the fourth quarter that led to an Eagles touchdown.
Boston College’s Late Rally Falls Short
Trailing 20-2 late in the fourth quarter, Boston College mounted a furious comeback. Eagles quarterback Grayson James led a touchdown drive aided by Nebraska penalties, cutting the deficit to 20-9. Moments later, a blocked punt gave the Eagles prime field position, and they capitalized with another touchdown to close the gap to 20-15 with just over four minutes remaining.
Nebraska, however, regained control on the ensuing possession. After a late-hit penalty on Raiola extended the drive, Johnson’s 11-yard run on fourth-and-1 allowed the Huskers to run out the clock and secure the victory.
Key Takeaways
Raiola’s Growth and Future Potential
Raiola displayed poise and flashes of brilliance, balancing his gunslinger instincts with efficient decision-making. With new offensive coordinator Dana Holgorsen and an influx of talent at the skill positions, including transfer receivers Dane Key and Nyziah Hunter, Raiola is poised to lead a dynamic Huskers offense in 2025.
Emerging Defensive Stars
Interim defensive coordinator John Butler maintained much of the aggressive style that defined Nebraska’s defense in 2023, with young players stepping up in key moments. Freshman linebacker Vincent Shavers stood out with a sack and a crucial third-down stop in the red zone, while fellow freshmen Keona Davis, Willis McGahee IV, and Donovan Jones made significant contributions.
Special Teams Remain a Work in Progress
While special teams delivered a few bright moments, execution issues continued to hinder Nebraska. Blocked kicks and coverage breakdowns nearly cost the Huskers the game, signaling a need for improvement heading into 2025.
Looking Ahead
Nebraska’s Pinstripe Bowl victory marks an important step in the program’s rebuild under Rhule. With a young core of players, key transfer additions, and momentum heading into the offseason, the Huskers have positioned themselves for continued growth and success.
For Boston College, the loss highlighted their struggles on offense and missed opportunities, as the Eagles failed to capitalize on several red-zone chances.
As the curtain closes on the 2024 season, Nebraska fans can look forward to brighter days ahead, fueled by a blend of youthful talent and renewed confidence.