Nebraska triumphed over Boston College in the Pinstripe Bowl, securing a 20-15 victory that marked the Cornhuskers’ first bowl win since 2015. Dylan Raiola showcased his skills by passing for 228 yards and throwing one touchdown, helping Nebraska establish an 18-point lead through three quarters.
The Cornhuskers took control early, building a 13-2 lead in the first half with scoring runs from Rahmir Johnson and Kwinten Ives. Raiola connected with Emmett Johnson for a pivotal 13-yard touchdown pass on fourth down late in the third quarter, extending Nebraska’s lead to 20-2, which ultimately propelled them to victory as they held off Boston College’s late surge.
Raiola’s performance was impressive, completing 23 of 31 passes in front of a cheering crowd of Nebraska fans. This win not only marked a significant achievement for the team but also ended a long wait for a bowl victory, as their last one came against UCLA in the 2015 Foster Farms Bowl. This victory also signified Nebraska’s first winning season since 2016.
Demonstrating the team’s depth, Raiola successfully completed passes to 10 different receivers, with Jahmal Banks leading the way with four catches for 79 yards. The contributions from multiple players highlighted Nebraska’s versatility on offense.
In the second quarter, Rahmir Johnson and Ives each scored on short touchdown runs, while Nebraska’s defense played a crucial role in setting up the third-quarter score. Emmett Johnson’s touchdown came after a significant play where John Bullock sacked Boston College quarterback Grayson James, forcing a fumble that was recovered by Elijah Jeudy.
James finished the game with 296 passing yards, completing 25 of 40 attempts, but Boston College fell to 0-3 in Pinstripe Bowl appearances. Despite moving past midfield on five of their first seven drives, the Eagles struggled with turnovers and missed opportunities, failing to convert on four fourth downs, two of which were inside the 10-yard line.
Boston College finally found the end zone with 6:11 left in the fourth quarter when Turbo Richard scored on a 1-yard run, but their two-point conversion attempt failed. They narrowed the gap further with a 2-yard run by Jordan McDonald after recovering a blocked punt, making the score 20-15.
After a scoreless first quarter, Rahmir Johnson opened the scoring with a 4-yard run on the first play of the second period. Nebraska capitalized on two turnovers from Boston College in their territory, extending their lead with Ives’ 2-yard touchdown run, set up by a 22-yard run from Johnson.
The Eagles managed to score their only points of the first half when Ashton McShane blocked an extra point attempt and returned it for two points, highlighting their special teams’ impact.
Takeaways
Nebraska: The team’s depth at receiver was evident, with Raiola distributing the ball effectively among 10 different players, including Thomas Fidone and Emmett Johnson, who each caught five passes.
Boston College: The Eagles also demonstrated their receiver depth, with nine players contributing to the passing game. Lewis Bond and Jeremiah Franklin each recorded six receptions.
Up next
Nebraska is set to kick off its 2025 season against Cincinnati on August 30, while Boston College will face Fordham on the same day to begin their season.
