Of all the talk we’ve heard about grab bags, transfers, comings and goings, coaches leaving, new OC, down to 105, etc etc…
one thing we haven’t heard (unless I’m wrong) is Raiola leaving/portal. Which I’m happy about. He was the biggest “get” we’ve had in along time and I’m glad he hasn’t stirred any rumors or been vocal about the current state of affairs.
I don’t have any stats or X vids or deep dives but I feel like as a true freshman he performed at like a B- level. Better than a few QB I could name, but not the total “savior” either.
Def helped win the game against CU. Won the OOC games, beat Wisc.
Sure, he had a tough 4 game stretch. Tough to see some digression and we could see some body language stuff. Needs a sense of urgency, a little zip on the ball, more control of the time and the sticks when it matters. College ball is different from HS ball.
Having said all that, once Holgo got in, I think we could see some of the urgency and intensity returning to finish strong enough in the last few games that, if we are pragmatic there are some things we can look forward to.
i was super excited that early on we could complete a 3rd and 12. We got lined up correctly, that he didn’t fumble snaps or look totally directionless and lost. He looked calm and deserving of the QB1. He has the tools, he showed some flash, has things to work on. Needs to clean up and “own” the offense.
once conference play started it got rough, as expected. But he weathered the storm and got better towards the end of the season (again, Holgorson).
I'm just glad he isn’t a part of the portal, hasn’t leaked any negativity, or been a distraction. We had high hopes for him, and he performed up and down…but overall, as a TRUE FRESHMAN, with all the hopes of the State on him, I think he did pretty well.
Glad he’s gonna be w us next year and I think he’ll improve, and so will the team at large.
Glad he seems firm to be here and make N a better football team.