White Team Triumphs in Spirited Nebraska Spring Game

Lincoln, NE – In a closely contested Nebraska Spring Game, the White team edged out the Red team 25-21 in front of a lively crowd of 60,452 at Memorial Stadium on Saturday.

The game showcased strong performances from Nebraska’s top three quarterbacks. Dylan Raiola led the charge, completing 16 of 22 passes for 239 yards and two touchdowns, including a pivotal two-point conversion that pushed the White team ahead in the third quarter. Raiola connected with 14 different receivers and rotated between teams along with Heinrich Haarberg and Daniel Kaelin through the first three quarters.

Haarberg impressed as well, with 8 completions on 13 attempts for 163 yards and two touchdowns, adding a dynamic 17-yard run, while Kaelin made a solid debut in his first spring game, completing 9 of 16 for 91 yards.

The game started strong for the Red team, with Raiola driving 76 yards on their second possession, culminating in a 16-yard touchdown pass to Janiran Bonner. Bonner tied for a game-high four receptions totaling 58 yards. Nate Boerkircher also stood out with 65 yards on three catches.

Emmitt Johnson was effective on the ground, contributing 25 yards and two receptions.

Responding swiftly, the White team tied the game at 7-7 early in the second quarter thanks to Haarberg’s 41-yard touchdown pass to Jacory Barney Jr., who finished with 66 yards on three catches. Raiola quickly countered for the Red team, connecting with Isaiah Neyor and Jaylen Lloyd, the latter for a 64-yard touchdown.

The offenses continued to exchange blows with Dante Dowdell tying the game again for the White team after a robust 78-yard kickoff return by Barney Jr. set up a short drive, capped by Dowdell’s one-yard run. He led all rushers with 76 yards and added two touchdowns.

The Red team regained the lead before halftime with Haarberg’s 25-yard touchdown pass to Thomas Fidone. However, the White team surged ahead in the second half with Dowdell’s 49-yard touchdown run and Raiola’s crucial two-point conversion to Alex Bullock, who had 43 yards on the day.

The White team sealed their 25-21 victory with a 40-yard field goal by Tristen Alvano in the final minutes.

This engaging matchup not only entertained the fans but also highlighted the depth and talent of Nebraska’s roster as they prepare for the upcoming season.