Dylan Raiola continues to speak highly of Ryan Day, Ohio State, and the iconic atmosphere of the Shoe, even after his decision to decommit from the Buckeyes during his recruitment.
Dylan Raiola, one of the most highly touted quarterback prospects in recent memory, may no longer be committed to Ohio State, but his respect and admiration for the Buckeyes, head coach Ryan Day, and the legendary Ohio Stadium—lovingly known as “The Shoe”—has not wavered. In fact, despite his change in direction during the recruiting process, Raiola continues to speak glowingly about his experience with the Buckeye program and the people who made his initial decision so compelling.
Raiola’s recruitment was one of the most high-profile sagas in college football. As a five-star quarterback, his skillset drew attention from nearly every major program in the country. But early in the process, it was Ohio State that won him over. The combination of tradition, a quarterback-friendly offense, and the guidance of a coach like Ryan Day made Columbus feel like home. At the time, Raiola cited Coach Day’s reputation for developing quarterbacks—names like Justin Fields and C.J. Stroud were prime examples—as a key factor in his commitment. Day’s calm demeanor, football intelligence, and steady leadership gave Raiola confidence that Ohio State could be the place where he would grow both as a player and a young man.
Although Raiola eventually decided to reopen his recruitment and pursue a different path, it wasn’t because of any negativity within the Ohio State program. If anything, his decision reflected the fluid and ever-evolving nature of recruiting in the modern college football era—where fit, timing, relationships, and long-term vision often shift as athletes mature and consider every detail of their future. Still, throughout that process, Raiola remained respectful and appreciative of the Buckeyes, never once speaking ill of the program he once pledged to join.
In recent interviews and public statements, Raiola has consistently praised the culture and environment at Ohio State. He’s spoken about the professionalism of the coaching staff, the passion of the fan base, and the electric feeling of standing inside Ohio Stadium. “The Shoe,” as it’s famously called, left a powerful impression on him. He has recalled the deafening roar of 100,000 scarlet-clad fans, the pageantry of a Saturday afternoon in Columbus, and the way the entire city seemed to come alive for Buckeye football. For a young quarterback with aspirations of playing on the biggest stages, those moments were unforgettable.
There’s also a clear reverence in the way Raiola talks about Coach Day. The two built a strong rapport during the recruiting process, and even after parting ways, Raiola has nothing but admiration for Day’s leadership. He’s acknowledged the difficult job that comes with leading a blue-blood program and appreciates how Day manages expectations with poise. Raiola once said that Day’s belief in his abilities meant a great deal to him and that he would always respect him as a teacher and mentor. For many athletes, recruiting relationships can become transactional or strained, especially after decommitments. But Raiola’s bond with Day seems to have transcended that, highlighting the class and integrity on both sides.
Moreover, Raiola has pointed out the legacy of great quarterbacks who have worn the scarlet and gray. From Troy Smith to Dwayne Haskins, from Fields to Stroud, Ohio State has long been a powerhouse for producing elite talent under center. That history played a major role in drawing Raiola’s attention in the first place. Even now, as he prepares to write his own story elsewhere, he maintains a strong respect for the quarterbacks who came before and those who will follow. He’s even expressed excitement about watching the Buckeyes continue to develop talent at the position, showing no signs of bitterness or rivalry—just admiration for excellence.
It’s rare to see this level of maturity and grace in a young athlete, especially one under such a massive spotlight. Recruiting is inherently personal, and fans can sometimes take decommitments hard. But Raiola’s approach has been thoughtful and respectful throughout. He hasn’t burned bridges or dismissed his past; instead, he’s chosen to reflect on it with appreciation and dignity. That says a lot about his character and the values instilled in him by his family, coaches, and support system.
The Ohio State community, for its part, has handled Raiola’s departure with class as well. While there’s always disappointment when a top recruit changes course, many fans have acknowledged the mutual respect that still exists. Raiola was embraced when he committed, and he wasn’t vilified when he left. That’s not always the case in college football, where emotions run high and fan bases can be intense. But Ohio State, led by Day’s steady example, chose to focus on the future rather than dwell on the past. They moved forward with a next-man-up mentality, continuing to pursue other elite quarterbacks while remaining grateful for the interest and respect Raiola showed them.
And while Raiola’s future now lies elsewhere, it’s clear that Ohio State will always hold a special place in his heart. In interviews, he’s reminisced about his visits to Columbus, the way the fans welcomed him with open arms, and the inspiration he felt walking through the tunnel at the Shoe. Those aren’t just passing memories—they’re moments that helped shape his journey. Even though he won’t be wearing scarlet and gray on Saturdays, he’ll carry the experience with him, both as a competitor and as a young man finding his way.
The beauty of college football is that paths often cross again. Raiola’s career is just beginning, and it wouldn’t be surprising to see him face off against Ohio State on the field one day, perhaps in a bowl game or playoff. If that moment comes, it will be filled with intensity and emotion—but likely also with mutual respect. Because while recruiting decisions are ultimately about personal fit and future goals, they don’t have to erase the bonds and memories made along the way.
There’s also the very real possibility that Raiola’s story becomes a blueprint for how high-profile athletes can handle recruiting transitions with poise. His transparency, honesty, and positive attitude have turned what could’ve been a divisive storyline into one of respect and admiration. In an era where NIL deals, social media pressure, and constant scrutiny shape so much of an athlete’s identity, Raiola’s conduct stands out as a breath of fresh air.
At the end of the day, football is about more than just commitments and rosters—it’s about people, relationships, and the journey. Dylan Raiola’s journey happened to start with Ohio State, even if it didn’t end there. And that beginning, filled with hope, excitement, and shared belief, will always be a meaningful chapter. The fans in Columbus may one day cheer against him on the field, but many will still admire the way he carried himself off it.
And maybe, just maybe, when he looks back years from now—after touchdowns, trophies, and triumphs—Raiola will still think about those early days, when he dreamed of playing in the Shoe and wearing the scarlet and gray. Because even though he chose another path, Ohio State helped him take one of his first steps. And that’s something he’ll never forget.
