UNLV football faced off against the Kansas Jayhawks in a thrilling match at Children’s Mercy Park, securing a 23-20 victory. Coming into the game with a 2-0 record for the first time in over two decades, the Rebels started off shaky with struggles on defense and red zone inefficiencies. Despite these challenges, UNLV managed to turn the game around with a strong defensive performance in the second half.
Kansas had a successful ground game early on, with running back Devin Neal making significant gains. However, UNLV’s defense stepped up after halftime, limiting Neal to just 25 yards in the second half. Quarterback Jalon Daniel’s interception by Jalon Catalon set up a crucial opportunity for UNLV to capitalize and narrow the score gap before halftime.
The turning point came in the fourth quarter when UNLV orchestrated a remarkable 18-play, 75-yard drive that culminated in a 1-yard rushing touchdown by Kylin James, giving the Rebels a late lead. The defense sealed the victory with a sack on a critical 4th and 15 play, securing UNLV’s first 3-0 start since 1984.
Despite quarterback Matthew Sluka’s struggles in the passing game, his impressive 124 rushing yards and the team’s resilient performance have put UNLV on the map in college football. The win against a Big 12 opponent has garnered attention, potentially leading to a national ranking or receiving votes from the college committee.
Looking ahead, UNLV will have a bye week to recover before facing the Fresno State Bulldogs in their first Mountain West conference matchup at Allegiant Stadium. The team’s early success and resilience have set a positive tone for the rest of the season, instilling hope and excitement among fans and supporters. The Rebels’ victory against Kansas marks a significant milestone and a step forward in their journey towards a successful season in college football.
