UNLV’s football program has marked a significant milestone with a commanding victory over California, securing a 24-13 win at the Art of Sport LA Bowl held at SoFi Stadium. This win not only tied the school season record for victories at 11, but also capped off an impressive 11-3 season for the Rebels.
The team finished strong, especially in the second half where they held Cal scoreless, showcasing their defensive prowess. Remarkably, the Rebels played this pivotal game without their former head coach Barry Odom, who departed for Purdue following a loss to Boise State in the Mountain West Conference championship. The team’s offensive coordinator, Brennan Marion, has also left for a probable head coaching position at Sacramento State. Despite these changes, UNLV demonstrated resilience and determination on the field.
This season has been particularly transformative for the Rebels, who have faced years of mediocrity. Odom’s arrival has injected new life into the program, attracting top talent, including former Arkansas players like linebacker Jackson Woodard and defensive back Jalen Catalon, contributing significantly to the team’s success this year.
With the onus on interim coach Del Alexander and Athletics Director Erick Harper’s strategic move to appoint former Florida and Mississippi State coach Dan Mullen as the new head coach, the future looks bright for UNLV football. Mullen expressed optimism during the game, stating that the team stands on the cusp of becoming a consistent powerhouse and noted that they were just one win away from potentially qualifying for college football’s first-ever 12-team playoff.
In the exciting first half, UNLV maintained a narrow 14-13 lead with touchdown passes from quarterback Hajj-Malik Williams to Kayden McGee and Jacob DeJesus. The Rebels extended their lead with a touchdown from Kylin James and a field goal from freshman placekicker Caden Chittenden, sealing the game confidently.
Overall, this victory not only signifies a successful season for UNLV football but also lays a strong foundation for continued growth and achievement in the coming years. The combination of skilled players, a dedicated coaching staff, and a supportive fan base could help elevate the program to new heights as they embark on the next season.