LAS VEGAS — Running back Jai’Den Thomas recorded three touchdowns, the UNLV defense made four interceptions, and the heavily favored Rebels triumphed over Idaho State 38-31 on Saturday, marking Dan Mullen’s first game as their head coach.
Following an 11-win season in 2024, UNLV is beginning anew with merely two returning starters and a new head coach. Mullen, who boasts a 103-61 record over 13 years at Mississippi State and Florida before transitioning to a college football analyst on ESPN, secured the 12th victory in a season opener throughout his coaching career.
«Fantastic performance from these guys, an excellent way to kick off with a victory,» Mullen stated. «It’s indeed challenging to secure a win, especially with so many new players on our team.»
Thomas rushed for 147 yards on 10 carries, while Virginia transfer Anthony Colandrea passed for 195 yards and added 93 yards on the ground.
The Rebels were behind 31-24 in the fourth quarter and found it difficult to finish off the game even after their defense intercepted Idaho State’s Jordan Cooke on consecutive drives in the final quarter.
Daejon Reynolds equalized at 31, with UNLV capitalizing on one interception as Michigan transfer quarterback Alex Orji’s 11-yard dash resulted in a touchdown on a crucial fourth-and-1 play. With a 38-31 lead, the Rebels intercepted Cooke again, yet Ramon Villela missed a 41-yard field goal attempt.
Idaho State progressed to the UNLV 32, but Cooke was flagged for intentional grounding while being sacked, resulting in an 11-yard loss. On fourth-and-22, Quandarius Keyes broke up a pass, clinching the victory for the Rebels, who were favored by more than four touchdowns just prior to kickoff.
«The wonderful thing is: Discover a way to win,» Mullen remarked. «It could have been quite simple for us to find a way to lose today. … And you know what? We’re going to relish that.»
Cooke concluded the game with 30 completions on 50 attempts for 380 yards with one touchdown, but he was responsible for three of Idaho State’s four interceptions.
Thomas, among the two returning starters for the Rebels (the other being linebacker Marsel McDuffie), overturned a 10-0 deficit with second-quarter rushing touchdowns of 39 and 70 yards, yet Idaho State was leading 17-14 at halftime after Dason Brooks scored on a 27-yard run with two minutes remaining in the half.
«If you’re not excited and celebrating, you’re not in the right game,» Mullen said, concluding his unexpectedly close debut. «Because our team emerged victorious.»
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
