Houston, TX
Aug 31, 2024
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In their season opener, the UNLV Rebels dominated the Houston Cougars with a decisive 27-7 victory at TDECU Stadium. Under the leadership of second-year head coach Barry Odom, the Rebels established control early, scoring touchdowns in both the first and second quarters, and leading 14-0 at halftime. The Rebel defense, highlighted by six quarterback sacks and a key interception returned for a touchdown by Jalen Catalon, played a pivotal role in the win, holding the Cougars to just 259 total yards and 50 rushing yards.
Houston's offense struggled throughout the game, only managing a late touchdown pass. Multiple turnovers and penalties plagued the Cougars, preventing any chance of a comeback. UNLV capitalized on these mistakes and showcased a balanced attack, combining effective passing from Matthew Sluka and a strong ground game, led by Michael Allen's 65 rushing yards. Overall, the Rebels' dominance was cemented by their relentless defense and efficient offensive execution.
Matthew Sluka (UNLV Rebels)
Sluka passed to Jacob De Jesus for a 13-yard touchdown on third and short, capping a quick five-play, 75-yard drive and giving the Rebels an early lead.
Matthew Sluka (UNLV Rebels)
Sluka connected with Jacob De Jesus once again, this time for a 24-yard touchdown, increasing UNLV's lead to 14-0 and showcasing their passing efficiency.
Caden Chittenden (UNLV Rebels)
Chittenden kicked a 40-yard field goal, concluding a 27-yard drive and extending the Rebels' lead to 17-0. The field goal came after a stalled drive but highlighted the Rebels' continued dominance.
Jalen Catalon (UNLV Rebels)
Catalon intercepted Donovan Smith and returned it 36 yards for a touchdown, pushing UNLV's lead to 24-0 and effectively stifling any momentum Houston hoped to gain.
Caden Chittenden (UNLV Rebels)
Chittenden added a 34-yard field goal to further cement the Rebels' lead at 27-0, maintaining offensive pressure and capitalizing on Houston's defensive lapses.
Ui Ale (Houston Cougars)
Ui Ale passed to Joseph Manjack IV for a 2-yard touchdown, providing a late spark for Houston with their only score of the game after a 90-yard drive.
Marsel McDuffie (UNLV Rebels)
Marsel McDuffie sacked Donovan Smith on fourth down, forcing a turnover on downs and giving UNLV possession at the Houston 45-yard line.
Jalen Catalon (UNLV Rebels)
Jalen Catalon intercepted Donovan Smith again late in the fourth quarter, giving UNLV possession at the Houston 20-yard line and ending any remaining hopes for a comeback.
Jackson Woodard (UNLV Rebels, LB)
Registered a game-high 11 tackles, including an impressive 3 sacks, as well as 4 tackles for loss. Woodard's relentless pressure was instrumental in stifling Houston's offense.
Jalen Catalon (UNLV Rebels, DB)
Recorded 2 interceptions, returning one for a 36-yard touchdown. Catalon's timely interceptions were crucial in halting Houston’s drives and securing the dominance of UNLV's defense.
Matthew Sluka (UNLV Rebels, QB)
Efficiently led the offense, completing 6 of 13 passes for 71 yards and 2 touchdowns. His effective game management underpinned UNLV's balanced offensive attack.
Michael Allen (UNLV Rebels, RB)
Led all rushers with 65 net yards on 10 carries, including a notable 36-yard burst which contributed significantly to UNLV's ground dominance.
Jacob De Jesus (UNLV Rebels, WR)
Played a pivotal role in UNLV's early scoring, securing 3 receptions for 42 yards and 2 touchdowns, underlining his importance in the Rebels' aerial attack.
Marsel McDuffie (UNLV Rebels, LB)
Credited with a critical sack on fourth down early in the first quarter, which led to a turnover on downs and provided UNLV with excellent field position.
UNLV Rebels vs. Houston Cougars - Final Score - August 31, 2024 | FOX Sports
University of Houston Athletics
UNLV Rebels at Houston Cougars - NCAAF News - Aug 31, 2024 | USA TODAY
Everything's Bigger In Texas, Including UNLV's Season-Opening Win At Houston - University of Nevada Las Vegas Athletics
Houston Cougars vs UNLV Rebels Box Score - August 31, 2024 - The Athletic
UNLV Rebels
7
7
10
3
27
Houston Texans
0
0
0
7
7
