What makes the UNLV Rebels football team special? The UNLV Rebels football program, established in 1968, boasts a rich history filled with memorable moments, dedicated fans, and notable achievements. From their first game at Cashman Field to playing in the state-of-the-art Allegiant Stadium, the Rebels have evolved significantly. With a record-breaking performance in their 2024 home opener and a passionate fan base, the team continues to strive for excellence. Key players like Jet Thomas and Devin Green have set impressive records, while head coach Barry Odom leads the team with determination. The Rebels' journey is marked by resilience, community support, and a commitment to success.
Key Takeaways:
- UNLV Rebels Football: A Storied Legacy UNLV Rebels football has a rich history dating back to 1968, with notable successes, memorable bowl games, and dedicated fan support, shaping its legacy.
- UNLV Rebels Football: Building for the Future With strong leadership, recent milestones, and a loyal fan base, UNLV Rebels football is poised for future success, aiming for exciting matchups and high expectations.
The Beginnings of UNLV Rebels Football
The UNLV Rebels football program has a storied history that began over five decades ago. From its inception to its early successes, the team has grown and evolved significantly.
- Program Establishment: The UNLV Rebels football program was established in 1968 when Nevada Southern University fielded its first team, led by head coach Bill Ireland.
- First Game: The Rebels played their first-ever game on September 14, 1968, against St. Mary’s College of California at Cashman Field. Tickets were just 50 cents.
- Early Success: The 1968 season was a promising start for the Rebels, with the team winning the first seven games before losing the final game to Cal Lutheran.
Conference Affiliations and Home Stadiums
Over the years, the Rebels have been part of various conferences and have played in multiple stadiums, each contributing to the team's rich history.
- Conference Affiliation: In 1982, the Rebels joined the Pacific Coast Athletic Association (PCAA), marking their first affiliation with a college athletic conference.
- Head Coaches: The program has had several notable head coaches, including Harvey Hyde, who led the team during their affiliation with the PCAA.
- Home Stadium: The Rebels currently play their home games at Allegiant Stadium in Paradise, Nevada. The stadium has a capacity of 65,000 and features a FieldTurf surface.
- Field Surface Evolution: Over the years, the Rebels have used various field surfaces, including AstroTurf (1971-1998), natural grass (1999-2002), DURAPlay (2003-2015), Sprinturf (2015-2019), and FieldTurf (2020-present).
Performance and Achievements
The Rebels have had their share of ups and downs, with notable performances and achievements that have left a mark on college football.
- Conference History: The Rebels have been part of several conferences, including the College Division Independent (1968-1972), Division II Independent (1973-1977), Division I-A Independent (1978-1981), Pacific Coast/Big West (1982-1995), WAC (1996-1998), and currently the Mountain West Conference.
- All-Time Record: As of the latest data, the UNLV Rebels have an all-time record of 252-385-4 (.396).
- Bowl Games: The Rebels have participated in five officially sanctioned bowl games, with four being in Division I (FBS) and one in Division II. Their bowl record stands at 2-4.
Memorable Bowl Games
The Rebels have had some memorable moments in bowl games, showcasing their talent and determination.
- Grantland Rice Bowl (1974): Lost to Delaware 11-49.
- Yokohama Bowl (1978): Lost to BYU 24-28.
- California Bowl (1984): Forfeited the original 30-13 win due to NCAA sanctions on ineligible players.
- Las Vegas Bowl (1994): Defeated Central Michigan 52-24.
- Las Vegas Bowl (2000): Defeated Arkansas 31-14.
- Heart of Dallas Bowl (2014): Lost to North Texas 14-36.
- Guaranteed Rate Bowl (2023): Lost to Kansas 36-49.
Playoff Appearances and All-Americans
The Rebels have also made their mark in playoffs and have produced some standout players recognized as All-Americans.
- Playoff Appearances: The Rebels have made two appearances in the NCAA Division II playoffs, with a combined record of 1-2.
- Consensus All-Americans: One player has been recognized as a consensus All-American, with another player earning the honor in Division I.
Rivalries and Traditions
Rivalries and traditions play a significant role in the Rebels' football culture, adding excitement and passion to the games.
- Rivalries: The Rebels have notable rivalries with Nevada, Hawaii, and San Jose State.
- Colors and Fight Song: The team's colors are scarlet and gray, and their fight song is "Win with the Rebels".
- Mascot: Currently, the Rebels do not have an official mascot.
- Marching Band: The Star of Nevada marching band supports the team during games.
Leadership and Coaching
Strong leadership and coaching have been crucial in shaping the Rebels' football program.
- Athletic Director: The current athletic director is Erick Harper.
- Head Coach Barry Odom: As of the latest data, head coach Barry Odom is in his second season with a record of 10-5 (.667).
Recent Highlights and Records
Recent seasons have seen the Rebels achieve new milestones and set impressive records.
- Student Attendance: The 2024 home opener saw a record number of UNLV students attending the game, with 7,642 claiming their tickets.
- Record-Breaking Performance: In the 2024 home opener, the Rebels set a record with 695 total offensive yards, surpassing the previous record of 671 yards set against Idaho in 1977.
Notable Players and Contributions
Several players have made significant contributions to the Rebels' success, setting records and making memorable plays.
- Jet Thomas: Set the school record with 12 rushing touchdowns by a freshman last fall.
- Devin Green: True freshman running back who closed out the scoring with a 38-yard touchdown.
- Tim Conerly: Scored his first touchdown as a Rebel with an eight-yard rush.
- Cooper Webb: Provided the defense with its only sack.
- Special Teams Contribution: WR Tim Conerly was rewarded for his work on special teams with his first career punt block, which led to a Rebel field goal.
- Red Zone Efficiency: The Rebels finished 8-of-8 in the red zone, including five touchdowns, while Utah Tech finished 0-1 inside the Rebel 20-yard-line.
- Turnover Battle: The Rebels won the turnover battle 2-1, with DB Johnathan Baldwin hauling in his fourth career interception and DL Waisale Muavesi picking up the team's first fumble of the season.
Upcoming Games and Future Expectations
Looking ahead, the Rebels have some exciting matchups and high expectations for the future.
- Upcoming Games: The Rebels are set to face Kansas in a Big 12 Conference matchup on Friday, September 20, 2024, at Children's Mercy Park in Kansas City, Kansas.
- Historical Significance: The 1982 season was significant for the Rebels as they hired Harvey Hyde and joined the Pacific Coast Athletic Association (PCAA).
- UNLV's Most Loyal Fan: Tom Kemp, a UNLV alum and superfan, has hardly missed a game since 1968. He remembers nearly every season and is excited about the current team's progress.
Memorable Moments and Seasons
The Rebels have had several memorable moments and successful seasons that have left a lasting impact on the program.
- Undefeated Regular Season: In 1974, the Rebels completed their one and only undefeated regular season under quarterback Glenn Carano, finishing with a loss to Delaware in the Grantland Rice Bowl.
- Ickey Woods: In 1987, running back Elbert "Ickey" Woods rushed for 186 yards against Northern Illinois to become the first UNLV and Big West Conference player to lead Division I in rushing yards.
- Miracle in Waco: In 1999, the Rebels became the first team to win a college football game on the last play while trailing and without the ball against Baylor.
Fan Engagement and Community Support
The Rebels have a dedicated fan base that plays a crucial role in the team's success and spirit.
- Fan Engagement: Tom Kemp encourages fans to attend games, emphasizing the importance of a strong home-field advantage for the Rebels.
- Future Expectations: Kemp is optimistic about the program's future, expecting the team to go 10-2 in the upcoming season.
- Community Support: The Rebels have a dedicated fan base, with many fans like Tom Kemp showing unwavering support for the team.
Historical Games and Legacy
The Rebels' history is filled with significant games and a legacy of producing talented players.
- Historical Games: The Rebels played their first game at Cashman Field in 1968, which was then known as Nevada Southern University.
- Sam Boyd Stadium: The team played at Sam Boyd Stadium from 1970 to 2015 before moving to Allegiant Stadium.
- UNLV's First Bowl Game in Decade: The Rebels played their first college football bowl game in nearly a decade on December 26, 2023, against Kansas in the Guaranteed Rate Bowl.
- Fan Loyalty: Tom Kemp's dedication to the team is a testament to the loyalty and passion of UNLV football fans.
Successful Seasons and Miracle Plays
The Rebels have had some of their most successful seasons and unforgettable miracle plays that have defined their legacy.
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UNLV's Most Successful Seasons: The Rebels finished with an undefeated regular season record in 1974 but lost in the Grantland Rice Bowl. In 1987, Elbert "Ickey" Woods led the team to a successful season, becoming the first UNLV and Big West Conference player to lead Division I in rushing yards.
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Miracle Plays: In 1999, linebacker Tyler Brickell forced a fumble that defensive back Kevin Thomas picked up in the end zone for a winning touchdown against Baylor. Thomas's play is remembered as one of the most miraculous in UNLV football history.
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UNLV's Football Legacy: The Rebels have a legacy of producing talented players who have gone on to achieve great things in the sport. Players like Glenn Carano and Elbert "Ickey" Woods are remembered for their contributions to the team's history.
The Legacy of UNLV Rebels Football
UNLV Rebels football has a storied past filled with memorable moments, dedicated fans, and standout players. From their first game in 1968 to playing at the impressive Allegiant Stadium, the Rebels have come a long way. Key highlights include their undefeated regular season in 1974, notable bowl game appearances, and record-breaking performances. The team’s rivalries with Nevada, Hawaii, and San Jose State add extra excitement to each season. With passionate supporters like Tom Kemp and talented players setting new records, the future looks bright. Head coach Barry Odom’s leadership and the enthusiastic student attendance at games show a promising direction. As the Rebels gear up for upcoming challenges, they continue to build on their rich history, aiming for more victories and unforgettable moments. The legacy of UNLV Rebels football is one of resilience, passion, and a never-ending pursuit of excellence.
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