UNLV achieved a significant milestone by securing their first bowl victory in 24 years during the LA Bowl against California, a game that demonstrated their resilience and strategic prowess.
The 24th-ranked UNLV Rebels concluded their season with an impressive 11th win, marking the program’s first bowl victory since the 2000 Las Vegas Bowl. Despite facing challenges, including the loss of their starting quarterback early in the season and the recent departure of their head coach Barry Odom, the Rebels showcased a strong performance under interim head coach Del Alexander.
Hajj-Malik Williams was instrumental in the victory, throwing two touchdown passes. The game’s Defensive MVP, Jackson Woodard, emphasized the importance of concluding the season with a win. “This is exactly how we wanted to finish it,” he remarked, highlighting the rarity of achieving 11 wins in a season.
The Rebels took an early lead with a 49-yard touchdown pass from Williams to Kayden McGee in the first quarter. Jacob De Jesus then extended the lead with a 12-yard touchdown reception, following a successful fake punt play. De Jesus, who was named the game’s Offensive MVP, also contributed significantly with a key 38-yard punt return that set up a field goal in the fourth quarter.
UNLV maintained a slight lead at halftime and further extended it when Kylin James ran for a 23-yard touchdown in the third quarter. A crucial turnover, recovered by Jett Elad after a Cal fumble, allowed UNLV to capitalize and solidify their lead.
Cal struggled throughout the game, particularly in the second half. Despite a promising start with a touchdown from Josiah Martin, California could not overcome their setbacks, which included missed opportunities near the end zone and a turnover that UNLV converted into points.
UNLV’s victory is expected to secure them a spot in the final Associated Press Top 25 poll, a testament to their successful season. Meanwhile, Cal continues to search for their first winning season since 2019.
UNLV’s triumph in the LA Bowl was a testament to their resilience and ability to adapt to challenging circumstances. The team’s performance throughout the season, despite obstacles, has set a new standard for the program as they look forward to future successes under new leadership.
Source: Local10
