UNLV football controls its own destiny in the Mountain West race with five games remaining, beginning Saturday against winless Northern Illinois at Allegiant Stadium. The Rebels are 4-3 overall and 2-1 in conference play, sitting behind New Mexico (6-1, 3-0) and Wyoming (5-3, 4-1) in the standings. A win in each of their final five games would assure UNLV a spot in the conference championship game.
Coach Dan Mullen acknowledged disappointment following the 41-31 loss at Air Force before the bye week, but emphasized the team's position. "Not many teams in this league still control their destiny and we're one of the few," Mullen said. "Half the teams need other teams to do things. We're in complete control of what happens if we win out." The Rebels host Wyoming next week before traveling to face New Mexico.
Injury depth remains a concern after numerous players have been sidelined on both sides of the ball. Starting center Austin Boyd, out since the season opener against Memphis, returned to practice this week. Mullen stressed that younger players must be ready when given opportunities. "Your opportunity is what you do on that one play you're given. Are you ready for the moment?" he said.
Linebacker Cam Santee identified limiting penalties and missed assignments as key areas for improvement during the stretch run. The Rebels also need improved physicality up front after allowing 430 rushing yards to Air Force. Mullen warned that a similar effort against Northern Illinois would not suffice. "If we aren't very physical on the defensive line and we miss 20-plus tackles this week, we are not going to" succeed, he said.
Sources: Las Vegas Review-Journal
Original reporting: Las Vegas Review-Journal →
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