UNLV backup quarterback Alex Orji entered Saturday's game against Wyoming in the third quarter and led the Rebels on consecutive touchdown drives before throwing an interception in the end zone with just under two minutes remaining in the 41-35 loss. It was Orji's first extended playing time since transferring from Michigan, where he suffered a serious leg injury last season.
Coach Dan Mullen said Monday that it is not yet known if Orji will take snaps this Saturday when the Rebels (5-4, 3-2 Mountain West) visit No. 23 New Mexico, or if starter Jackson Arnold will remain under center. Mullen said he wants to see how everyone looks in practice this week.
Mullen praised Orji's standing within the program, calling him an "unbelievable leader" and "even better human being" who has a "tremendous amount of trust within the coaches and a tremendous amount of respect within the program." The coach added that the staff had previously considered inserting Orji for a spark in earlier games but the offense scored before a change was made.
Regarding the final sequence against Wyoming, Mullen said a defender went unblocked and hit Orji as he released the ball on a play that had a receiver wide open on a slant. "You can't ask for a better play call than that," Mullen said. "Unfortunately, the ball sailed on Alex."
Mullen also commented on the College Football Playoff's expansion to 24 teams starting next season, arguing that Group of 6 conferences should receive two automatic bids rather than one. "If you're going to double it, double," he said. The CFP national championship game at Allegiant Stadium on Jan. 25 will be the final title game before the expansion takes effect.
Sources: Las Vegas Review-Journal
Original reporting: Las Vegas Review-Journal →
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