UNLV football coaches decided at halftime to commit to the run against North Dakota State, a move that led to a 13-7 victory. The Rebels attempted just two passes in the second half, with a third nullified by penalty, as they focused on grinding out yards on the ground.
The strategy worked behind standout running back Jai’Den “Jet” Thomas, who carried the ball 22 times for 112 yards. Coach Dan Mullen said the team wanted to control tempo and field position, noting the Bison’s average starting field position in the fourth quarter was the minus-15 yard line.
UNLV’s defense also contributed, recording five defensive stops on fourth down over the past two weeks. Mullen praised the unit’s understanding of game situations, while linebacker Kamuela Ka’aihue said the team treats every fourth down as a challenge to defend every inch of the grass.
The Rebels improved to 4-2 overall and 2-0 in Mountain West play. They next face Air Force on Saturday at 12:30 p.m. PT, a team Thomas described as physical and fast, saying UNLV must play its game as it did against North Dakota State.
Sources: Las Vegas Review-Journal
Original reporting: Las Vegas Review-Journal →
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