The UNLV Rebels hit the road Saturday for a pivotal Mountain West Conference game against No. 23 New Mexico in Albuquerque. The Rebels (5-4) are coming off a loss to Wyoming that ended a two-game homestand, while the Lobos (8-1) remain the only undefeated team in conference play.
New Mexico enters the Week 11 matchup leading the nation in total defense at 240.2 yards per game and turnover margin at plus-18. Through nine games, the Lobos have forced 23 turnovers, recorded 27 sacks and 80 tackles for loss, and scored three defensive touchdowns. They are tied for the national lead in interceptions and rank second in total takeaways with 26.
UNLV coach Dan Mullen praised the Lobos' veteran-laden unit, noting their varied fronts, coverages and blitz packages create confusion. "They are a loaded defensive talent top to front but with that they cause confusion and they are opportunistic. That's why they're a top-25 team," Mullen said. New Mexico has achieved this despite missing Mountain West Defensive Player of the Year linebacker Jaxton Eck, who has been out since before the Hawaii game, and has not allowed more than 18 points in any contest this season.
The Lobos also lead the Mountain West in scoring offense at 29 points per game, powered by a rushing attack ranked 15th nationally at 213 yards per game. That poses a significant test for a UNLV defense allowing 213 rushing yards per game, the eighth-most in the FBS. However, New Mexico coach Jason Eck noted the Rebels performed well against the run when focused, citing their effort against North Dakota State where they held the Bison to 124 yards and seven points.
New Mexico is 4-0 at University Stadium this season, but UNLV has posted a 17-6 record away from Allegiant Stadium since 2023 and is 2-2 on the road in 2026. Rebels defensive back Mumu Bin-Wahad, who leads the team with four interceptions, stressed the need to correct mistakes before facing the Lobos.
Sources: Las Vegas Review-Journal
Original reporting: Las Vegas Review-Journal →
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