New FSM Preview: UNLV vs North Texas – Week 3
UNLV Rebels (1-1) | North Texas Mean Green (2-1)
The UNLV Rebels are back home to host the North Texas Mean Green. UNLV’s defense will look to continue its impressive start as North Texas comes in after a victory over Texas Southern, where they scored 59 points.
UNLV may finally feel like they can settle into more of a rhythm now that the games are going to start rolling over like normal. After a rare bye after the very first game, UNLV got off to a slow start in the 20-14 loss to Cal. With that in the rearview, head coach Marcus Arroyo is prepared to host a Conference USA opponent in North Texas.
“This is a tough brand of football,” Arroyo said of the Mean Green, “they’ll be physical, they’ll be fast, they’ll be well-coached, they’ll give us everything we want.” North Texas found a way to rush for 348-yards in their win over Texas Southern. Arroyo and his Rebels will likely lean on the shoulders of the defense once again.
“They’re going to run the ball downhill. That’s kind of their identity“, said Rebels linebacker Austin Ajiake, “it’s going to be another test for us, and we have to make sure we stop the run.”
UNLV’s defense is among the nation’s elite in key defensive categories.
According to NCAA.com, UNLV’s defense has been in the top 10 of the entire nation when it comes to sacks, and over the first two games, it has been visibly noticeable. UNLV is averaging four and a half sacks per game, and pressure was a key component to why the Rebels were able to hang around in the Cal game.
Along with the applied pressure onto the quarterback, UNLV is building a far better run-stop defense than seen in previous seasons. The Rebels are also top-15 in the country regarding tackles for loss per game.
With an impressive nine TFLs per game through the first two outings, UNLV’s defense has every right to feel confident heading into this game. UNLV only allowed a total of 92-rushing yards against Cal, and they will look to keep the explosive rushing attack of the Mean Green around the same number to give themselves their best chance at a victory.
Doug Brumfield has an opportunity to show even more growth in his game.
It is no secret in Fertitta Football Complex the confidence the locker room and coaching staff have in their quarterback. Brumfield was put in a situation that few young quarterbacks have seen in the Arroyo era, with a chance or two to come down and win the game.
Saturday, Brumfield will have the opportunity to respond to the tough loss with a solid bounce-back performance. At times in the loss to Cal, Brumfield showcased an impressive arm, with connections with newcomer Ricky White and returning Rebel Kyle Williams.
The chemistry is on display at practices and coming in waves during the two games he’s played for the Rebels. Brumfield is 39/58 with 562-yards, one interception, and five touchdowns through the first two games.
This proves to be another massive opportunity for Brumfield to see more talented secondaries, grow his game and continue to progress as one of the quarterbacks to take notice of in the entire Mountain West.
UNLV will look to move to 2-1 for the first time since 2018, North Texas will look to keep a rushing attack on a roll as they head into Allegiant Stadium. Kick-off at 12:00 pm and can be seen on the Mountain West Network.
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– Brandon Steele – Franchise Sports Media
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