UNLV returned 18 starters from last years team that seemed to start to turn the corner a bit for a very under rated coach in Bobby Hauck. However, they just had a bad game at Minnesota but if you look at the box score they outgained them by 120 yards had more first downs and held Minnesota's offense in check which is actually pretty similar in terms of run/pass % to what Arizona is looking to do. So what happened against Minnesota that had them lose 51-23 and give us tremendous value in this spot? They gave up 98 yard kick return, a block FG returned for a TD and a 89 yard interception return for a TD. That is easily 17 point swing or at least take away the 21 points Minnesota got and you have a different game.
We actually had UNLV as our pick that night and I truly feel we just got unlucky and that our luck will turn around in this game and I wouldn't be shocked to see UNLV pull off a shocker. Arizona passed for just 87 yards last week and truly are searching for a QB. They do get Ka'Deem Carey back at RB this week, but their offensive line depth is not close to what it was last year and they don't have QB Matt Scott along with stud WR Austin Hill to keep a defense honest. Arizona may win this game heck they may even blow out UNLV, but I think the Rebels are closer than what people are thinking especially with how they played at home on both sides of the ball converting 51% of their third downs allowing just 38% and averaging 4.93 ypc with the effect Tim Cornett at RB. This team is dangerous at home just ask Nevada who they nearly beat as +14 dogs last year, or an Air Force team that they beat as +8.5 or even Minnesota who beat them by 3 at UNLV as double digit favorites.
