UNLV Football: Can Rebels overcome tough schedule to show improvement?

Tough non-conference schedule awaits UNLV in 2021

UNLV is not unaccustomed to tough schedules and this year is no different. It is going to be tough to get more than a few wins, but if UNLV can get its young players to step up, then they could overachieve.

• Game 1: Eastern Washington (W)- EWU is a powerhouse FCS program, but I think the Rebels can avoid the upset and get a win in the season opener.
• Game 2: At Arizona State (L)- The Sun Devils could look different by the time this game comes around, but they will be able to handle UNLV.
• Game 3: Iowa State (L)- Iowa State is a darkhorse playoff contender and UNLV will be no match for them.
• Game 4: At Fresno State (L)- Another tough road game will be too much to ask of the young Rebel squad.
• Game 5: At UTSA (L)- UTSA is going to be a contender in the C-USA and will be a tough team to beat on the road.
• Game 6: Utah State (W)- Utah State is a rebuilding program and because UNLV gets them at home, I will give the edge to the Rebels.
• Game 7: San Jose State (L)- The Spartans are looking to repeat in the MWC and are a better program than UNLV right now.
• Game 8: At Nevada (L)- Nevada boasts a great quarterback in Carson Strong and that will be the difference.
• Game 9: At New Mexico (L)- This will be a tough game, but I will give the edge to the Lobos at home.
• Game 10: Hawaii (L)- The Rainbow Warriors were an underrated team last season and could surprise people this season.
• Game 11: San Diego State (L)- The Aztecs are one of the premier programs in the MWC and UNLV won’t be able to keep up in this one.
• Game 12: At Air Force (L)- Air Force is a tough opponent to prepare for and I don’t UNLV will have the defense for this game.

Final Record: 2-10, 1-7 MWC

While two wins may not seem impressive, it would be an improvement from a season ago. The Rebels need any positive momentum they can get as a program and this would be a solid start.