College Football: Hawaii at UNLV

Hawai‘i rolls into Las Vegas off its most complete performance of the season, a 38–6 dismantling of San Diego State in which the defense finally matched the offense’s standard. But expecting that kind of shutdown effort again—especially against UNLV—is unrealistic. The Rebels have been consistently strong on offense all year, and Dan Mullen has done an admirable job guiding this group to an 8–2 record.

Quarterback Anthony Colandrea has thrown for more than 2,500 yards with an 18–6 TD/INT ratio, and the Rebels have piled up over 2,000 rushing yards as a team. They’re balanced, efficient, and aggressive. UNLV will move the ball. They will score.

On the other side, Timmy Chang has the Rainbow Warriors offense humming. Quarterback Micah Alejado returns home to Las Vegas, just a few years removed from starring at Bishop Gorman. Hawai‘i thrives through the air and is well-positioned to take advantage of a vulnerable UNLV defense that has been bent often this season. The Rebels’ record is strong, but a handful of wins easily could have swung the other way.

This projects as an explosive, high-possession matchup with both offenses pushing the pace. Hawai‘i has enough firepower to keep this tight into the fourth quarter—and possibly enough perimeter options to make the final difference.

Pick:
Hawaii 38
UNLV 35