The UNLV Rebels are gearing up for an exciting 2025 football season, aiming to build on their recent success and secure their third consecutive winning season. With a mix of challenging matchups and winnable games, the Rebels have the potential to make a strong impact in the Mountain West Conference. Below is a detailed look at their schedule, featuring game dates, locations, and predicted winning scores for each matchup.
1. @ Sam Houston (Fri, Aug 29)
Location: Huntsville, Texas
Prediction: UNLV 31, Sam Houston 20
The Rebels start their season on the road against Sam Houston. With a solid offensive lineup and key players like Jai'Den Thomas at running back, UNLV should secure a comfortable win.
2. vs UCLA (Sat, Sep 6)
Location: Las Vegas, Nevada
Prediction: UNLV 38, UCLA 24
Facing a rising P4 opponent, the Rebels offense will get rolling and surprise against UCLA's depth and talent. The home opener will offer a spirited effort, this game will end in a loss for UCLA and the ground swell will begin.
3. vs Idaho State (Sat, Sep 13)
Location: Las Vegas, Nevada
Prediction: UNLV 42, Idaho State 14
This matchup against an FCS opponent should be a dominant win for the Rebels, allowing them to showcase their offensive firepower.
4. @ Miami (OH) (Sat, Sep 20)
Location: Oxford, Ohio
Prediction: UNLV 28, Miami (OH) 24
A close game on the road, but the Rebels' balanced attack and defensive improvements should help them edge out Miami (OH).
5. @ Wyoming (Sat, Oct 4)
Location: Laramie, Wyoming
Prediction: UNLV 27, Wyoming 21
Playing in Laramie is always challenging due to the altitude and Wyoming's physical style. UNLV may struggle early but will pull out a tough road win.
6. vs Air Force (Sat, Oct 11)
Location: Las Vegas, Nevada
Prediction: UNLV 30, Air Force 27
A competitive game against Air Force, but the Rebels' home-field advantage and offensive versatility should secure a narrow victory.
7. @ Boise State (Sat, Oct 18)
Location: Boise, Idaho
Prediction: UNLV 31, BSU 21
UNLV finally takes down the Broncos on the Blue Turf behind explosive plays and creative gadgets.
8. vs New Mexico (Sat, Nov 1)
Location: Las Vegas, Nevada
Prediction: UNLV 34, New Mexico 17
The Rebels should dominate New Mexico at home, leveraging their offensive strengths and defensive talent.
9. @ Colorado State (Sat, Nov 8)
Location: Fort Collins, Colorado
Prediction: UNLV 27, Colorado State 24
A 50/50 game, but UNLV's determination to break their losing streak in Fort Collins (dating back to 2002) will lead to a narrow win.
10. vs Utah State (Sat, Nov 15)
Location: Las Vegas, Nevada
Prediction: UNLV 31, Utah State 20
The Rebels should handle Utah State comfortably at home, continuing their strong November performance.
11. vs Hawai'i (Fri, Nov 21)
Location: Las Vegas, Nevada
Prediction: UNLV 35, Hawai'i 24
A Friday night game under the lights should energize the Rebels, leading to a solid win against Hawai'i, securing the Golden Pineapple.
12. @ Nevada (Sat, Nov 29)
Location: Reno, Nevada
Prediction: UNLV 28, Nevada 21
The Rebels end their regular season with a rivalry game against Nevada. UNLV's superior roster should help them get a hard-fought victory in back to back trophy games.
Season Outlook
With a projected win total of 7.5, the Rebels are poised for another successful season. Likely wins include games against Idaho State, New Mexico, Utah State, and Hawai'i, while 50/50 matchups like Colorado State and Miami (OH) could swing in their favor. A couple of big time upset victories dial up the Rebels for an undefeated regular season, and a birth in the last MWC Championship as we know it. Be ready for an epic run, because it's coming.