UNLV Stuns Kansas to Stay Undefeated, Eyes Playoff Berth

UNLV pulled off a monumental upset in Week 3, stunning Kansas 23-20 at Children’s Mercy Park and setting themselves up as a potential contender for the Group of Five representative in the first-ever 12-team College Football Playoff. In a gritty performance, the Rebels overcame a 17-6 deficit, showcasing their resilience and earning their first 3-0 start since 1984.

Despite being outplayed for much of the game, UNLV’s defense stiffened in the second half, limiting Kansas to just 92 yards after allowing 260 in the first two quarters. Senior linebacker Jackson Woodard, who snagged a crucial second-half interception, credited the team for staying focused. “We were a little jittery early, but once we settled in, we did our jobs,” Woodard said.

The Rebels’ comeback was highlighted by a 14-play, 75-yard drive late in the fourth quarter, capped by backup running back Kylin James’ fourth-down push into the end zone with 1:55 left. This drive, lasting 9½ minutes, showcased UNLV’s grit, including two fourth-down conversions and a near-disastrous fumble recovery by James that kept the Rebels alive.

James’ heroics extended beyond his game-winning score. On that same drive, quarterback Matthew Sluka fumbled, and it seemed like Kansas would recover, but the ball slipped away from several Jayhawk defenders before James pounced on it, preserving UNLV’s hopes. “I saw it bouncing everywhere, and then I see [James] dive on it,” Sluka said.

Offensively, Sluka led the team with 124 rushing yards, while the defense turned the tide in the second half. UNLV’s first interception by safety Jalen Catalon at the end of the first half set up a momentum-shifting touchdown, cutting Kansas’ lead to 17-13. Another timely interception by Woodard early in the third quarter gave UNLV a chance to tie the game, but they settled for a field goal.

Kansas added a field goal early in the fourth quarter to extend their lead to 20-16. However, when it mattered most, UNLV’s offense came alive with that final drive. “It was a must-have drive,” center Jack Hasz said. “We needed a touchdown, and we got it.”

With two road wins against Big 12 opponents, UNLV is now in the spotlight and may soon find itself ranked in the Top 25. Their journey continues after a bye week, with a Mountain West clash against Fresno State looming. Though fans may dream of a College Football Playoff berth, the Rebels are focused on the immediate task at hand. “We’re just focusing on the next game,” Woodard said. “Playoffs are far away, but winning is our goal.”

If UNLV can maintain this momentum, their case for a playoff spot as the Group of Five representative will only grow stronger.

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Eric Boggs

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