In a thrilling display of grit and determination, the UNLV Rebels football team etched their name in the record books with a hard-fought 29-27 victory over the University of Hawai'i Rainbow Warriors. This triumph marked the Rebels' first-ever 5-0 start on the road and extended their school-record streak of seven consecutive away game wins, dating back to last season.

Rebels Defy the Odds, Conquer the Islands

Rebels Overcome Adversity, Secure Crucial Road Win

The UNLV Rebels faced a daunting challenge as they traveled to the island of Hawai'i to take on the Rainbow Warriors. Undeterred by the hostile environment and inclement weather, the Rebels displayed their resilience and determination, emerging victorious in a closely contested battle. Led by a pair of 100-yard rushers, quarterback Hajj-Malik Williams (122 yards) and running back Jet Thomas (109 yards), the Rebels' offense proved to be a formidable force, each contributing a rushing touchdown to the team's effort.The game was a back-and-forth affair, with UNLV leading throughout the first half, but holding just a two-point advantage, 12-10, at the break. Determined to extend their lead, the Rebels eventually built a nine-point advantage in the fourth quarter. However, the Rainbow Warriors refused to go down without a fight, striking back to pull within two points once again. Unfazed by the late surge, the Rebels' offense methodically drove down the field, running out the clock and securing the hard-earned victory.

Defensive Standouts Shine in Rebels' Triumph

The Rebels' defensive unit played a crucial role in the team's success, with several standout performances. All-America candidate linebacker Jackson Woodard led the charge, recording 2.5 of UNLV's nine tackles-for-loss. Defensive back Johnathan Baldwin also made his mark, contributing one of the team's six sacks and grabbing an interception, the game's only turnover.The Rebels' special teams unit also played a pivotal role, with wide receiver Ricky White III's blocked punt resulting in a safety. This added to his school single-season record, which now stands at a nation-leading four blocked punts.

Rebels' Offensive Firepower Overwhelms Hawai'i

Offensively, the Rebels were led by the dynamic duo of quarterback Hajj-Malik Williams and running back Jet Thomas, who each eclipsed the 100-yard rushing mark and found the end zone on the ground. Wide receiver Ricky White III continued to etch his name in the UNLV record books, hauling in seven catches for 128 yards, including a crucial 37-yard touchdown reception.The Rebels' offensive prowess was on full display, as they outmaneuvered the Rainbow Warriors' defense and capitalized on their opportunities. Despite leaving 14 points on the field, the Rebels' resilience and determination ultimately proved to be the difference-maker in this hard-fought victory.

Rebels' Historic Road Dominance Continues

With this triumph, the UNLV Rebels have now won at the University of Hawai'i for the first time since 2016, becoming just the third visiting team in the series to leave victorious in the last 16 meetings. Head coach Barry Odom's impressive record of 15-1 when leading after the third quarter further solidifies the Rebels' status as a formidable force on the road.The Rebels' victory also allowed them to retain the famed golden pineapple, a trophy that is part of the Ninth Island Showdown sponsored by the California Hotel. This triumph marked Odom's third consecutive trophy game victory at UNLV, further cementing the team's dominance in these highly anticipated matchups.As the Rebels look ahead to their remaining games in November, this historic road victory serves as a testament to their resilience, determination, and the exceptional coaching of Barry Odom. With their sights set on achieving something truly special this season, the Rebels have proven that they are a force to be reckoned with, both at home and on the road.