This does feel very similar to 2001 to me. I recall UNLV won something like the last 4 games of the season and became bowl eligible in 2000. And we thrashed Arkansas in the LV bowl. Alot of returners coming back, most notably Jason Thomas and his silly Heisman talk followed. But fans were into it, the 2001 opener was at Arkansas. Oh, it was going to be a tough game for sure. I think UNLV was outside the top 25, getting some votes, but a small dog at Arkansas. UNLV was in the drivers seat until McDonald dropped the punt late in the 4th. And the season unravelled from there. I set up a get together at a PTs near my old home - 10 dollar buy in got you two drinks, specials on Rebel specific drinks, and a buffet type of set up for everyone with the 10 dollar wrist band. Finger food type of stuff. They cordoned off the section with the couches and biggest screen for Rebel fans. I guaranteed the manager 100 fans for that price and we got a little bit over that. It was a good deal and we had a lot of fun, until the end.
But that season unraveled because JTs shoulder was shot and he was pretty rough all season long. It wasn't like the first game of the season caused a season long failure ... so while this game is huge and feels the same, I think this team has more going for it, win or lose, but I sure as hell would love a win.
