I think this game poses a significant challenge for UNLV. Not bigger than Northern Illinois, Michigan or UCLA. But UNLV is without starting quarterback Blake Decker and SJSU is a strong team with #2 runningback in the country. SJSU has played a decent schedule prepping them for conference including a good showing in an Auburn loss.
SJSU rush defense has given up some decent numbers on the ground with Oregon State gaining 303 yards, AFA 428 yards (only 24 passing yards) and Auburn 234 yards. I think the key to UNLV being successful on the ground will purely depend on the arm of Palandech. He will need to find at least a modecum of passing success to give the UNLV run game a chance.
The wild card here is if UNLV decides to implement a more option based attack. We've seen it in a couple plays with Palandech this year so it could be some thing UNLV rolls out for Palandech. AFA are the kings of the option and had success against SJSU racking up more than 428 yards. UNLV shouldn't expect that kind of success with it but it could reduce the need for Palandech to throw the ball and take advantage of his rushing ability.
SJSU has been prone to interceptions with two in AFA, Oregon State and Auburn games so turnovers could easily be a momentum changer.
Intangibles are not in UNLV's favor like against Reno-Nevada. The Rebels are coming off a great win, one that brought home the cannon. Will the confidence propel or hinder the Rebels? Luckily UNLV has a great coach who understands how to keep the athletes head in the game and focus on the task at hand.
Unfortunately, almost all stats on paper favor SJSU. If Decker was starting, I'd feel the game was slightly in favor of the Rebels if not even. Based on pure stats UNLV loses this one 28-23. However, if they beat SJSU, UNLV will challenge the MWC West for the title.
Side note, starter Christian Tago LB and team captain is banged up and questionable for the game along with QB Kenny Potter. Backup running Thomas Tucker is doubtful. Tucker usually gives Ervin a break so his loss could be a factor.
SJSU rush defense has given up some decent numbers on the ground with Oregon State gaining 303 yards, AFA 428 yards (only 24 passing yards) and Auburn 234 yards. I think the key to UNLV being successful on the ground will purely depend on the arm of Palandech. He will need to find at least a modecum of passing success to give the UNLV run game a chance.
The wild card here is if UNLV decides to implement a more option based attack. We've seen it in a couple plays with Palandech this year so it could be some thing UNLV rolls out for Palandech. AFA are the kings of the option and had success against SJSU racking up more than 428 yards. UNLV shouldn't expect that kind of success with it but it could reduce the need for Palandech to throw the ball and take advantage of his rushing ability.
SJSU has been prone to interceptions with two in AFA, Oregon State and Auburn games so turnovers could easily be a momentum changer.
Intangibles are not in UNLV's favor like against Reno-Nevada. The Rebels are coming off a great win, one that brought home the cannon. Will the confidence propel or hinder the Rebels? Luckily UNLV has a great coach who understands how to keep the athletes head in the game and focus on the task at hand.
Unfortunately, almost all stats on paper favor SJSU. If Decker was starting, I'd feel the game was slightly in favor of the Rebels if not even. Based on pure stats UNLV loses this one 28-23. However, if they beat SJSU, UNLV will challenge the MWC West for the title.
Side note, starter Christian Tago LB and team captain is banged up and questionable for the game along with QB Kenny Potter. Backup running Thomas Tucker is doubtful. Tucker usually gives Ervin a break so his loss could be a factor.
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