UNLV Football Rallies for Thrilling 23-20 Win Over Kansas: James and Defense Shine

KANSAS CITY, Kan. — For those who thought last season’s UNLV football team was already making history, the latest game has set a new standard of excitement and resilience.

On Friday, the UNLV Rebels stunned the college football world by overcoming an 11-point deficit to clinch a spectacular 23-20 victory over the Kansas Jayhawks. The unsung hero of this riveting contest was Kylin James, a senior transfer from Central Arkansas, who made an indelible mark on the game. James scored the decisive touchdown with just 1:51 remaining in the fourth quarter, capping off a drive that showcased both the grit and determination of the Rebels.

James’s most pivotal contribution came not from the end zone but from a crucial fumble recovery during the final drive. With Kansas seemingly poised to take control after a strip-sack of quarterback Matthew Sluka, the loose ball bounced around with several Jayhawks failing to secure it. The ball ended up at the Kansas 44-yard line, where James dove in to recover it, preserving UNLV’s chances and keeping the drive alive.

This drive was nothing short of epic. Over 15 plays and 11 minutes and 22 seconds, the Rebels methodically advanced the ball downfield. Despite a setback due to a penalty that pushed them back from a 1st-and-goal situation, Sluka and James worked together to push the ball into the end zone. James’s 1-yard touchdown run marked UNLV’s first lead of the game, a moment of triumph that seemed almost poetic given the team’s relentless effort.

The defense then took over, with senior defensive end Antonio Doyle delivering a game-sealing sack on Kansas quarterback Jalon Daniels on a crucial fourth down, securing the Rebels’ monumental victory.

The win pushes UNLV football to a perfect 3-0 for the season and bolsters their resume with two impressive road wins over Big 12 teams. This performance could potentially catapult them into the Top 25 rankings for the first time in program history, and significantly enhances their chances for a Group of 5 playoff spot.

In the aftermath of the game, UNLV players were effusive in their praise of James. Sluka, who had a front-row seat to the chaotic sequence, was particularly grateful for James’s alertness and ability to recover the fumble. Center Jack Hasz, who tracked the ball’s unpredictable path, expressed relief and admiration for James’s crucial play.

The drive that led to the game-winning score was a masterclass in perseverance and patience. The offense, led by offensive coordinator Brennan Marion’s go-go scheme, decided to take a slow approach, running the ball on 19 consecutive plays as time dwindled away. This strategy effectively drained the clock and wore down the Kansas defense, culminating in a dramatic and successful fourth-down attempt that resulted in James’s touchdown.

The game began with Kansas dominating the early proceedings, opening a 17-6 lead by midway through the second quarter. The Jayhawks appeared to be in control, with quarterback Jalon Daniels showcasing his athleticism and running for two touchdowns. However, UNLV’s fortunes began to change when safety Jalen Catalon intercepted a deep pass and returned it into Kansas territory just before halftime. This set up a dramatic final play of the half, where Sluka connected with sophomore running back Jai’Den Thomas for a touchdown as time expired, giving UNLV a significant momentum boost.

The second half saw UNLV football defense step up, with Woodard intercepting a pass on Kansas’s second play from scrimmage. Although the ensuing offensive drive resulted in a short field goal, it closed the gap and set the stage for the final, dramatic moments. Despite Kansas adding another field goal to extend their lead to 20-16, UNLV’s offense, led by Sluka and James, executed a methodical drive that ultimately secured the victory.

With a bye week on the horizon, UNLV will now shift focus to their Mountain West opener against Fresno State, scheduled for September 28. The excitement surrounding the possibility of a College Football Playoff berth is palpable among fans, but Woodard and his teammates remain focused on their immediate goals. As Woodard aptly put it, “We’re really just focusing on the next game.” The Rebels’ determination and focus on their championship aspirations continue to drive their quest for greatness.