Matchups between the Fresno State Bulldogs and the UNLV Rebels bring a mix of high-stakes rivalry, conference positioning, and memorable performances on the field. In this post, we’ll examine their most recent contest from September 28, 2024, break down key player stats, and offer context on the teams’ historical head-to-head record.
The Latest Encounter: September 28, 2024
The most recent game took place at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas. UNLV dominated with a 59–14 victory over Fresno State, marking one of their most lopsided wins in the series ESPN.comUniversity of Nevada Las Vegas Athletics.
Team Stat Snapshot
According to Wikipedia, the teams posted the following totals:
- First Downs: Fresno State 24, UNLV 25
- Total Yards: Fresno State 346, UNLV 450
- Rushing Yards: Fresno State 30, UNLV 252
- Passing Yards: Fresno State 316, UNLV 198
- Time of Possession: Fresno State 33:32, UNLV 24:39 Wikipedia
Offensive Leadership & Individual Highlights
| Category | Fresno State Leaders | UNLV Leaders |
|---|---|---|
| Passing | Mikey Keene: 27/41, 316 yards, 1 TD, 2 INT | Hajj-Malik Williams: 13/16, 182 yards, 3 TD, 0 INT |
| Rushing | Jonathan Arceneaux: 4 carries, 30 yards | Hajj-Malik Williams: 12 carries, 119 yards, 1 TD |
| Receiving | Raylen Sharpe: 10 receptions, 116 yards | Ricky White III: 10 receptions, 127 yards, 2 TD Wikipedia |
This paints a clear picture: Fresno State relied heavily on Keene’s arm for yardage, while UNLV capitalized on a balanced attack featuring explosive contributions from their QB and lead receiver.
Game Narrative: How the Score Unfolded
- First Half: UNLV struck early with a 6-yard rushing TD by Williams and a blocked-punt return for a touchdown by Ricky White III ESPN.comUniversity of Nevada Las Vegas Athletics.
- Second Half: Williams connected on multiple TD passes, UNLV pulled away with big plays. Fresno State’s only scores came via a 6-yard run from Malik Sherrod and a 9-yard pass from Keene to Mac Dalena.
Notably, UNLV also recorded four interceptions—each by a different defender—which set the tone on defense and significantly impacted Fresno State’s offense.
Statistical Significance & Tactical Analysis
Rushing Dominance
UNLV’s ground game was a key differentiator. Williams’ dual-threat capability—nearly 120 yards by foot—put consistent pressure on Fresno State’s defense, which posted just 30 rushing yards all day.
Passing & Efficiency
While Fresno amassed more yardage through the air (316 vs. 198), turnover issues hampered them. The two critical interceptions thrown by Keene—paired with four staunch defensive picks from UNLV—tilted momentum sharply.
Defensive Edge
UNLV’s defense not only disrupted Fresno State with turnovers but also prevented them from establishing rhythm. Fresno’s time of possession advantage didn’t translate into points, due to stalled red-zone drives and missed opportunities.
Special Teams Impact
Big plays came on special teams: a blocked punt returned for a touchdown and a kickoff return from Jai’Den Thomas (even though another Fresno score came, special teams didn’t offer Fresno any swing plays).
Historical Context & Head-to-Head Overview
Fresno State and UNLV have a long rivalry. As of the game:
- All-time Series Record: Fresno State leads 19–8 (or 19–7, depending on sources) Fresno State.
- Recent Trends: Fresno State had won six straight meetings leading into the 2023 matchup, but that streak ended with this decisive 2024 defeat.
Since 2013, Fresno State holds an 8–3 head-to-head record with higher PPG averages, but UNLV’s recent win reflects a potential shift, even if historical dominance rests with the Bulldogs AiScore.
What It Means Moving Forward
For Fresno State
- Urgent Fixes: The Bulldogs need to shore up offensive line play (both in run blocking and protecting the QB), reduce turnovers, and add impact plays on both sides—especially against high-powered offenses within the conference.
For UNLV
- Momentum Builder: The Rebels’ balanced offense, opportunistic defense, and special teams execution signal they can be a legitimate threat in the Mountain West.
- Key Standouts: Williams’ QB/runner role, White’s receiving production, and the defensive turnovers—plus special teams scoring—are tangible strengths to build around.
Final Thoughts
The 59–14 blowout is more than just another lopsided score. It tells a story of momentum shift—showcasing UNLV’s rising ceiling and Fresno State’s need to re-evaluate. For fans tracking the Mountain West landscape, this game was a dramatic statement from UNLV, while a wake-up call for the Bulldogs.
The numbers are compelling. UNLV turned yardage into points, executed in all three phases, and defended with relentlessness. Fresno State’s yardage, while not negligible, lacked impact. Moving ahead, stats tell us what happened; trends hint at what might come next.
Summary Table: Key Stats in the 59–14 Game
| Stat Category | Fresno State | UNLV |
|---|---|---|
| First Downs | 24 | 25 |
| Total Yards | 346 | 450 |
| Rushing Yards | 30 | 252 |
| Passing Yards | 316 | 198 |
| Time of Possession | 33:32 | 24:39 |
| Lead Passer | Keene (316 yds, 2 INT) | Williams (182 yds, 3 TD) |
| Lead Rusher | Arceneaux (30 yds) | Williams (119 yds, 1 TD) |
| Lead Receiver | Sharpe (116 yds) | White III (127 yds, 2 TD) |
| Special Teams Impact | None significant | Blocked punt TD, kickoff return TD |
| Defensive Takeaways | — | 4 interceptions |
| Series Record | Trailing | Closing gap |
Let me know if you’d like updated comparisons, upcoming schedules, or deeper profiles of players like Mikey Keene, Hajj-Malik Williams, or Ricky White III—happy to dive further!
