The 2025 season will be unlike any other in UNLV football history.
The Rebels are coming off an 11-win season, their first national ranking in program history, and back-to-back Mountain West title game appearances. They return with real expectations — and a new head coach in Dan Mullen, one of the most high-profile hires in school history.
Despite the losses of Barry Odom, quarterback Hajj-Malik Williams, linebacker Jackson Woodard, and wide receiver Ricky White III, UNLV’s win total has climbed to 8.5 — the highest in program history. They’ll appear in at least nine nationally televised games, and if things break right, they could even find themselves in College Football Playoff contention under the expanded format.
But that road hinges on a few defining moments. Here are the four games that will shape the Rebels’ season:
UNLV at Sam Houston – August 29 (CBSSN)
The debut — and the danger.
Dan Mullen returns to the sideline for the first time since 2021, but this isn’t a cushy opener. UNLV travels to Huntsville, Texas, to face a gritty Sam Houston team on a Friday night — in what could easily be a trap game.
With a massive Power 4 showdown against UCLA looming the following week, this is where championship-caliber teams show their focus. A slow start, early turnovers, or Texas heat could make this game more complicated than it looks. Win convincingly, and the Mullen era starts with confidence. Struggle, and the pressure ramps up fast.
UCLA at UNLV – September 6 (CBSSN)
The national showcase.
UNLV’s home opener is one of the most anticipated games in school history — a Power 4 opponent under the bright lights of Allegiant Stadium. UCLA is retooling after a 5–7 season but remains a Big Ten brand with top-tier talent.
This is more than just a big game — it’s a statement opportunity. If UNLV wants to break through into national relevance or build a true CFP résumé, this is the kind of non-conference win that resonates. For Mullen, it's also a chance to prove that his system travels — and wins — quickly.
UNLV at Boise State – October 18 (FOX)
The one they haven’t gotten.
Boise State is the mountain UNLV hasn’t climbed — literally or figuratively. The Rebels haven’t beaten the Broncos since 1976, and they’ve lost back-to-back conference title games to them in 2023 and 2024.
This game isn’t just a revenge spot. It’s a must-have if UNLV wants to host the Mountain West Championship or enter the New Year’s Six discussion. Boise remains the favorite, but the Rebels now have the roster, coaching, and confidence to make it a fight. National audience. Conference stakes. Historical baggage. Circle this one in red.
UNLV at Reno– November 29 (CBSSN)
The rivalry trap.
No matter how good UNLV is or how bad Reno might be, the Battle for the Fremont Cannon always matters. And with this one closing the regular season, it could carry massive implications.
If the Rebels are sitting at nine or ten wins, they can’t afford to let their in-state rival play spoiler — especially on the road. Reno has nothing to lose. UNLV might have everything to lose. The cannon is symbolic, but in 2025, this game could decide more than just bragging rights.
National Stage Set
UNLV’s national profile continues to grow. At least nine regular-season games will be nationally televised:
Aug. 29 – at Sam Houston (CBSSN)
Sept. 6 – vs. UCLA (CBSSN)
Oct. 4 – at Wyoming (CBSSN)
Oct. 11 – vs. Air Force (CBSSN)
Oct. 18 – at Boise State (FOX)
Nov. 8 – at Colorado State (FOX Networks)
Nov. 15 – vs. Utah State (CBSSN)
Nov. 21 – vs. Hawai‘i (FS1)
Nov. 29 – at Reno(CBSSN)
Final Thought:There’s real weight on every week in 2025, but these four games will decide whether UNLV just lives up to expectations — or shatters them. If the Rebels go 3–1 or better in this stretch, they won’t just be a Mountain West favorite.
They’ll be in the national conversation for good.
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