5 things to watch in the UNLV-New Mexico game

By MARK ANDERSON LAS VEGAS REVIEW-JOURNAL

11 years ago

Can UNLV stop the New Mexico triple option? Lobos quarterback Cole Gautsche (8) hands the ball off to running back Jhurell Pressley (6) against the Air Force. (Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY Sports)

UNLV will need a balanced offensive attack with passing from quarterback Blake Decker (5) and running of Keith Whitely (28), shown against San Jose State. (Bob Stanton-USA TODAY Sports)

New Mexico might try to jump start its offense by inserting backup quarterback Lamar Jordan (13). (Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY Sports)

Which Jonathan Leiva will show up for UNLV? He struggled against Fresno State and Utah State. In this photo, Leiva (38) hits a field goal in a loss to San Jose State. (Bob Stanton-USA TODAY Sports)

Five things to watch when UNLV’s football team plays New Mexico at 2:30 p.m. Saturday at Sam Boyd Stadium:

1. For UNLV to win, the Rebels can’t let New Mexico run wild. The Lobos average 304.4 yards rushing per game in their triple option offense, and UNLV gives up a 263.8-yard average. So it’s little mystery what New Mexico will try to accomplish.

2. UNLV also will need to establish a strong running game. The Lobos are even more vulnerable against the run, giving up a 284.3 average. Keith Whitely, who averages 4.7 yards per carry, certainly is capable of helping the Rebels move the ball on the ground.

3. The Rebels will continue to take to the air. Quarterback Blake Decker has thrown more than 30 passes five times and hit the 40-pass mark three times. New Mexico gives up 204.1 yards passing per game, so opportunities are there for the Rebels to run a balanced offense.

4. Watch for when New Mexico inserts backup quarterback Lamar Jordan. The Lobos like to use him off the bench to get the offense started, something he has been able to do.

5. Should the game come down to a field goal, can UNLV’s Jonathan Leiva get the job done? He didn’t against Fresno State, and then struggled Saturday at Utah State. His confidence must be a concern going into this game.