Inglewood, Calif. — In a season marked by resilience and change, the UNLV Rebels achieved a milestone on Wednesday night, securing their first bowl victory in 24 years with a 24-13 triumph over California in the LA Bowl. The victory capped off an 11-3 season, the best in the program’s history as a Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) team.
The Rebels overcame significant adversity this year, including the loss of their starting quarterback after just three games and their head coach less than two weeks before the bowl game. Despite these challenges, they delivered a dominant performance in the second half to claim the win.
“This is exactly how we wanted to end it,” said linebacker Jackson Woodard, named Defensive MVP of the game. “Not many teams can say they’ve won 11 games in a season.”
Key Performances Lead Rebels to Victory
Quarterback Hajj-Malik Williams threw two touchdown passes, and Kylin James added a rushing score to power the Rebels’ offense. UNLV also showcased a strong defensive effort, forcing key turnovers and limiting Cal’s scoring opportunities.
Williams connected with Kayden McGee on a 49-yard touchdown pass in the first quarter, marking McGee’s first collegiate touchdown. Later, a creative fake punt led to a 12-yard touchdown from Jacob De Jesus, who celebrated with a backflip in the end zone. De Jesus, named Offensive MVP, also contributed a 38-yard punt return that set up a crucial fourth-quarter field goal by Caden Chittenden.
The Rebels extended their halftime lead with a 23-yard touchdown run by James in the third quarter, capitalizing on a fumble recovery by Jett Elad.
Williams finished the game 5 of 18 for 96 yards, while running back Jai’Den Thomas contributed 72 yards on 18 carries.
Overcoming Obstacles
UNLV’s interim head coach, Del Alexander, stepped into the role after Barry Odom left for Purdue on December 8. Alexander, who was an assistant coach during UNLV’s last bowl victory in 2000, emphasized the significance of the win for the players.
“For these players to experience this, to feel the reward and establish their legacy, it’s incredibly meaningful,” Alexander said.
Incoming head coach Dan Mullen, who was hired just days before the game, attended the bowl to witness his new team’s historic achievement.
Cal Falls Short
California (6-7) struggled without key players, including quarterback Fernando Mendoza and leading receiver Nyziah Hunter, both of whom entered the transfer portal before the game. Backup quarterbacks CJ Harris and EJ Caminong combined for just 166 passing yards and one turnover.
The Golden Bears’ lone touchdown came on a 29-yard reverse by Josiah Martin late in the first quarter, giving Cal a brief 10-7 lead. However, the team missed key opportunities, including a failed red-zone drive before halftime and a turnover that led to a Rebels touchdown.
“The fake punt was a tough one, and we couldn’t capitalize on our chances near the goal line,” said Cal coach Justin Wilcox. “Those moments made the difference.”
A Season to Remember
UNLV’s 11 wins are the most in program history as an FBS team, marking a significant turnaround for a program that hadn’t experienced a bowl victory since the 2000 Las Vegas Bowl.
“This season was about resilience and belief,” said Alexander. “These players deserve every bit of this success.”
As the Rebels look ahead to the next chapter under Dan Mullen, the program has cemented its place in history with a performance that will be remembered for years to come.
