The UNLV Rebels and the Nevada Wolf Pack meet Saturday in college football action from Mackay Stadium. Both teams are coming off open weeks. UNLV last appeared in a big win over Hawaii to move to 4-1 on the year. As for Nevada, they’re sitting at 0-5 following a loss to Fresno State back on September 30. Check back all season long for free college football picks at Sports Chat Place.

UNLV Rebels 

The Rebels didn’t have any issues in their opener versus Bryant, cruising to a 44-14 win. Week two was a much tougher matchup versus Michigan and a 35-7 loss. UNLV has since picked it up with three straight wins, taking out Vanderbilt 40-37, UTEP by a score of 45-28 and Hawaii 44-20 to close out September. 

In the Hawaii game from Allegiant Stadium, the Rebels went into the locker room with a 20-3 advantage. UNLV outscored the Warriors 24-17 in the second on the way to the win. Rebels QB Jayden Maiava led the way on 142 yards and two scores, while Donavyn Lester had 12 carries for 98 yards and a TD. Ricky White posted five receptions for 56 yards to lead the receivers. 

UNLV Rebels Team Facts

UNLV has lost each of its last 11 games in October.
UNLV has covered the spread in each of its last five games.
UNLV has won the first half in each of its last four games against conference opponents.
Each of UNLV’s last three games against non-AP-ranked teams have gone OVER the total points line.

Nevada Wolf Pack 

Over on the Nevada side, they haven’t been able to find any traction so far this year with five straight losses. The Wolf Pack kicked off with a 66-14 blowout loss to USC, then another big defeat 33-6 by Idaho. The next pair were closer 31-24 against Kansas and 35-24 versus Texas State, followed by a 27-9 defeat at the hands of Fresno State. 

In the Fresno State matchup, the Wolf Pack gave up points in every quarter and didn’t see the scoreboard themselves until the fourth. Brendon Lewis threw for 70 yards and a pair of interceptions in the defeat, and also led the rush with 25 yards. Spencer Curtis had eight catches for 73 yards and the lone touchdown. 

Nevada Wolf Pack Team Facts

Nevada has lost each of its last 15 games.
Nevada has failed to cover the spread in each of its last six home games against conference opponents.
Nevada has lost the first half in eight of its last nine games against conference opponents.
Each of Nevada’s last four games as an underdog have gone UNDER the total points line.

Matchup/League Facts

UNLV ranked 34th among FBS teams for Q4 points allowed per game last season (5.7).
UNLV ranked 37th among FBS teams for Q2 win percentage last season (.583).

ANDREW’S FREE PICK 

I’m going to stick with UNLV in this one. The Rebels have been chugging along nicely this year, winning the games they’re supposed to win so far. UNLV had the run game clicking against Hawaii in their last appearance, posting 307 yards on the ground with 27 first downs and zero turnovers overall. The Rebels have given up at least 20 points in each of the last four games, but they’ve also scored 40 or more points in each of their last three. That trend should continue here. 

As for Nevada, they’ve been spinning their wheels this year trying to find any sort of momentum to build on—and coming up empty so far. With the extra week of preparation I expect the Wolf Pack to put together a few good drives early but I don’t think they’ll get close in the end.