UNLV is currently fifth in the HERO Sports Group of Five Top 25 poll. But even if the Rebels are 5-0, there’s been some debate whether they should be regarded as one of the top teams in the G5.
The Rebels didn’t look great early on, barely defeating FCS Idaho State to start the year. After a 17-point win over Sam Houston, which is 0-6 overall, the Rebels pulled off a Power Four victory over UCLA – which fired its coach not much later.
The Rebels then narrowly defeated Miami (Ohio) 41-38 before beginning Mountain West play with a 31-17 triumph at Wyoming.
The Rebels are undefeated, but they haven’t been perfect.
Air Force, which is 1-4 overall, will look to exploit some of UNLV’s weaknesses. The Falcons are seeking to snap a four-game losing streak that included conference losses against Utah State, Boise State, and Hawaii – none of which were single-possession games – as well as a three-point defeat at Navy.
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Air Force vs. UNLV Betting Odds & Spread
UNLV is a -7 college football betting odds favorite against Air Force, with the Over/Under being 65.5 as of this writing.
The moneyline for Air Force is +220, while it’s -275 for UNLV.
Air Force vs. UNLV On TV
The matchup between Air Force and UNLV will be televised on CBSSN.
The game will kick off at 3:30 p.m. ET on Saturday, Oct. 11. The contest is taking place at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, Nevada.
Air Force vs. UNLV Prediction
I predict UNLV will win and cover the seven-point spread. I also project the game will go Under 65.5 total points.
I really think this UNLV team is getting overlooked. I know the Rebels’ schedule isn’t the strongest on paper, but going 5-0 is a sign of a good team.
And make no mistake about it, UNLV has some standout players. Quarterback Anthony Colandrea is playing at a high level. He’s thrown for 1,042 yards, nine touchdowns, and three interceptions on a 70% completion rate while rushing for 261 yards and one TD. Running back Jai’Den Thomas has rushed for 489 yards and five touchdowns. Wide receiver Jaden Bradley has caught a team-high 25 passes for 420 yards and two scores.
Meanwhile, Air Force has the worst scoring defense and total defense in the Mountain West, having allowed 37.8 points and 476.6 yards per game. The Falcons have especially struggled against the pass, allowing 312.4 YPG through the air.
I expect Colandrea will have a solid performance and that UNLV’s defense will step up to the challenge at home in a win.
