Williams Leads UNLV to a Dominant Victory After Taking Over as Quarterback
The UNLV Running Rebels are still on fire! With a 4-0 start to their season, the team is still riding that momentum but obviously had a couple of surprises this week. We have a new starting quarterback in Hajj-Malik Williams who stepped into the spotlight after Matthew SUlka decided to redshirt the remainder of the season after a failed NIL (name, image, and likeness) deal. Despite the sudden change, Williams rose to the occasion, leading the rebels to a blowout 59-14 win over Fresno State.Ā
Sulkaās Unexpected Decision to Redshirt
The season began with really high hopes for Matthew Sulka who was expected to be the driving force behind UNLV’s exciting season. But things took a turn when a key NIL deal fell through. Sulka made the decision to redshirt the rest of the year. NIL deals are very important for college athletes.Ā
Sulka’s leaving created a big opportunity for Williams to prove himself. In a matter of just a few days, Williams went from waiting on the bench for an opportunity to become the starting quarterback for a 3-0 college football team with their first home conference game. The question was, will the rebs come out strong with all the changes during the week?Ā
Williams Takes Over and Shines
Williams answered the question quickly – “Yes.” At Allegiant Stadium yesterday, he stepped up and took the field cool, calm, and collected. The game against Fresno State was supposed to be a test for the new-look Rebels. Instead, it became a statement. 59-14 victory that left no doubt about Williamsā ability to lead this team. According to ESPN leading up to the game – “It was business as usual,” UNLV coach Barry Odom said.
A Team Effort to Stay Undefeated
Of course, Williams didnāt do it alone. The entire UNLV team stepped up to ensure their undefeated streak continued. Both sides of the ball did their job. The offense did their job putting up 59 points and of course, the defense holding Fresno State to only 14 points.Ā
Looking Ahead
With a 4-0 record, UNLV is off to its best start since 1976 and Williams seems ready to keep the momentum going. The team’s unity, and resilience were on full display against Fresno State, and the city is excited! We play again against Syracuse on Friday. UNLV isn’t surviving – we are thriving!Ā