Las Vegas Review-Journal reporters and editors make their picks for the Rebels’ Mountain West opener at Hawaii on Saturday:
Ed Graney
UNLV beat writer/columnist (0-1)
Word is, more than its share of rain is coming to the island this weekend. This should, if played correctly, favor UNLV. That means a heavy dose (much heavier than usual) of running back Jai’Den “Jet” Thomas. It’s true Hawaii is far better at home, but the Rebels handled the Rainbow Warriors last season in Las Vegas. UNLV must bring more pressure defensively than it did against Memphis. Lots more. A close one, to be sure.
UNLV 28, Hawaii 24
Donovan Hicks
UNLV backup writer (0-1)
UNLV lost just one road game during the 2025 regular season while cruising to a 38-10 win over the Rainbow Warriors at Allegiant Stadium. Playing on the islands will present a tougher challenge for the Rebels, but their advantage in the run game should be enough to help them squeak out a win in their conference opener.
UNLV 31, Hawaii 27
Adam Hill
Raiders beat writer/columnist (0-1)
The Rebels came out of their opener with more questions than answers, but the solutions probably exist in the locker room. They will certainly have to get the center position figured out if Austin Boyd is missing because UNLV couldn’t move the ball at all after he left the game with an injury. The Rebels need to stay committed to the run game, as well.
UNLV 31, Hawaii 30
Sam Gordon
Raiders beat writer/columnist (0-1)
Former Bishop Gorman quarterback Micah Alejado has his way with a defense that couldn’t secure a timely stop against Memphis.
Hawaii 30, UNLV 27
Alex Wright
High school beat writer (0-1)
Micah Alejado carved up the top defenses when he starred locally at Bishop Gorman High and last year as a freshman with Hawaii. This week, with the home-field advantage, Alejado will give the UNLV defense one of its toughest challenges of the season and make enough plays to outduel the Rebels in a close game.
Hawaii 28, UNLV 24
Bill Bradley
Sports Editor
(0-1)
I’ve got a bad feeling about this. Six-hour flight. Three-hour time zone switch. A highly touted playoff hopeful coming off a stunning loss. Holes discovered on the offensive line. An opponent that might be better under a second-year coach.
Hawaii 27, UNLV 24
Richard Bush
Assistant Sports Editor (0-1)
Flying across the Pacific for a road game after a tough season-opening loss at home is not an easy assignment. And Hawaii has some offensive weapons that are a concern, including former Bishop Gorman players. But despite all that, the Rebels turn things around to start their Mountain West schedule.
UNLV 23, Hawaii 17
