UNLV Looks to Start Fresh Under New Head Coach in Opener Against Idaho State
The stage is set in Las Vegas as UNLV begins a new chapter under head coach Dan Mullen, opening its season against the Idaho State Bengals at Allegiant Stadium on Saturday, August 23rd, 2025. For Rebel fans, the anticipation is as much about the future as it is about the game itself. Mullen, whose resume includes successful stints at Mississippi State and Florida, arrives with a reputation as an offensive architect and quarterback developer. His transition to UNLV has already elevated expectations, positioning the Rebels as one of the most talked-about programs in the Group of Five heading into the 2025 season. Saturday’s matchup against Idaho State may not carry national playoff implications, but it represents the first glimpse of what Mullen can build in Las Vegas.
A New Era Begins in Las Vegas
Last December, Former coach Barry Odom departed for Purdue after bringing the Rebels their first 10-win season in program history. With the 2025 season just days away, Mullen wastes no time reshaping the roster, adding experienced talent with new QBs battling for the starting job, such as Michigan transfer Alex Orji and ex-Virginia Cavalier Anthony Colandrea. Orji arrives in Las Vegas after three seasons with Michigan, where he completed 54.2% of his passes for 155 yards and three passing touchdowns, while Colandrea arrives from Virginia with two seasons of starting experience, throwing for 4,083 yards, 26 passing touchdowns, and completing 62.2% of his passes over 19 games during his time at Virginia. While Mullen’s decision on which player will be the starting quarterback remains unannounced, Mullen’s track record of maximizing signal-callers will be under the microscope immediately, as Rebel fans hope to see offensive creativity and discipline return to the forefront. While Idaho State may not present the stiffest challenge, the Bengals provide a valuable opportunity for UNLV to settle into its new identity, build momentum, and avoid the growing pains that often plague programs in transition.
Stakes Beyond the Scoreboard
For the Rebels, the excitement surrounding Mullen’s debut at Allegiant Stadium has drawn national media attention. Early first impressions will matter as much for recruiting as for wins and losses. If Mullen can deliver a decisive victory, showcase his offensive philosophy, and instill belief in both players and fans, UNLV’s ceiling may rise higher than at any point in recent memory. UNLV’s transformation under Mullen may not start with playoff pressure, but it starts with promise.
