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3 things Michigan football should watch out for against UNLV

Here are three things that Michigan football needs to be on the lookout for when facing the UNLV Rebels this weekend.

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Michigan football, UNLV Rebels
Sep 19, 2015; Ann Arbor, MI, USA; Michigan Wolverines running back De'Veon Smith (4) runs the ball in the second quarter against the UNLV Rebels at Michigan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports

The UNLV Rebels may not seem like a tough opponent — frankly, on paper, they’re not — but the Rebels are coming to Ann Arbor this weekend with an upset on their mind. After downing Bryant (FCS) by a score of 44-14, we got a glimpse of a few things that Michigan football should watch out for against the Rebels this Saturday.

3 things Michigan football should watch out for against the UNLV Rebels this weekend

1. UNLV quarterback is experienced, can run or throw

UNLV quarterback Doug Brumfield has been with the Rebels since 2020 and could pose a threat to the Wolverines’ defense this weekend. Michigan football has a massive QB to deal with on Saturday — Brumfield stands at 6-foot-6 and weighs in over 225 pounds. He is also a quarterback who likes to run the football every now and then; last year, Brumfield carried the ball 90 times for 261 yards and six touchdowns. He also added 71 yards and a touchdown on the ground last weekend.

2. The Rebels’ rushing attack looked great last weekend

In UNLV’s season-opening victory last weekend, the Rebels’ rushing attack looked fantastic. All said and done, UNLV carried the ball 40 times for over 280 yards (7.1 yards per carry) and scored five touchdowns on the ground. While the Wolverines’ defense should be able to keep the Rebels at bay on the ground, it is something to watch as this weekend’s game rolls around.

3. Their passing defense looks solid, though will be tested against Michigan football and JJ McCarthy

Last weekend, UNLV had a solid outing in regard to their passing defense. Both of Bryant’s touchdowns came on the ground, and the Bulldogs finished 19/29 passing with no touchdowns and one interception. Again, it’s not like Bryant is a D1 Power Five school, but it’s clear that UNLV can guard the pass this year. Additionally, it’s worth noting that the UNLV Rebels recorded four pass deflections (for reference, Michigan recorded two last weekend), all four of which came from different defenders.

After a solid outing against one of the worst passing defenses in college football last Saturday, Michigan football quarterback JJ McCarthy and the Wolverines’ offense will be looking to continue building momentum against the UNLV Rebels this weekend.



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CJ has covered college athletics in paid roles for around five years, including numerous sports and beats. His most recent work revolves largely around Penn State and Michigan football and basketball as a member of the credentialed media at both schools. Right now, CJ writes for Blue by Ninety, where he also serves as the site's credentialed football reporter. He also does some credentialed basketball coverage. Previously, CJ has made stops with sites like GBMWolverine, Saturday Blitz, Steeler Nation, and more.

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