If you happen upon a UNLV alum in the wild, chances are you can figure out what years they attended simply by asking what branch of UNLV Athletics was in its heyday at the time they attended. Rebels of the ’70s and ’80s will proudly boast about the Jerry Tarkanian-era of Rebel Basketball, while more recent graduates might be excited to tell you about the Rebel Girls & Co., the co-ed dance team that’s won national championships almost every year since 2016.

One of the most recent and exciting upgrades for UNLV Athletics has been the Rebel Football program’s move to Allegiant Stadium, where fans and tourists alike can get a pro ball-like experience, but for a fraction of the cost and with fun, college football vibes. (This writer can affectionately recall attending games at Sam Boyd Stadium, which was home to the Rebels for a few decades.) And while the tailgates and Flavor Flav sightings (he’s a huge fan!) will always be fun memories, the move to Allegiant Stadium is a massive upgrade that’s put some wind in the team’s sails.

The team finished its 2024 season with its first bowl game victory since 2000, defeating California in the Art of Sport LA Bowl. Now the Rebels have charged into the 2025 season with three preseason wins at the time this story was written, and hopefully a fourth by the time you’re reading this.

Allegiant Stadium, 3333 Al Davis Way. Check unlvtickets.com for schedule information

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