UNLV Fall To Kansas In Guaranteed Rate Bowl

UNLV took massive steps forward as a program in 2023. Unfortunately for the Runnin’ Rebels, a season of defied expectations ended with a loss on Tuesday. The

© Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports

UNLV took massive steps forward as a program in 2023. Unfortunately for the Runnin’ Rebels, a season of defied expectations ended with a loss on Tuesday.

The Kansas Jayhawks were the victors of Tuesday’s Guaranteed Rate Bowl 49-36 in Phoenix over UNLV.

While the Rebels struck first with a touchdown on their opening possession, they picked up no points on their next five possessions. By the time Jose Pizano added a 40-yard field goal in the closing seconds of the first half, Kansas had built a 28-10 lead.

Jayden Maiava threw two interceptions and Pizano missed a 52-yard attempt to go along with two punts in the first half.

The second half provided more points and more success for the Kansas offense. Jayhawks QB Jason Bean finished with six touchdown passes on the night, to go along with three interceptions.

UNLV’s offense had more success in the second half as well, but by then the distance was too far to overcome combined with three straight touchdown drives by Kansas. The Jayhawks finished the game with 591 total yards of offense.

With the win, Kansas have their first bowl win since 2008. While 9-5 UNLV finish with their best record since 1984, the season ends on a down note, but something for head coach Barry Odom to build upon for next season.