UNLV Rebels

Mani Powell Follows Barry Odom to Purdue, Latest Rebel to Defect to West Lafayette

Doug Vazquez

UNLV Rebels linebacker Mani Powell
UNLV Rebels linebacker Mani Powell / Jay Biggerstaff-Imagn Images
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Barry Odom’s transition to Purdue has significantly impacted UNLV, as the Boilermakers’ new head coach continues to draw from his former roster. Linebacker Mani Powell is the latest Rebel to follow Odom, becoming one of seven UNLV players now committed to Purdue, alongside six additional recruits.

Powell, a standout in his lone season with the Rebels, tallied 59 tackles, nine tackles for loss, and 3.5 sacks in 2023. He was instrumental in UNLV’s defensive success, which included a top-25 finish, an appearance in the Mountain West Championship game, and an LA Bowl victory over Cal. His transfer is part of a broader wave that includes offensive linemen Jalen St. John, Hank Purvis, and Mason Vicari, tight ends Christian Moore and Christian Earls, and cornerback Tony Grimes, all of whom will bolster Purdue’s roster.

Odom’s ability to lure so many key players and recruits to West Lafayette underscores his connection to his former team and staff. However, UNLV has quickly moved to stabilize under the leadership of new head coach Dan Mullen, whose efforts to retain players and recruit fresh talent are already bearing fruit.

Mullen, a proven winner with a history of success at Florida and Mississippi State, has reassured many of UNLV’s returning players while initiating an aggressive recruiting push.

Early results indicate that the program’s foundation remains strong despite the loss of several key contributors to Purdue. Mullen’s expertise in developing quarterbacks and crafting high-powered offenses has already attracted interest from top-tier recruits, signaling a promising future for the Rebels.

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Doug Vazquez
DOUG VAZQUEZ

Doug Vazquez is a senior producer on the SI video team and has been with SI since 2019. Based in Las Vegas, Doug is a combat sports enthusiast and attends as many bouts as he can in the fight capital of the world.

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