UNLV Rebels Roster 2019 Rebels Roster

Head Coach: Tony Sanchez        2017 Salary: $600,000        Offensive Coordinator: Barney Cotton       Defensive Coordinator: Tim Skipper         

Stadium: Sam Boyd Stadium       Surface: Turf        City: Las Vegas        State: Nevada

Progress has been incremental for the UNLV Rebels since coach Toby Sanchez took over, but the team still has not reached the level it should. Last season, the Rebels posted one of the most embarrassing losses in FCS history to Howard. This season, the Mountain West Conference has declined to the point where UNLV has a chance to pick up the win that it needs to reach a bowl game.

Quarterback Armani Rogers is an intriguing presence at the helm of the offense. He has a big body and a cannon arm, but lacks accuracy. Still, he is a viable dual threat and has the potential to invigorate the offense. Leighton Thomas is the name to remember on offense. He led an explosive Rebels rushing attack and returns after gaining 1,336 yards last season. Between a solid rushing game and Rogers’ arm, the Rebels should have enough offensive firepower to improve.

The issue for the Rebels lies on defense. Last season, the Rebels simply could not stop anyone, yielding in excess of 450 yards per game. Tim Skipper arrives from Florida as the new defensive coordinator, and he is tasked with improving the defensive unit. One area where the Rebels absolutely need to improve is in pressuring the quarterback. UNLV was especially vulnerable to the pass last season since quarterbacks could sit back in the pocket all day to throw. The defense does return seven starters so it should be somewhat improved this season as the Rebels seek to rise in the MWC.