Wyoming faces UNLV special teams test
The Cowboys prepare for a rematch with the Rebels, who blocked two punts for touchdowns in last season's meeting in Laramie.
By Thabo Hoffmann ·
Wyoming head coach Jay Sawvel calls the special teams unit a major weakness heading into Saturday's game against UNLV. The Cowboys lost their last meeting with the Rebels in Laramie last October. Two of the Rebels' touchdowns came from blocked punts. That specific result has become a focal point for the current coaching staff.
During the 2025 season, UNLV blocked two punts against Wyoming. Jaden Bradley and Kayden McGee returned both blocks for scores. The game ended in a 31-17 victory for the Rebels. Coach Sawvel said the snap spiral went into the rushers' path. He noted that the personal protectors barely moved. He called the breakdowns a big chunk of the game.
UNLV has not blocked a punt in its first eight games this fall. The team has used other aggressive special teams plays. In a 31-24 win over Northern Illinois last Saturday, UNLV called a fake punt on fourth down. Safety Logan Christensen caught the snap and ran seven yards for a gain. The team also faked a punt against Cal. In that game, an onside kick attempt was wiped out by a penalty.
Sawvel said the team watched the UNLV and Northern Illinois game live during the bye week. He wants the unit to stay disciplined. He said every week is a new week in football. A single bad game can undo a season's worth of good work. The practice on Sunday focused heavily on special teams execution. This is a regular part of the weekly routine.
JB Hall is the first-year cornerbacks coach at Wyoming. He also handles duties with the kicking game. He said the unit has executed the game plan well so far. He believes the team is attacking opponents while staying sound. He does not think the approach will change for Saturday.
The Cowboys are 5-3 overall and 4-1 in conference play. The Rebels are 5-3 overall and 3-1 in conference play. The teams will meet at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas. Kickoff is set for 8 p.m. Saturday. CBS Sports Network will broadcast the game.
Last season's game in Laramie was played in hail. The conditions were tough for both teams. UNLV coach Dan Mullen credited special teams for the win at the time. He said you must win with offense, defense, and special teams. The current preparation aims to avoid a repeat of those specific errors.
