Dan Mullen Reaffirms Commitment to UNLV Football

The head coach maintains he will stay in Las Vegas following reports linking him to the opening at Maryland.

Updated on Oct. 27, 2026 in Football

Dan Mullen Reaffirms Commitment to UNLV Football

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UNLV head coach Dan Mullen announced he intends to stay with the program provided he maintains continued support from university leadership and fans. The statement follows news that the University of Maryland fired head coach Mike Locksley last week.

Why it matters

Mullen clarified his professional future amid external speculation regarding the coaching vacancy at Maryland. His focus remains on the remainder of the UNLV season as the team prepares for its next matchup.

UNLV enters its upcoming game with a 4-3 overall record and a 2-1 conference standing. The team is currently a 24.5-point favorite against Northern Illinois, which holds an 0-7 overall and 0-3 conference record.

The players

Dan Mullen

He is the current head coach of the UNLV football team.

Mike Locksley

He is the former head coach of the University of Maryland who was recently fired.

Micah Alejado

He is a UNLV player who was recently named the Mountain West Offensive Player of the Week.

The details

Mullen addressed the rumors on Monday, October 26, 2026, while the team focuses on fundamentals following a recent 41-31 loss to Air Force. The Rebels have five games remaining this season to improve their standing in the conference.

Last week: Maryland fired head coach Mike Locksley.
Monday, October 26, 2026: Dan Mullen commented on his coaching future.
Saturday, October 31, 2026: UNLV plays Northern Illinois at Allegiant Stadium.

Season Trajectory

This public commitment stabilizes the team's leadership during a critical five-game stretch to close out the regular season. Maintaining coaching continuity is vital for UNLV as it looks to bounce back from a recent conference loss and secure a favorable postseason position.

The Rebels are heavy 24.5-point favorites against an winless Northern Illinois squad this Saturday. A win would help UNLV improve upon their current 4-3 record as they head into the final five games of their season.

The takeaway

Maintaining stability in the coaching ranks often provides teams with the focus needed to finish a season strong. Supporters should monitor how this clarity affects the team's performance in their upcoming home game at Allegiant Stadium.