UNLV Center Austin Boyd Returns to Practice
Senior center Austin Boyd resumes training as the Rebels prepare for their upcoming game against Northern Illinois.
Updated on Oct. 28, 2026 in Football
Live Poll
Should UNLV prioritize returning veteran players to the starting lineup after an extended injury absence?
UNLV senior center Austin Boyd has returned to practice following an injury sustained during the team's season opener against Memphis. His return comes as the Rebels prepare for their Week 9 matchup against Northern Illinois.
Why it matters
Boyd's return provides a key veteran presence for an offensive line that has navigated various rotations to maintain stability throughout the season. His presence is crucial for protecting the quarterback and anchoring the line as the team pushes through their schedule.
During Boyd's absence, Griffin Scroggs started six games and logged 386 total snaps, while BJ Tolo contributed 32 snaps in relief. The UNLV offensive line allowed 11 sacks during the six games following the season opener against Memphis.
The players
Austin Boyd
He is a senior center for the UNLV football team who stands 6-foot-4.
Griffin Scroggs
He is a 6-foot-3 lineman who has started six games for UNLV this season.
Louie Addazio
He serves as the offensive line coach for the UNLV football program.
BJ Tolo
He is an offensive lineman who logged 32 snaps in relief duty during the 2026 season.
The details
The UNLV training and weight staffs managed the rehabilitation process for Boyd, who was sidelined after the Memphis game. Offensive line coach Louie Addazio relied on a rotation that included both Scroggs and Tolo to manage the vacancy at center.
Timeline
Austin Boyd sustained an injury during the season opener against Memphis.
UNLV is scheduled to play Northern Illinois on October 31, 2026.
Season Trajectory
The injury to Austin Boyd marks a departure from the stability of the offensive line that existed prior to the 2026 UNLV football season opener against Memphis. His return is a pivotal development for the unit as they look to refine their protection schemes for the final stretch of the season.
The return of a senior starter like Boyd is expected to help address the protection issues that resulted in six sacks allowed in the opener against Memphis. His presence should stabilize the interior line as the team prepares for the upcoming matchup against Northern Illinois.
The takeaway
Maintaining consistent protection on the interior offensive line remains a priority for the UNLV coaching staff as they navigate the remainder of the season. Fans should monitor the official injury reports leading up to the game on October 31 to confirm the starting lineup.
What happens next
UNLV faces Northern Illinois at Allegiant Stadium on October 31, 2026.
Further reading
Get more updates on the Football page.
Live Poll
Should UNLV prioritize returning veteran players to the starting lineup after an extended injury absence?
