UNLV Defensive Line Struggles Against Run Game
Young UNLV defensive linemen are still adjusting to the physical demands of college football as the Rebels prepare for Wyoming.
Updated on Nov. 4, 2026 in Football
UNLV has allowed the second most rushing yards among Mountain West teams, including 430 yards by Air Force and 240 by Northern Illinois. The Rebels face Wyoming on Saturday at Allegiant Stadium.
Why it matters
Opposing offenses have found success on the ground as UNLV's young defensive linemen learn to handle the physical demands of college play. The loss of Cohen Fuller to an NCAA ruling has further strained the unit.
Air Force gained 430 rushing yards at 6.9 yards per carry and Northern Illinois gained 240 at 6.3 per carry against UNLV, which ranks second most among Mountain West teams. Fuller, who started four of 14 games last season, is ineligible under an NCAA ruling, and how the line will respond remains unclear.
The players
Ricky Logo
Ricky Logo is the head football coach at UNLV, overseeing the Rebels' program and development of its young roster.
Cohen Fuller
Cohen Fuller is a UNLV defensive lineman who played in all 14 games last season and started four before being ruled ineligible.
The details
Four freshmen and a sophomore are included on UNLV's two-deep defensive line for the Wyoming game. Head coach Ricky Logo said young players often become timid when facing opponents as big as they are.
Timeline
Saturday: UNLV plays Wyoming at Allegiant Stadium.
Season Trajectory
UNLV still controls its destiny for a Mountain West title and possibly hosting the game, but the run defense must improve for that to happen. Losing Cohen Fuller to an NCAA ruling compounds the challenge for a unit already relying on freshmen and a sophomore.
Fantasy managers rostering UNLV defensive players should note the unit's struggles against the run and the absence of Cohen Fuller. Local fans heading to Allegiant Stadium Saturday will see whether the young front can contain Wyoming's ground game.
The takeaway
UNLV's season hinges on whether its young defensive line can absorb the physical adjustment to college football. Progress against the run would materially improve its chances at a Mountain West title.
What happens next
UNLV plays Wyoming on Saturday at Allegiant Stadium.
Further reading
For more on the Rebels' season, see Football coverage for Las Vegas.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Las Vegas Review-Journal.
