HOUSTON (AP) — Matthew Sluka threw for 71 yards and two touchdowns and ran for 59 yards as UNLV beat Houston 27-7 Saturday night in the season opener for both teams and Willie Fritz’s first game as the Cougars’ coach.
Sluka, who was 6-of-13 passing, threw touchdown passes of 13 and 24 yards to Jacob DeJesus in the first half as the Rebels (1-0) led 14-0 at the half.
Jalen Catalon, who finished with two interceptions, had a 36-yard interception return for a touchdown in the third quarter.
Michael Allen rushed for 65 yards and Jaden Braden caught two passes for 60 yards. UNLV outgained Houston 308-247 yards.
UNLV got its first win over a Big 12 team since beating Iowa State 34-31 in overtime on Sep. 20, 2008.
Donovan Smith finished 15-of-30 passing for 135 yards with two interceptions. Mekhi Mews caught three passes for 57 yards for Houston (0-1).
The Cougars avoided a shutout on a 2-yard touchdown pass from sophomore backup Ui Ale to Joseph Manjack IV with a minute left in the fourth quarter. Ale was 7 of 8 for 74 yards and a touchdown on the drive.
THE TAKEAWAY
UNLV: The Rebels dominated both lines of scrimmage. UNLV rushed for 195 yards. The UNLV defense finished with 10 tackles for loss, including six sacks. Jackson Woodard finished with 11 tackles, including three sacks.
Houston: The Cougars struggled with UNLV’s rush throughout. Houston had 59 yards in the first half. The Cougars finished 2 of 15 on third downs.
UP NEXT
UNLV: Hosts Utah Tech on Saturday.
Houston: At No. 16 Oklahoma on Saturday.
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