The Memphis Tigers opened their 2026 season with a 27-21 victory over UNLV at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas on Saturday, August 29. The win marked an impressive debut for Tigers head coach Charles Huff, who led his team to victory in a road contest. Memphis mounted a strong second-half performance, outscoring the Rebels 13-0 down the stretch to secure the non-conference matchup.
Quarterback Marcus Stokes led the Tigers offense efficiently, completing 15 of 26 passes for 223 yards and two touchdowns without committing any turnovers. Running back Jaylin Carter contributed significantly to Memphis’s ground attack, rushing for 97 yards and a touchdown on 15 carries. The Tigers’ defensive line proved to be a dominant force throughout the contest, applying pressure that disrupted UNLV’s offensive rhythm.
For the Rebels, quarterback Jackson Arnold demonstrated offensive competence with 25 completions on 37 attempts for 291 yards and two touchdowns through the air. The Auburn transfer also contributed on the ground with 54 rushing yards across 21 attempts. Despite Arnold’s solid performance, UNLV’s execution issues and penalties proved costly in their season-opening defeat under head coach Dan Mullen.
Originally reported by Sports.yahoo →
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