Part 4/6:
The Rebels executed clever plays, including a well-timed fake punt that caught Cal’s defense off guard, adding to their lead and demonstrating their ability to think creatively under pressure.
Defensive Heroics and Game Dynamics
As the second half unfolded, defensive plays became paramount. UNLV’s ability to force turnovers was instrumental, with Kylin James returning a fumble for a touchdown that pushed their lead further. Cal struggled to answer back as mounting pressure led to a flurry of missed opportunities, including a higher number of sacks than anticipated.
Cal’s defense, while facing significant challenges, did manage to rally and made critical stops during key moments. However, they could not contain UNLV's relentless offensive strategies consistently.