UNLV Rebels Topped Cal 39-31 at Allegiant Stadium
The Rebels rallied in the fourth quarter on October 3 to secure the victory.
Updated on Oct. 4, 2026 in Football
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UNLV fans saw the Rebels overcome the loss of a 17-point halftime lead to defeat Cal 39-31 at Allegiant Stadium. Quarterback Jackson Arnold led the charge with a combined five touchdowns and 268 total yards.
Why it matters
The win extends a strong run for the program, as UNLV is now 7-2 in its last nine games against power conference opponents dating back to 2023. The team's ability to recover in the final quarter marks a significant test for the Rebels this season.
UNLV won 39-31, moving to a 7-2 record against power conference teams since 2023. Jackson Arnold fueled the offense with 158 passing yards and 110 rushing yards in the win.
The players
Jackson Arnold
UNLV quarterback who threw for three touchdowns and rushed for two more in the victory.
Kayden McGee
UNLV receiver who caught a 70-yard touchdown pass from Jackson Arnold.
Taz Reddicks
UNLV receiver who secured a 36-yard touchdown pass during the game.
Jaron-Keawe Sagapolutele
Cal starting quarterback who exited the game with a head injury after throwing a 91-yard touchdown.
Jackson Brousseau
Cal backup quarterback who replaced the starter in the second quarter.
The details
After surrendering a 17-point lead by halftime, the Rebels rallied in the fourth quarter to clinch the result. Jackson Arnold provided the spark with a 70-yard touchdown pass to Kayden McGee and a 55-yard rushing score. Cal was forced to rely on backup quarterback Jackson Brousseau after starter Jaron-Keawe Sagapolutele left the game with a head injury in the second quarter.
Timeline
The Rebels defeated Cal at Allegiant Stadium on October 3, 2026.
The team began its current nine-game stretch against power conference opponents in 2023.
Beyond the Strip
This win repeats the upward trend seen in the Rebels' play since the start of the 2023 season. It reinforces their recent 7-2 record against power conference programs.
Fans attending games at Allegiant Stadium should account for heavy event-day traffic near the resort corridor. Those following the team can look forward to upcoming matchups as the season progresses.
The takeaway
The Rebels proved their resilience by overcoming a halftime deficit against a power conference opponent. Keep an eye on the team's depth and injury reports for key players as conference play continues.
Further reading
For more on the team's ongoing season, visit Football.
Live Poll
Should coaches remove players from games immediately if they show signs of a head injury?
