Dan Mullen Affirms Commitment to Remain UNLV Coach
The head coach plans to stay in Las Vegas as the team prepares to host Northern Illinois this Saturday.
Updated on Oct. 27, 2026 in Football
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UNLV head coach Dan Mullen signaled his commitment to the Rebels this week, addressing reports linking him to the open coaching position at the University of Maryland. Mullen indicated he intends to remain in Las Vegas, provided he continues to have the support of the university administration, donors, and the fan base.
Why it matters
The Rebels currently hold a 4-3 overall record with five games remaining, making consistent leadership a priority for the team. Fans and donors will be watching to see how the team performs during this pivotal stretch of the season as Mullen navigates outside interest.
The Rebels hold a 4-3 overall record entering this Saturday's home game against 0-7 Northern Illinois. UNLV is currently a 24.5-point favorite to win at Allegiant Stadium.
The players
Dan Mullen
He is the current head coach of the UNLV football team.
Micah Alejado
He is a UNLV quarterback recently named Mountain West Offensive Player of the Week.
The details
Mullen clarified his status on Monday, Oct. 26, following recent news that Maryland fired head coach Mike Locksley. The team is currently rebounding from a 41-31 loss to Air Force and has spent the past week focusing on fundamentals during a bye week. UNLV faces Northern Illinois at Allegiant Stadium this Saturday, with five games left to play in the regular season.
Timeline
Monday, October 26, 2026: Dan Mullen addressed rumors about his coaching future.
Saturday, October 31, 2026: UNLV hosts Northern Illinois at Allegiant Stadium.
Beyond the Strip
This situation follows a common pattern set by the University of Maryland football coaching vacancy, where successful coaches are frequently linked to Power Four conference openings. It highlights the recurring challenge UNLV faces in maintaining long-term program stability amid outside recruitment.
Fans heading to Allegiant Stadium on Saturday should prepare for a game where the Rebels are heavy 24.5-point favorites. Those following the team's trajectory can monitor the final five games of the season to gauge the program's momentum.
The takeaway
Rebels fans should look to this Saturday's home matchup as the immediate test for the team following their bye week. Watch for how the offense, led by recent Mountain West Offensive Player of the Week Micah Alejado, performs against a winless Northern Illinois defense.
Further reading
For more on the Rebels' season, visit the Football section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Las Vegas Review-Journal.
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