UNLV Center Austin Boyd Returns to Practice
The senior offensive lineman rejoins the team ahead of Thursday's home game against Northern Illinois.
Updated on Oct. 28, 2026 in Football
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Should UNLV prioritize returning veteran players to the starting lineup after an extended injury absence?
UNLV senior center Austin Boyd returned to practice this week following an injury sustained during the season opener against Memphis. His return comes as the Rebels prepare for their upcoming game against Northern Illinois.
Why it matters
The offensive line has been a central focus for the Rebels this season, as the unit looks to stabilize protection after allowing 11 sacks in the six games following Boyd’s injury.
UNLV allowed 11 sacks over the six-game stretch without Boyd, significantly impacting the team's offensive rhythm. During the same period, Griffin Scroggs stepped in to log 386 snaps across six starts.
The players
Austin Boyd
The senior center for the UNLV football team who recently returned to practice.
Griffin Scroggs
An offensive lineman who started six games for UNLV while filling the vacancy at center.
Louie Addazio
The offensive line coach for the UNLV football program.
The details
Austin Boyd’s transition back to the field was managed by the team’s training and weight staff following his injury against Memphis, where the Rebels surrendered six sacks. In his absence, the coaching staff utilized a rotation featuring Griffin Scroggs and BJ Tolo to anchor the middle of the line. The Rebels now shift focus to their October 31 matchup against Northern Illinois at Allegiant Stadium, where they hope to continue recent progress in reducing quarterback pressure.
Timeline
Austin Boyd sustained his injury during the season opener against Memphis.
The Rebels prepare to host Northern Illinois on October 31, 2026.
Beyond the Strip
The 2026 season opener against Memphis serves as the primary benchmark for the Rebels' offensive line stability. Boyd’s return effectively ends the forced rotation that defined the team's blocking strategy over the past six weeks.
Fans heading to Allegiant Stadium for the Thursday night game against Northern Illinois should anticipate typical pre-game traffic patterns around the stadium district. The matchup kicks off on Halloween night, so residents near the venue should plan commutes accordingly.
The takeaway
Rebel fans should monitor the team’s pre-game depth chart for official confirmation of Boyd’s starting status. Watch for how the offensive line rotation shifts in Thursday's matchup against Northern Illinois.
What happens next
UNLV is scheduled to play Northern Illinois at Allegiant Stadium on October 31, 2026.
Further reading
Keep up with the latest roster updates on our Football page.
Live Poll
Should UNLV prioritize returning veteran players to the starting lineup after an extended injury absence?
