LAS VEGAS (UNLVRebels.com) – The Hustlin’ Rebels (28-22, 13-14 MW) close out the 2025 regular season at home with a visit from the Air Force Falcons to Earl E. Wilson Stadium this week. The three-game, Mountain West series begins Thursday evening at 6:05 pm and continues Friday (6:05 pm) and Saturday (12:05 pm). The Rebels and Falcons head into the series sitting in fourth and tied for fifth place, respectively, in the MW standings. Air Force owns a 12-15 mark in league play and is 20-31 overall on the year. UNLV is 13-14 against conference foes and 28-22 overall.
SCHEDULE (PST)
Thursday, May 15 at 6:05 p.m.
Friday, May 16 at 6:05 p.m.
Saturday, May 17 at 12:05 p.m.
MATCHUP HISTORY
Overall vs. Air Force: 120-49
Current streak against Air Force: L2
Last Meeting: The Hustlin’ Rebels defeated Air Force once in their three-game series in Colorado Springs Apr. 11-13.
BROADCAST INFO: The official livestream for the weekend will be broadcasted on the Mountain West Network. Links to broadcasts as well as live stats are available here.
SENIOR SEND-OFF: The UNLV baseball program will recognize its 12 outgoing seniors prior to Saturday’s game at Earl E. Wilson Stadium. The 12-member class includes four-year Rebels Sam Simon and Chase Gallegos as well as transfers Isaac Rodriguez, JP Hefft, Dwight Allen II, Brendan O’Sullivan, Paul Myro IV, Dean Toigo, Will Marquart, Mason Dillow, Cole Koniarsky and Colton Sundloff.
SERIES PROMOTIONS: Fans in attendance will receive a 2025 UNLV baseball schedule poster all weekend and a red Rebels bucket hat, while supplies last. The UNLV Hustlin’ Rebels will host CCSD Staff Appreciation Day on Saturday, May 17, at Earl E. Wilson Stadium. CCSD staff can claim up to four (4) $1 tickets to see the Hustlin’ Rebels take on the Air Force Falcons on Senior Day.
THIS SEASON: The Hustlin’ Rebels have been able to produce a pair of batters with a batting average of .350 or higher; Dean Toigo (.399) and Cole Koniarsky (.362) represent the highest averages. The duo represents several of the top 15 spots in the Mountain West leaderboard for those marks, ranking second and eighth, respectively, in batting average.
UNLV holds several other top marks within the conference, Toigo ranking first in the Mountain West in hits (81) and RBI (71). Toigo also sits tied for seventh in the nation in RBI and tied for 11th in hits. Additionally, Toigo is first in the MW in home runs (16) and ranks second in total bases (142). Cole Koniarsky is fourth in conference only games with a .472 on-base percentage.
Sophomore starter Carson Lane leads the Rebels with 81 strikeouts, currently third in the Mountain West and sits first with a .230 opponent batting average and second in the MW with a 4.15 ERA.
The UNLV baseball team earned a 2-1 road series win against Washington State. The Rebels recorded a 4-3 victory in game one of the series. In game two, Washington State captured a 5-4 win, but in game three, the Hustlin’ Rebels bounced back with a 5-2 win in the rubber match. For the weekend, Mikey Cruz Jr. batted a combined .417 (5-for-12) with one home run and four singles. Dean Toigo also performed well with a .357 batting average where he went 5-for-14 with a pair of home runs and four RBI. In Alex Overbay’s two appearances in relief, he captured two saves with a 0.00 ERA and four strikeouts. He earned his sixth save of the season in game one of the series where he threw 1.1 innings of work, giving up two hits, one walk and struck out one batter, with the strikeout ending the game with the tying-run at the plate. In the series finale, Overbay notched his seventh save of the season where he gave up one walk and struck out three batters.
The Hustlin’ Rebels have collected six Mountain West weekly honors so far this season, Sheff owning three Freshman honors, while Toigo collected his first Player of the Week nod on April 28. Additionally, Lane and Mercurius have picked up their first Pitcher awards within two weeks apart.
ABOUT THE OPPONENT: Air Force enters the weekend after winning two out of three games against New Mexico. Walkee Zapp has paced the Falcons with a team-high .346 batting average, team-best 64 hits and 111 total bases. Zapp’s 49 runs scored sits tied for fifth in the MW, while his .602 slugging percentage ranks seventh in the conference. Additionally, Zapp’s 18 doubles is tied for the sixth most in the MW.
Air Force’s Dylan Rogers leads the team with 43 strikeouts and has compiled a 1-4 ledger in 56.2 innings of work. Rogers has walked just 14 batters in 13 total appearances giving up 48 earned runs.
NEW FOR 2025: The Rebels feature 23 newcomers wearing the Scarlet & Gray heading into the new season, three of those student-athletes being marked as true freshmen on the roster and 20 transferring to Las Vegas.
Of those 20 transfers, the Scarlet & Gray have two pairs of student-athletes to the roster arriving from the same institution, including Nicky Garritano and Michael Cruz from CSN. The duo helped lead the Coyotes to become one of the premiere JUCO programs, Garritano earning the 2024 NJCAA DI Baseball Defensive Player of the Year honor. Also being a two-time NJCAA DI Baseball ABCA & Rawlings Gold Glove recipient, both he and Cruz hold multiple All-Region selections in Region 18.
A few of UNLV’s fresh faces earned some time on the diamond during the Rebels’ scrimmage, the team having plenty of options to utilize throughout the season. Senior outfielder Dean Toigo led Hope International to their first-ever win in the Avista NAIA World Series as Toigo drove in two runs during the contest. Dwight Allen II was part of the 2022 Georgia squad that advanced to the NCAA Regional after appearing in 42 games that season and Colton Sundloff owns postseason experience from his time at Oklahoma pitching in the NCAA Super Regional.
UNLV was voted tied for fourth in the Mountain West Preseason Poll prior to the start of the season, tied with New Mexico and San Diego State. The Rebels earned a first-place team vote during the poll, Paul Myro IV claiming All-Mountain West Preseason Team honors.
date: 2025-05-14 22:02:00
Rebels Host Falcons In Final home Series: A Must-See Event
get ready for an electrifying clash as your beloved Rebels prepare too face off against the formidable Falcons in thier final home series of the season! This series promises high-stakes action, unforgettable moments, adn the culmination of months of hard work on the field. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or new to the sport, this is an event you won’t want to miss.
Series Schedule: Mark Your Calendars!
Here’s the game schedule for the Rebels vs. Falcons series. Make sure to secure your tickets early, as these games are expected to be a sell-out! Don’t forget to wear your team colors and bring your loudest cheers!
| Date | Time | Location | Special Event |
|---|---|---|---|
| October 27th | 7:00 PM | Rebel Stadium | “Fan Gratitude Night” – Giveaways and contests! |
| October 28th | 3:00 PM | Rebel Stadium | “Kids Day” – Free face painting and activities for children. |
| October 29th | 1:00 PM | Rebel Stadium | “Senior Day” – Honoring graduating team members. |
Key Matchups and Players to Watch
This series isn’t just about the team as a whole; it’s about individual players stepping up and making a difference. Keep an eye on these key matchups and players who are likely to heavily influence the outcome of the games:
- Rebels’ Star Quarterback, Jake “The Rocket” Riley: Riley’s arm strength and accuracy are legendary. He’ll be facing a tough falcons defense known for their aggressive blitzing. Can he maintain his composure and lead the Rebels to victory?
- falcons’ Defensive End, “The Hammer” Harrison: Harrison is a force to be reckoned with. His speed and power make him a nightmare for opposing offensive lines. The Rebels’ offensive line will need to be at their best to protect Riley.
- Rebels’ Wide Receiver, Maria “Lightning” Lopez: Lopez’s speed and agility make her a constant threat downfield. She’ll be a crucial target for Riley, especially in crucial moments.
- Falcons’ Cornerback, David “Shadow” chen: Chen is known for his tight coverage and ability to shut down opposing receivers. The battle between him and Lopez could be the defining moment of the series.
Team Analysis and Strategies: Rebels vs. Falcons
Let’s delve deeper into the strengths and weaknesses of both the Rebels and the Falcons, examining their strategies and what they need to do to emerge victorious. This complete look at the teams provides a tactical overview for informed fans.
Rebels: Strengths and Weaknesses
- Strengths: The Rebels boast a high-powered offense led by Jake Riley, capable of scoring quickly and putting up big numbers. Their home-field advantage at Rebel Stadium is also a significant asset, as the crowd provides unwavering support. Their passing game is their biggest strength.
- Weaknesses: The Rebels’ defense has been inconsistent at times, particularly against strong running teams. They also struggle when Riley is under pressure and forced to make quick decisions. Penalties have also been a problem in recent games.
- Strategy: The Rebels will aim to control the tempo of the game by establishing a strong passing attack early on. They’ll need to protect Riley and minimize turnovers. Defensively, they need to contain the Falcons’ running game and force them into arduous passing situations.
Falcons: Strengths and Weaknesses
- Strengths: The Falcons have a dominant defense, particularly their pass rush, wich is among the best in the league. They also have a solid running game that can control the clock and wear down opponents. Their special teams are consistently strong which gives them an edge in field position.
- Weaknesses: The Falcons’ passing offense is less explosive than the Rebels’. Their quarterback can be prone to mistakes under pressure. Their run defense although good can be vulnerable to misdirection plays.
- Strategy: The Falcons will focus on disrupting Riley’s rhythm and keeping the rebels’ offense off the field. They’ll rely on their running game to control possession and their defense to force turnovers. They might try blitzing early and frequently enough to apply constant pressure.
The Importance of Home-Field Advantage for the Rebels
Playing at Rebel Stadium provides the rebels with a significant advantage. The energy of the home crowd, the familiarity of the field, and the comfort of their own facilities all contribute to a boost in performance.Let’s examine how the Rebels can maximize their home-field advantage in this crucial series.
- Rallying the Fans: the Rebels must actively engage with their fans, encouraging them to be loud and supportive throughout the games. A roaring crowd can intimidate the visiting Falcons and provide momentum for the home team.
- Utilizing Field Familiarity: The Rebels know every inch of Rebel Stadium. They can use this knowledge to their advantage, executing plays with precision and confidence.
- Maintaining Routine and Comfort: Being at home allows the Rebels to maintain their usual routines, ensuring that players are rested and prepared for each game. This can have a positive impact on their focus and performance.
Ticket Information and How to Watch the Games
Don’t miss your chance to witness the excitement of the Rebels vs.Falcons series firsthand! Here’s how to secure your tickets and how to watch the games if you can’t make it to Rebel Stadium.
- Ticket Sales: Tickets are available online at [hypothetical website address] and at the Rebel Stadium box office. Purchase your tickets early to avoid disappointment.
- Game Broadcasts: All three games will be broadcast live on [hypothetical TV channel] and streamed online at [hypothetical streaming service]. Check your local listings for details.
- Radio Coverage: You can also catch the games on the radio at [hypothetical radio station].
- Social Media Updates: Follow the Rebels on social media for live updates, highlights, and behind-the-scenes content.
Impact on Playoffs: What’s at Stake?
This series is more than just a few games; it has significant playoff implications for both the Rebels and the Falcons. Let’s analyze what’s at stake and how the outcome of this series could shape the rest of the season.
- Playoff seeding: A strong performance in this series could boost the Rebels’ playoff seeding, giving them a more favorable matchup in the first round.
- Conference Championship Contention: The winner of this series will be in a strong position to contend for the conference championship. This series could easily be a preview of that final.
- Momentum and Confidence: Winning this series would give the Rebels a tremendous boost in momentum and confidence heading into the playoffs.
First-Hand Experience: My Memories from Attending Rebel games
Growing up in this town, attending Rebels games was more than just watching a sport; it was a community event. I remember vividly the electric atmosphere of Rebel Stadium, the roar of the crowd after a touchdown, and the shared sense of pride in our team. One particular memory stands out:
It was the final game of the 2010 season, and the Rebels were facing their arch-rivals, the Wildcats. The game was tied in the final seconds, and the Rebels had one last chance to score. The quarterback launched a Hail Mary pass into the end zone, and as the ball spiraled through the air, the entire stadium held its breath. Miraculously, a Rebels receiver leaped above the crowd and made the catch, winning the game and sending the fans into a frenzy. That moment, that feeling of shared joy and excitement, is something I’ll never forget. Attending rebels games is about creating memories that last a lifetime.
Rebels Community Outreach: More Than Just a Game
The Rebels are more than just a sports team; they’re an integral part of the community. The team actively engages in various outreach programs, giving back to the fans and making a positive impact on the lives of others. Here are some notable examples:
- Youth Football Camps: the rebels host free football camps for underprivileged children, teaching them fundamental skills and promoting the importance of teamwork and sportsmanship.
- School Visits: Rebels players visit local schools, reading to students, sharing their experiences, and inspiring them to pursue their dreams.
- Charitable Donations: The Rebels institution regularly donates to local charities, supporting various causes and helping those in need.
- Hospital Visits: Players often visit children’s hospitals,spending time with patients and bringing smiles to their faces.
Practical Tips For Attending The Games
To make the most of your experience at the Rebels vs. Falcons series, here are some practical tips to consider.
- Arrive Early: Arriving early allows you ample time to find parking, navigate the stadium, and soak in the pre-game atmosphere.
- Wear Agreeable Shoes: You’ll likely be doing a lot of walking, so comfortable shoes are essential.
- Bring Sunscreen and a Hat: If the game is during the day, protect yourself from the sun with sunscreen and a hat.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated,especially on hot days.
- Be Respectful of Others: Be courteous to fellow fans and stadium staff.
- Know the Stadium Rules: Familiarize yourself with the stadium’s rules and regulations to avoid any issues.
- Have Fun!: Most importantly, relax and enjoy the game! Cheer on the Rebels and create lasting memories.
Case Study: The Rebels’ Comeback of ’18
The 2018 season was a rollercoaster for the Rebels. Plagued by injuries and inconsistent play, they found themselves with a losing record halfway through the season. But something remarkable happened. The team rallied together,fueled by determination and a never-say-die attitude. their comeback started with a crucial win against a tough opponent, followed by a string of impressive victories. Coach Davies changed the Offensive strategy to a short pass, running back focused attack. They played a new level for the second part of the season. The momentum shifted, and they managed to secure a playoff berth against all odds. This case study demonstrates the power of teamwork, resilience, and the importance of never giving up, even when faced with adversity.
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Turning Point | Mid-season shift in Head Coach mindset. |
| Key Players | Injured players returning and rookie steps up. |
| Underlying cause | Team chemistry,belief in the system. |