Nevada Heads to Kentucky with Momentum After Dominating Non-Conference Play
BOWLING GREEN, KY – The Nevada Wolf Pack (2-1) will close out their non-conference schedule Saturday at Western Kentucky (2-1), carrying significant momentum built on a consistently disruptive defense and a resurgent rushing attack.The Pack aims to continue its strong start as it transitions into Mountain West conference play.
Through three games, Nevada’s defense has demonstrated marked betterment, averaging over six tackles-for-loss per game. The unit recorded at least six TFLs for the third consecutive contest, achieving exactly six against Middle Tennessee, and a season-high four sacks. Nevada currently boasts 19.0 tackles-for-loss on the season, spearheaded by defensive lineman Dylan LaBarbera, who leads the team with 6.0 TFLs and 2.0 sacks. Contributing to the pressure are Sam Cook (3.5 TFL, 1.0 sack), Jonathan Maldonado (2.5 TFL, 1.5 sacks), and Stone Combs (2.5 TFL, 0.5 sacks).
Offensively, Nevada has found success establishing the run, exceeding 200 rushing yards in consecutive games. The Wolf Pack rushed for 269 yards against Sacramento State on September 6th and followed it up with 203 yards against Middle Tennessee, with running back Herschel Turner leading the charge with 90 yards on 12 carries in the latter contest. Turner has amassed 168 rushing yards on 23 carries (7.3 yards per carry) over the past two games, benefiting from strong blocking by the offensive line, nicknamed “The Union.”
A key component of the rushing success has been the play of tight ends Jace Henry and Jett Carpenter, coached by former NFL veteran Virgil Green. The duo provides crucial run-blocking support while also offering receiving options; Carpenter has already secured six catches for 41 yards this season, while henry recorded his first catch of the year against Middle Tennessee.
