UNLV Football to Simplify Defensive Scheme Amidst Struggles
LAS VEGAS – UNLV head football coach Dan Mullen is implementing a simplified defensive scheme in an effort to correct ongoing issues, acknowledging teh need for repetition and trust amongst his players. the move comes as the Rebels prepare to face New Mexico at noon Saturday at Allegiant Stadium.
The UNLV defense has faced challenges this season, prompting Mullen to emphasize foundational principles over complex adjustments. “We’re at 1,000 [repetitions],” Mullen stated. “We’re a long way from being experts,so we have to teach it and rep it and communicate it and walk it through over and over.” He dismissed the idea that players are overthinking, attributing breakdowns to a lack of consistent execution and confidence in their assignments.
mullen stressed the importance of players fulfilling their individual roles, even if it means not making the tackle themselves. “Sometimes, it’s about not making a play. That your job on a specific snap might be to sit in your gap so things are going to bounce to someone else for them to finish it,” he explained.
Facing a diverse range of offensive styles – run-and-shoot, triple option, and power run – has presented difficulties for the defense. Mullen anticipates New Mexico will unveil new formations, coverages, and plays the Rebels haven’t previously encountered. “I guarantee you New Mexico is going to come out with movements they haven’t shown and a coverage they haven’t shown and a formation they haven’t shown and a pass play and a run play and motion they haven’t shown,” Mullen said.
The coaching staff utilized the bye week to build confidence through varied practice scenarios. Mullen accepted obligation for ensuring proper instruction and avoiding frustration with players.
Despite external criticism regarding the defense’s performance, Mullen expressed gratitude for the program’s importance to fans. he affirmed the dedication of those within the program, stating, “Nobody wants to win more than those in the building.”
Mullen outlined a team-wide approach to success: “For us, it’s about the defense holding them to one point less than we score, and the offense scoring one more point than we give up, and special teams playing really hard. If we do that, we have a chance.”
Game Details:
* Who: New Mexico at UNLV
* When: Noon Saturday
* Where: allegiant Stadium
* TV: SSSEN
* Radio: KWWN (1100 AM, 100.9 FM)
* Line: UNLV -4; total 62
