Quarterback Matthew Sluka, who departed UNLV three games into the season due to a name, image, and likeness dispute, has officially entered the transfer portal, according to his agent. Sluka's decision to leave the Rebels after leading them to a 3-0 record sparked a national conversation regarding the implications of such actions. By leaving before playing a fifth game, Sluka strategically utilized a redshirt season to maintain his final year of eligibility.
It was revealed that Sluka's departure stemmed from an alleged promise of $100,000 in NIL money to transfer from Holy Cross, a commitment that was reportedly not honored. In a statement announcing his exit, Sluka expressed disappointment over the unfulfilled commitments and extended well wishes to his former teammates and the program.
UNLV responded to the situation by accusing Sluka's agent of making financial demands that were deemed as potential violations of NCAA pay-for-play rules and Nevada state law. The university clarified that it does not engage in such activities and emphasized its adherence to previously agreed-upon scholarship terms for Sluka.
Following Sluka's departure, senior transfer Hajj-Malik Williams assumed the starting quarterback role and has since excelled, amassing over 1,000 passing yards and 12 touchdowns, along with nearly 500 rushing yards and five rushing touchdowns. Under Williams' leadership, the Rebels have achieved a 3-2 record, including a close 29-24 loss to Boise State, now ranked No. 15 in the nation.
Despite the quarterback transition, UNLV has managed to maintain a strong season, boasting a 6-2 overall record and securing bowl eligibility for the second consecutive year, a historic feat for the program. This marks the first time in UNLV football history that the team has achieved such a milestone, signaling a positive trajectory for the Rebels moving forward.
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