Hawai’i Football Team Faces UNLV in Crucial Mountain West Matchup
Game Overview
The University of Hawai’i football team is set to clash with UNLV in a significant Mountain West showdown on Saturday, November 21, at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, Nevada. Kickoff is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. PT (5:30 p.m. HT), and fans can catch the action live on FS1. This rivalry game will see both teams vying for the coveted Island Showdown Trophy, currently held by the Rebels.
Team Records and Standings
The Rainbow Warriors enter the game with a record of 7-3 overall and 4-2 in the Mountain West, while the Rebels boast an 8-2 record, also with a 4-2 conference standing. Both teams are part of a tightly contested group of five, all tied for second place in the Mountain West, trailing league leader San Diego State (5-1).
Game Details
| Matchup | Hawai’i (7-3, 4-2 MW) vs. UNLV (8-2, 4-2 MW) | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| **Date | Time** | Friday, Nov. 21 | 7:30 p.m. PT / 5:30 p.m. HT |
| **Location | Stadium** | Las Vegas, NV | Allegiant Stadium (61,500 capacity) |
| Television | FS1 (Dan Hellie – play-by-play, Petros Papadakis – analyst) | ||
| Radio | ESPN Honolulu (1420AM/92.7FM) – John Veneri (play-by-play), Mark Veneri (analyst) Streaming: ESPNHonolulu.com & Sideline Hawaii app |
||
| Live Stats | UNLVRebels.com | ||
| Game Notes | Hawai’i | UNLV | Mountain West |
Series History
Series Record
- Overall: UH leads 19-15
- In Honolulu: UH leads 13-4
- In Las Vegas: UNLV leads 11-6
Last Meeting
The last encounter between these two teams resulted in a narrow victory for UNLV, who won 29-27 on November 9, 2024.
Game Storylines
- The Island Showdown Trophy, created in 2017, is on the line, with UNLV currently holding it after winning the last two matchups, including last season’s close game in Honolulu.
- This will mark the 35th meeting between the teams, which began in 1969. Despite UH’s overall lead, UNLV has been dominant in Las Vegas, winning seven of the last eight encounters.
- The teams have faced each other annually since 2009, with the home team winning 13 of the last 16 matchups.
- Both teams have an equal record in conference play, with each winning nine times in their 18 meetings as conference members.
- Hawai’i is coming off a strong performance, having won four of their last five games, including a decisive 38-6 victory over San Diego State on November 8.
- UH’s offense has been prolific, averaging 39.0 points and 365.6 passing yards over their last five games.
- Kicker Kansei Matsuzawa remains perfect this season, with 22 successful field goals, aiming to tie the FBS record for consecutive field goals to start a season.
- The Warriors’ roster features seven players from Las Vegas, including several Bishop Gorman High School graduates, adding a local flavor to the matchup.
- Notably, associate head coach Chris Brown and QB coach Chad Kapanui have strong ties to Bishop Gorman, enhancing the competitive narrative of the game.
Conclusion
As the Hawai’i Rainbow Warriors prepare to take on the UNLV Rebels, the stakes are high for both teams in this Mountain West rivalry. With the Island Showdown Trophy on the line and both teams in contention for a top spot in the conference, fans can expect an exciting and competitive game. The combination of local talent and high stakes makes this matchup one to watch.
This matchup not only highlights the competitive spirit of college football but also showcases the rich history and rivalry between these two programs. As both teams aim for victory, the game promises to deliver thrilling moments and intense action on the field.