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UNLV Rebels Head Coach Confident Team Is Ahead of Last Year
Mullen says returning players are in better shape and new players can "follow the leader"
Feb. 5, 2026 at 5:31pm
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UNLV Rebels head football coach Dan Mullen spoke to the media about the team's progress in the offseason, saying they are "so far ahead of where we were last year" and that the returning players are in much better shape compared to when he took over the program. Mullen also discussed his increased involvement in special teams and the higher expectations for the team after winning 10 games last season but falling short of the Mountain West championship.
Why it matters
The UNLV Rebels are looking to build on their successful 10-win season last year and take the next step to win the Mountain West conference title. Mullen's comments indicate the team has made significant strides in the offseason, which could position them as a top contender in the conference.
The details
Mullen said the returning players have stepped up as leaders and the team is in much better physical shape compared to this time last year when he first took over the program. He also plans to get more involved with the special teams unit. Despite the 10-win season, Mullen acknowledged there was disappointment in not winning the conference title, and the team has embraced the higher expectations heading into the new season.
- The UNLV Rebels are currently in their offseason, preparing for the 2026 season.
The players
Dan Mullen
The head coach of the UNLV Rebels football team.
Tanner Maher
The strength and conditioning coach for the UNLV Rebels football team.
What they’re saying
“The old guys are stepping up, leading the way. Not just the standards and expectations of how to perform, but just understanding what the workouts are about, what different drills we are doing.”
— Dan Mullen, Head Coach (si.com)
“We'll be different, that's for sure. You're always playing to the strengths of your players. The quarterback position is one I've got to make sure I'm putting those guys in a position to succeed.”
— Dan Mullen, Head Coach (si.com)
“I think I'm much more comfortable now. We're in year two, the whole program, everybody's in a much more comfortable position, which opens me up to be more involved in specific areas. And one of the ones I've always done a lot with is special teams.”
— Dan Mullen, Head Coach (si.com)
“There was disappointment with last year's team. To win the Mountain West championship is what we can control. And we fell one game short. I think there's a drive within the locker room to finish that this year. We embrace those expectations.”
— Dan Mullen, Head Coach (si.com)
What’s next
The UNLV Rebels will continue their offseason training and preparation for the 2026 season, with a focus on improving their performance and winning the Mountain West championship.
The takeaway
The UNLV Rebels football team appears to be in a much stronger position heading into the 2026 season compared to last year, with the returning players in better shape and the team as a whole further ahead in their development. The higher expectations and drive to win the conference title will be a key motivator for the team as they look to build on their successful 10-win campaign from the previous season.
