UNLV Stuns Miami (OH) with Last-Second Field Goal for 41-38 Victory

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OXFORD, Ohio — Ramon Villela delivered the game-winning kick as UNLV edged Miami (OH) 41-38 in a thrilling clash on Saturday. With just 15 seconds remaining, Villela’s 23-yard field goal secured the Rebels’ fourth consecutive victory, giving them a perfect 4-0 start to the season. The game saw UNLV overcome a 24-10 halftime deficit, fueled by a dynamic second-half performance. Early in the contest, Aamaris Brown electrified the Rebels with a 67-yard interception return for a touchdown, their only score of the first half. Miami (OH) quarterback Dequan Finn exited early in the second quarter after the turnover, ending the first half with 131 passing yards and two touchdowns.

UNLV dominated the second half with a pair of sustained drives to tie the game, only to see Miami retake the lead on a 100-yard kickoff return by Keith Reynolds. However, UNLV’s defense responded immediately; Corban Hondru intercepted a tipped Anthony Colandrea pass and returned it 47 yards, giving the Rebels a crucial 38-24 advantage. This marked the first game in 18 outings that UNLV forced more than one turnover.

Colandrea, who finished with 293 passing yards and two touchdowns, led a 17-play, 87-yard drive into the fourth quarter, connecting with Taeshaun Lyons on a 9-yard touchdown pass. Keyvone Lee then tied the game at 38-38 with a 1-yard run following a shanked punt, setting the stage for Villela’s decisive kick.

Miami threatened late after a 21-yard run by Kenny Tracy put them in the red zone, but Jaheem Joseph forced a fumble, recovered by Marsel McDuffie at the 17-yard line, giving UNLV possession for the final drive. The Rebels capped a 78-yard, nine-play march with Villela’s 23-yard field goal, sealing a hard-fought victory.

The Rebels showed resilience in overcoming early struggles, while Miami (OH) struggled to recover from turnovers and key special teams lapses. UNLV now turns its attention to maintaining its undefeated record as the season progresses.