USU falls to UNLV, marking worst start since 2009 (excluding COVID season)

Two minutes into the second quarter of the matchup between Utah State University and the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, quarterback Spencer Petras fumbled the ball into the hands of UNLV, resulting in a touchdown.

That fumble flipped the switch for UNLV, and they went on to score 27 unanswered points to close out the half.

With two more interceptions and penalties, the Aggies headed into the locker room looking for encouragement from head coach Nate Dreiling.

Coach Dreiling urged the players to execute their game plan and stay disciplined on the field.

“We’re so much better than how we’re playing,” Dreiling said. “We do silly things to stop ourselves on offense – stupid turnovers, unsportsmanlike conduct, and defense not getting lined up because we’re not focused.”

USU doesn’t go down without a fight!

Coming out of the locker room, the team focused on playing the brand of football they had practiced.

“We just chilled out,” said senior defensive end Cian Sloan. “We were much better in the second half.”

Emerging from the tunnel with renewed energy and confidence, the Aggies pushed UNLV back on their first drive. With a deep touchdown pass to junior wide receiver Jack Hestera and a successful PAT, the Aggies found some life.

On the following drive, USU’s Petras connected with senior wide receiver Jaylen Royals at the goal line for another Aggie touchdown.

Despite the newfound momentum, it wasn’t enough to overcome UNLV’s cushion, and the Aggies fell 50-34.

Though Petras struggled with a fumble and three interceptions, he set a school record and a new career high for passing yards in a single game with 461 yards.

Petras frequently connected with Royals and Hestera, who combined accounted for 25 receptions and 307 yards.

With their next game slated for Saturday, October 19, at 2 p.m. on Merlin Olsen Field at Maverik Stadium, the Aggies will be focusing on the basics. “Fix our mistakes,” said Dreiling. “Stay out of our own way.”