Syracuse Overcomes UNLV in Thrilling Overtime Victory

LAS VEGAS — Syracuse emerged victorious over No. 25 UNLV with a 44-41 win in an overtime thriller at Allegiant Stadium on Friday night. The evening concluded dramatically when Syracuse running back LeQuint Allen scored the decisive touchdown after dragging a UNLV defender into the end zone.

Despite an injury to his lower left leg, Allen insisted on continuing to play, indicating the pain was significant. “Just putting it all on the line for my team,” Allen stated. He contributed significantly to the win, with 71 rushing yards, two rushing touchdowns, 58 receiving yards, and two more touchdowns through the air.

Syracuse head coach Fran Brown praised Allen’s resilience and determination. “He’s been doing that, that’s just what he does — that’s LeQuint,” Brown said.

Opposite him, UNLV’s offense was led by quarterback Hajj-Malik Williams, who completed 21 of 25 passes for 227 yards and threw three touchdown passes, despite an interception. The game marked UNLV’s first appearance in the AP Top 25, a significant milestone for the program.

UNLV’s impressive performance included standout plays from Ricky White, who blocked a punt that was returned for a touchdown by freshman Charles Correa, electrifying the 31,329 attendants, the third-highest crowd since UNLV began playing at Allegiant Stadium.

The game was a showcase of back-and-forth momentum, featuring four lead changes and three ties. Syracuse initially led with two touchdowns by Allen. However, UNLV rallied in the second quarter to take a halftime lead, showcasing their potent offensive capabilities.

Syracuse regained advantage in the third quarter after Kyle McCord connected on a touchdown pass, and Allen scored again following an interception. Yet, the Rebels fought back, equalizing through special teams and another touchdown, before temporarily taking a lead late in the fourth quarter.

Syracuse executed a critical drive in the final minutes of regulation to send the game into overtime, where Allen’s perseverance sealed their victory. The coordinated efforts and adapting strategy emphasized both teams’ determination and skill.

Though UNLV suffered its first defeat of the season, head coach Barry Odom maintained a positive outlook. “We understand this game won’t define us,” Odom said. “It is how we respond that will.” The Rebels will next play against Utah State, while Syracuse is set to face N.C. State.