Kansas Jayhawks running back Devin Neal (4) looks back after a touchdown against Lindenwood Lions in the second quarter Thursday, August 29, 2024 at Children's Mercy Park. © Evert Nelson/The Capital-Journal / USA TODAY NETWORK

Kansas vs UNLV: 3 Keys to Victory Against the Rebels

Originally posted on Kansas Jayhawks on SI
By Mathey Gibson | Last updated Sep 13, 2024 12:31 PM ET

Kansas vs UNLV Preview

The Kansas Jayhawks (2-1) are looking to rebound from a tough 23-17 loss to Illinois as they prepare to face the undefeated UNLV Rebels (2-0) at Children’s Mercy Park. To secure a win, Kansas must focus on three key areas ...

1. Kansas ... Run the Football, and Keep Running

Devin Neal and Daniel Hishaw Jr. form one of the most dynamic backfield duos in college football. In the loss to Illinois, they combined for 151 yards on 22 touches, proving their value to the offense.

However, offensive coordinator Jeff Grimes moved away from the run game in the second half, and Kansas struggled to maintain control. Against UNLV, the Jayhawks must stick to their strength and consistently feed Neal and Hishaw.

Establishing a dominant ground game will open up opportunities in the passing game and control the clock, keeping UNLV’s offense off the field.

A year ago, Kansas was able to use motion, its speed, exploit angles and hit the perimeter against Illinois’ defense, with Devin Neal and Daniel Hishaw nearly averaging 10 yards per carry (218 on 22 carries). What’s Illinois’ answer this year? 3/3 pic.twitter.com/RbNpLd8CSd
— Kevin Flaherty (@KFlahertyKCSN) September 7, 2024

2. Lean on the Jayhawk Secondary

Kansas’ secondary, led by All-American candidate Cobee Bryant, has been one of the team’s strongest units. They performed well in man coverage against Illinois and will need to replicate that success against UNLV’s talented wide receivers.

Trusting this secondary to lock down the Rebels’ passing attack allows the linebackers and defensive line to focus on pressuring the quarterback and stopping the run. A strong defensive showing from the secondary could shift the momentum in Kansas’ favor.

3. Let Jalon Daniels Shine

Despite a rusty start to the season, Jalon Daniels is the key to Kansas’ success. With an elite receiving corps led by Lawrence Arnold and Luke Grimm and a sturdy offensive line, Daniels has all the tools to thrive.

It's crucial for the coaching staff to put their faith in him, allowing him to make plays and regain his confidence. If Daniels can find his rhythm, Kansas will be hard to beat.