2016 Week 3 Preview: UNLV vs Central Michigan Chippewas

After what people will call a "controversial win" for the Chippewas last weekend over the then 22nd ranked Oklahoma State Cowboys in Stillwater, the Chippewas return home to host the Rebels of UNLV. Central Michigan enters the game at 2-0 early on in the season, with wins against FCS level Presbyterian and Oklahoma State. UNLV comes into this game with a 1-1 record, with a win against another FCS level team in Jackson State and a loss to UCLA.

Cooper Rush, starting quarterback for CMU, started off the season rather slow in his first game against Presbyterian, but was able to turn it up and give the Chippewas the big road win in Stillwater and their biggest upset since they defeated Michigan State a few years back. Rush now has 605 yards with five touchdowns and three interceptions, and has completed 47 of his 69 passes. Devon Spalding, starting running back, has 157 yards on 26 carries with a touchdown, and also caught a big touchdown in the game last weekend. The Chippewa running game has a new face, as true freshman Jonathan Ward has become a great third option behind Jahray Hayes as another fast running back for the Chippewas.

The offense hasn't been the only thing leading the Chips to victory. The Chippewas defense has looked strong, holding opposing teams to only 47 rushing yards a game so far. That is likely to increase, but the defense is definitely doing its job to force the opposing teams into more difficult situations.

For UNLV, quarterback Johnny Stanton has gained 370 yards of passing with four touchdowns and two interceptions. Stanton has completed 21 of 40 passes and has found his favorite target. Devonte Boyd has become Stanton's favorite reciever, as he has caught nine passes for 219 yards and three receiving touchdowns. The Rebels running back, Lexington Thomas, has earned 180 yards on 30 carries with three rushing touchdowns already this season. The Rebels tried to come back late in the third quarter, but were unable to score in the fourth quarter, as UCLA was able to pull away.

UNLV's defense struggled in the second quarter of the game, giving up two rushing touchdown and a passing touchdown from Josh Rosen, and the Rebel offense couldn't keep up with the Bruins. UNLV must be able to defend the passing game against CMU and Cooper Rush if they want a chance to win.

This should be a great game to watch for any football fan. The Chippewas will try to build off their incredible upset, and UNLV looks to try and catch the Chippewas with their head in the clouds. CMU opens as the favorite to win the game.