The UNLV Rebels and Nevada Wolfpack played an intense, close matchup that ended with a game-winning touchdown pass from UNLV quarterback Kenyon Oblad to Steve Jenkins to push the Rebels past their heated rival in overtime. It was everything fans would want in a rivalry game, except for what happened next.
Jenkins proceeded to run in front of the Nevada sideline and taunt the Wolfpack bench as he celebrated the victory, but it was Oblad being punched by Nevada linebacker Austin Arnold that sparked a bench-clearing brawl between both teams.
Twitter user @iamnetchie captured the fight in its entirety, but be advised that there is some NSFW language in the video.
https://twitter.com/iamnetchie/status/1200938707177459714?s=21
A joint statement was released by the athletic directors from both schools following the incident:
“The events that occurred following today’s football game have no place in college athletics and we are deeply disappointed by this incident which detracts from what was a hard-fought and emotional football game between our state’s only two NCAA programs.
We are examining all available video from the incident and are working with the Mountain West office in a full review. Additionally, we are working with the University of Nevada, Reno Police Department to review the actions on the field and in the stands after the game.
Rivalry games are at the heart of what should be great about intercollegiate athletics. We will continue to prioritize sportsmanship at all of our events, especially those between our two great institutions.”
It was the last game for UNLV head coach Tony Sanchez, who was fired earlier in the week after going 4-8 this season. Nevada’s record dropped to 7-5.