FCS Underdog Idaho State Unleashes Shocking Trick Plays to Topple UNLV in Stunning Showdown

For Idaho State, it’s about belief. A program that went just 8–15 over the last two seasons now has a chance to take down a Mountain West power. But holding off UNLV’s depth for four quarters will be the real test.

Meanwhile, UNLV has stumbled in Dan Mullen’s head coaching debut. A Michigan transfer at quarterback, Alex Orji, lost a fumble into the end zone on the first drive. The Rebels also missed a field goal, only to finally respond with Jai’Den Thomas racing 39 yards for a touchdown to cut it to 10–7. The game went to halftime, with the Bengals ahead 17-14.MORE COLLEGE FOOTBALL NEWS:You wouldn’t have bet a dime on the Bengals pulling a fast one against UNLV, right? Yet here we are—Idaho State, a team with more scars than glory in recent years, suddenly lighting up Allegiant Stadium, and not just for show. They stepped onto the field as massive underdogs, 24.5 points separated them from a Mountain West favorite, but the Bengals didn’t just play the game—they rewrote the script. From an early trick play that left the Rebels stunned to a first-quarter lead that had Vegas buzzing, this isn’t your typical Week Zero story. It’s about grit, guts, and proving the doubters wrong. UNLV’s shaky start under new coach Dan Mullen’s watch only adds spice to this unfolding drama, fueling the Bengals’ defiant charge. The real question isn’t just can Idaho State win—it’s how much heart are they ready to pour into the fight to keep this upset dream alive? Hang on, this one’s just getting started. LEARN MOREThe opening quarter told the story. Idaho State struck first with a field goal, then pulled off a stunning trick play. Quarterback Jordan Cooke flipped a lateral to receiver Michael Shulikov, who launched it across the field back to Cooke for a 10–0 lead. The Rebels were caught flat-footed, and Allegiant erupted with shock.Still, in Week Zero, the Bengals have made it clear: they didn’t come to Vegas to play safe. They came to shock college football.Idaho State wasn’t supposed to be here, not like this. A Big Sky program that’s struggled to find its footing, the Bengals opened the season staring at a 24.5-point spread against Mountain West contender UNLV. Yet, under the bright lights of Allegiant Stadium, the Bengals have flipped the script and have fans wondering if an upset is brewing.Can the Bengals pull off a Week Zero stunner against heavy favorite UNLV?