UNLV quarterback Matthew Sluka has been a key player in the team’s success, leading them to three straight wins at the start of the 2024 season. This is the first time the program has achieved this since 1984. Sluka has displayed impressive stats, with six touchdown passes and 318 passing yards, as well as leading the nation with 15.1 yards per completion. He has also contributed 253 rushing yards and a rushing touchdown on 39 attempts. His performance has solidified him as one of the top transfers in the Mountain West Conference after coming from Holy Cross.
However, on Tuesday night, Sluka announced his decision to leave the UNLV program just days before they were scheduled to face Fresno State. In a statement on social media, Sluka cited unfulfilled commitments made to him when he enrolled as the reason for his departure. Despite discussions, it became evident that these commitments would not be honored in the future. This unexpected decision caught not only fans but also the college football world off guard. UNLV has not yet responded to requests for comment.
Sluka’s impact on the team was evident in their win over Kansas, where he orchestrated an 18-yard, 75-play drive culminating in a Kylin James touchdown. In that game, he also rushed for 113 yards, showcasing his versatility and playmaking abilities. Prior to joining UNLV, Sluka spent four years at Holy Cross, where he amassed impressive stats including 3,583 rushing yards, 38 rushing touchdowns, 5,916 passing yards, and 59 passing touchdowns. His departure leaves a void in the team, with potential replacements in Hajj-Malik Williams or Cameron Friel.
With Sluka’s departure, UNLV faces uncertainty heading into their upcoming game against Fresno State. The decision to leave the program has raised questions about the future of the Rebels and their ability to maintain their momentum in the season. The team will need to adjust quickly and fill the void left by Sluka to continue their success. It remains to be seen how this surprising development will impact UNLV’s performance moving forward and how they will navigate this unexpected turn of events.
The Associated Press contributed to the report, shedding light on the significance of Sluka’s departure and its impact on UNLV and the college football landscape. As the Rebels look to move forward without their star quarterback, they face challenges in maintaining their winning streak and sustaining their early-season success. Sluka’s departure serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of college sports and the unforeseen obstacles that teams may encounter. As UNLV regroups and prepares for future games, they will need to rally together and adapt to this unexpected change to continue their pursuit of success in the season.
