The 2026 UNLV football schedule, released Monday, features a challenging early stretch that will test the Rebels’ depth and resilience under second-year coach Dan Mullen.

UNLV begins the season at Allegiant Stadium on Aug. 29 against Memphis in the first-ever meeting between the programs. It marks the second consecutive year the Rebels play in Week Zero.

After the opener, UNLV plays three of its next four games away from home. The Rebels travel to Hawaii on Sept. 5 for their earliest conference matchup in program history, then visit North Texas on Sept. 12. A bye week follows on Sept. 19, after which UNLV plays at Akron on Sept. 26 before hosting Cal on Oct. 3.

“Our guys will be tested early, but that’s the kind of challenge that builds a team,” Mullen said.

The non-conference portion of the schedule is demanding: UNLV’s first three opponents — Memphis, Hawaii, and North Texas — combined for a 29-11 record last season, including two bowl wins.

Mountain West play begins with the Hawaii game and continues Oct. 10 when new conference member North Dakota State visits Allegiant Stadium. The Bison, an FCS powerhouse transitioning to FBS, will be a formidable opponent.

UNLV’s second bye falls on Oct. 24 after an Oct. 17 game at Air Force. The Rebels then host Northern Illinois on Oct. 31, Wyoming on Nov. 7, and travel to New Mexico on Nov. 14 and San Jose State on Nov. 21. The regular season concludes Nov. 28 at home against intrastate rival UNR.

Game times and television designations have not yet been announced. All dates are tentative, with some games potentially moving to Fridays.