UNLV defeats California 39-31 behind Jackson Arnold's five touchdowns

UNLV defeated California 39-31 at Allegiant Stadium on Saturday, led by a standout performance from quarterback Jackson Arnold. Arnold accounted for five touchdowns, passing for three and rushing for two, including a 55-yard touchdown run in the second quarter.

California initially trailed 24-7 at halftime but staged a comeback to take a 25-24 lead in the fourth quarter. However, UNLV regained control following a 42-yard run by Arnold, which set up a 10-yard touchdown pass to Keyan Burnett. UNLV secured the win after Arnold added a 2-yard rushing touchdown late in the game.

The Golden Bears faced significant roster challenges, playing without leading rusher Adam Mohammed due to a knee injury and losing safety Kingston Lopa to an upper-body injury early in the first quarter. Cal quarterback Jaron-Keawe Sagapolutele left the game in the second quarter after hitting his head on the turf; while medically cleared, coach Tosh Lupoi opted not to return him to the game due to the head injury. Jackson Brousseau finished the game for Cal, completing 19 of 32 passes.