The UNLV Rebels took down the Nevada Wolf Pack 33-30 in overtime on a walk-off touchdown on Saturday in Reno.
But the bigger story came right after the game-ending touchdown, when things escalated quickly between these two rivals and a brawl broke out into the back of the end zone at Mackay Stadium.
Nevada fans got involved as well, with snowballs, beers, and other items being thrown at UNLV players. Additionally, a Nevada fan ripped the helmet off a UNLV player. Here’s how it looked on the TV broadcast:
A camera angle taken from the end zone shows Nevada defensive back Austin Arnold throwing a sucker punch at UNLV quarterback Kenyon Oblad, and the brawl followed (NSFW language):
Here’s another video taken within the on-field chaos:
So, it would seem that this Nevada pregame tweet was ignored by many of their fans:
Make today's game great by being a first class fan!#BattleBorn // #NevadaGrit pic.twitter.com/Wh1a88I21v
— Nevada Football (@NevadaFootball) November 30, 2019
Nevada and UNLV have released a joint statement:
Nevada-UNLV joint statement. pic.twitter.com/I1Jt76Q3fR
— Chris Murray (@ByChrisMurray) December 1, 2019
“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 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.”