New look suits UNLV’s quarterback Clayton

Gone are the shoulder-length dreadlocks, replaced by a much more conservative haircut, perhaps representative of a new beginning for UNLV senior quarterback Omar Clayton.

After one of his worst games as a Rebel, he bounced back Saturday by completing 14 of 20 passes for 194 yards and three touchdowns -- all to wide receiver Michael Johnson -- to lead UNLV to a 45-10 victory over New Mexico.

It was UNLV's most decisive victory over a league opponent, going all the way back to 1982 when the Rebels entered what now is the Big West Conference.

More importantly, Clayton, who struggled in a 30-7 loss at Idaho the week before, solidified his spot atop the depth chart. He is the unquestioned leader entering Saturday's 7 p.m. game against No. 25 UNR (4-0) at Sam Boyd Stadium.

Clayton continued to move up the career passing list for UNLV (1-3). He has 5,276 yards and is 118 yards from passing Sam King into third place.

Against New Mexico's pressure, Clayton displayed the composure of a veteran by calmly delivering passes without throwing an interception. The Rebels worked on attacking the Lobos' blitz five times between Friday and game day through videotape review and walk-throughs with offensive coordinator Rob Phenicie.

"He just pounded it in our heads," Clayton said.

Clayton has found a favorite new target in Johnson, who caught eight passes for 138 yards. He leads the Rebels for the season with 20 catches for 279 yards and those three touchdowns.

Johnson has the ability to stretch the field, and he was wide open on touchdown catches of 43 and 35 yards. His 10-yard TD came off a tipped pass.

His big-play ability could open opportunities for Phillip Payne, who had just four receptions for 39 yards against the Lobos and hasn't made a major impact yet this season. He has 15 catches for 219 yards and two touchdowns.

If a third receiver were to emerge, that would make Clayton even more comfortable and give the Rebels a different look.

For now, though, Clayton will have to settle for his haircut as being the new look. He hadn't had one since the eighth grade but began thinking about it recently and called his brother, Charles, for his opinion.

Then Clayton showed up at Mike Clausen's home, and the former quarterback/current safety did the honors.

"Thursday night, I was home sitting around bored," Clayton said. "I was like, 'Man, I've got to get this hair off my head.'

"Now, it's gone, and it's never coming back."

A new look for what Clayton hopes is a new beginning.

Contact reporter Mark Anderson at manderson@reviewjournal.com or 702-387-2914.