5 questions ahead of UNLV’s season opener at Northern Illinois

Here are five burning questions as UNLV prepares to open its football season at Northern Illinois at 4:30 p.m. PDT Saturday:

1. Can the Rebels be competitive? Yes, they can. UNLV is a 22-point underdog for a reason, but the Rebels also are largely a unknown entity to Northern Illinois because of all the off-season changes. That gives the Rebels an opportunity to make plays and set an early tone.

2. Except for pulling off a big upset, what would constitute success? If UNLV can give the Huskies a game, even if it gets away late, that would be a good step moving forward.

3. How will Rebels quarterback Blake Decker perform? If he doesn't force passes and doesn't try to take on linebackers when he tucks the ball and runs, he could do very well. Decker has the ability to put up numbers. But if he reverts to his old form of making poor decisions, then the Rebels have almost no chance.

4. Will the running game improve? If the two freshman running backs play like they did in training camp, there is no reason why UNLV shouldn't put a better product on the field this season. Also look for improved play from starter Keith Whitely.

5. Any chance the Rebels play some defense? There's always a chance. UNLV can't play conventional defense and expect to have success. The Rebels must take chances, and if they create some big plays, those could be momentum-changers. The downside, of course, is giving up big plays, but UNLV doesn't have the luxury of being able to sit back.

Contact Mark Anderson at manderson@reviewjournal.com or 702-387-2914. Follow him: @markanderson65