Former Oklahoma running back Emeka Megwa has officially committed to UNLV after entering the NCAA Transfer Portal. This move comes after a challenging time at Oklahoma, where Megwa did not see any action during the current season.
Megwa’s Journey at Oklahoma
In the 2023 campaign, Megwa made just two appearances on the field, managing to record one carry for six yards. These two outings were the only times he stepped onto the field in his three seasons with the Sooners. Unfortunately, he did not play at all during the 2022 season due to injury, which limited his opportunities to showcase his talent.
A Fresh Start at UNLV
Before his time at Oklahoma, Megwa spent his true freshman season at Washington, where he also faced challenges. He did not see the field for the Huskies and ultimately redshirted, which means he will have one year of eligibility remaining as he transitions to UNLV. This fresh start could be just what he needs to reignite his football career.
High School Stardom
Megwa’s journey began at Timber Creek High School in Texas, where he made a name for himself as a four-star prospect. He was ranked as the No. 288 overall recruit and the No. 18 running back in the 2021 recruiting cycle, according to the On3 Industry Ranking. His impressive high school performance set high expectations for his collegiate career, and now he has the chance to fulfill that potential at UNLV.
UNLV’s New Era Under Dan Mullen
Megwa won’t be the only fresh face at UNLV next season. The program recently welcomed Dan Mullen as its new head coach. Mullen, who previously led Florida from 2018 to 2021, is eager to embark on this new journey after a three-year hiatus from coaching. His excitement is palpable, and he believes that UNLV has the tools to succeed.
“Somehow, something about this job hit a spark in me, you know. I don’t know,” Mullen expressed. “We have great facilities here. The Fertitta Football Complex? That family has done a great job giving us facilities. We play at Allegiant Stadium – an NFL stadium, one of the nicest stadiums in football at any level around the world.”
Las Vegas: A Unique Opportunity
Mullen’s enthusiasm extends beyond the facilities. He sees Las Vegas as a fantastic market for college football. “You’re in a great market. Las Vegas is a great place to live, as you know. You know, we have so much going on that it kind of got me really excited. The path to the playoff? I’m thinking I’m going to go have some fun,” he said.
This new chapter for UNLV football, combined with Megwa’s commitment, signals a potential shift in the program’s trajectory. With Mullen at the helm and new talent coming in, the Rebels are poised for an exciting future.
The Transfer Portal Landscape
The transfer portal officially opened on December 7 and closed on December 28. However, players on teams still competing in the postseason will have an additional five-day window to enter the portal after their seasons conclude. This dynamic landscape allows players like Megwa to seek new opportunities and find the best fit for their skills and aspirations.
Keeping Up with Player Movements
For fans eager to stay updated on the latest player movements, resources like On3’s Transfer Portal wire are invaluable. The On3 Transfer Portal Instagram account and Twitter account provide timely updates, ensuring that college football enthusiasts are always in the loop about the latest changes in the sport.
As Megwa embarks on this new journey with UNLV, the excitement surrounding his potential impact on the team is palpable. With a fresh start, a new coaching staff, and the vibrant atmosphere of Las Vegas, the stage is set for a thrilling season ahead. The college football landscape is ever-evolving, and with players like Megwa making bold moves, fans can expect plenty of action in the coming months.
