Ryan McCabe ’28
Staff Writer
Matthew Sluka, the former Holy Cross quarterback, is already making waves at UNLV after transferring with hopes of pursuing a future in the NFL. Known for his dual-threat capabilities, Sluka has led UNLV to a 2-0 start, showcasing the same playmaking skills that made him a standout at Holy Cross. While his new journey is just beginning, Sluka’s early success at UNLV demonstrates that his reputation as a game-changer continues to hold true.
UNLV head coach Barry Odom tracked every statistic during the offseason quarterback competition, and Sluka ultimately emerged as the clear-cut QB1. Sluka’s ability to take control of the offense and lead UNLV to success has justified Odom’s decision, and Sluka’s strong start has solidified his position as the leader of the Rebels.
Before arriving at UNLV, Sluka already built an impressive résumé at Holy Cross. He was a two-time finalist for the Walter Payton Award, which is given to the best offensive player in FCS football. Additionally, Sluka earned multiple All-America honors and was named the Patriot League Offensive Player of the Year in 2023.
Sluka’s senior year at Holy Cross was particularly remarkable, as he led all Division I quarterbacks with 1,247 rushing yards while adding 20 passing touchdowns. Among Sluka’s standout moments was a record-setting 330-yard rushing performance, a Division I single-game record for a quarterback, against Lafayette.
Sluka’s transition to UNLV brought a new challenge—stepping up to a higher level of competition in the FBS. His debut came in a 27-7 victory over Houston, where he completed 6-of-13 passes for 71 yards and two touchdowns while rushing for 59 yards. Though the stats may not have been eye-popping, Sluka’s playmaking ability was undeniable.
A defining moment occurred in the second quarter when a bad shotgun snap bounced back to Sluka’s left. With Houston’s pass rush bearing down, Sluka scrambled to recover the ball, rolled out of the pocket, and delivered a perfect pass to wide receiver Jacob De Jesus for a 24-yard touchdown in the corner of the endzone.
“That was such a huge play for us,” UNLV coach Barry Odom remarked. “Placed perfectly where the only guy that could have caught it was our receiver… that was a big-time play.”
The play quickly went viral. It was later featured on ESPN, and served as an announcement to the football world that Sluka is here to make an impact.
The following week, Sluka and the Rebels steamrolled Utah Tech in a dominant 72-14 victory. Sluka came out hot, throwing three first-quarter touchdown passes to Ricky White III, torching Utah Tech’s secondary early and often.
Sluka finished the game completing 8-of-15 passes for 161 yards, adding 81 rushing yards, including an electrifying 30-yard touchdown run. With the game well in hand by halftime, Sluka sat out the second half. While UNLV’s running game stole the show with over 500 yards on the ground, Sluka’s efficient performance and leadership set the tone early, ensuring the team’s second win of the season.
For Holy Cross fans, seeing their former star quarterback shine on a bigger stage is a source of pride. While he may no longer be donning the purple and white, Sluka continues to make the Holy Cross community proud with every snap he takes at UNLV.
One of college football’s best-kept secrets is quickly making a name for himself, showing that his transition to the FBS level is just the next chapter in what promises to be a remarkable football journey. Sluka’s NFL dreams may be closer than ever if he continues to perform at this level, which proves that his time at Holy Cross was only the beginning of an impressive career.
Featured image courtesy of Holy Cross Athletics
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