Matthew Sluka transfer controversy: UNLV LB posts it's 'bout time' for Hajj-Malik Williams to start at QB

Sluka left the Rebels after their 3-0 start over an NIL dispute

UNLV was forced to make a sudden quarterback change this week when starter Matthew Sluka left the team over an NIL dispute. That type of loss would normally disrupt a team, but Hajj-Malik Williams already seems to have the support of his teammates before even stepping onto the field as the new starter.

Late Tuesday night, Sluka announced he was leaving the Rebels due to "representations" made during his recruitment that "were not upheld." UNLV, which is off to a 3-0 start and in contention for a College Football Playoff spot, had to pivot to Williams at a moment's notice.

Williams now has less than a week to prepare for this weekend's game against Fresno State, but he has already won over at least one teammate. UNLV linebacker Jackson Woodard showed his excitement on social media.

Sluka, a transfer from Holy Cross had led UNLV to its perfect start, but he did so while completing just 43.8% of his passes. Through three games, Sluka had thrown for 318 yards, six touchdowns and one interception.

Williams is a sixth-year senior out of Campbell, and he offers a different dynamic as a dual-threat quarterback. Williams has yet to attempt a pass at UNLV, but he has rushed 10 times for 88 yards.

In his career with the Camels, Williams completed 61.8% of his passes for 8,200 yards, 58 touchdowns and 26 interceptions. He also rushed for 1,590 yards and 23 scores.