Quarterback Anthony Colandrea is set to join the UNLV ranks after transferring from Virginia, as confirmed in an Instagram post-Saturday evening. In two seasons with the Cavaliers, Colandrea amassed 4,083 passing yards, 26 touchdowns, and threw 20 interceptions. He arrives at UNLV with two years of remaining eligibility and the expectations that come with that experience.

Before settling on UNLV, Colandrea visited Syracuse and Ole Miss, reports Sports Illustrated. His commitment to UNLV comes amid a season where the team went 10-3, reached the Mountain West Championship Game, and secured a spot at No. 24 in the final College Football Playoff rankings. With the former head coach Barry Odom departing to Purdue and several key players leaving — including starting quarterback Hajj-Malik Williams — Colandrea's addition could help fill a significant void.

According to On3, Dan Mullen, UNLV's new head coach, has a history of developing quarterbacks during his tenure in the Southeastern Conference. Considering Mullen's experience, which includes three New Year's Six bowl games during his time at Florida, Colandrea seems positioned to tap into his potential under Mullen's guidance.

During his stint at Virginia, especially after benching in favor of a graduating senior, Colandrea's performance fluctuated; he went from setting freshman records to throwing seven interceptions against one touchdown in a three-game span. Despite this, On3 and other recruiting services have rated him among the top available quarterbacks in the transfer portal. With a better situation forecasted at UNLV, the Nevada desert could serve as the proving grounds Colandrea needs to revitalize his college football career.