Aug. 20, 2007

UNLV PLAYER OF THE DAY:

Casey Flair, WR, 6-1, 190, JR-2L, Anchorage, AK (East HS)

UNLV junior wide out Casey Flair has emerged as not only one of the most sure-handed ball catchers among a talented group of Rebel wide receivers, but within the Mountain West Conference as well.

The 2006 second team All-Mountain West Conference performer remains one of UNLV's hardest workers on the field at every practice, making Flair our final Player of the Day for preseason camp.

A former walk-on, Flair has developed into one of the most consistent pass catchers in Rebel history, hauling in at least one ball in every game of his career. He led the MWC in receptions last season with 67 that went for 817 yards and four touchdowns. Flair's first reception in 2007 will be the 100th of his career and he needs 17 more grabs to move into the school's career top 10 list.

"Casey had a very good summer and that has carried over into fall camp," UNLV head coach Mike Sanford said. "He has worked very hard in camp every day and he is one of those players who talks the talk but also walks the walk."

With the Rebels naming redshirt freshman Travis Dixon as the starter for the season opener at Utah State on Aug. 30, Flair believes it is up to the experienced group of receivers to help Dixon as much as they can -- whether that means running exact routes, blocking in the running game or catching everything thrown in their direction.

"It is important that we (the wide receivers) don't get complacent. We have to continually play hard," Flair said. "We have to make plays for Travis and get him comfortable. Every time a ball comes my way I want my teammates to know I am going to catch it."

Besides starting every game he has ever played in as a wide receiver, Flair is also the team's holder for field goals and PATs and he also returns punts. Off the field Flair is a psychology major and a two-time selection to the Academic All-MWC squad.