California (6-6-0) at UNLV (10-3-0)
- When: Dec 18 2024, 9:00 PM
- Where: SoFi Stadium, Inglewood, CA
- Where to watch: ESPN
Game Odds, Spread, Moneyline & Total
California @ UNLV (#24)
Moneyline
California +140
UNLV (#24) -165
California @ UNLV (#24)
Point Spread
California 3.0 (EVEN)
UNLV (#24) -3.0 (-120)
California @ UNLV (#24)
Total
Over 45.5 (-110)
Under 45.5 (-110)
- Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
- Get real-time live scores & latest betting odds here!
Starting Quarterback:
California: Chandler Rogers 117 Yds
UNLV: Hajj-Malik Williams 1845 Yds
Team Stats
| California | UNLV | |
| 6-6 | Record | 10-3 |
| 2-3 | Away | 6-1 |
| 6-6-0 | ATS | 7-6-0 |
| 3-8-1 | O/U | 6-7-0 |
Last Matchup:
California 20-14, September 10th, 2022
Game Preview
The LA Bowl, set for Wednesday in Inglewood, California, offers a high-stakes showdown between two teams navigating significant transitions. No. 24 UNLV looks to cap an impressive season with an 11th win, while Cal seeks to overcome internal turmoil and secure a winning season. For bettors, this game presents intriguing dynamics as both programs adjust to roster and coaching changes.
UNLV’s Rollercoaster Week
The Rebels (10-3) enter this game in flux after losing head coach Barry Odom to Purdue just days after their Mountain West championship hopes were dashed in a 21-7 loss to Boise State. However, UNLV quickly turned the page, announcing the hiring of Dan Mullen, a former SEC veteran coach. For now, wide receivers coach Del Alexander will serve as interim head coach, tasked with keeping the team focused and prepared.
Despite losing Odom, UNLV has experienced minimal disruption on the roster, with only running back Greg Burrell opting out. Cornerback Tony Grimes entered the transfer portal but is expected to play. Quarterback Hajj-Malik Williams will make his final collegiate start after a solid season in which he passed for 17 touchdowns and rushed for 824 yards. For bettors, Williams’ dual-threat ability makes him a key factor in the Rebels’ offensive game plan.
Wide receiver Ricky White is another name to watch. The senior, bound for the NFL draft, has been a game-changer all season with 11 touchdowns and a program-record 1,483 receiving yards in 2023. White could be pivotal in exploiting a Cal defense that has been inconsistent, especially against top-tier offenses.
On defense, Mountain West Defensive Player of the Year Jackson Woodard will anchor the Rebels. His ability to disrupt Cal’s offense, particularly their rushing attack, could tilt the game in UNLV’s favor.
Cal’s Uncertain Outlook
Cal (6-6) faces significant challenges, starting with the loss of quarterback Fernando Mendoza and leading receiver Nyziah Hunter to the transfer portal. The Bears are also without offensive coordinator Mike Bloesch, who was replaced by Bryan Harsin, though Harsin won’t be calling plays in this game. Instead, Cal will rely on a collaborative play-calling approach, which could add uncertainty to their offensive rhythm.
Quarterbacks CJ Harris and EJ Caminong are splitting reps in practice as Chandler Rogers works to recover from an injury. This quarterback carousel makes Cal’s offensive output difficult to predict, but it’s clear the team will lean on a run-heavy approach to mitigate the lack of stability under center.
Betting Implications
UNLV’s continuity at key positions, coupled with its ability to exploit Cal’s vulnerabilities, makes the Rebels an attractive pick to cover the spread. The Rebels’ defense, led by Woodard, has been solid against the run, which could stifle Cal’s likely ground-focused game plan. On the offensive side, Williams’ versatility and White’s playmaking ability should help UNLV move the ball efficiently.
Cal’s offense is a major question mark, and the team’s recent coaching and roster changes make it hard to trust their consistency. Additionally, their defense has struggled to contain explosive plays, which could spell trouble against UNLV’s dynamic offense.
Prediction
Expect UNLV to come out strong and control the tempo on both sides of the ball. The Rebels’ offensive firepower and defensive prowess give them the edge in this matchup. Bet on UNLV to cover the spread, with the game likely to go over the total due to the Rebels’ ability to put up points against a vulnerable Cal defense.
LA Bowl Parlay Picks & Predictions
Final Score: UNLV 32-20
Expert Pick: UNLV -3 (-120) & Over 45½
A $100 Parlay Bet will return $350
- LA Bowl Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
