Connect with us

NCAA FB

Can San Jose State Win vs. USF without Nash in Hawaii Bowl

South Florida and San Jose State will meet on the field at Clarence T.C. Ching Athletics Complex in the Hawaii Bowl.

2024 Hawaii Bowl

South Florida (6-6-0) at San Jose State (7-5-0)

  • When: Dec 24 2024, 8:00 PM
  • Where: Clarence T.C. Ching Athletics Complex, Honolulu, HI
  • Where to watch: ESPN

Game Odds, Spread, Moneyline & Total

South Florida @ San Jose State
Moneyline

South Florida   +125
San Jose State   -145

South Florida @ San Jose State
Point Spread

South Florida   3.0 (-115)
San Jose State   -3.0 (-105)

South Florida @ San Jose State
Total

Over   64.5 (-110)
Under   64.5 (-110)

Starting QB:
South Florida: Bryce Archie 1679 Yds
San Jose : Walker Eget 2224 Yds

Team Stats

South Florida   San Jose State
6-6 Record 7-5
3-3 Away 2-3
6-6-0 ATS 6-6-0
6-5-1 O/U 5-7-0

Last Matchup:
South Florida 42-22, August 26th, 2017

Game Preview

With San Jose State laying 3 points in the Hawaii Bowl and the total set at 64.5, bettors face a tough call: can the Spartans overcome the absence of their All-American wide receiver Nick Nash?

Nash, who dominated the season with 104 catches, 1,382 receiving yards, and 16 touchdowns, has opted out to prepare for the NFL Draft. His absence leaves a gaping hole in the Spartans’ offense, but quarterback Walker Eget still brings firepower, having surpassed 300 passing yards in four of his six starts. Eget’s ability to connect with his remaining targets will be crucial for San Jose State to cover.

San Jose State’s Defense: Key to Winning the Turnover Battle

The Spartans’ defense, leading the nation with 20 interceptions, is their ace. Safety Robert Rahimi (5 picks) anchors a ball-hawking secondary, but with cornerback DJ Harvey transferring to USC, there’s added pressure on the rest of the unit. Linebacker Jordan Pollard, with 110 tackles, will also need to step up to contain South Florida’s explosive offense.

South Florida: Feast or Famine

The Bulls (6-6) have been a model of inconsistency, averaging nearly 50 points in wins but struggling to find the end zone in losses. With starting QB Byrum Brown questionable, backup Bryce Archie is expected to start. Archie has been serviceable, throwing for 1,679 yards and nine touchdowns, but he’ll need to limit turnovers to keep pace with San Jose State. Wideout Sean Atkins, the Bulls’ all-time receptions leader, remains their most reliable weapon.

Travel & Preparation: X-Factors

South Florida faces a daunting 4,700-mile trip to Honolulu. Coach Alex Golesh is focused on balancing team bonding with football preparation, but the lengthy travel could impact the Bulls’ performance. Conversely, the Spartans’ familiarity with Pacific matchups might give them an edge.

Predictions & Betting Angles

– Spread: San Jose State -3
Without Nick Nash, the Spartans are less dynamic, but Walker Eget’s experience and their opportunistic defense give them the edge to cover. Expect a tight game, but San Jose State should pull away late.

– Total: Under 64.5
With Nash out and the Bulls’ offense potentially hindered by travel fatigue and a backup QB, this game could fall short of the high total. Both teams will lean on their defenses in key moments.

– Player Prop to Watch: Walker Eget Over 275.5 Passing Yards
Eget will take on a heavier load without Nash, and South Florida’s secondary has been vulnerable. Look for him to spread the ball around and rack up yards.

The Spartans have a solid shot at covering, but the betting value may lie in fading the inflated total.

Handicappers Picks – Join for Free

Hawaii Bowl Parlay Picks & Predictions

Final Score: San Jose State 34-27
Expert Pick: San Jose State -3 (-105) & Under 64½
A $100 Parlay Bet will return $373

Click to comment

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Top Sportsbooks

bovada logo
75% Welcome Bonus up to $750
betonline
50% Welcome Bonus Up to $1000
mybookie
100% Welcome Bonus up to $1,000
365betting
Weekly Promotions & Much More

More in NCAA FB