Syracuse (9-3-0) at Washington State (8-4-0)
- When: Dec 27 2024, 8:00 PM
- Where: Snapdragon Stadium, San Diego, CA
- Where to watch: FOX
Game Odds, Spread, Moneyline & Total
Syracuse (#21) @ Washington State
Moneyline
Syracuse (#21) -900
Washington State +575
Syracuse (#21) @ Washington State
Point Spread
Syracuse (#21) -17.5 (-115)
Washington State 17.5 (-105)
Syracuse (#21) @ Washington State
Total
Over 59.5 (-110)
Under 59.5 (-110)
- Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
- Get real-time live scores & latest betting odds here!
Starting QB:
Syracuse: Kyle McCord 4326 Yds
Washington State: Zevi Eckhaus 61 Yds
Team Stats
| Syracuse | Washington State | |
| 9-3 | Record | 8-4 |
| 3-2 | Away | 3-3 |
| 6-6-0 | ATS | 6-6-0 |
| 6-5-1 | O/U | 6-6-0 |
Game Preview
When No. 21 Syracuse takes on Washington State in the Holiday Bowl on Friday in San Diego, bettors are looking at a matchup of contrasting circumstances: the stability of the Orange versus the chaos surrounding the Cougars. With Syracuse favored by 17.5 points and the total set at 59.5, this game offers intriguing opportunities for those looking to wager.
Syracuse: Momentum and Stability
The Orange (9-3) enter the postseason riding a wave of momentum, having won their last three games, including a thrilling 42-38 upset over Miami in the regular-season finale. Led by first-year head coach Fran Brown and Heisman top-10 quarterback Kyle McCord, Syracuse is poised to make a statement.
McCord, who leads the nation with 4,326 passing yards and 29 touchdowns, has committed to playing in the bowl game, further solidifying Syracuse’s offensive prospects. With Brown aiming for Syracuse’s first double-digit win season in over 20 years, the Orange are laser-focused on securing a dominant performance.
Betting Angle: Syracuse’s offensive firepower and consistent leadership make them a strong contender to cover the 17-point spread.
Washington State: Scrambling to Compete
The Cougars (8-4) are in turmoil, dealing with significant roster turnover and leadership changes. Head coach Jake Dickert has departed for Wake Forest, and star quarterback John Mateer has transferred to Oklahoma. Over 25 players from Washington State have entered the transfer portal, leaving the program scrambling to field a competitive lineup.
Acting head coach Pete Kaligis and senior quarterback Zevi Eckhaus are stepping in under difficult circumstances. Eckhaus, with only seven pass attempts this season, will make his first start, tasked with replacing Mateer’s production: 3,139 passing yards, 29 touchdowns, and 826 rushing yards with 15 scores.
Betting Angle: Washington State’s lack of experience at key positions and their recent struggles make it hard to see them keeping this game within the spread.
Key Matchups and Trends:
– Kyle McCord vs. Washington State Defense:
With McCord playing at an elite level, Syracuse’s passing attack is primed to exploit a Cougars defense dealing with significant roster instability.
– Zevi Eckhaus’ Debut:
Eckhaus faces an uphill battle in his first start, especially against a Syracuse defense that will look to pressure the inexperienced signal-caller.
– Recent Bowl Performances:
Both teams have struggled in bowl games, with Washington State losing its last three and Syracuse looking for its first bowl win since 2018.
Predictions and Best Bets:
– Spread: Syracuse -17.5
The Orange have all the pieces in place to dominate this game, while Washington State’s lack of stability and experience makes it unlikely they’ll keep pace.
– Total: Over 59.5
Despite Washington State’s challenges, their offense may still find some opportunities against a Syracuse defense that has shown vulnerabilities. Combined with Syracuse’s high-scoring potential, the total should surpass 60.5.
– Player Prop to Watch: Kyle McCord Over 325.5 Passing Yards
McCord has been the centerpiece of Syracuse’s offense all season, and this matchup sets up perfectly for him to deliver another standout performance.
Conclusion:
This game heavily favors Syracuse, with their stability and star quarterback giving them a clear advantage. Washington State’s turmoil and lack of experience make it challenging to envision them covering the spread. Expect the Orange to cruise to a big win, with the total hitting the over as both teams put points on the board. Bettors should confidently back Syracuse and look for value in McCord’s passing props.
Holiday Bowl Parlay Picks & Predictions
Final Score: Syracuse 42-20
Expert Pick: Syracuse -17½ (-115) & Over 59½
A $100 Parlay Bet will return $357
- Holiday Bowl Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
