© Brian Losness-Imagn Images

 

 

Art of Sport LA Bowl: California Golden Bears vs. UNLV Rebels Preview

On December 18, 2024, the California Golden Bears (6-6) take on the UNLV Rebels (10-3) in the Art of Sport LA Bowl at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California. This matchup features two teams with contrasting seasons: UNLV enjoying one of its best years in recent memory, while Cal managed to claw its way to bowl eligibility after a rocky campaign.

 

Game Details

Event	Art of Sport LA Bowl
Time	7:00 PM ET, December 18, 2024
Location	SoFi Stadium, Inglewood, CA
TV Coverage	ESPN
Weather	69°F, Clear

California Golden Bears

The Golden Bears enter this bowl game after an up-and-down season, finishing 6-6 and barely securing bowl eligibility. Cal struggled in conference play, going 2-6 in the tough ACC, but they showed flashes of offensive firepower and defensive toughness when needed.

Offense

Cal’s offense revolves around quarterback Fernando Mendoza, who threw for 3,004 yards with 16 touchdowns and 6 interceptions this season. Mendoza’s efficiency has been critical, but Cal lacks a dominant rushing game. Running back Jadyn Thomas leads the team with 598 yards and 7 touchdowns, averaging just over 6 yards per carry. The passing game relies heavily on Jeremiah Hunter, who caught 40 passes for 578 yards and 5 touchdowns.

Cal’s offensive line has been inconsistent, often struggling against stronger defensive fronts. This has led to a lack of rhythm in their rushing attack and left Mendoza under pressure in key games. Their offense averages 23.7 points per game, and against a strong UNLV team, they will need more balance and fewer mistakes.

Defense

Defensively, Cal has been better than their record might suggest. They allow 25.1 points per game, and their front seven has excelled at stopping the run, holding opponents to under 150 rushing yards per game. Linebacker Jackson Sirmon has been a leader on this side of the ball, racking up tackles and disrupting backfields.

However, the secondary has been vulnerable, allowing big plays through the air. This weakness was exposed in losses to Syracuse and SMU, where Cal gave up over 300 passing yards in each game. Facing UNLV’s efficient passing offense, this could prove to be a significant challenge.

UNLV Rebels

The UNLV Rebels have had a remarkable season under head coach Barry Odom, finishing with a 10-3 record and earning a trip to the LA Bowl as one of the top teams in the Mountain West. The Rebels boast a well-rounded team that can beat opponents with both their offense and defense.

Offense

UNLV’s offense has been explosive, averaging 30.8 points per game. Quarterback Harrison Williams has been steady, throwing for 1,845 yards, 17 touchdowns, and just 5 interceptions. While Williams’ numbers don’t jump off the page, his ability to avoid turnovers and manage the game has been a key to the Rebels' success.

The ground game is where UNLV thrives. Running back Jai’Den Thomas has been a workhorse, amassing 846 rushing yards and 7 touchdowns. The Rebels’ offensive line has dominated weaker defensive fronts, allowing Thomas to average over 5 yards per carry. In addition, receiver Ricky White III has been a breakout star, recording 1,041 receiving yards and 11 touchdowns.

Expect UNLV to focus on a run-heavy attack to wear down Cal’s front seven and open up passing lanes for big plays downfield.

Defense

UNLV’s defense has been strong, allowing just 21.7 points per game. The Rebels excel at pressuring quarterbacks, with their defensive line led by standout defensive end Adam Plant. They’ve been particularly dominant in recent games, holding San Jose State, San Diego State, and Nevada to under 20 points.

Their run defense is a strength, allowing just 3.8 yards per carry. This will force Cal to rely more on Mendoza’s arm, which could lead to mistakes if the Rebels generate consistent pressure. The secondary, anchored by cornerback Cam Oliver, has also been solid, picking off passes in key moments throughout the season.

Key Matchups

• UNLV’s rushing attack vs. Cal’s run defense: The Rebels’ ability to establish the run will determine whether they can control the clock and pace.
• Cal’s passing game vs. UNLV’s secondary: If Mendoza can avoid turnovers, Cal may exploit the Rebels’ occasional lapses in coverage.
• UNLV’s defensive line vs. Cal’s offensive line: Pressure on Mendoza could disrupt Cal’s passing attack and force quick possessions.

Betting Trends

• UNLV: The Rebels are 4-1 ATS in their last five games, thriving as favorites and covering spreads consistently.
• Cal: The Golden Bears are 2-3 ATS in their last five games and have struggled against strong defenses.
• The total has gone under in 5 of Cal’s last 7 games.

 

Prediction