On Christmas Eve, college football fans are treated to the highly anticipated 2024 Hawaii Bowl, featuring the South Florida Bulls and the San Jose State Spartans. Set for 8 PM ET at the Clarence T.C. Ching Athletics Complex in Honolulu, this matchup promises excitement as both teams seek to end their seasons on a high note. While Christmas is traditionally about family time and relaxation, the gridiron is ready to provide its fair share of action as players gear up for one of the year's final contests.
Coming off mixed seasons, South Florida holds a record of 6-6, whereas San Jose State finishes with 7-5. The game not only serves as the culmination of their hard work throughout the year but also as their chance to shine under the Hawaiian sun. This bowl holds significance beyond just the scores—serving as the lone game on this festive evening, it captures the attentions of those familiar with bowl game traditions.
Expectations are high, but not without challenges. Both teams will be without some of their key players due to several opting out of the bowl game, either to enter the transfer portal or prepare for the NFL Draft. For South Florida, the absence of quarterback Byrum Brown is particularly worrisome; he has been sidelined since late September due to injury, and his status remains questionable heading toward kickoff.
Meanwhile, on the San Jose stat side, the team's most prominent player, wide receiver Nick Nash, who led the nation with 104 receptions for 1,382 yards and 16 touchdowns this season, has also chosen to opt out to prepare for the NFL Draft. The void left by Nash presents both challenges and opportunities for San Jose State. Justin Lockhart, who played alongside Nash, is poised to step up and become the team's primary target. Yet, some critics wonder if he can fill Nash's impressive shoes.
The loss of other contributors like cornerbacks Michael Dansby and DJ Harvey, who were pivotal on defense, raises concerns about the Spartans' capability to maintain their competitive edge. Coach Ken Niumatalolo will need to strategize effectively to overcome these challenges. “Nash has opted out of this game to prepare for the NFL Draft,” stated the College Football Network. Such adjustments can be the turning point for both teams, as new faces will be thrust onto the field with larger responsibilities.
According to the VSiN CFB Betting Splits, betting dynamics for the game show interesting insights. The opening line listed San Jose State as 2.5-point favorites, but as the public bets favor them heavily—64% at DraftKings—the line has shifted to 3 points. Conversely, there is notable late action on the Bulls, who are poised to make their presence felt after recent losses. South Florida’s reduced betting numbers (only 36% of spread bets but 61% of spread dollars) indicates a contrarian move as smart money has shifted toward the underdogs.
"Late gameday movement is coming back toward South Florida plus the points," pointed out the betting splits. This developed narrative around the fluctuance of betting lines creates added intrigue for bettors, enhancing the stakes without overshadowing the essence of the game. And with the game’s total points line climbing from 62.5 to as high as 65.5, there is anticipation for a potential shootout; after all, both teams are known for their ability to score, with South Florida averaging 31.4 points per game.
Of course, the weather is likely to cooperate as Hawaii promises ideal conditions for football, with temperatures expected to be breezy and hovering around the low 80s, making it all the more enjoyable for players and fans alike. Yet the crux of the game will focus on how both offenses can control the tempo against their opponent’s defense as the Bulls have similarly been giving up 29 points per game compared to the Spartans’ 26.4 PPG.
Fans are hopeful for major performances from the remaining players stepping up. South Florida’s quarterback situation may see Bryce Archie make another start should Brown be unable to go, but Archie has proven to be capable during his short tenure since taking over. He leads the team through both ups and downs, but consistent overall performance may be the key for the Bulls as they face their opponents.
“Can they pull off a win? Maybe, but I think the right play here is to take the points with South Florida,” stated David on X/Twitter, pointing to the unpredictable nature of bowl games bolstered by roster changes from transfer portal impacts. The Hawaii Bowl promises to be not just about the final scores but also about which team can adapt quickly to these changes.
With excitement building as kick-off approaches, fans from both camps are hoping the Hawaii Bowl will offer memories filled with festive celebrations, competitive spirit, and thrilling football. Whether it’s receiving gifts or catching passes, the underlying joy of football meetings on holidays is cherished by fans everywhere.
