The 2024 Holiday Bowl on December 27th will feature a clash between the Syracuse Orange and the Washington State Cougars at Snapdragon Stadium in San Diego, California. Kickoff is set for 8 p.m. ET, and fans can catch the game live on FOX or via streaming platform Fubo.
Syracuse, now ranked 21st nationally, enters the bowl game with optimism following several key victories and a strong overall performance this season. The Orange have been particularly impressive on offense, led by quarterback Kyle McCord. This season, McCord has thrown for 4,326 yards, ranking second among FBS quarterbacks, along with 29 touchdowns and 12 interceptions, displaying remarkable consistency with completion rates nearing 66%.
The team averages 456.1 yards per game, placing them ninth nationally, and boasts the top passing offense with 363.1 yards per game. Running back LeQuint Allen has also made significant contributions, totaling 901 yards and 14 rushing touchdowns. Notably, the team ranks ninth for third-down efficiency at 48.9%, making them formidable when sustaining drives.
On the defensive end, Syracuse ranks lower, allowing 369.1 yards per game, signaling potential vulnerabilities they may face against Washington State's varied offensive strategies.
Washington State, on the other hand, is coming off three tough losses and is dealing with significant changes within its roster. Their star quarterback, John Mateer, has entered the transfer portal and signed with Oklahoma, which raises questions about their capabilities going forward against Syracuse. With Mateer's departure, backup quarterback Zevi Eckhaus, who saw minimal play this season, will take the helm. Eckhaus, who expressed his excitement about the opportunity, said, "John had a hell of a season. He deserved all the time he needed to make the decision."
The Cougars are also facing coaching uncertainties, as key positions including the head coach and offensive coordinator have recently changed. This situation could affect team cohesion, especially with 28 players entering the transfer portal.
Despite their struggles, Washington State has showcased offensive potential, averaging 440.4 yards per game. They will look to capitalize on their rushing game with 171.6 rushing yards per contest, indicative of their versatile offensive strategy.
Sports analysts are predicting varying scorelines for the matchup, with Brent Axe from Syracuse stating, "It’s hard to envision anything but an easy day at the beach for the Orange with Washington State barely having enough players to not be downgraded to JV." Analysts are favoring Syracuse to cover the spread set at -16.5, citing their comprehensive gameplay and roster advantages.
Others, like Nate Mink, caution against underestimations, highlighting Syracuse's post-season narrative as they aim for redemption after past disappointments. He stated, "Syracuse has some seniors suiting up for their final game; others might not be so sure, including its 22-year-old, record-setting quarterback. This would mean everything to them."
The teams’ combined scoring has suggested potential for high point totals as well — both teams average around 69.4 points per game collectively. The over/under for the matchup is set at 59.5, with predictions leaning toward the over, reflecting the offensive strengths and the urgency both teams face.
So, as fans prepare to tune in for the Holiday Bowl, the excitement mounts over the matchup. Will Syracuse solidify their position with another win, or can Washington State rise to the occasion amid unprecedented challenges? The stage is set, and the anticipation is palpable.
