The Texas A&M Aggies and the USC Trojans are set to clash at the 2024 Las Vegas Bowl on December 27 at 10:30 PM ET, marking the first meeting between these two storied programs since 1977. The game, hosted at Allegiant Stadium, holds considerable significance for both teams as they seek to finish their seasons on a positive note amid many roster changes due to transfers and NFL Draft opt-outs.
Both Texas A&M and USC have notable histories, combining for 14 claimed national championships—11 for USC and 3 for Texas A&M. Despite their storied legacies, both teams ended their regular seasons on down notes; Texas A&M lost its final three games, including a disappointing 17-7 defeat to rival Texas. Similarly, after showing some potential late in the season, USC fell 49-35 to Notre Dame, ending their aspirations for greater success.
The Aggies enter the bowl game with their season record at 8-4, including several intense matchups against highly ranked teams. Meanwhile, USC is slightly behind at 6-6, reflecting their struggle throughout the year, particularly after transitioning from the Pac-12 to the Big Ten. The tension mounts as both teams will field rosters changed significantly by multiple key opt-outs; particularly, Texas A&M is reportedly missing 19 players, including top performers who opted out to prepare for the NFL.
Coach Lincoln Riley of USC will have to navigate the game without several key contributors. Players such as starting quarterback Miller Moss and top skill players will not be participating, leaving the Trojans with limited firepower against the Aggies’ defense. Despite this, USC has shown resilience this season, even if they have encountered difficulties, particularly late-game situations.
A&M's head coach Mike Elko has faced his own challenges as the team collapsed after their strong start, struggling to regain momentum afterward. The Aggies boasted impressive early-season performances but faltered late, which is something they’ll be seeking to rectify against USC.
The game also serves as an opportunity for young talent on both teams. Texas A&M's freshman quarterback, Marcel Reed, who had impressive performances of his own throughout the season, aims to capitalize on his chances to show his potential for future seasons. Reed's potential, alongside the sacrifice of several starters, might prove pivotal as he leads the Aggies against USC.
USC will rely on incoming freshman running back Bryan Jackson and the development of quarterback Jayden Maiava, who hopes to provide enough offensive support to overcome A&M’s power. Whereas USC has historically relied on their passing game, their current challenges limit their ability to exploit the Aggies' defensive gaps fully.
Betting lines feature Texas A&M as favorites, reflecting confidence stemming from their rebuilding efforts during bowl practices. Various analysts suggest differing predictions, with many sensing A&M should take the game with scores hovering around the 30 point mark. Texas A&M's prediction averages are around 30-20 against USC, but as always, bowl games bring unpredictability.
ESPN gives USC nearly equal odds based on their performance data and historical performance trends, indicating competitive potential from the Trojans, even if they’re viewed as underdogs. Regardless, the stakes are high—this matchup is about more than just the game; both teams will battle for pride and future credibility on the recruiting trail as they look forward to improving amid roster changes and staff movements.
With both teams seeking to flip the script on their seasons, the Las Vegas Bowl promises thrilling action as elite programs vie for not just victory but to set up promising futures. Fans can anticipate intense gameplay, emotional efforts, and dramatic showcases from some fresh faces eager to prove themselves on this significant stage.
