The 2024 LA Bowl features a matchup between the California Golden Bears and the UNLV Rebels, with both teams navigating significant transitions. UNLV, led by interim coach Del Alexander, is favored to win despite recent coaching changes and player departures. Cal, missing key players, aims to secure a bowl victory. The game is expected to be competitive, with UNLV's dynamic quarterback Hajj-Malik Williams posing a threat to Cal's defense.
The 2024 LA Bowl, hosted by Rob Gronkowski, presents an intriguing matchup between the California Golden Bears and the No. 24 UNLV Rebels. Both teams have faced significant changes leading up to the game, with UNLV experiencing coaching shifts and player departures, and Cal missing their starting quarterback. The game, set at SoFi Stadium, promises to be a competitive clash as both teams seek to end their seasons on a high note.
UNLV enters the LA Bowl amidst a period of transition, with former head coach Barry Odom departing for Purdue and offensive coordinator Brennan Marion leaving for a head coaching role at Sacramento State. Despite these changes, the Rebels have maintained focus under interim head coach Del Alexander. UNLV's senior quarterback, Hajj-Malik Williams, has been a standout performer, contributing significantly with both his passing and rushing abilities. The team aims to secure their 11th win, which would set a school record for single-season victories [1] [2].
The California Golden Bears face the LA Bowl without their starting quarterback, Fernando Mendoza, who entered the transfer portal. This absence adds pressure on Cal's offense, which has struggled with pass protection throughout the season. Sophomore running back Jaivian Thomas and tight end Jack Endries are expected to play crucial roles in attempting to overcome these challenges. Cal's defense, however, remains a strong point, ranked 27th in explosive play rate allowed, which they hope to leverage against UNLV's dynamic offense [3] [4].
The LA Bowl is anticipated to be a competitive matchup, with UNLV favored by 3.5 points. UNLV's explosive offense, led by Hajj-Malik Williams, poses a significant challenge to Cal's defense. However, Cal's ability to force turnovers and their strong defensive play could keep them in the game. Expert predictions lean towards a UNLV victory, with a final score prediction of 27-20 in favor of the Rebels. Both teams have much at stake, with UNLV aiming to cap off a historic season and Cal seeking a bowl victory to end their ACC debut season positively [5] [6].
As the California Golden Bears and UNLV Rebels face off in the 2024 LA Bowl, both teams are navigating transitions and aiming for a strong finish to their seasons. UNLV, under interim head coach Del Alexander, is favored to win, driven by their dynamic offense and the standout performances of Hajj-Malik Williams. Meanwhile, Cal, despite missing key players, hopes to leverage their defensive strengths to secure a bowl victory. The game promises to be an exciting contest as both teams strive to end their campaigns on a high note.
"We’re right on the doorstep of becoming a consistent powerhouse." - Dan Mullen
"As a team, collectively we want to finish the season strong and get that last win, get that 11th win and make history." - Casey Cain