Kansas Jayhawks (8-4) vs. UNLV Rebels (9-4)
As the college football season draws towards its climax, the Guaranteed Rate Bowl presents a tantalizing match-up between the Kansas Jayhawks and the UNLV Rebels. Slated for Tuesday, December 26, 2023, this game not only promises excitement but also holds significant weight for bettors seeking NCAAF bowl picks. The Jayhawks, standing at 8-4, are set to battle against the 9-4 Rebels, marking a clash of formidable forces in college football.
Kansas Jayhawks have proven themselves a forceful opponent this season with an 8-4 record and impressive offensive output. A large part of their success can be credited to Devin Neal at Running Back and Lawrence Arnold at Wide Receiver; their offense boosted by Neal’s impressive 1209 yard rushing total that resulted in 15 touchdowns on just 183 attempts while Arnold provided 38 receptions totalling 650 yards and three scores as key assets to Kansas Jayhawks offensive arsenal.
On the flipside, the UNLV Rebels boasting a 9-4 record have also shown their prowess in NCAAF competition. A major part of their success can be credited to Vincent Davis Jr.’s dynamic Running Back play and Ricky White’s superb Wide Receiver presence – specifically Davis Jr. who amassed 722 yards and six touchdowns from 132 attempts while White made 81 catches for 1386 yards and seven touchdowns; continuously challenging opposing defenses with his exceptional receiving skills.
Kansas Jayhawks vs. UNLV Rebels Game Info
| When: | Tuesday, December 26, 2023, at 9:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Chase Field |
| TV: | ESPN |
| Stream: | Sofascore |
Jason Bean QB vs. Jayden Maiava QB
Jason Bean had a productive season for the Jayhawks, completing 61.4% of his passes for 1681 yards, 12 touchdowns and 4 interceptions. He has the arm strength to attack downfield and the athleticism to extend plays with his legs. However, Bean has been prone to mistakes at times, occasionally forcing throws into tight coverage. He will need to make quick reads and good decisions against UNLV’s aggressive defense.
Jayden Maiava was the engine behind UNLV’s successful season, completing 62.9% of his throws for 2794 yards, 14 touchdowns and 8 picks. He has good accuracy at all levels of the field and operates the Rebels’ offense efficiently. However, Maiava can be rattled by heavy pressure, occasionally rushing his mechanics. He will need good protection up front in this matchup.
NCAAF Odds/Point Spread: Kansas Jayhawks -460, Total Odds: 67
The betting odds paint the Jayhawks as the favorites, with a moneyline of -460 and a spread of -12.5 at -115. The total set at 67 points suggests expectations of a high-scoring game, aligning with both teams’ offensive capabilities.
Kansas Jayhawks Betting Trends
The Jayhawks are 4-1 against the spread (ATS) in their last 5 games, consistently covering expectations. They are also 8-4 straight up in their last 12 contests, showing the ability to outright win games. Kansas is further 9-2 straight up when favored, meaning they typically take care of business as the betting favorite.
UNLV Rebels Betting Trends
The Rebels are a stellar 10-3 ATS in their last 13 games, regularly surpassing betting expectations. They are also 8-3 straight up in this stretch, demonstrating their ability to win games outright as underdogs. Additionally, UNLV is 8-1 ATS as an underdog this season, meaning they tend to play better than predicted when not favored.
Kansas Jayhawks vs. UNLV Rebels 12/26/23 Betting Picks
Considering the statistical insights and betting trends, the Kansas Jayhawks seem poised to take the upper hand in this matchup. Their overall consistency and offensive firepower make them the safer bet, especially with Bean and Neal expected to shine. However, the Rebels, with their knack for being formidable underdogs, should not be underestimated.
In terms of betting, the Jayhawks’ moneyline seems like a solid choice, though the spread might be riskier given the Rebels’ tendency to outperform as underdogs. The total going OVER 67 points could be a viable bet, aligning with both teams’ scoring trends. For those looking at prop bets, focusing on individual performances, especially from key players like Neal and White, could be fruitful.
This matchup is set to be a thrilling encounter, and bettors seeking to leverage the best betting websites will find value in these insights. While the Jayhawks are favored, the Rebels’ resilient nature could lead to an intriguing contest. Ultimately, Kansas’ overall balance and stronger record tip the scales in their favor for this Guaranteed Rate Bowl showdown.
