Connect with us
Dice+

Odds

BETS: Best Picks for USF vs. San Jose State

© Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images
  • What: Hawaii Bowl
  • When: December 24, 2024
  • Who: USF Bulls vs. San Jose State Spartans
  • Time:  5:00 p.m. PST
  • Where: Clarence T.C. Ching Athletics Complex (Honolulu, HI)

As we gear up for the Hawaii Bowl showdown between the South Florida Bulls and the San Jose State Spartans, it’s hard not to feel a wave of confidence in the Bulls.

Sure, they come in with a 6-6 record, but let’s break down why they’re the team to back in this matchup, especially with the moneyline sitting at +100 on BetMGM.

USF

First, let’s talk about momentum. South Florida has been on a roll, winning four of its last six games after a rocky start to the season. The team has shown resilience, bouncing back from a 2-4 start to secure bowl eligibility.

Their recent form includes a dominant 63-30 victory over Tulsa, a statement win that can’t be overlooked. In contrast, San Jose State limped into this bowl game, losing four of its last seven games, including a disappointing performance in last year’s Hawaii Bowl.

Now, let’s dive into the stats. The Bulls have a solid ground game led by Kelley Joiner, who racked up 766 rushing yards and 11 touchdowns this season.

With San Jose State’s defense struggling against the run, ranking dead last in Line Yards and Stuff Rate, expect South Florida to exploit this weakness. The Bulls’ rushing attack averages 190.6 yards per game, and they’ll look to establish the run early and often.

Quarterback play is another critical factor. While there’s uncertainty surrounding Byrum Brown’s status, Bryce Archie has stepped up admirably in his absence.

Archie has thrown for 1,679 yards and nine touchdowns, and he’s shown he can distribute the ball effectively. If Brown is able to return, that’s just icing on the cake for the Bulls.

Either way, the Bulls have the weapons to attack a San Jose State secondary that will be missing key players, including their top cornerback DJ Harvey.

San Jose State

Speaking of the Spartans, they’re facing a significant loss with star wide receiver Nick Nash opting out to prepare for the NFL Draft. Nash was a game-changer, leading the nation in receptions, yards, and touchdowns.

His absence leaves a massive void in San Jose State’s passing attack, which was already vulnerable.

The Spartans ranked 121st in third-down defense, and without Nash, they’ll struggle to convert crucial plays against a South Florida defense that has shown improvement this season.

Defensively, the Bulls have made strides, limiting opponents to 5.8 yards per play and 28.6 points per game in the AAC. They’ve also been effective at forcing turnovers, averaging 1.5 takeaways per game.

This could be a game-changer, especially against a San Jose State team that has been inconsistent in protecting the ball.

The pace of play will also play a role in this matchup. Both teams are among the top 9% for the fewest seconds per play, which could lead to a high-scoring affair.

However, with San Jose State’s struggles on defense and the absence of key offensive players, it’s hard to see them keeping up with the Bulls.

Bulls-Spartans Best Bet

The South Florida Bulls have the momentum, the ground game, and the defensive edge to take down the San Jose State Spartans in the Hawaii Bowl.

With the odds at +100, it’s a prime opportunity to back a team that’s hungry for victory. Don’t sleep on the Bulls; they’re ready to make a statement in Honolulu.

BETS: Best Picks for Ducks vs. Golden Knights

BETS: Best Picks for Saints vs. Packers

Dice City Sports — where we provide premium, exclusive, up-to-date news and analysis surrounding the Las Vegas sports scene. Follow along on social media, and check back for new articles daily!

Tony Reyes is a sports betting analyst and reporter for Dice City Sports. You can follow him on X @TonyParlay.

Related Topics

More in Odds