Kansas Jayhawks (8-4) vs. UNLV Rebels (9-4)
Kansas Jayhawks vs. UNLV Rebels – As the excitement builds towards the Guaranteed Rate Bowl, the Kansas Jayhawks face off against the UNLV Rebels in a much-anticipated showdown. With Kansas holding a respectable 8-4 record and UNLV closely trailing at 9-4, this matchup is a must-watch for NCAAF enthusiasts and those keen on NCAAF bowl expert picks. Set in the iconic Chase Field, the stage is set for a memorable encounter.
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 has put together a solid campaign, completing 105 of 171 passes for 1,681 yards, 12 touchdowns and 4 interceptions. His 61.4% completion percentage ranks well in the Big 12 and demonstrates Bean’s accuracy throwing to all areas of the field. He has shown the ability to push the ball downfield, averaging 9.8 yards per attempt which is a reflection of both his arm talent and the speed Kansas boasts at the receiver positions. However, Bean has also struggled with consistency at times against tougher defensive fronts. His passer rating of 162.5 will need to be higher against an athletic UNLV defense for Kansas to move the chains regularly. Tactically, Bean operates best in rhythm on short and intermediate timing-based concepts that allow him to connect with his playmakers in space. When given time, he has the confidence to survey and manipulate safeties to take deeper shots.
UNLV’s Jayden Maiava has taken a big step forward, raising his completion rate to 62.9% with 2,794 yards and 14 touchdowns compared to 8 interceptions. The leap in production combined with his 146.2 passer rating demonstrates the development Maiava has displayed in year two directing the Rebels’ offense. He has displayed quality decision-making abilities for a young quarterback, showing the capacity to make the right reads and get UNLV into advantageous play calls depending on defensive fronts and coverages. Additionally, Maiava has the athleticism to make plays with his feet when needed, whether on designed run concepts or when improvising under pressure. His mobility provides an added dimension that could give the Jayhawks defense problems if Maiava finds openings to scramble or pick up first downs with his legs. From a tactical standpoint, Maiava operates UNLV’s run-pass-option scheme effectively with the ability to both handoff and throw on the move.
Kansas Jayhawks: Relying on Versatile Offense
The Jayhawks’ offense isn’t solely driven by Bean. Devin Neal, their powerhouse running back, has been outstanding – amassing 1209 yards while scoring 15 touchdowns on just 671 attempts and 6.6 yards per rush attempt average. Additionally, wide receiver Lawrence Arnold brings versatility with 650 receiving yards on 17.1 average per receptions for an added edge to their play-making.
UNLV Rebels: A Balanced Attack
Rebels fans can depend on Vincent Davis Jr. to produce as an accomplished running back with 722 rushing yards, showing an ability to find gaps in defense. Meanwhile, Ricky White provides Maiava with reliable targets by amassing 1386 receiving yards with an outstanding 17.1 average per reception average – making their offense well-rounded and formidable.
NCAAF Betting Odds: Kansas Jayhawks -460, Over/Under: 67
The betting odds favor the Kansas Jayhawks significantly, reflecting their strong season performance. The over/under set at 67 points suggests an expectation of a high-scoring game.
Kansas Jayhawks Betting Trends
Kansas are 4-1 ATS in their last 5 games.
Jayhawks are 8-4 SU in their last 12 games.
Kansas are 4-1 SU in their last 5 games against an opponent in the Mountain West conference.
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Kansas’ last 7 games played in December.
Kansas are 9-2 SU in their last 11 games when playing as the favourite.
UNLV Rebels Betting Trends
Nevada-Las Vegas are 10-3 ATS in their last 13 games.
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Nevada-Las Vegas’ last 5 games.
Nevada-Las Vegas are 8-3 SU in their last 11 games.
UNLV are 2-5 ATS in their last 7 games against an opponent in the Big 12 conference.
Nevada-Las Vegas are 1-4 SU in their last 5 games played in December.
Nevada-Las Vegas are 8-1 ATS in their last 9 games when playing as the underdog.
Kansas Jayhawks vs. UNLV Rebels Betting Picks
Given the statistical strengths and weaknesses of both teams, this game appears to be a clash of Kansas’ offensive power against UNLV’s balanced approach. The key will lie in the quarterbacks’ performance and how well each team can exploit the other’s vulnerabilities.
For those engaging with online sportsbooks, while Kansas is the favorite, the Rebels’ strong performance as underdogs makes them an intriguing pick, especially with the spread. The over/under is a tougher call, but given both teams’ offensive capabilities, leaning towards the over seems reasonable.
Receiving Yards Prop: Kansas 38, UNLV 31.
