UConn Huskies (8-4) vs. North Carolina Tar Heels (6-6)
UConn Huskies vs. North Carolina Tar Heels December 28 2024 – The Fenway Bowl clash between the UConn Huskies and North Carolina Tar Heels is set to be hotly contested as both teams will be looking to crown their 2024 college football season on a high on December 28th, 2024, at the Fenway Park. UConn is on a high note after winning the last four out of five games and holding an 8-4 record this season. On the other hand, the Tar Heels struggled a bit, recording a 6-6 stand at the moment and looking for a morale boosting win after losing two straight games. Both sides will have their positives and negatives which will create a very interesting contest.
UConn Huskies vs. North Carolina Tar Heels December 28 2024 Game Info
| When: | Saturday, December 28, 2024, at 11:00 AM ET |
| Where: | Fenway Park |
| TV: | ESPN |
| Stream: | Sofascore |
UConn Huskies vs. North Carolina Tar Heels Betting Odds
| Team | Moneyline | Spread | Total |
| UConn | +120 | +2.5 | Over 52.5 (-110) |
| North Carolina | -140 | -2.5 | Under 52.5 (-110) |
There is value in betting on UConn’s +2.5 spread considering how well the Huskies have been playing ATS on Saturdays and their current form. On the other hand, North Carolina’s uneven performance ATS on Saturdays (2-12 in their last 14 Saturday games) does not inspire confidence in bettors backing the Tar Heels. The total of 52.5 points looks quite evenly balanced, with an argument also to bet the over on both sides considering the capabilities of each team to score.
Joe Fagnano QB vs. Jacolby Criswell QB
Joe Fagnano of UConn still stands out in his team with a passer rating of 152.8 from 1480 passing yards. He does not disappoint when it comes to efficiency either, with 18 touchdowns thrown against 4 interceptions. However, with the UConn offensive line allowing 3 sacks on him, it will be interesting to see how he holds up going against a strong defence from the Tar Heels. It is most likely that UConn standing chance to win this game really relies on whether or not Fagnano would be able to connect with his best receiver, Skyler Bell, who has been recording 16.7 yards per reception.
North Carolina, on the other hand, has Jacolby Criswell strongly holding the position with his 2,452 passing yards but struggles with ball security recording 6 interceptions while also being sacked 24 times. The odds did seem to favor UConn however the fact that Criswell has a targeting percentage of 58% and has excellent connections with deep threat JJ Jones makes him still a risky opponent. If Criswell manages to shake off pressure and take advantage of UConn’s weaker secondary, he could prove beneficial in this bowl.
UConn’s Resurgence in Key Moments
UConn has proven to be a strong team in recent weeks, winning four of the last five games including a close one against UMass which ended 47-42. They have star running back Cam Edwards who has amassed 756 rushing yards with 7 touchdowns this season. The Huskies have Edwards and Bell to help run an offence which can bother the Tar Heels who are coming off poor defensive displays in recent matches.
North Carolina’s Season of Struggles
With a 6-6 record, the Tar Heels have been inconsistent, most recently losing three in five starting with a lackluster 30-35 loss to NC State. In the attack, fullback Omarion Hampton has been their mainstay, achieving 1,660 yards rushing and 15 touchdowns. However, defensive mistakes have been a thorn too, as the other teams usually pick on their weakest link which has been their defense. North Carolina better put it together because UConn’s offense could overwhelm thems.
UConn Huskies Betting Trends
UConn is 4-1 straight up in their last five games, showcasing their ability to finish the season strong. However, they’ve struggled against ACC opponents, going 0-6 in their last six matchups. Despite these challenges, their strong ATS performance (7-3 in the last 10 Saturday games) makes them a compelling underdog.
North Carolina Tar Heels Betting Trends
The Tar Heels have underwhelmed ATS, covering in just two of their last 14 Saturday games. They’ve been slightly better SU in recent games, going 3-6 in their last nine. Their high-scoring tendencies against independent FBS teams suggest this game could see offensive fireworks, making the over a tempting play.
UConn Huskies vs. North Carolina Tar Heels Betting Previews
This Fenway Bowl guarantees to be competitive, as the latest results UConn has been producing makes them a little favourite. If the Huskies can get their running game going and take advantage of North Carolina’s defensive weaknesses, an upset is possible. On the other hand, the Tar Heels still pose a threat, thanks to their dynamic playmakers such as Hampton and Criswell.
For the gamblers, UConn’s +2.5 spread is of value and as both teams have strong offensive units, the over on the 52.5 total looks like a logical choice. Bets on props such as a rushing TD from Hampton or Bell making big receiving plays in the game could also be beneficial.
Score Prediction: UConn Huskies 31, North Carolina Tar Heels 28.
