UNLV Rebels (2-0) vs. Kansas Jayhawks (1-1)
UNLV Rebels vs. Kansas Jayhawks September 13, 2024 – Friday night under the lights at Children’s Mercy Park will see the unblemished UNLV Rebels face off against the Kansas Jayhawks, who will hope to improve on their mixed start to the season. This one stands out not only because of its strategic and skill contest nature but also because the oddsmakers offer exciting odds for those looking for opportunities on the major USA betting sites. This evening’s matchup, which will be televised on ESPN at 7:00 PM ET, features the ever-improving Rebels and the Jayhawks seeking to use the comfort of home for their first win in the NCAAF week 3.
UNLV Rebels vs. Kansas Jayhawks September 13 2024 Game Info
| When: | Friday, September 13, 2024 at 7:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Children’s Mercy Park |
| TV: | ESPN |
| Stream: | Sofascore |
UNLV Rebels vs. Kansas Jayhawks Betting Odds
| Team | Moneyline | Spread | Total |
| UNLV | +225 | +6.5 (-104) | 60.5 over (-108) |
| Kansas | -280 | -6.5 (-128) | 60.5 under (-115) |
The Rebels come into this game as underdogs, but their performance against the spread, particularly on the road, suggests they might offer value. Kansas, favored by 6.5 points, needs a win to regain its footing this season. Considering both teams ‘ recent offensive outputs, the over/under set at 60.5 reflects expectations of a high-scoring affair.
Sam Leavitt QB vs. Matthew Sluka QB
Sam Leavitt of UNLV has been very effective and secure on the field, passing 57.1% for 327 yards and, scored two touchdowns without a single interception. The experience of playing under pressure and not turning the ball over will be very helpful in such matches against the units Kansas has on the defense.
On the other hand, there is an apparent dichotomy with Matthew Sluka, where he scores five touchdowns, opens the match and then completes about 46.7% of the passes. This change in tactics and destroying defenses—evident in the passer rating of 160—is a reason why Rebels’ secondary would have their work cut out for them.
The fight of titans will be no less intriguing as the quarterbacks take the center stage to leverage their unique abilities in the Leavitt-Sluka encounter. While Sluka will be looking to unleash the big blow, it is debatable whether UNLV’s resolute defense will be able to withstand such a pace, and now it is time for Leavitt’s calm to be put to the test in the face of a healthy Jayhawks rush.
Ground and Air Attack: Rebels’ Versatility
Cam Skattebo has been a revelation for the Rebels, rushing for 311 yards at an impressive clip of 7.1 yards per attempt, providing a reliable ground game that complements Leavitt’s air assault. Kyson Brown, although with only two receptions, has made them count, averaging 36.5 yards per catch. This dual-threat capability of the Rebels could stretch the Jayhawks’ defense, which has shown vulnerability to dynamic offenses.
Jayhawks’ Offensive Firepower
Kansas counters with its own set of weapons. Greg Burrell’s 7.8 yards per carry echo his ability to break through tackles and find the end zone, which he’s done once this season. Ricky White III’s three touchdown receptions showcase his role as Sluka’s preferred target, particularly in clutch situations. The Jayhawks’ ability to mix quick strikes through the air with persistent ground gains might just tilt the field in their favor at home.
UNLV Rebels Betting Trends
UNLV are 11-4 ATS in their last 15 games.
The total has gone OVER in 4 of UNLV last 5 games.
UNLV are 10-4 SU in their last 14 games.
UNLV are 7-0 ATS in their last 7 games on the road.
Rebels are 1-4 SU in their last 5 games against an opponent in the Big 12 conference.
Kansas Jayhawks Betting Trends
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Kansas’ last 7 games.
Kansas are 10-5 SU in their last 15 games.
Jayhawks are 6-2 SU in their last 8 games at home.
Kansas are 5-1 ATS in their last 6 games against an opponent in the Mountain West conference.
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Kansas’ last 5 games played in September.
UNLV Rebels vs. Kansas Jayhawks Betting Previews
Taking into account the aggressive play of the Rebels especially in the away games, and the manner the Jayhawks perform at home, this time round will be a close fight. The odds appear a slant towards Kansas but due to the fighting spirit of UNLV, covering the spread could be an appealing bet. The game is going to be fun and there will be plenty of scoring so looking at this game, the over is a good option.
Being that Jayhawks are at home but with a rather slim margin of advantage we can predict the win coming through. Similarly, betting on the individual players through prop bets may be beneficial. For more in-depth treatment and additional free NCAAF previews, follow the latest patterns and players’ movements.
Score Prediction: Kansas 34, UNLV 31.
