On Christmas Eve, college football fans will be treated to the 2024 Hawaii Bowl, featuring a matchup between the South Florida Bulls and the San Jose State Spartans. The Bulls, led by head coach Alex Golesh, enter the game with a 6-6 record after overcoming a challenging season that included the loss of starting quarterback Byrum Brown due to injury. Although Brown has been sidelined since late September, his presence in the game remains uncertain. The Spartans, directed by coach Ken Niumatalolo, finished their season with a strong 7-5 record and celebrated a significant win over Stanford in their final game.
The Hawaii Bowl is scheduled to kick off at 8 p.m. ET on Tuesday in Honolulu, and San Jose State is slightly favored by 1.5 points in the betting market, with an over/under set at 64.5 points—marking it as one of the highest game totals of the bowl season.
Brown’s potential return could bolster the Bulls’ offensive efforts significantly, but even if he is unable to participate, backup quarterback Bryce Archie has gained valuable experience throughout the season, leading the team to four wins in their last six games. The Bulls faced tough competition earlier in the season, including teams like Alabama and Miami, which may have prepared them well for this bowl matchup.
San Jose State, however, will face the challenge of competing without leading receiver Nick Nash, who has opted out of the bowl game to prepare for the NFL Draft. Despite this setback, the Spartans still have strong talent on their roster, including receiver Justin Lockhart, who had an impressive season himself. Quarterback Walker Eget has also shown he can deliver, having thrown for over 385 yards in three of his last four games, including a standout performance against Stanford.
San Jose State’s prior experience in Hawaii may help ease any travel-related adjustments, and with Niumatalolo’s local ties, the game carries extra significance for him.
As fans gear up for this exciting bowl matchup, both teams have their strengths and challenges to navigate. The outcome remains uncertain, but one thing is clear: the 2024 Hawaii Bowl promises to deliver an entertaining clash.
This matchup not only highlights the resilience of both teams but also encapsulates the spirited nature of college football, with players showcasing their skills on a national stage. Fans can look forward to a competitive game that underscores the joys of the holiday season and college athletics.