The 2024 Holiday Bowl is set to take place this Friday, featuring a matchup between the No. 21 Syracuse Orange and the Washington State Cougars. Syracuse, coming off a robust 9-3 season, ended the year on a high note with a notable win against Miami (FL), a victory that played a pivotal role in keeping the Hurricanes out of the College Football Playoff. In contrast, Washington State concluded the season with an 8-4 record, including a win over their rival in the Apple Cup. However, the Cougars face challenges following the departure of head coach Jake Dickert, who has taken the head coach position at Wake Forest.
Kickoff is scheduled for 8 p.m. ET at Snapdragon Stadium in San Diego. According to the latest odds, Syracuse is favored by 18.5 points over Washington State, with an over/under set at 59 points. Fans looking to place wagers on the game would benefit from insights and predictions available from a reputable simulation model, which has demonstrated a strong track record in college football betting.
Syracuse’s success this season has been largely attributable to Ohio State transfer Kyle McCord, who has been instrumental in the team’s performance. He led the ACC with an impressive 4,326 passing yards and contributed 29 touchdowns against 12 interceptions. His standout performance in the Miami game solidified his role as a key player for the Orange, helping them secure multiple upset victories this season.
On the other hand, Washington State has been navigating a turbulent period due to conference realignment, leading them to play an independent schedule. Interim head coach Pete Kalgis now steps into the spotlight as the team faces the challenges of several players entering the transfer portal, including standout quarterback John Mateer.
As the teams prepare for the Holiday Bowl, there are several intriguing factors at play. Syracuse seems poised to build on its successful season, while Washington State will need to rally under new leadership. The game promises to be an exciting contest with potential playoff implications.
Fans and analysts alike will be keen to see how both teams respond to their respective challenges and whether Syracuse can capitalize on its favored status, or if Washington State will rise to the occasion despite its recent setbacks.
Overall, the 2024 Holiday Bowl not only highlights two competitive teams but also provides a platform for players and coaches to showcase their resilience and commitment to the game, making it a highly anticipated event in college football.