California Golden Bears vs. UNLV Rebels 12/18/24 – With the game between the California Golden Bears (6-6) and the UNLV Rebels (10-3) coming closer, we have quite a contest on our hands in the NCAAF LA Bowl. While the intent is to try and wrap up the season on a high note after what has been a mixed bag of performances for the California team, it will be a different narrative for UNLV who will be looking to extend their winning streak going into the festive period. The two teams also have very different styles of play, and it will be interesting to see how each team performs on the night at SoFi Stadium.
California Golden Bears vs. UNLV Rebels 12/18/24
| When: | Wednesday, December 18, 2024, at 9:00 PM ET |
|---|---|
| Where: | SoFi Stadium |
| TV: | ESPN |
| Stream: | Sofascore |
| Team | SP/RL | TOTAL | ML | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Golden Bears | -3 (-105) | Over 51.5 (-110) | -170 |  |
| Rebels | +3 (-115) | Under 51.5 (-110 | +145 | |
| ||||
SoFi was so fye 🔥#GoBears | #ALLIN pic.twitter.com/9usEOQv8sz
— Cal Football (@CalFootball) December 18, 2024
The Golden Bears are slight favorites with a -3 spread. Betting trends suggest caution, as California is 2-4 ATS in their last six games, while UNLV is 10-3 ATS as underdogs. For value, the Rebels’ moneyline at +145 could appeal to bettors seeking an upset.
Chandler Rogers QB vs. Hajj-Malik Williams QB
Chandler Rogers, the quarterback for the California Golden Bears, has not had the most interesting of seasons, as unfortunately for him, he has not been consistent. In his last game, being able to complete only 48% of his passes and getting only 117 yards shows how Rogers struggled to make things click together in the pocket. Additionally, he has only a mere 4.7 yards per attempt, not being able to produce any highlights and losing more yardage by being sacked 4 times. Nevertheless, if California decides to protect him better then considering Rogers’ overall skill set in terms of passing and managing the game with the help of Pacheco’s rushing could be effective. Not a lot of hope for Rogers because he will be going against a defense that specializes in capitalizing on poor decisions made by a quarterback. He must try to be calm and composed so he does not make any mistakes, otherwise his team will be out of the game.
On the other side, Rebel’s Hajj-Malik Williams has emerged as a key player for UNLV this season showing calmness and control throughout games. He has led the offense for the team with 1,845 passing yards, 17 touchdown throws and a 62% completion ratio. Little wonder that he has already undergone half a dozen colors, getting sacked 26 times and losing 167 yards and yet appearing to shrug off the effect of those three power hits with some explosive performance, such as 7.9 yards per attempt and a longest completion of 53 yards. The union of Williams and wide receiver Ricky White III also makes the Rebel’s air game interesting. Williams has a unique ability to remain calm on the big stage and pass the ball efficiently, which should help his team in this clash.
California’s Recent Performance Raises Questions
The Golden Bears were able to snag a win but managed to lose five matches in a row which includes the 6-38 defeat at the hands of the SMU. Most of their offense revolved around running back Jaydn Ott (301 rushing yards, 4 TDs) but as a unit they were not able to gain consistency and thus needed receiver Nyziah Hunter (578 yards, 5 TDs) to be the main target. For them to beat UNLV California centers will need to put up a great performance.
UNLV Rebels Surge Ahead with Momentum
The Rebels are on a four-game winning streak, dominating Nevada and San Diego State in their last outing. Running back Jai’Den Thomas (846 rushing yards, 7 TDs) and wide receiver Ricky White III (1,041 yards, 11 TDs) anchor an explosive offense. With Williams leading an efficient passing attack, UNLV looks well-equipped to exploit California’s vulnerabilities.
Trends
California Golden Bears Betting Trends
California are 2-4 ATS in their last 6 games.
The total has gone UNDER in 10 of California’s last 15 games.
California are 3-6 SU in their last 9 games.
California are 10-4 SU in their last 14 games against an opponent in the Mountain West conference.
UNLV Rebels Betting Trends
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Nevada-Las Vegas’ last 6 games.
UNLV are 6-1 SU in their last 7 games.
UNLV are 0-5 SU in their last 5 games played in December.
UNLV are 10-3 ATS in their last 13 games when playing as the underdog.
California Golden Bears vs. UNLV Rebels Betting Prediction
The issue of inconsistency, especially with the improvement of Rogers from California’s side, remains a concern however, on the contrary, a balanced offense and decent form put UNLV in a better position, as seen from the betting trends where UNLV’s spread and moneyline bets seem to be a good bet for players looking to ride the winning momentum with.
In prop bets, Jai’Den Thomas is projected to exceed rushing expectations whereas Ricky White III is projected in standing out receiving. Teams’ trends suggest that the 51.5 total could very well lean on the under side as well.
Score Prediction: UNLV Rebels 27, California Golden Bears 24.
Hilbert Mayer
Sports Writer
Hilbert Mayer is a professional sports writer, betting analyst, and content strategist with over 15 years of experience in the sports industry. Before focusing on sports betting analysis and handicapping, Hilbert worked as a sports writer for various news outlets, covering everything from game recaps to in-depth matchup features. Today, he specializes in MLB, NFL, March Madness, and UFC betting, combining his journalistic background with deep statistical expertise and real-world betting insights. His proven track record, sharp reads, and ability to break down complex matchups make him a trusted voice among both casual bettors and seasoned sharps.
Published on: December 18, 2024
Last updated: April 1, 2025