The excitement of 2024 college football bowl season continues today with two matchups that are set up to be a lot of fun. 

In the Boca Raton Bowl, James Madison goes head-to-head with Western Kentucky, a game marked by roster changes and uncertainty due to notable player absences. On the other hand, the Art of Sport LA Bowl showcases Cal battling UNLV at SoFi Stadium, where both teams are adapting to coaching transitions and evolving lineups. 

These contests are set to deliver, so let’s break down both matchups with our Boca Raton Bowl prediction and LA Bowl prediction for today!

 

 

 

2024 Boca Raton Bowl Preview

Boca Raton Weather

We’re looking at near-perfection regarding the outlook for Wednesday evening Boca Raton weather! Temperatures will be in the mid-high 70s, and there’s only a 5% chance of rain and a slight 6 mph wind. Sounds like perfect football weather!

What Time Is The Boca Raton Bowl In 2024?

The 2024 Boca Raton Bowl is slated to kick off at 5:30 PM EST today, Wednesday, December 18th.

Where Is The Boca Raton Bowl Played?

Of course, as the name states, the Boca Raton Bowl is played in Boca Raton, Florida. Specifically, the game is played at FAU Stadium, home of the Florida Atlantic University Owls.

 

 

 

Western Kentucky vs. James Madison Prediction Today: 2024 Boca Raton Bowl

Although the Hilltoppers have lost some key players, quarterback Caden Veltkamp will play, which is crucial for maintaining stability. Veltkamp's presence is important for an offense that ranks 32nd in the nation for passing yards, despite some losses in the receiving group.

On the other side, James Madison is dealing with significant issues, especially with starting quarterback Alonza Barnett III out due to injury. Backup Billy Atkins will take over, but he has limited experience, having only thrown 46 passes in three years.

The Dukes have a strong rushing attack, ranked 30th nationally, which could take advantage of Western Kentucky's weak run defense, ranked 130th. However, the Hilltoppers excel in pass defense, ranking 11th in passing yards allowed, which may force JMU to run the ball more.

In the end, the unpredictable nature of bowl games makes it a more even matchup. With Western Kentucky keeping its starting quarterback and James Madison missing more key players, Hilltoppers +7 (-105 at Bet365) looks like a good play for our 2024 Boca Raton Bowl prediction.

  • Expert Western Kentucky vs. James Madison Prediction: Hilltoppers +7 (-105 at Bet365)

 

 

 

2024 LA Bowl Preview

What Time Is The LA Bowl In 2024?

The 2024 LA Bowl is scheduled to kick off at 9:00 PM EST today, Wednesday, December 18th.

Where Is The LA Bowl Played?

The LA Bowl is played in Inglewood, California. And, because it’s played indoors at SoFi Stadium (home of the Los Angeles Rams), we know that weather will not be a factor.

 

 

 

Cal vs. UNLV Prediction Today: 2024 LA Bowl

UNLV will certainly miss head coach Barry Odom, who has moved to Purdue, and offensive coordinator Brennan Marion, but the team’s core remains strong. Interim coach Del Alexander takes over an offense that ranks 14th in the nation for scoring and has the fifth-best rushing game.

Cal is facing challenges, specifically at quarterback, as starter Fernando Mendoza has entered the transfer portal and backup Chandler Rogers is doubtful due to an injury. This situation may force the Bears to rely on Ohio transfer CJ Harris or freshman EJ Caminong, which significantly limits their offensive potential.

Additionally, Cal will be without leading receiver Nyziah Hunter and several starting offensive linemen, including left tackle Nick Morrow, which weakens an offense that is already ranked 69th in total yards.

With UNLV's stability in key roles and a strong rushing attack, our 2024 LA Bowl prediction has them controlling the game's tempo throughout. Given Cal's quarterback issues and lack of support, the Rebels are in a good position to cover the -3.5 spread (-110 at Bet365) and finish their season positively.

 

 

 

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When you’re ready to choose the best Bet365 bonus code, just use this link to sign up before today’s bowl games!

 

 

 

NCAA Football Scores: 2024 Bowl Games