Everything You Need To Know About USC Vs. Texas A&M In The 2024 Las Vegas Bowl

USC

The USC Trojans and Texas A&M Aggies will square off in an exciting game at the 2024 Las Vegas Bowl. This bowl game, which is scheduled on Friday, December 27, will pit two elite programs from the Pac-12 and SEC conferences against one another. 

Texas A&M comes into the game with an 8-4 record, looking to finish the season on a high note after a difficult late-season run, while USC, with a 6-6 record, will look to cap off a difficult season with a statement win. Despite the lack of certain key players due to transfers and NFL draft declarations, both clubs have a wealth of skill, so this matchup should be entertaining.

Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, Nevada, will host the 2024 Las Vegas Bowl, offering a thrilling setting for the match. The site has developed into a hub for bowl season activity, attracting spectators from all around the country to the world’s entertainment capital. 

Fans will have a prime-time chance to witness two well-known college football teams compete under the bright lights of Las Vegas when kickoff is set for 10:30 p.m. ET. This battle is anticipated to be one of the bowl season’s highlights, with a lot of enthusiasm around the game.

The 2024 Las Vegas Bowl is very important to both clubs. With a weakened squad as a result of key players opting out, USC is keen to gain momentum and end the season with a winning record after a difficult one. Texas A&M, on the other hand, has been erratic in recent weeks after having a great start to the season.

Both programs have a chance to finish their seasons strong and acquire some much-needed confidence before the offseason with this contest. The game will also serve as a preview of each team’s future, with a mix of youthful talent and veterans playing alongside NFL-bound players.

Both programs have a lot to show when it comes to the stakes on the field. Texas A&M will use their potent defense and seasoned playmakers to stifle the Trojans’ attack, while USC will rely on their young quarterback, Jayden Maiava, to lead the offense. 

In addition to showcasing outstanding athletes, this Las Vegas Bowl 2024 offers these two teams’ last opportunity to end their seasons with a bang. Fans should anticipate a fiercely competitive, exciting game that will probably have bowl game ramifications for the fates of both collegiate football teams.

USC prediction

Overview of USC Trojans

Despite having great expectations going into the 2024 season, the USC Trojans ended up finishing with a 6-6 record, which is indicative of both their potential and challenges. Following a good start, USC had a number of difficulties that led to a 49-35 loss to Notre Dame in the regular season finale. Among a number of high-scoring contests, this one demonstrated USC’s patchy play. 

The Trojans displayed moments of genius in spite of the loss, particularly in their passing attack, which saw them average more than 280 yards per game. Despite their season’s ups and downs, they maintained their competitiveness and will try to bring that spirit into the 2024 Las Vegas Bowl.

The quarterback situation is the biggest adjustment for USC going into the Las Vegas Bowl. Jayden Maiava, a sophomore, has taken over as the primary quarterback since Miller Moss was sidelined by injury and transfer. 

Maiava, a transfer from UNLV, had a strong finish to the regular season, throwing for 360 yards and three touchdowns in the Trojans’ high-scoring defeat to Notre Dame.

Despite the absence of several important players, his ability to deliver in big games, such as his 360-yard, 3-touchdown effort against the Fighting Irish, gives USC fans faith that the offense can continue to score points.

However, major players have opted out or entered the transfer portal, which has had a big impact on USC’s roster. Not included in the lineup are starting running back Jo’quavious Marks, who announced his intention to enter the NFL Draft, and standout wide receiver Zachariah Branch, who is regarded as one of the best prospects in the Class of 2023. 

Maiava has fewer top targets as a result of these injuries, which have surely harmed the Trojans’ depth, particularly in the passing game. The Trojans will rely on their remaining talent to step up and perform in the 2024 Las Vegas Bowl because they still have significant players in crucial positions despite these departures.

The Trojans’ offensive aspirations depend on Maiava’s sustained development and wide receiver Makai Lemon’s ability to create plays. Lemon leads USC with 665 yards this season, becoming him the team’s best receiving threat.

Lemon showed that he can make a difference even when the team is struggling by stepping up with 133 yards on 9 catches in the game against Notre Dame. 

Lemon will have the chance to demonstrate his ability to lead the offense in the Las Vegas Bowl while USC’s other best receivers are sidelined. Inconsistency has been a big problem for USC’s defense, which has suffered all season.

Overview of the Texas A&M Aggies

Under first-year head coach Mike Elko, the Texas A&M Aggies finished the 2024 season with an 8-4 record. Before having some difficulties in the second half of the season, the Aggies had a strong start to the year and were ranked in the top 10.

Texas A&M maintained their competitiveness after losing three of their previous four games; their lone regular-season setback was a 17-7 loss to Texas. The Aggies will try to end the season on a strong note by returning to their winning ways following some disappointing late-season results, and their success in the 2024 Las Vegas Bowl will be critical to their momentum going into the offseason.

This season, Texas A&M has averaged 28.4 points per game thanks to their diversified offensive onslaught. The Aggies’ offensive efforts have been led by quarterback Max Johnson, who has been a reliable presence behind center. The offensive prowess of Texas A&M has been largely attributed to Johnson’s leadership and skill at making plays both on the ground and in the air. 

A potent run game helps the Aggies’ attack by maintaining balance and keeping opposing defenses guessing. Despite the inconsistent play in certain areas, Texas A&M has been able to maintain productivity thanks to this offensive balance. The Aggies will try to capitalize on USC’s defensive shortcomings and maintain their effective offensive play going into the 2024 Las Vegas Bowl.

Texas A&M ranks in the top 30 in terms of points allowed (22.2 points per game), making them one of the best defensive teams in the country. With multiple playmakers in the secondary and a potent pass rush, the Aggies boast a dynamic defense. 

Even when the offense has struggled, Texas A&M has been able to maintain its competitiveness in games thanks to this unit, which has continuously been among the best in the nation. 

Texas A&M’s defense will be put to the test in the 2024 Las Vegas Bowl because important defensive players including Shemar Stewart, Nic Scourton, and Shemar Turner have chosen to enter the NFL Draft. 

Nevertheless, given that USC is missing some of their own important players, they still possess the depth and skill to pose a threat to their attack.

Several significant losses in the Las Vegas Bowl will affect Texas A&M’s roster, including some of their top defensive players. There is a big void in the defensive front as defensive linemen Shemar Stewart, Nic Scourton, and Shemar Turner all choose to sit out games in order to be ready for the NFL Draft. 

The Aggies’ offensive depth is further impacted by the absence of wide receiver Cyrus Allen. Despite these setbacks, Texas A&M has a strong core of players left, and they will be carried through the 2024 Las Vegas Bowl by the skill and depth of their defense as well as the offensive leadership of Max Johnson.

The Texas A&M Aggies are 3.5 points ahead of the USC Trojans in the 2024 Las Vegas Bowl. Despite their late-game difficulties, Texas A&M’s impressive 8-4 record and overall stronger season are reflected in this spread. 

Given that USC’s roster is thin due to important absences, many believe Texas A&M is the safer choice to cover the spread because of the Aggies’ strong defense and well-balanced offense, which have made them the more reliable team going into this game.

This game is worth watching, though, since USC’s inexperienced quarterback Jayden Maiava and playmaking receiver Makai Lemon might keep it tight.

A high-scoring match between two teams with strong attacks is anticipated, as seen by the game’s over/under of 55 points. While USC has frequently been involved in shootouts, especially with their explosive passing attack, Texas A&M has averaged 28.4 points per game. 

The Trojans possess the talent to match Texas A&M’s offense, even in spite of USC’s significant offensive losses. For those anticipating a thrilling, high-scoring Las Vegas Bowl, betting on the over may be a good choice because both teams have the potential to score points.

Texas A&M is the favorite at -168 and USC is at +141 in the 2024 Las Vegas Bowl moneyline. According to this, sportsbooks think the Aggies have a better chance of winning, but the Trojans should not be written out given USC’s ability to surprise, particularly with Maiava starting at quarterback. 

Given Texas A&M’s struggles on both sides of the ball, it would be worthwhile to wager on USC as the underdog. USC might pull off an upset if their offense plays well, which would make the Trojans an appealing option for moneyline wagerers.

The 2024 Las Vegas Bowl is predicted to be won by Texas A&M, but USC can still be a formidable foe. The Trojans’ ability to stay competitive in spite of their losses may make this game closer than anticipated, and the Aggies’ recent defensive opt-outs may help USC’s offense find success.

Due of Texas A&M’s thin defensive line, USC’s rookie quarterback may have more opportunities to create plays. USC’s potential for a surprise result should not be disregarded, as the Las Vegas Bowl is looking to be an interesting game with lots of intrigue around the betting odds.

2024 Las Vegas Bowl

First and foremost, Texas A&M’s powerful defense makes them the favorite to cover the spread in the 2024 Las Vegas Bowl. With an average of just 22.2 points per game and a position in the top 30 for points allowed, the Aggies have continuously been among the finest defensive teams in the country. 

Texas A&M’s defense is in a strong position to take advantage of USC’s offense, which has been severely undermined by the absence of key players, especially at quarterback and receiver. 

Jayden Maiava, the inexperienced quarterback for USC, will probably be under pressure from the Aggies to make plays under stress. Although Maiava has shown promise, USC’s offensive output may be constrained by the Aggies’ pass rush and defensive methods.

Texas A&M’s balanced offense, which blends a strong running game with an effective passing attack, is another factor contributing to their ability to cover the spread. The Aggies have relied on quarterback Max Johnson to lead and be consistent offensively. Johnson has done a good job of controlling the game, creating opportunities in the passing game, and making crucial throws when necessary. 

Furthermore, Texas A&M’s strong run game allows them to control the time and be versatile, which keeps USC’s defense on its heels. The Aggies’ ability to maintain drives and score points regularly thanks to their well-balanced offensive strategy will be crucial in weakening USC’s defense and keeping them out of the game.

Texas A&M benefits greatly from USC’s major losses. The Trojans’ offense is severely lacking due to the absence of several key players, such as running back Jo’quavious Marks and wide receiver Zachariah Branch. USC is left with little alternatives to extend the field and make huge plays after losing their primary quarterback, Miller Moss, and two of their top three receivers. 

Texas A&M’s defense will probably focus most of its attention on Makai Lemon, the Trojans’ top receiver, which will make it harder for USC to produce spectacular plays. These absences will give Texas A&M’s defense a distinct advantage because they will not just impair their passing game but also their entire offensive balance.

Texas A&M has a clear route to covering the spread in the 2024 Las Vegas Bowl when these facts are taken into consideration. They are well-positioned to take control of the game because of their defensive prowess, which is anchored by a strong pass rush and a formidable defensive front, as well as their well-rounded and effective offense. 

The Trojans will find it difficult to stay up with the Aggies, who are driven to end the season strongly despite their own late-season setbacks, due to USC’s thin roster, particularly on offense. Texas A&M is the more probable team to cover the 3.5-point spread because of their depth on both the offensive and defensive ends.

The USC Trojans have a number of reasons to think they can cover the spread against the Texas A&M Aggies in the 2024 Las Vegas Bowl, even though they are the underdog. First, quarterback Jayden Maiava, who replaced starter Miller Moss due to injury, has demonstrated offensive ability for the Trojans. 

Despite being young, Maiava has shown that he can manage pressure, especially in his performance against Notre Dame, where he passed for three touchdowns and 360 yards. The rookie quarterback’s ability to direct the offense and create plays will be essential to maintaining USC’s competitiveness despite having a diminished receiver corps.

USC’s top wide receiver, Makai Lemon, is also present, which helps them cover the spread. Lemon is still a potent playmaker even after Zachariah Branch and other important receivers were cut. With nine catches for 133 yards in a dominant performance against Notre Dame, he will probably be the mainstay of USC’s passing attack in the 2024 Las Vegas Bowl.

Given that Texas A&M’s defense is lacking some important players because of NFL opt-outs, Lemon’s ability to generate big plays down the field may be the spark USC needs to overcome the Aggies’ defense. USC may be able to cover the spread and stay in the game because to his explosive potential.

USC has a big chance because of Texas A&M’s defensive losses. The Aggies’ pass rush will be weaker than usual because defensive linemen Shemar Stewart, Nic Scourton, and Shemar Turner have all chosen to opt out in order to prepare for the NFL Draft. Due to these absences, Maiava might have extra time to play in the pocket and take advantage of any holes in Texas A&M’s defense. 

The Aggies might find it difficult to consistently attack USC’s offense without their entire defensive line, which would give the Trojans more success in the air. Although USC’s offensive line will have to improve, their chances of winning are increased by Texas A&M’s weaker defense.

Lastly, even though USC’s defense has had some difficulties this season, they still have chances to step up while facing a Texas A&M attack that has its share of weaknesses. The Aggies have played well offensively, but USC’s defense might exploit any errors made by the team due to the absence of their best receiver, Cyrus Allen, and their general lackluster play in recent weeks. 

Although Texas A&M is struggling offensively and without important players, USC’s defense might step up and help cover the spread by slowing down the Aggies’ offense. The Trojans will need to find a way to pressure Max Johnson and cause turnovers.

Conclusion:

Predicted final score: USC 27, Texas A&M 31. The Texas A&M Aggies are predicted to defeat the USC Trojans in a close, high-scoring matchup in the 2024 Las Vegas Bowl. Texas A&M should be able to take advantage of USC’s thin roster, especially on offense, since they have a more complete team overall, especially on defense. 

But USC’s playmaking wide receiver Makai Lemon and inexperienced quarterback Jayden Maiava should keep things close and force the Aggies to create plays right up to the end. Texas A&M’s depth and well-rounded offense will ultimately prove to be too much for the Trojans, even though USC has the ability to surprise.

Texas A&M is the betting pick at -3.5. Texas A&M is the safer choice to cover the spread, even with USC’s offensive prowess and the possibility of an upset. With a potent defense and an effective offense behind quarterback Max Johnson, the Aggies have a more reliable and well-rounded group. 

It will be challenging for USC to stay up with a Texas A&M team that is probably going to dominate the game on both sides of the ball because of their weak defense and depleted offense. It might be a competitive game because Texas A&M is missing some important defensive players, but they have enough talent to cover the 3.5-point spread.

Over/Under: At 55 points, the over is more likely. With a restricted offense and a backup quarterback, USC will have to rely on explosive plays, which could result in a higher-scoring game. Both teams have demonstrated the potential to score in large numbers. 

With a well-balanced offensive attack, Texas A&M can score several touchdowns, while USC’s defense has struggled all season, which will probably result in a shootout. The game is predicted to go above the 55-point threshold because of both teams’ offensive prowess and their defensive shortcomings, which makes the over a desirable choice for wagerers.

Although USC’s offensive prowess may make this a tighter game than anticipated, Texas A&M should be able to cover the spread and win. The most intriguing wager for this high-stakes game in the 2024 Las Vegas Bowl is the over on 55 points, since both teams have the potential to score.

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