It was a rollercoaster season for First Year head coach Alex Golesh and the University of South Florida Bulls. They came in looking to build on an impressive 2023 season but finished the season just 6-6 and outside of the top 5 in the AAC.
The San Jose State Trojans had a better season than the Bulls but not by much. A record of 7-5 landed them in fifth place in the Mountain West Conference.
But a win in the Hawaii Bowl could change the misfortunes of either one of these programs as they look toward the future. They have both proven to have the makings of a respectable program and winning a bowl game could be the first step in springing them forward to greatness in 2025.
The Trojans will come into this matchup as the 2.5-point favorite over the Bulls. But anything can happen in this matchup. Especially with USF having game-changers such like Kelley Joiner who average seven yards per carry this season.
Odds makers also expect for this matchup to be a high-scoring affair. The over-under for this matchup is set at 62.5 points.
So whether you are rooting for a clear favorite or hoping for a miracle by the underdog, the most important thing to remember is that you must be in it to win it.