Kansas Jayhawks vs. UNLV RebelsPhoto byJacob RiceonUnsplash

The Kansas Jayhawks(1-1) host the UNLV Rebels(2-0) on Friday night. The Jayhawks are coming off a 23-17 loss to Illinois. Quarterback Jalon Daniels completed 18 of 32 passes for 141 yards, 2 TDs, and 3 INTs.

The Rebels are coming off a 72-14 win over Utah Tech. Running back Greg Burrell carried the ball 11 times for 101 yards and a touchdown. QB Matthew Sluka completed 8 of 17 passes for 161 yards and 3 TDs.

Can the Jayhawks improve to 2-1, or will the Rebels remain undefeated?

Kansas vs. UNLV Match Details

• Fixture: UNLV @ Kansas
• Date and Time: Friday, September 13, 2024 @ 7:00 pm EST
• Location: Children's Mercy Park in Kansas City, Kansas

Key Stats

Kansas Jayhawks

The Jayhawks are 1-1 this year, averaging 32.50 points per game. Running back Devin Neal leads the team in rushing, averaging 106.5 yards per game. He is averaging 9.7 yards per carry and has scored 2 TDs. QB Jalon Daniels is averaging 144.5 passing yards per game while completing 57.45% of his passes. He has thrown 3 TDs and 4 INTs and has a QBR of 113.14 to start the season.

Wide Receiver Luke Grimm leads the team in receiving with 2 TDs and 75.5 receiving yards per game. Fellow teammate Lawrence Arnold also has a TD this season and is averaging a meager 36.5 receiving yards per game. From a defensive standpoint, Kansas has one INT, 4 sacks, and hit the opposing quarterback 7 times. They are allowing 13 points per game.

UNLV Rebels

The Rebels enter the game 2-0, averaging 49.5 points per game to start the season. Running Back Greg Burrell is averaging 58.5 yards per game and has reached the endzone once. QB Matthew Sluka is averaging 116 passing yards per game while completing 46.67% of his passes. He has thrown 5 TDs and 1 INT to start the season. He has also rushed 20 times for a team-high 1129 yards and a touchdown.

Wide Receiver Ricky White III is averaging 61 receiving yards per game and has scored 3 TDs. Defensively, UNLV has 3 INTs, 7 sacks, and hit the opposing quarterback 5 times. They are allowing 10.5 points per game.

Prediction

These two teams met in the Guaranteed Rate Bowl last season, where Kansas won 49-36. Receiver Luke Grimm recorded four catches for 160 yards and 3 TDs. The UNLV defense really hasn't been tested, and it will be interesting to see how they plan to stop the Jayhawks.

This game comes down to which quarterback makes the fewest mistakes. Jalon Daniels has had a rough start to the year, but I think he has more weapons at his disposal than Sluka does. I also anticipate Kansas using Devin Neal heavily and trying to slow the game down.

I am leaning toward the Jayhawks in this one. They have a home-field advantage, more size and speed, and a better overall team. Jalon Daniels is due for a big game, and this matchup could be it.

-Originally Written By Dustin Judge

Final Pick

Kansas Jayhawks -7 (-110)

For More Great Content

Are you desiring top-tier content that covers everything? From thrilling sports and intoxicating entertainment news to gaming tips and professional betting advice, Total Apex covers it all. Delve into our no-fluff articles to stay ahead of the game with the latest sports action, uncover the hottest trends in entertainment, and get the latest scoops in the gaming industry that will take your experiences to the next level.

Finally, our betting advice will give you a decisive edge over the competition and increase your odds of beating the books. Whether you’re looking to stay updated or gain a competitive edge, Total Apex is your one-stop shop for all things compelling and relevant. Don’t forget we cover Fantasy Sports, too!