Week 3’s Friday night college football lineup brings one of the most electrifying matchups of the season. The highlight is the UNLV Rebels facing off against the Kansas Jayhawks in a thrilling showdown between two of the most dynamic and innovative offensive schemes in the country.
Before placing your bets, check out the latest odds, spread, total, and a UNLV vs. Kansas prediction.
UNLV vs. Kansas Betting Preview
All UNLV vs. Kansas odds are from DraftKings Sportsbook and are correct as of Friday, Sept. 13.
- Spread
Kansas -9 - Moneyline
Kansas -340, UNLV +270 - Over/Under
61 points - Game time
7 p.m. ET - Location
David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium, Lawrence, KS - Predicted Weather at Kick
81 degrees, 10 mph winds, sunny - How to Watch
FuboTV, ESPN
Two high-powered offenses are set to clash in one of the season’s top Friday night matchups: UNLV’s fast-paced ‘go-go’ offense versus Kansas’ shift and motion-heavy attack. Both teams boast dual-threat quarterbacks off to strong starts, but could it be the defenses that ultimately decide this Friday showdown?
Kansas opened as a 7.5-point favorite, and although the line has dipped slightly to seven, it’s expected to stay around that key number unless something unexpected occurs.
The initial over/under reflects the strength of the offenses more than the defenses, but early bettors appear to have confidence in the defensive play. The total has fallen from 58.5 to 57, suggesting an expected score closer to 32-25 rather than the original 33-26. However, this line got bet back up to 61 total points as bettors came around to the offensive prowess.
UNLV vs. Kansas Player Analysis
UNLV’s Matthew Sluka has been solid this season, even if his stats don’t immediately jump off the page. In just over six quarters, he’s tallied five passing touchdowns and two rushing scores. While he wasn’t called upon to post big numbers in the first two games, he has the potential to ramp up his production against Kansas.
Jalon Daniels remains Kansas’ key player, though he has been less involved in the run game this year compared to past seasons. His recent issues with ball security are uncharacteristic for the senior, and another multi-interception game seems unlikely.
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Kansas running back Devin Neal has been the star on the ground, boasting an impressive 10 yards per carry this season. Though he’s seen limited action in the passing game, Neal is a strong starting option.
For UNLV, true freshman Greg Burrell leads the team in rushing, with much of his production coming in late-game action against Utah Tech. Burrell shows great promise, but the carry distribution among Burrell, Kylin James, NC State transfer Michael Allen, and former quarterback-turned-running back Hajj-Malik Williams remains uncertain.
In the receiving game, Kansas lacks a standout target, unlike UNLV’s Ricky White III, a former All-Mountain West receiver. White is expected to see the majority of targets, while Kansas may focus on slowing down a UNLV rushing attack featuring five players averaging at least 44 yards per game.
UNLV vs. Kansas Prediction
First off, I really wasn’t eager to bet on this game.
Early in the season, I prefer to bet against teams I’m less optimistic about than Vegas, but I really like both of these squads. Kansas is likely to rebound as the season progresses, especially after last week’s disappointing loss to Illinois where nothing seemed to go right.
I trust both coaching staffs to have their teams ready on a short week and to make key adjustments during the game. This matchup hinges on two quarterbacks who are dynamic athletes and skilled passers, though both are prone to critical mistakes. The team that can force a timely turnover will likely have the upper hand.
While teams generally aim to avoid shootouts, I believe both coaching staffs feel confident in their offenses’ ability to score on any drive. However, I wouldn’t be surprised if they try to shorten the game. UNLV has already run the ball over 55 times per game compared to just 32 passing attempts, likely due to game script rather than a reflection of their passing potential.
Kansas has the deeper roster, which could make a difference, especially since the Jayhawks are playing at home. Although I expect Kansas to win a close game with a lower-than-expected scoreline ultimately, neither outcome would surprise me.
I don’t think this game will define the season for the loser, as it quietly holds significant College Football Playoff implications. I believe the Rebels will cover in a loss, but I wouldn’t be shocked if the margin is slightly wider, or if UNLV manages to pull off the upset. If the Rebels win in Lawrence, they’ll solidify themselves as true contenders for the Group of Five playoff spot.
Prediction: Kansas 28, UNLV 24
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