
Kansas Jayhawks Face UNLV Rebels in Week 3 Showdown: A Rematch of Last Year’s High-Scoring Bowl Game
The Kansas Jayhawks and the UNLV Rebels are set to reignite their rivalry in a highly anticipated Week 3 showdown. Both teams come into the game with momentum and national attention, thanks to their impressive starts to the season. This Friday night clash in Lawrence, Kansas, also serves as a rematch of the 2023 Guaranteed Rate Bowl, where Kansas triumphed in a high-scoring affair, 49-36. With Kansas eager to bounce back from a tough loss to Illinois, and UNLV entering the game with an undefeated record, all eyes will be on Children’s Mercy Park when the teams kick off at 7 p.m. ET.
1. Kansas’ Rollercoaster Season: A Tough Loss to Illinois
After starting the season ranked 22nd in the AP Top 25 and moving up to 19th following a dominant win over Lindenwood, the Kansas Jayhawks faced a setback in Week 2. Their 23-16 loss to Illinois saw them fall out of the rankings, but the stats reveal a closer game than the scoreline suggests. Kansas outgained Illinois 319 to 272 in total yards, but four turnovers proved costly, overshadowing an otherwise solid performance.
Devin Neal, Kansas’ star running back, has been a shining light for the team. Neal has rushed for over 100 yards in both games this season and remains a crucial figure in Kansas’ offense. With 3,290 career rushing yards and 35 touchdowns, Neal’s contributions will be vital as Kansas seeks redemption against UNLV.
2. UNLV’s Perfect Start: Riding the Wave of Early Success
The UNLV Rebels have kicked off their season in impressive fashion, sitting at 2-0 after back-to-back victories over Houston and Utah Tech. Under the leadership of second-year head coach Barry Odom, the Rebels are building on the momentum from last season’s nine-win campaign, their first winning season since 1984. Despite the loss of standout quarterback Jayden Maiava to USC, UNLV’s offense remains potent, led by wide receiver Ricky White.
White, who recorded 1,483 receiving yards and eight touchdowns last season, has been instrumental in UNLV’s success. He was also a key factor in last year’s bowl game against Kansas, notching 97 receiving yards and a touchdown. Another player to watch is Jacob De Jesus, who has been versatile in both the passing and rushing game this season. He tallied 98 receiving yards and a touchdown in the previous matchup against Kansas and has already found the end zone twice this season.
3. Key Betting Trends and Matchups
Kansas enters the game as 9-point favorites, but bettors should take note of some key trends. The Jayhawks have struggled against the spread (0-2 ATS) this season, while UNLV has been perfect, going 2-0 ATS. Additionally, the over/under has dropped from 60.5 to 57.5, signaling a lower-scoring game than last year’s shootout.
Kansas’ defense, which limited Illinois to just 272 total yards, will need to find a way to contain UNLV’s balanced offensive attack. Meanwhile, UNLV’s defense must focus on stopping Devin Neal, who has been one of the most consistent running backs in college football. The turnover battle will be another critical factor, as Kansas looks to avoid the mistakes that derailed them against Illinois.
Conclusion: A High-Stakes Showdown
Both Kansas and UNLV have a lot on the line in this Week 3 matchup. Kansas needs a win to regain their momentum after last week’s loss, while UNLV will look to remain undefeated and build on their strong start. With key players like Devin Neal, Ricky White, and Jacob De Jesus ready to take center stage, fans can expect an exciting and competitive game. As the season progresses, this game could play a pivotal role in shaping both teams’ postseason aspirations.
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