Hawaii Football: Warriors look to improve Hawaii Bowl record vs. Louisiana Tech
By Jacob Wilson
Holding a 4-3 record while hosting the Hawaii Bowl, Hawaii football would love nothing more than to improve their record with a win over Louisiana Tech.
The Warriors have been enjoying their most productive season since parting ways with head coach Norm Chow, finishing the 2018 regular season with a record of 8-5. Given Hawaii’s automatic bid to the Hawaii Bowl following a bowl-eligible season, current head coach Nick Rolovich is on his way to his second bowl in three seasons.
On the other side of the field will be a Louisiana Tech team in the midst of its fifth straight winning season under head coach Skip Holtz. The Bulldogs have qualified for and won four bowl games in the last four years, setting them up for a potential fifth straight bowl game win in as many seasons.
Needless to say, there will be plenty on the line for both teams as they meet for the 11th time in the history of these two programs. Here’s how to watch it go down if you find yourself craving some late-night football.
Date: Saturday, Dec. 22
Time: 10:30 p.m. ET
Venue: Aloha Stadium
Location: Halawa, HI
TV: ESPN
Live Stream: WatchESPN or FuboTV
Keys to Victory
Quarterback Cole McDonald has played out of his mind throughout the better part of the 2018 season, throwing for 3,790 yards, 35 touchdowns, and only eight interceptions. As a result, Hawaii ranks ninth in the nation in passing yards per game. McDonald has the potential to put this game away early, but he’ll need some help from his defense along the way.
As for Louisiana Tech, the Bulldogs will be banking on a pass defense that has allowed less than 200 passing yards per game this season. This effective pass defense has contributed to the Bulldogs ranking 40th in the nation in opponent points per game, a respectable finish regardless of scheduling.
Betting Odds
Odds provided by OddsShark
Point Spread: Hawaii -1
Over/Under: 61.5
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Prediction
The first few drives will likely be a strong indicator as to how the game will proceed, especially when it comes to Hawaii’s offensive possessions. Louisiana Tech has the potential to do some damage themselves, but their offensive unit isn’t nearly as potent as their Hawaii counterparts. At the end of the day, look for the Warriors to come out on top as they once again host the Hawaii Bowl.
Final Score: Louisiana Tech 27, Hawaii 34