What to know earlier than Cal faces No. 24 UNLV within the LA Bowl

CAL vs. No. 24 UNLV

Information: Cal 6-6, 2-6 ACC; UNLV 10-3, 6-1 Mountain West

Kickoff: 6 p.m. PT at SoFi Stadium

TV: ESPN

Radio: 810 AM

Sequence historical past: Cal has solely as soon as confronted the Rebels in program historical past, profitable 20-14 on Sept. 10, 2022. In his second recreation as a freshman, Jaydn Ott scored each Bears touchdowns within the win. Cal is scheduled to go to UNLV in 2026 within the return recreation.

Cal storylines: The Bears received’t have star quarterback Fernando Mendoza, who entered the switch portal final week. CJ Harris and EJ Caminong have break up time in follow after Chandler Rogers was injured within the season-ending loss to SMU … Even past quarterback, the offense is a little bit of a thriller as coach Justin Wilcox let Mike Bloesch go as coordinator and former Auburn coach Bryan Harsin was employed. Wilcox says offensive playcalling will likely be “a collaborative effort.” …  Cornerback Nohl Williams, who leads the nation in interceptions (7), will likely be enjoying his former workforce, as he transferred from UNLV after the 2022 season.

UNLV storylines: The Rebels is not going to be coached by Barry Odom, who agreed Dec. 8 to develop into Purdue’s new coach after main UNLV to its first-ever nationwide rating. Large receivers coach Del Alexander will lead UNLV for this recreation earlier than former Florida coach Dan Mullen, whose rent was introduced final week, takes over this system. … UNLV can even be with out offensive coordinator Brennan Marion, who is not going to coach tonight. Marion, a former JC participant at Foothill and De Anza, is a finalist for the Sacramento State head teaching job, in accordance with the Sacramento Bee. … Operating again Greg Burrell and defensive again Tony Grimes have entered the switch portal, however dedicated to enjoying within the recreation, in accordance with the Las Vegas Evaluate-Journal. Senior receiver Ricky White III, a probable NFL Draft choose, was additionally seen working towards with the workforce.

Stats that matter: The Bears could have to depend on their untested passers as UNLV allowed solely 109.8 rush yards per recreation, No. 17 nationally. The Rebels are No. 105 in go protection (241.2 yards per recreation). … Cal has 22 takeaways this season, good for sixteenth in FBS, however has none over its final three video games.