In the second set of weekday bowl games, there is a game between two average team. These teams are the UCLA Bruins and the Kansas State Wildcats. Both teams had above average expectations this season but failed to fulfill those expectations despite qualifying for a bowl game. Now, both teams will want to add a bowl victory to their resumes so they can potentially redeem their seasons.
UCLA’s success is due to star quarterback Josh Rosen. So far this season, Rosen threw for 26 touchdowns and only ten interceptions along with over 3,700 yards passing in just 11 games. Due to his performance in college, Rosen will be a lock to be selected in the top five picks of the 2018 NFL Draft. However, Rosen is unlikely to play in this bowl game due to a concussion. Replacing him is freshman quarterback Devon Modster who threw for two touchdowns and zero interceptions in limited action. Due to Modster’s lack of experience, expect UCLA to rely heavily on its running game in this contest.
Kansas State’s success was primarily due to its strong quarterback play. However, the Wildcats have started a number of quarterbacks this season due to injuries and inconsistent play. Jesse Ertz was the starter for the team’s first five games before injuring his knee. Replacing him was Alex Delton who started the next four games before he also injured his knee. Replacing Delton was freshman quarterback Skylar Thompson who threw for five touchdowns and over 660 passing yards in just three starts. Thompson is the projected starter for the bowl game and one has to wonder if the once third-string quarterback is up to the challenge.
As for my prediction, I have to side with Kansas State. Both teams will most likely be starting freshman quarterbacks for this bowl game which is less than ideal. However, Kansas State’s defense is significantly better than UCLA’s and should be able to generate decent pressure on Modster. I expect both offenses to look extremely sloppy but I think that Kansas State does enough to win by a field goal or so.
UCLA vs. Kansas State: Game Time, TV Channel & Viewing Details
Event: UCLA vs. Kansas State
Date: Tuesday, December 26, 2017
Start Time: 9:00 P.M. EST
Location: Chase Field in Phoenix, AZ
Broadcast: ESPN
How to Watch UCLA vs. Kansas State On Your Tablet Or Mobile Device
You can live stream the game on the WatchESPN app.
You can download the WatchESPN app on Google Play, Amazon, iTunes, and the Windows Store. The Fox Sports Go app is also available on the following devices: Apple TV, Roku, Android TV and Fire TV.
How To Live Stream UCLA vs. Kansas State Online Without Cable Subscription
You can also live stream the game through Sling TV free trial. Just click on the Sling website and click “Watch Now 7 Days Free” for the free trial. Choose the Sling Orange package, which costs $20 per month and comes with ESPN, along with many other sports channels.
