Hawaii Bowl: Cal vs. Hawaii Prediction & Preview

Hawaii Bowl Showdown: California vs. Hawaii Preview

Christmas Eve brings one of college football's most intriguing matchups as the California Golden Bears face the Hawaii Rainbow Warriors in the 2025 Hawaii Bowl. This rare bowl appearance marks a significant milestone for both programs as they clash in Honolulu at 8 p.m. ET on ESPN. With Hawaii playing just its second bowl game in six years and California seeking its first postseason victory since 2021, this contest promises fireworks in the Aloha State.

Key Storylines to Watch

This matchup is rich with compelling narratives. For Hawaii, it's a homecoming story - their first appearance in the Hawaii Bowl since 2019, where they'll enjoy a powerful home-field advantage at Aloha Stadium. The Warriors have lost only once on their home island this season, making them formidable hosts. On the sidelines, an intriguing connection exists between coaches: California's interim head coach Nick Rolovich is a Hawaii alum and former teammate of Hawaii's Timmy Chang, creating a unique subplot in this island showdown.

"Anything short of an all-out aerial showcase will be a disappointment given the passing history of the coaches." - USA Today

The game also represents a redemption opportunity for California, which enters at 7-5 but has lost back-to-back bowl games. Rolovich debuted with an impressive 38-35 win over No. 21 SMU in their regular-season finale, proving his squad can compete against top-tier opponents. Meanwhile, Hawaii (8-4) snapped a four-year losing streak and enters this game riding momentum after a 27-7 victory over Wyoming to close their regular season.

Star Players to Keep an Eye On

Both teams feature dynamic offensive weapons that should light up the scoreboard. For Hawaii, freshman quarterback Micah Alejado has been sensational, throwing for 2,832 yards this season. He'll target a talented receiving corps featuring Jackson Harris and Pofele Ashlock, who provide home-run threats downfield. Special attention should be paid to kicker Kansei Matsuzawa, nicknamed "The Tokyo Toe," whose clutch field goal against Stanford in August made him an overnight sensation.

California counters with freshman quarterback Jaron-Keawe Sagapolutele, who benefits from a balanced attack. Running back Kendrick Raphael provides a physical ground presence, while wide receiver Jacob De Jesus offers big-play potential through the air. The Golden Bears' physicality could pose challenges for Hawaii's defense, particularly in the trenches.

California vs. Hawaii Prediction

Current odds make Hawaii a 1.5-point favorite, reflecting their home-field advantage and potent passing attack. While California brings more size and physicality, Hawaii's familiarity with Aloha Stadium and explosive offense should ultimately prevail. Look for Alejado to continue his hot streak against a Cal defense that has struggled against mobile quarterbacks. The Warriors' ability to protect their home turf in bowl games should be the deciding factor in this high-scoring affair.

Expect both teams to embrace the offensive fireworks predicted by analysts. With Rolovich and Chang both known for pass-heavy schemes, we could see a shootout reminiscent of their playing days. Hawaii's slight edge in speed and athleticism at skill positions gives them the edge in this matchup.

Betting Insights for the Hawaii Bowl

For those interested in wagering on the action, Fanatics Sportsbook is offering new users up to $2,000 in No Sweat Bets using promo code CBSFAN. This promotion allows bettors to receive their stake back in FanCash if their initial wager loses, making it an attractive option for Christmas Eve betting. With the total expected to be high, consider prop bets on quarterbacks and the over/under for combined points.

As college football's bowl season winds down, this Hawaii vs. California matchup provides the perfect blend of redemption, homecoming vibes, and offensive firepower. Whether you're wrapping presents or settling in for some holiday football, this game promises to deliver the excitement that makes bowl season special.