Hawaii Bowl Turns Into a Homecoming With Cal vs. Hawaii Showdown
So here’s what’s happening around Hawaii football right now, and it’s honestly one of those bowl matchups that feels bigger than just a postseason game. The 2025 Sheraton Hawaii Bowl is set for Christmas Eve in Honolulu, and it’s bringing together the California Golden Bears and the Hawaii Rainbow Warriors in a way that feels personal, emotional, and unpredictable.
This game is being played at the Clarence T.C. Ching Athletics Complex, which already gives Hawaii a strong home-field vibe. Hawaii comes in with an 8–4 record, riding momentum after a convincing win over Wyoming, while Cal sits at 7–5 after edging SMU in a tight finish. It’s been noted that Cal has struggled in recent bowl games, losing three straight, while Hawaii has historically held its own in this exact bowl setting.
Also Read:- Xbox Game Pass Fans React as 2026 Lineup Starts Taking Shape
- How NORAD Keeps Track of Santa’s Global Christmas Eve Journey
The betting line reflects how close this matchup is expected to be. Hawaii has been made a slight favorite, just about a point and a half, and the total points line is sitting in the low 50s. What stands out is how often this bowl has turned into a shootout. In past Hawaii Bowl appearances, points have piled up fast, and that trend is being watched closely again this year.
Offensively, the spotlight is on both quarterbacks. Cal’s starting QB, Jaron-Keawe Sagapolutele, is a Hawaii native, and his return home is being seen as a big emotional factor. He’s coming off a huge performance with over 300 passing yards and four touchdowns, and another big night is being expected. On the other side, Hawaii quarterback Micah Alejado has been one of the most productive passers in the Mountain West, consistently throwing for scores and keeping defenses on edge.
There’s also a fascinating coaching storyline layered into all of this. Cal’s interim head coach, Nick Rolovich, is a former Hawaii quarterback and coach. Meanwhile, Hawaii is led by Timmy Chang, who was once Rolovich’s teammate. What’s being called a full-circle moment has turned this bowl game into a reunion decades in the making, with both coaches openly acknowledging how special it feels to face each other on this field.
Even with Hawaii missing star receiver Jackson Harris due to the transfer portal, fireworks are still being anticipated. Both teams are built to throw, both quarterbacks are confident, and history suggests points will come quickly.
By the time kickoff arrives at 8 p.m. ET, this won’t just be about picks or odds. It’s being framed as a celebration of Hawaii football, shared history, and a bowl game that feels exactly where it’s supposed to be—right at home.
Read More:
0 Comments