Bowl-O-Rama: Final Update

Once again, an SEC defense proved to be too much for the Ohio State Buckeyes to handle. LSU applied good pressure all night, and outside of the long Chris Wells run there wasn't much going on for OSU. Boeckman was sacked five times, and harrassed into throwing two interceptions. One of which might have kept three points off of the board, and another that gave LSU the ball on OSU's side of the field. The pressure was very evident on third downs which resulted in the Buckeyes converting just 3 out of 13 chances.

Early on it looked like LSU would be in for a fight, but putting 31 unanswered points on the scoreboard has a way of turning things around. And it wasn't like LSU was getting setup with a short field for all of those scoring opportunities. They went 65, 84, 66, 24, and 80 yards to score those 31. Though, some were aided by Ohio State penalties.

In the end, LSU's defense made the plays when it had to, and forced Ohio State into committing mistakes that doomed them. The Tigers' offense played steady and smart, and didn't make the same type of costly errors that the Buckeyes did.

BCS Title Game
Prediction: LSU wins 31-21.
Actual Result: LSU won 38-24.

Level of Correctness: Picked the winner, and close on the score. A good way to close out the season.

Breaking Down The BCS Title Game

Yes, this thing is getting broken down like Pete Rock doin' some samples yo!



With that out of the way, I'm going to take a look at what each team must do to win tonight's game. I already made my predicition in the Bowl-O-Rama post, but this one is going to be a bit more in-depth.

Ohio State Can Win If...
They can stop LSU's strong rushing attack. In their loss against Illinois, the Buckeyes were ran over to the tune of 260 yards with a 5.1yards/carry average. Their average for the season ended up being 77yards/game and 2.5yards/carry. Not being able to stop the run like they had been really took them out of their element.

Their inability to stop the run also allowed Illinois to control the clock, and hold Ohio State's time of possession below their average. In that game, the Buckeyes had the ball for 27 minutes. For the season, they averaged about 32 minutes.

A second key to Ohio State getting a victory will be their production on third down. Throughout the course of the season, they averaged a success rate of 47.6% on third downs. Against the Illini, they averaged just 38% on third down.

Vernon Gholston is going to have to be a disruptive force along the defensive line, but LSU is probably going to concentrate on blocking him out of most plays. That means that other d-linemen like Heyward and Larimore will have to step up their game.

LSU Can Win If...
They can consistently get their backs into the second and third levels. The Tigers need to get their strong rushing attack going early. If they can dominate the line of scrimmage early, and allow their running backs to force the linebackers and defensive backs to make tackles on them, then they can wear them down. This would in turn allow LSU to turn short pass plays into long gains as a result of sloppy tackling because of fatigue. I wouldn't be surprised to see a consistent rotation at running back to keep those guys fresh, and keep the pressure on OSU's LB's and DB's.

LSU also needs to focus on pressuring Boeckman. The Buckeyes have allowed just 14 sacks all year. If the Tigers can bring pressure from different areas on the field, like bringing McCray on blitzes, then they should be able to force Boeckman out of his comfort zone and into making some mistakes.

Why I Think LSU Will Win
In the end, I think that LSU's rushing attack will prove to be too much. They were held under 150yds rushing in just two games this year(Tulane-134, 'Bama-87). That attack will wear down Ohio State's defense, and allow Matt Flynn to make some plays downfield. It will also give the receivers a chance to catch some short passes, and turn them into long gains. And a healthier Glenn Dorsey should help ratchet up the pressure on Boeckman. All of which leads to an LSU victory.

Bowl-O-Rama: Fourth Update

I wanted to check in on the picks that have occured between the Fiesta Bowl and tonight's BCS title game. That way I can focus a bit on a breakdown of the LSU vs. Ohio State tilt.

Orange Bowl
Prediction: Kansas wins 28-20.
Actual Result: Kansas won 24-21.

The story of the game wasn't the Kansas offense, but rather its defense. The Jayhawks sacked the Hokies five times, and picked them off three times returning one for a touchdown. Virginia Tech never got much going on offense, and that pick-six combined with Reesing's two touchdowns was just too much to overcome.

Level of Correctness: Not enough emphasis on the defense, but it will do.

International Bowl
Prediction: Rutgers wins 38-17.
Actual Result: Rutgers won 52-30.

Nate Davis did play well for Ball State, but Ray Rice was just too much for their defense to handle. He definitely had a "big day" as Rutgers put up almost 600yds of offense.

Level of Correctness: A little low on the points, but the margin of victory was just about right.

GMAC Bowl
Prediction: Tulsa wins 42-31.
Actual Result: Tulsa won 63-7.

Paul Smith was way too much for Bowling Green to handle, and Tarrion Adams played pretty good as well. Tulsa showed why their offense was ranked #1, and the Falcons had no answer.

Level of Correctness: Wow, just wow. Right winner, but way off on margin of victory.

Bowl-O-Rama: Third Update

Breaking down the right picks so that you can forget them, and the wrong ones so that you can make fun of me. Awesomeness abounds!

Independence Bowl
Prediction: Alabama wins 24-21.
Actual Result: Alabama won 30-24.

John Parker Wilson did play well in this contest. Alabama's rush defense also stepped up in a huge way.

Level of Correctness: They weren't the correct lottery numbers, but college football is every bit as important, damn it!

Armed Forces Bowl
Prediction: Air Force beats Cal, 27-24.
Actual Result: Cal beat Air Force, 42-36.

Cal did a great job at limiting Chad Hall's big plays, and Kevin Riley really stepped up. The Golden Bears also did a fantastic job of running the ball.

Level of Correctness: Wrong winner and wrong score, but it was a close loss.

Humanitarian Bowl
Prediction: Georgia Tech wins 27-21.
Actual Result: Fresno State won 40-28.

Tashard Choice couldn't get anything going for the Yellow Jackets, and they damn sure had a problem stopping the Fresno State rushing attack.

Level of Correctness: Wrong on so many levels.

Sun Bowl
Prediction: USF wins 28-17.
Actual Result: Oregon won 56-21.

Johnathan Stewart shredded the USF defense, and Oregon was anything but a "largely ineffective team".

Level of Correctness: 50 car pile-up on the freeway? That's over in the next lane. This is much, much worse.

Music City Bowl
Prediction: Kentucky wins 35-17.
Actual Result: Kentucky won 35-28.

FSU played well despite missing a lot of players. However, their defense did have trouble stopping Rafael Little and Andre Woodson. Without the Tony Carter INT for a touchdown this one wouldn't have been quite as close.

Level of Correctness: A little closer than anticipated, but still right.

Insight Bowl
Prediction: Oklahoma State wins 34-21.
Actual Result: OSU won 49-33.

Dontrell Savage didn't have that big of a game, but the Cowboys offense was still too much for the Hoosiers. They added some points late to make it respectable but the 25 point lead at halftime was just too much to overcome.

Level of Correctness: You probably won't remember the right ones, but this was pretty close.

Chick fil-A Bowl
Prediction: Auburn wins 27-24.
Actual Result: Auburn won 23-20.

Auburn did it mostly with a rushing by committee attack, and their defense was able to shut down Cullen Harper.

Level of Correctness: Perfect on the winner, and the margin of victory.

Outback Bowl
Prediction: Wisconsin win 31-20.
Actual Result: Tennessee won 21-17.

P.J. Hill racked up yardage, but couldn't get into the end zone. Eric Ainge was forced to do it all, as the Tennessee rushing attack sputtered, and he responded very well.

Level of Correctness: Definitely the wrong choice, but it doesn't sting as much when an SEC team wins.

Cotton Bowl
Prediction: Arkansas wins 38-35.
Actual Result: Missouri won 38-7.

It looked as if the Arkansas rushing defense wasn't packed for this bowl trip. Tony Temple destroyed the Razorbacks, and helped Chase Daniel win this battle of Heisman finalists.

Level of Correctness: Pretty much the Hindenburg of my bowl picks.

Capital One Bowl
Prediction: Florida wins 42-24.
Actual Result: Michigan won 41-35.

Florida's "collection of playmakers" ended up being just two, Tebow and Harvin. Chad Henne passed at will on the Gators' secondary, and Mike Hart finished well despite two fumbles. Florida's defense couldn't stop the Wolverines, and their offensive line couldn't protect Tebow.

Level of Correctness: Getting the pick wrong when it involves your favorite team is the ultimate heartbreaker. Congrats to Coach Carr, though.

Gator Bowl
Prediction: Texas Tech wins 41-24.
Actual Result: Texas Tech won 31-28.

Virginia's rushing attack helped put them up early, but the Texas Tech offense got on track late and got the win.

Level of Correctness: Closer than I would have liked, but still got the win.

Rose Bowl
Prediction: USC wins 31-17.
Actual Result: USC won 49-17.

I thought that the Illinois pass defense would be the bigger culprit here, but their rush defense surrendered 344 yards. USC tallied over 600 net yards, and their defense was able to keep Juice Williams from running downfield much.

Level of Correctness: I got the losing score right, but was just a little low on the winner's.

Sugar Bowl
Prediction: Georgia wins 27-24.
Actual Result: Georgia won 41-10.

I thought that Georgia would limit Hawaii's offensive output, but not to this degree. Colt Brennan was harrassed all night, and was eventually knocked out of the game. Georgia played well in all just about every area.

Level of Correctness: Yep, the winner was correct. Just pay no attention to the score behind the curtain.

Fiesta Bowl
Prediction: Oklahoma wins 35-31.
Actual Result: West Virginia won 48-28.

Yeah, that OU rush defense? Pretty much non-existant. And the attack lead by Sam Bradford? It couldn't give Bradford enough time to take a snap in the shotgun, let alone try to make plays downfield. West Virginia put all of the recent commotion behind them, and handed out an ass whooping. Unfortunately, it appeared that it came one game too late.

Level of Correctness: Hey, at least my prediction wasn't televised.

Bowl-O-Rama: Second Update

Hey, look, another update of the predictions that I made for you college football addicts. Don't worry, it's a disease we can all share!

Champs Sports Bowl
Prediction: Boston College wins 21-17.
Actual Result: Boston College won 24-21.

Michigan State did the run ball decently against Boston College, but their passing attack wasn't very good. Matt Ryan was able to achieve some success, and led the Golden Eagles to victory.

Level of Correctness: Not too shabby for an amateur handicapper.

Texas Bowl
Prediction: Houston beats TCU, 31-20.
Actual Result: TCU won 20-13.

TCU's defense stepped up huge, and shut down Houston's potent offense. Houston was limited to just three points in the second half.

Level of Correctness: Underestimated TCU's defense badly, and paid the price in points and winning team prediction.

Emerald Bowl
Prediction: Oregon State wins 20-10.
Actual Result: Oregon State won 21-14.

Oregon State's rushing attack was just too much for Maryland. Yvenson Bernard led the way for the Beavers on their way to racking up 275 yards rushing. Oregon State's defense held Maryland to just 224 net yards.

Level of Correctness: Got the winner right, and was surprisingly close on the points.

Meineke Bowl
Prediction: UConn beats Wake Forest, 27-21.
Actual Result: Wake Forest won 24-10.

Riley Skinner didn't play great, but the Wake Forest defense shut down UConn so he didn't really have to. Dixon and Brown were limited to 91 rushing yards total for UConn, and the Huskies only tallied 213 total net yards.

Level of Correctness: Badly off on winner and points.

Liberty Bowl
Prediction: UCF is going to run over Mississippi State, 35-21.
Actual Result: Mississippi State won 10-3.

UCF did have some success running the ball, but their pass attack was atrocious. 88 yards passing, and three interceptions make it very hard to win a game. Mississippi State's defense was able to make UCF one dimensional, and won the game despite having less total yards.

Level of Correctness: I got Croomed!

Alamo Bowl
Prediction: Nittany Lions should pull out the win here, 31-20.
Actual Result: Penn State won 24-17.

The Nittany Lions were able to slow down the Aggies' rushing attack, and forced McGee to throw the ball 31 times. Penn State on the other hand, was able to run the ball quite well.

Level of Correctness: A little high on the score, but the winner was right on.

Bowl-O-Rama: The BCS Title Game

I bet that Coach Cheaty McSweatervest can't wait to hear about that "SEC speed" again.

Teams: LSU & Ohio State
Location: Superdome, New Orleans, LA
Miles Traveled By Each Team: LSU(80), Ohio State(909)
Related Cereal: Tony’s Turboz(It’s going to look like someone’s hitting the turbo button when we to this Ohio State/SEC rematch).

Breakdown: LSU heads into this game with the #12 ranked rushing offense(218yds/gm, 34TD's), and the #53 ranked passing offense(229yds/gm, 25TD's). Overall, their offense is ranked #21 in the nation. On defense, the Tiger’s defense is ranked #14 against the run(103yds/gm, 13TD's), and #9 against the pass(180yds/gm, 17TD's). Their total defense is ranked #1, and surrenders an average of 225yds/gm and has allowed 15 total touchdowns.

Their opponent, Ohio State, comes into the game with the #20 ranked rush attack(201yds/gm, 20TD's), and the #87 ranked passing offense(195yds/gm, 24TD's). Their total offense is ranked #58. The Buckeyes’ defense is ranked #3 against the rush(77yds/gm, 2TD's), and #1 against the pass(148yds/gm, 9TD's). Their total defense is ranked #3, and allows an average of 283yds/gm and has given up 32 total touchdowns.

Signature Wins: LSU-Florida. Ohio State-Michigan.

Common Opponents: None.

Prediction: Both of these teams bring in top notch defenses. They’re ranked #1 and #3 in the nation in terms of yards allowed. However, LSU has allowed a little less than half as many touchdowns as Ohio State has. The Tigers also bring in a better offensive attack. There’s been some reports stating that one of Ohio State’s starting cornerbacks, Donald Washington, will be suspended for this game. If that’s the case, then watch for LSU’s receivers, Doucet, Byrd and LaFell to attack whomever is starting in his place. I think that SEC speed will be too much for Ohio State to overcome once again, and that LSU wins this game 31-21.

Bowl-O-Rama: The GMAC Bowl

I wonder if Mario Van Peebles was in anyway related to Ladd Peebles. If so, this game just got a bit cooler.

Teams: Tulsa & Bowling Green
Location: Ladd Peebles Stadium, Mobile, AL
Miles Traveled By Each Team: Tulsa(792), Bowling Green(901)
Related Cereal: Urkel-O’s(Only a true football geek would be interested in this game).

Breakdown: Tulsa heads into this game with the #41 ranked rushing offense(167yds/gm, 25TD's), and the #3 ranked passing offense(374yds/gm, 43TD's). Overall, their offense is ranked #1 in the nation. On defense, the Golden Hurricane’s defense is ranked #97 against the run(195yds/gm, 28TD's), and #108 against the pass(273yds/gm, 28TD's). Their total defense is ranked #111, and surrenders an average of 469yds/gm and has allowed 59 total touchdowns.

Their opponent, Bowling Green, comes into the game with the #87 ranked rush attack(130yds/gm, 16TD's), and the #18 ranked passing offense(286yds/gm, 29TD's). Their total offense is ranked #43. The Falcons’ defense is ranked #106 against the rush(205yds/gm, 22TD's), and #29 against the pass(207yds/gm, 21TD's). Their total defense is ranked #79, and allows an average of 413yds/gm and has given up 36 total touchdowns.

Signature Wins: Tulsa-Houston? Bowling Green-Akron?

Common Opponents: None.

Prediction: Bowling Green enters the game with both a decent pass offense and decent pass defense. However, I don’t think that they’re going to be able to contain Tulsa’s #1 ranked offense for four quarters. Tulsa’s defense isn’t that great, but Bowling Green won’t be able to keep up with Paul Smith and Tarrion Adams. Tulsa wins this game, 42-31.

Bowl-O-Rama: The International Bowl

I hear that marijuana is legal in Canada. Ball State might want to pick some up to help ease the effects of what could be a long, long day.

Teams: Ball State & Rutgers
Location: Rogers Centre, Toronto, Ontario
Miles Traveled By Each Team: Ball State(511), Rutgers(499)
Related Cereal: Baron VonRedberry(No, he’s not Canadian, but he is an international breakfast pilot).

Breakdown: Ball State heads into this game with the #66 ranked rushing offense(147yds/gm, 18TD's), and the #21 ranked passing offense(284yds/gm, 27TD's). Overall, their offense is ranked #30 in the nation. On defense, the Cardinals’ defense is ranked #99 against the run(197yds/gm, 20TD's), and #50 against the pass(221yds/gm, 18TD's). Their total defense is ranked #88, and surrenders an average of 418yds/gm and has allowed 41 total touchdowns.

Their opponent, Rutgers, comes into the game with the #31 ranked rush attack(190yds/gm, 24TD's), and the #43 ranked passing offense(247yds/gm, 18TD's). Their total offense is ranked #26. The Scarlet Knights’ defense is ranked #62 against the rush(155yds/gm, 18TD's), and #2 against the pass(160yds/gm, 11TD's). Their total defense is ranked #13, and allows an average of 316yds/gm and has given up 31 total touchdowns.

Signature Wins: Ball State-Navy? Rutgers-South Florida.

Common Opponents: Navy and Buffalo. Ball State defeated the Midshipmen 34-31. Rutgers beat them 41-24. Ball State beat Buffalo 49-14. Rutgers defeated them 38-3.

Prediction: Ball State brings a decent passing offense based around the arm of Nate Davis. If the Cardinals want any shot at winning he has to have a stellar game. Though, Rutgers does have an extremely tough pass defense so achieving success against them through the air will be difficult at best. Ball State’s defense isn’t particularly strong against either the run or the pass, and I expect that the Scarlet Knights will be able to move the ball somewhat easily against them. Ray Rice should have a big day, as Rutgers wins this one, 38-17.

Bowl-O-Rama: The Orange Bowl

I have a feeling that if you created a team using players from both of these teams that they could beat the Dolphins in this stadium.

Teams: Kansas & Virginia Tech
Location: Dolphins Stadium, Miami Gardens, FL
Miles Traveled By Each Team: Kansas(1,489), Virgina Tech(889)
Related Cereal: Wheatena(If Kansas is involved, you have to bring the wheat).

Breakdown: Kansas heads into this game with the #27 ranked rushing offense(196yds/gm, 29TD's), and the #14 ranked passing offense(294yds/gm, 35TD's). Overall, their offense is ranked #6 in the nation. On defense, the Jayhawks’ defense is ranked #7 against the run(91yds/gm, 7TD's), and #58 against the pass(226yds/gm, 16TD's). Their total defense is ranked #14, and surrenders an average of 318yds/gm and has allowed 24 total touchdowns.

Their opponent, Virginia Tech, comes into the game with the #81 ranked rush attack(133yds/gm, 21TD's), and the #86 ranked passing offense(198yds/gm, 16TD's). Their total offense is ranked #99. The Hokies’ defense is ranked #5 against the rush(86yds/gm, 13TD's), and #27 against the pass(207yds/gm, 9TD's). Their total defense is ranked #5, and allows an average of 293yds/gm and has given up 24 total touchdowns.

Signature Wins: Kansas-Kansas State? Virginia Tech-Boston College(ACC Championship Game).

Common Opponents: None.

Prediction: Virginia Tech enters the Orange Bowl with one of the toughest defenses in the country. They’ve allowed only 9 passing touchdowns all season. Unfortunately, their offense isn’t nearly as strong, and they’ve struggled to put points on the board throughout the season. Kansas on the other hand, has had no such problem. They’re ranked in the top 10 in total offense, and their total defense is tough too, though more so against the run. I think their offensive weapons, especially Reesing, McAnderson and Sharp will just be too much for the Hokies to keep up with. Kansas wins this one, 28-20.

Bowl-O-Rama: The Fiesta Bowl

If you're inviting West Virginia fans over please have a fire extinguisher on hand to protect your couch.

Teams: West Virginia & Oklahoma
Location: University of Phoenix Stadium, Glendale, AZ
Miles Traveled By Each Team: West Virginia(2,135), Oklahoma(1,036)
Related Cereal: Pac-Man(Not exactly the best representative of the WVU program, but certainly one of the most visible).

Breakdown: West Virginia heads into this game with the #4 ranked rushing offense(292yds/gm, 45TD's), and the #113 ranked passing offense(157yds/gm, 14TD's). Overall, their offense is ranked #19 in the nation. On defense, the Mountaineers’ defense is ranked #16 against the run(107yds/gm, 12TD's), and #12 against the pass(184yds/gm, 13TD's). Their total defense is ranked #4, and surrenders an average of 291yds/gm and has allowed 26 total touchdowns.

Their opponent, Oklahoma, comes into the game with the #30 ranked rush attack(191yds/gm, 33TD's), and the #37 ranked passing offense(259yds/gm, 37TD's). Their total offense is ranked #18. The Sooners’ defense is ranked #8 against the rush(91yds/gm, 13TD's), and #68 against the pass(232yds/gm, 15TD's). Their total defense is ranked #18, and allows an average of 324yds/gm and has given up 28 total touchdowns.

Signature Wins: West Virginia-Connecticut. Oklahoma-Missouri(twice).

Common Opponents: None.

Prediction: West Virginia runs into this game on the legs of Pat White and Steve Slaton. Both are playmakers that can score anytime they touch the ball. The Mountaineers also have a decent defense that doesn’t get too much credit. On the other side of the ball, Oklahoma is lead by Sam Bradford who runs a very balanced attack. The Sooners have a very tough run defense that should be able to slow down the Mountaineers’ potent rushing attack just enough so that Pat White is forced into more passing situations. In the end, the Sooners’ offensive balance, and run stopping ability will get them the win, 35-31.

Bowl-O-Rama: The Sugar Bowl

This bowl game should be very entertaining, but I would like to see Stafford and Brennan engage in some type of keg tossing challenge.

Teams: Hawaii & Georgia
Location: Superdome, New Orleans, LA
Miles Traveled By Each Team: Hawaii(4,204), Georgia(541)
Related Cereal: Bill & Ted’s Excellent Cereal(Tell me that Brennan and Stafford couldn’t pull this off).

Breakdown: Hawaii heads into this game with the #113 ranked rushing offense(79yds/gm, 16TD's), and the #2 ranked passing offense(450yds/gm, 50TD's). Overall, their offense is ranked #3 in the nation. On defense, the Warriors’ defense is ranked #39 against the run(131yds/gm, 17TD's), and #43 against the pass(217yds/gm, 15TD's). Their total defense is ranked #33, and surrenders an average of 348yds/gm and has allowed 36 total touchdowns.

Their opponent, Georgia, comes into the game with the #36 ranked rush attack(178yds/gm, 29TD's), and the #84 ranked passing offense(200yds/gm, 19TD's). Their total offense is ranked #69. The Bulldogs’ defense is ranked #4 against the rush(79yds/gm, 12TD's), and #7 against the pass(179yds/gm, 8TD's). Their total defense is ranked #19, and allows an average of 324yds/gm and has given up 28 total touchdowns.

Signature Wins: Hawaii-Boise State. Georgia-Florida.

Common Opponents: None.

Prediction: Hawaii heads to the mainland for its first ever BCS bowl appearance. They bring with them one of the most explosive offenses run by Heisman trophy finalist Colt Brennan. Georgia comes in after closing out their season with six straight wins, and they have a defense that’s pretty good against both the pass and the run. They’ll be tested early and often by the Warriors potent passing attack, but I think they’ll stand up to the test. Hawaii doesn’t play their strongest ball away from home, and I can see Georgia limiting them to their lowest point total of the season on their way to beating the Warriors, 27-24.

Bowl-O-Rama: The Rose Bowl

Pete Carroll likes the proximity of this bowl game, as he can have his players jog to the stadium as a warm-up.

Teams: Illinois & Southern Cal
Location: Rose Bowl, Pasadena, CA
Miles Traveled By Each Team: Illinois(2,001), USC(10)
Related Cereal: California Raisins(I heard it through the grapevine that Coach Carroll has challenged Coach Redacted to a waterskiing competition).

Breakdown: Illinois heads into this game with the #5 ranked rushing offense(266yds/gm, 27TD's), and the #114 ranked passing offense(157yds/gm, 14TD's). Overall, their offense is ranked #35 in the nation. On defense, the Fighting Illini’s defense is ranked #23 against the run(114yds/gm, 8TD's), and #77 against the pass(240yds/gm, 17TD's). Their total defense is ranked #41, and surrenders an average of 355yds/gm and has allowed 28 total touchdowns.

Their opponent, USC, comes into the game with the #33 ranked rush attack(185yds/gm, 20TD's), and the #52 ranked passing offense(233yds/gm, 27TD's). Their total offense is ranked #41. The Trojans’ defense is ranked #4 against the rush(79yds/gm, 12TD's), and #7 against the pass(179yds/gm, 8TD's). Their total defense is ranked #2, and allows an average of 258yds/gm and has given up 23 total touchdowns.

Signature Wins: Illinois-Ohio State. USC-Arizona State.

Common Opponents: None.

Prediction: Illinois is headed to their first Rose Bowl since 1983, and it’s due in large part because of Juice Williams and Rashard Mendenhall. They provide a dynamic rushing duo that usually wears down opponents. However, they’re facing a USC defense that is tough against the run, and will probably force Williams into more passing situations. Unfortunately for the Illini, USC also has one of the top passing defenses. Combine that with the Illini’s suspect pass defense, and it looks like the Trojans will come away with the victory, 31-17.

Bowl-O-Rama: The Gator Bowl

A Cavalier versus Raider Red. This is the college football equivalent of bringing a knife to a gunfight.

Teams: Texas Tech & Virginia
Location: Jacksonville Municipal Stadium, Jacksonville, FL
Miles Traveled By Each Team: Texas Tech(1,389), Virginia(669)
Related Cereal: Sugar Jets(Sounds like the perfect cereal description of TT’s offense).

Breakdown: Texas heads into this game with the #119 ranked rushing offense(61yds/gm, 17TD's), and the #1 ranked passing offense(475yds/gm, 48TD's). Overall, their offense is ranked #2 in the nation. On defense, the Red Raiders’ defense is ranked #78 against the run(171yds/gm, 17TD's), and #17 against the pass(196yds/gm, 19TD's). Their total defense is ranked #50, and surrenders an average of 367yds/gm and has allowed 39 total touchdowns.

Their opponent, Virginia, comes into the game with the #93 ranked rush attack(126yds/gm, 21TD's), and the #80 ranked passing offense(203yds/gm, 12TD's). Their total offense is ranked #100. The Cavaliers’ defense is ranked #21 against the rush(113yds/gm, 8TD's), and #33 against the pass(210yds/gm, 15TD's). Their total defense is ranked #17, and allows an average of 323yds/gm and has given up 23 total touchdowns.

Signature Wins: Texas Tech-Oklahoma. Virginia-Wake Forest.

Common Opponents: None.

Prediction: Virginia put together a decent season, mostly on the strength of their defense. Their offense hasn’t been nearly as strong, and has struggled at times during the season. That’s a problem that Texas Tech has definitely not had. They might not have much balance, but when your pass attack is as potent as the Red Raiders you don’t really need it. Watch for Harrell and Crabtree to provide the spark for a Texas Tech victory, 41-24.

Bowl-O-Rama: The Capital One Bowl

Many of these Gator players have experienced something that the Wolverine players have not. A win over Ohio State.

Teams: Michigan & Florida
Location: Citrus Bowl, Orlando, FL
Miles Traveled By Each Team: Michigan(1,149), Florida(115)
Related Cereal: Mr. T(It’s Heisman winner Tim Tebow, sucka!).

Breakdown: Michigan heads into this game with the #44 ranked rushing offense(166yds/gm, 18TD's), and the #73 ranked passing offense(207yds/gm, 22TD's). Overall, their offense is ranked #74 in the nation. On defense, the Wolverines’ defense is ranked #56 against the run(150yds/gm, 15TD's), and #7 against the pass(179yds/gm, 11TD's). Their total defense is ranked #24, and surrenders an average of 330yds/gm and has allowed 27 total touchdowns.

Their opponent, Florida, comes into the game with the #26 ranked rush attack(197yds/gm, 37TD's), and the #33 ranked passing offense(264yds/gm, 29TD's). Their total offense is ranked #13. The Gators’ defense is ranked #10 against the rush(99yds/gm, 16TD's), and #86 against the pass(249yds/gm, 16TD's). Their total defense is ranked #32, and allows an average of 348yds/gm and has given up 34 total touchdowns.

Signature Wins: Michigan-Illinois. Florida-Tennessee.

Common Opponents: None.

Prediction: Michigan’s defense finished the season better than they started, but they’re facing a Florida team that features an offense similar to the Appalachian State and Oregon ones that handily beat them. If they want to win this game they’ll have to keep up through the air where Florida has been vulnerable all season. Chad Henne will keep the Wolverines in this one for a little while, but Florida’s collection of playmakers(Tebow, Harvin, Caldwell, etc.) will prove to be too much. The Gators win this one, 42-24.

Bowl-O-Rama: The Cotton Bowl

This game should be more exciting than trying to figure out who shot J.R. ever was.

Teams: Missouri & Arkansas
Location: Cotton Bowl, Dallas, TX
Miles Traveled By Each Team: Missouri(600), Arkansas(332)
Related Cereal: Superman Stars(Darren McFadden has become the Superman of college running backs).

Breakdown: Missouri heads into this game with the #46 ranked rushing offense(164yds/gm, 25TD's), and the #7 ranked passing offense(327yds/gm, 34TD's). Overall, their offense is ranked #5 in the nation. On defense, the Tigers’ defense is ranked #26 against the run(118yds/gm, 19TD's), and #100 against the pass(261yds/gm, 18TD's). Their total defense is ranked #59, and surrenders an average of 380yds/gm and has allowed 42 total touchdowns.

Their opponent, Arkansas, comes into the game with the #3 ranked rush attack(296yds/gm, 32TD's), and the #112 ranked passing offense(160yds/gm, 24TD's). Their total offense is ranked #16. The Razorbacks’ defense is ranked #54 against the rush(146yds/gm, 14TD's), and #36 against the pass(211yds/gm, 21TD's). Their total defense is ranked #45, and allows an average of 357yds/gm and has given up 37 total touchdowns.

Signature Wins: Missouri-Kansas. Arkansas-LSU.

Common Opponents: Mississippi. Missouri beat them 38-25. Arkansas won their match-up 44-8.

Prediction: Missouri put together a great season outside of their two losses to Oklahoma. In those games, Sooners quarterback Sam Bradford lead his team to victory. I don’t think that Casey Dick will be quite as effective, but he doesn’t have to be with a backfield tandem of McFadden and Jones. This game feature two Heisman finalists. McFadden bested Daniel in that competition, and he’ll do it again in this bowl game. The Razorbacks win, 38-35.

Bowl-O-Rama: The Outback Bowl

This bowl game has to be better because it's from the future.

Teams: Tennessee & Wisconsin
Location: Raymond James Stadium, Tampa, FL
Miles Traveled By Each Team: Tennessee(670), Wisconsin(1,322)
Related Cereal: Dunkin Doughnuts(Unfortunately, there is no steak related cereal. With Phil Fulmer in the mix anything doughnut related is a good second choice).

Breakdown: Tennessee heads into this game with the #70 ranked rushing offense(144yds/gm, 18TD's), and the #40 ranked passing offense(254yds/gm, 31TD's). Overall, their offense is ranked #55 in the nation. On defense, the Vols’ defense is ranked #68 against the run(162yds/gm, 14TD's), and #84 against the pass(245yds/gm, 24TD's). Their total defense is ranked #74, and surrenders an average of 407yds/gm and has allowed 74 total touchdowns.

Their opponent, Wisconsin, comes into the game with the #19 ranked rush attack(201yds/gm, 28TD's), and the #68 ranked passing offense(212yds/gm, 16TD's). Their total offense is ranked #44. The Badgers’ defense is ranked #49 against the rush(139yds/gm, 15TD's), and #35 against the pass(210yds/gm, 19TD's). Their total defense is ranked #36, and allows an average of 350yds/gm and has given up 34 total touchdowns.

Signature Wins: Tennessee-Georgia. Wisconsin-Michigan.

Common Opponents: None.

Prediction: Wisconsin is a statistically better team on both sides of the ball. Tennessee has played well at some points, but they’re inconsistent game to game. Having three starters, including defenders McCoy and Bolden, ruled ineligible isn’t going to help matters either. Look for P.J. Hill to be the difference maker as the Badgers get the win, 31-20.

Bowl-O-Rama: The Chick-fil-A Bowl

I'm really going out on a limb here, but I think the Tigers are going to win.

Teams: Clemson & Auburn
Location: Georgia Dome, Atlanta, GA
Miles Traveled By Each Team: Clemson(124), Auburn(108)
Related Cereal: Peach Amaranth O’s(It has be peach related if it’s in Georgia).

Breakdown: Clemson heads into this game with the #50 ranked rushing offense(158yds/gm, 16TD's), and the #41 ranked passing offense(253yds/gm, 30TD's). Overall, their offense is ranked #47 in the nation. On defense, the Tigers’ defense is ranked #20 against the run(112yds/gm, 11TD's), and #13 against the pass(184yds/gm, 11TD's). Their total defense is ranked #6, and surrenders an average of 297yds/gm and has allowed 26 total touchdowns.

Their opponent, Auburn, comes into the game with the #56 ranked rush attack(154yds/gm, 21TD's), and the #107 ranked passing offense(173yds/gm, 11TD's). Their total offense is ranked #101. The Tigers’ defense is ranked #27 against the rush(119yds/gm, 11TD's), and #6 against the pass(179yds/gm, 11TD's). Their total defense is ranked #8, and allows an average of 298yds/gm and has given up 23 total touchdowns.

Signature Wins: Clemson-Wake Forest. Auburn-Florida.

Common Opponents: None.

Prediction: The battle of the Tigers rolls into Atlanta for the great chicken sandwich, good sweet tea and killer waffle fries bowl. Both teams sport tough defenses, but Clemson’s offense is a bit more balanced. They have a strong rushing attack with Davis and Spiller, and Harper has played well at quarterback for them. However, two of their starting linebackers have been declared ineligible for the game, and I think that that’s going to be a big factor. Those absences should help open up some holes for Auburn’s Ben Tate to run through. I think it will be a close game, but Auburn will pull out the win, 27-24.

Bowl-O-Rama: The Insight Bowl

David Puddy fully endorses this bowl game. If you're attending, look for him in the parking lot. He'll be the one sporting devilish face paint yelling "the devils!" And thanks to the wonders of Paint we get just the right amount of red.

Teams: Indiana & Oklahoma State
Location: Sun Devil Stadium, Tempe, AZ
Miles Traveled By Each Team: Indiana(1,740), Oklahoma State(1,079)
Related Cereal: Ghostbusters(Sun Devil? Sounds like the perfect place for Gozer to show up).

Breakdown: Indiana heads into this game with the #54 ranked rushing offense(135yds/gm, 16TD's), and the #49 ranked passing offense(237yds/gm, 26TD's). Overall, their offense is ranked #63 in the nation. On defense, the Hoosiers’ defense is ranked #61 against the run(155yds/gm, 20TD's), and #76 against the pass(238yds/gm, 18TD's). Their total defense is ranked #68, and surrenders an average of 394yds/gm and has allowed 41 total touchdowns.

Their opponent, Oklahoma State, comes into the game with the #7 ranked rush attack(245yds/gm, 26TD's), and the #48 ranked passing offense(238yds/gm, 23TD's). Their total offense is ranked #9. The Cowboys’ defense is ranked #60 against the rush(153yds/gm, 20TD's), and #116 against the pass(292yds/gm, 25TD's). Their total defense is ranked #103, and allows an average of 446yds/gm and has given up 46 total touchdowns.

Signature Wins: Indiana-Purdue. Oklahoma State-Kansas State?

Common Opponents: None.

Prediction: IU pulling out a win in memory of Coach Hoeppner would be a great way to end the season. They are a tenacious squad, but they’re going to be facing one of the most prolific offenses in the nation. If the Hoosiers want a shot at winning, they’ll have to exploit Okie State’s suspect pass defense. Unfortunately, I think that the Cowboys’ offense will prove to be too much, and that Dantrell Savage will have a big game en route to a 34-21 OSU victory

Bowl-O-Rama: The Music City Bowl

With all the suspensions, the Seminoles could take a team Mini Cooper to the game.

Teams: Kentucky & Florida State
Location: LP Field, Nashville, TN
Miles Traveled By Each Team: Kentucky(212), Florida State(494)
Related Cereal: Guitar Crunch(Please keep the air guitar to a minimum when consuming).

Breakdown: Kentucky heads into this game with the #52 ranked rushing offense(156yds/gm, 19TD's), and the #24 ranked passing offense(282yds/gm, 36TD's). Overall, their offense is ranked #25 in the nation. On defense, the Wildcats’ defense is ranked #92 against the run(190yds/gm, 18TD's), and #21 against the pass(200yds/gm, 23TD's). Their total defense is ranked #65, and surrenders an average of 390yds/gm and has allowed 46 total touchdowns.

Their opponent, Florida State, comes into the game with the #96 ranked rush attack(121yds/gm, 10TD's), and the #47 ranked passing offense(232yds/gm, 14TD's). Their total offense is ranked #82. The Seminoles’ defense is ranked #22 against the rush(114yds/gm, 10TD's), and #73 against the pass(236yds/gm, 20TD's). Their total defense is ranked #36, and allows an average of 350yds/gm and has given up 33 total touchdowns.

Signature Wins: Kentucky-LSU. FSU-Boston College.

Common Opponents: Florida. Kentucky lost against Florida, 37-45. FSU lost 12-45.

Prediction: Nashville is a fitting destination for the Seminoles this year. The home of country music could come up with endless whining melodies about another disappointing season, and the suspension of 20+ players for the bowl game(my girl, my dog, my truck, my futbawl team, waaa!). FSU’s defense has been decent all year, especially against the pass, but the offense has a tough time scoring points. Combine the suspensions with Kentucky’s ability to move the ball fairly well and this one could get out of hand quick. The Wildcats win, 35-17.

Bowl-O-Rama: The Sun Bowl

"Only steers and queers come from Texas, Private Cowboy. And you don't look much like a steer to me so that kinda narrows it down." Wait. What's that? Your mascot is a bull? Well then, moo moo buckaroo!

Teams: South Florida & Oregon
Location: Sun Bowl Stadium, El Paso, TX
Miles Traveled By Each Team: South Florida(1,724), Oregon(1,655)
Related Cereal: Raisin Bran(Sunny, the creepy breakfast character, is watching you eat).

Breakdown: South Florida heads into this game with the #28 ranked rushing offense(193yds/gm, 30TD's), and the #55 ranked passing offense(228yds/gm, 17TD's). Overall, their offense is ranked #39 in the nation. On defense, the Bulls’ defense is ranked #19 against the run(112yds/gm, 7TD's), and #40 against the pass(214yds/gm, 17TD's). Their total defense is ranked #22, and surrenders an average of 326yds/gm and has allowed 27 total touchdowns.

Their opponent, Oregon, comes into the game with the #8 ranked rush attack(243yds/gm, 31TD's), and the #62 ranked passing offense(218yds/gm, 22TD's). Their total offense is ranked #12. The Ducks’ defense is ranked #44 against the rush(136yds/gm, 13TD's), and #87 against the pass(250yds/gm, 18TD's). Their total defense is ranked #62, and allows an average of 386yds/gm and has given up 34 total touchdowns.

Signature Wins: South Florida-West Virginia. Oregon-Arizona State.

Common Opponents: None.

Prediction: Oregon without Dennis Dixon is a totally different, and largely ineffective, team. South Florida’s defense should be able to stop the Ducks’ rushing attack, and put more pressure on Oregon’s quarterback committee. George Selvie should be a disruptive force all game, and the Bulls should get the win, 28-17.