It’s that time of the year again…time to go bowling. Here are my bowl predictions for 2009:
Fresno State (8-4) vs. Wyoming (6-6)
Fresno State has had a decent year, primarily to the fact that their offense ranks 19th nationally (435.9 yards per game), which is anchored by Ryan Matthews, who leads the nation in 151.3 rushing yards per game. Ryan Matthews is a dynamic running back who has been under the radar all season. Wyoming will have no answer for him as their defense gives up 170.5 rushing yards per game. Fresno State wins big.
Pick: Fresno State
St. Petersburg
Central Florida (8-4) vs. Rutgers (8-4)
Tom Savage leads the Scarlet Knights into Florida to face off against the Knights of Central Florida, who are playing virtually a home game at Tropicana Field. The freshman quarterback has shown his merit this season by tossing 12 touchdowns with only 6 interceptions. Both offenses match up well with each other so a close game is expected to take place. Though the crowd will predominately be for Central Florida, Greg Schiano will have his team prepared as this will be the perfect venue for him to “showcase his talented athletes.”
Pick: Rutgers
Southern Miss (7-5) vs. Middle Tennessee State (9-3)
Don’t be fooled by Southern Miss’ record. A tough out-of-conference schedule, with road trips to Kansas, Louisville, and Houston, have contributed to their five losses. Southern Miss brings a one-two punch in Damion Fletcher and Martevious Young. Both teams feature two impressive defenses as this game will be a tough, close game.
Pick: Southern Miss
Oregon State (8-4) vs. BYU (10-2)
One of the more interesting early bowl games, features two impressive quarterbacks in Max Hall and Sean Canfield. With the lack of defenses both teams have exhibited throughout the season, this should be set up for quite the barn-burner. Jacquizz Rodgers of Oregon State should have a big day as he will rush over 100 yards. Though the Las Vegas bowl can be considered BYU’s home-away-from-home, Oregon State will be out with something to prove as they just missed out playing in Pasadena.
Pick: Oregon State
Utah (9-3) vs. California (8-4)
Not the season finale Cal had in mind at the beginning of the season. However, with the return of Jahvid Best, Cal’s offense will get a much needed boost. Back again in the bowls is Utah, after having an incredible season last year, concluding with the win over Alabama in the Sugar Bowl. The Utes will look to continue the success and go for their ninth straight bowl win. Terrance Cain and David Reed for Utah will connect often, as the Utes get bowl win number 9.
Pick: Utah
Nevada (8-4) vs. Southern Methodist (7-5)
Welcome back June Jones. The former Hawaii coach will be making his first return back to the state after leaving in early 2008. However, this reunion will be not be so welcoming, as the Mustangs must square off against the 2nd ranked offense in the country in total yards. Featuring three 1,000-yard rushers, Vai Taua, Colin Kaepernick, and Luke Lippincott, Nevada will roll over SMU as the Wolf Pack offense puts up huge numbers.
Pick: Nevada
Marshall (6-6) vs. Ohio (9-4)
Marshall comes into this game losing 3 of its last 4 remaining games this season and also with a new coach, as Mark Snyder stepped down with the conclusion of the regular season. Ohio, on the other hand, is riding a hot streak, winning its last 4 of 5 games. The distraction of having a new head coach won’t be a problem for Ohio, as they win this game, like they have been most of the year, through the air.
Pick: Ohio
Meineke Car Care
Pittsburgh (9-3) vs. North Carolina (8-4)
A botched extra point attempt cost Pittsburgh a shot at playing Florida in the Sugar Bowl. A heart-breaking loss now has Pitt slated against a terribly inconsistent Tarheel team. With wins against Virginia Tech and Miami, UNC has the capabilities and the team to win against good teams. However, Dion Lewis and Bill Stull pose a serious threat to the UNC defense, as they both have excelled this Panther offense. I think the disappointment will still be lingering over the heads of the Panthers after missing out playing in the Sugar Bowl. Butch Davis will have his team prepared and get a win in this mild upset.
Pick: North Carolina
Emerald
Boston College (8-4) vs. USC (8-4)
Not the bowl you would have thought USC would playing in at the beginning of the season? Inconsistent play on both sides of the ball is one reason USC is 8-4 and playing against BC. Though Matt Barkley has a bright and promising future ahead of him, he has not lived up to the preseason hype. Coach Frank Spaziani has far exceeded expectations for Boston College, as his team was predicted to finish last in the Atlantic Division in the ACC. BC has been known for their stingy defense this season but will have their hands full with the Trojan offense. Look for Barkley to air the ball out more than usual as USC will make more plays down the road than BC.
Pick: USC
Kentucky (7-5) vs. Clemson (8-5)
It is a shame that C.J. Spiller will not be spending the weekend in New York City. As the very last game of his collegiate career, Spiller wants nothing more than to go out a winner. To achieve this, Clemson will have to take care of business against Kentucky. Randall Cobb, only a sophomore, of Kentucky poses a problem for the defense of Clemson and we will see how they respond to him. Though not one of the more interesting match ups, look for Spiller to have another good day.
Pick: Clemson
Texas A&M (6-6) vs. Georgia (7-5)
If you still don’t know who Jerrod Johnson is, maybe you should refresh your memory by watching the Texas/Texas A&M game again. There is no doubt that Georgia is well aware of him. Leading the 5th ranked offense in the nation in total yards per game, Jerrod Johnson will be up against a Georgia defense that has been anything but good, and the Aggies’ defense isn’t much better. I expect this to be high scoring game with Jerrod Johnson and Joe Cox putting up big numbers. Also, look for the resurgent Georgia ground game, with the combination of Washaun Ealey and Caleb King, to also have a good day.
Pick: Georgia
Army (5-6)/UCLA (6-6) vs. Temple (9-3)
Temple? 9-3? As crazy as that sounds, it has become reality. Al Golden has done an incredible job this year with the Temple Owls. We are still waiting the results of the Army/Navy game to determine if Army or UCLA gets the invitation. Pending an upset on the part of Army, UCLA, more than likely, will end up getting the bid and facing Temple. If this scenario were to unfold, though Temple has had a great season, Rick Neuheisel and company will be ready to go and get the job done.
Pick: UCLA
Miami (FL) (9-3) vs. Wisconsin (9-3)
The key to this game will come down to who commits the least amount of turnovers. Jacory Harris leads the nation in interceptions, however, Wisconsin isn’t known for their smothering secondary. The Hurricanes are going to need to key on the explosive John Clay of Wisconsin, who just took home the Big 10 Offensive Player of Year award. If they can limit John Clay’s yardage and productivity and force the game upon Scott Tolzien’s shoulders, Miami has a great shot of winning this game. This will be a great match up between the “power” of the Big 10 against the “speed” of the ACC. In the end, Miami’s speed will win this game.
Pick: Miami
Roady’s Humanitarian
Bowling Green (7-5) vs. Idaho (7-5)
What a Cinderella story Idaho’s season has been. Robb Akey has turned this team around from a dismal 2-win season last year. Continuing their success with a bowl win won’t be easy as they have to face Tyler Sheehan and Freddie Barnes of Bowling Green. This game should turn out to be a high scoring affair. Though Bowling Green and Idaho are not marquee programs, this should turn out to be an enjoyable game to watch as the scoring should come soon and often from both sides. I like Idaho’s Cinderella story to continue and get their second-ever bowl win.
Pick: Idaho
Arizona (8-4) vs. Nebraska (9-4)
What a tale of two stories…well in regards to the conclusion of the regular season. Arizona is still on Cloud 9 after finally defeating USC. On the opposite side, Nebraska was literally one second away from pulling off the upset of the season and throwing BCS officials in chaos. Now, it’s time to stop cheering and crying and get ready to play one more. Mike Stoops, every year, seems to be constantly improving his Wildcats. It will be interesting to see how sophomore Nick Foles handles Heisman candidate Ndamukong Suh and the rest of the Nebraska pass rush. For Nebraska, its offense has been terrible all season and almost looked nonexistent against Texas. I know, Arizona isn’t Texas. The Nebraska defense will be fired up and will completely dominate the Arizona offensive line. Look for Nebraska to rely on their running game.
Pick: Nebraska
Bell Helicopter Armed Forces
Houston (10-3) vs. Air Force (7-5)
Don’t expect Houston to run away with this one. Case Keenum has put up ridiculous numbers this year and it will interesting to see how he does against the nation’s leading pass defense in Air Force. Air Force hasn’t received much attention this year, but remember they almost beat TCU. Of course the key word there being “almost.” A rematch of last year’s exciting game, I predict the same from this year’s version. Look for Houston to continue their postseason success.
Pick: Houston
Oklahoma (7-5) vs. Stanford (8-4)
If only Sam Bradford could foresee this season’s happenings, last year. A knee injury, a shoulder injury, and five losses later, the preseason top 5 team couldn’t have envisioned a worse set of events. However, what is done, is done. Stanford comes knocking with Heisman candidate Toby Gerhart leading the way for a potent offense. Stanford might be without Andrew Luck, after getting surgey to repair an injured thumb, which could make things interesting. Regardless, I think the postseason blues continue for Bob Stoops and the Sooners.
Pick: Stanford
Navy (8-4) vs. Missouri (8-4)
Navy comes into this game ranking dead last, well almost, in average passing yards per game. I guess you don’t really need to pass when you rank 3rd in the nation in average rushing yards per game. However, this, combined with a tough front seven for Missouri, could give Navy some problems. An explosive Missouri offense, though still young, will keep the Navy defense on their heels.
Pick: Missouri
Minnesota (6-6) vs. Iowa State (6-6)
It still amazes me how Nebraska ever lost to Iowa State this season. I guess that is what committing 8 turnovers will get you. Without star wideout, Eric Decker, Minnesota has definitely felt the effects of the lack of a down field threat. Minnesota will need to rely on its defense in this one, as the Golden Gopher offense has not been real productive. Iowa State, more than likely, will come out and try to establish the run early as its passing attack has been dismal. Don’t expect many fireworks from this game. Anticipate a low scoring affair with Minnesota’s defense being the difference maker.
Pick: Minnesota
Virginia Tech (9-3) vs. Tennessee (7-5)
The city of Atlanta has not been kind to the Hokies, as they are 1-3 in the last two years. Lane Kiffin hopes to capitalize on Virginia Tech’s misfortunes in Atlanta, particularly in the Georgia Dome. ACC Rookie of the Year, Ryan Williams, leads the Hokie offense against a tough Volunteer defense anchored by All-American Eric Berry. The key for the Volunteers will be in their front seven. Stopping the run, which Tennessee has excelled at this year, will put the game on Tyrod Taylor’s shoulders and the Hokies’ passing attack. Though a much improved offense from last year, the Hokies must establish the running game if they are to going to win this game. Also, the Hokies’ defense hasn’t been what is used to be in previous years and has been susceptible to big plays. Jonathan Crompton and Montario Hardesty are just the kind of guys to make those plays happen. One of the most exciting games thus far in the schedule, defense will be they key, and that favors Tennessee.
Pick: Tennessee
Northwestern (8-4) vs. Auburn (7-5)
Gene Chizik’s first year at Auburn is about what we all expected; not great but not terrible either. In comes a hot Northwestern team hungry for some postseason glory. Auburn didn’t finish the season like most fans would wanted them to, losing its last 5 of 7. I think Chris Todd and Ben Tate will give more then what the Northwestern defense can handle. Look for the Auburn pass rush to continuously bring the heat and keep Northwestern’s Mike Kafka under pressure.
Pick: Auburn
Penn State (10-2) vs. LSU (9-3)
This heavyweight bout will definitely be an intriguing one to watch. It features two teams that were determined to receive a BCS bid but both came up a little short. The quarterback play favors Penn State as a seasoned Daryll Clark leads the Nittany Lions’ offense. Jordan Jefferson has shown us glimpses of his potential but the inexperience has also been displayed on a number of occasions. The key for him is ball security and making intelligent decisions with his passes. I believe Jefferson and the LSU offense will also get the ball more times the Penn State offense, thanks in part to the very fast LSU defense. Les Miles and Tigers get the W.
Pick: LSU
West Virginia (9-3) vs. Florida State (6-6)
Should Florida State be playing in the Gator Bowl? Well, that is up for debate. Unfortunately, for Florida State and college football nation, the circumstances that have transpired over the course of the season is not the way a legendary coach should go out. As history would have it, Bobby Bowden and his Seminoles will be playing against the same team when he won his first bowl game. There is no doubt that the Seminoles will be playing inspired football and that is bad news for West Virginia. Noel Devine is a shifty, quick running back that the Florida State defense needs to contain if they are to win this game. Though the FSU’s defense has been shredded this year, I think the team will rally around their coach and give him the proper exit he deserves.
Pick: Florida State
Ohio State (10-2) vs. Oregon (10-2)
Wait…what? No, USC? Hard to believe, I know. But, another team, other than USC, is playing in the Rose Bowl Game. Oregon, which has an offense as predictable as their uniforms, will give everything the Ohio State defense can muster. Jeremiah Masoli and LaMichael James lead the high-powered rushing attack for the Ducks, which should be an interesting match up against the 5th ranked rushing defense in the nation. But this offense is a whole different animal then what the Ohio State defense has seen all season. The key for Ohio State is time of possession. Ohio State needs to have long, time consuming drives to keep the dynamic Duck offense on the bench. If the Buckeyes can sustain long drives, eliminate the plaguing problem of going 3 and out on numerous occasions, and score touchdowns and not field goals, then they will a shot. History is also on the Ducks’ side, as Ohio State has a notorious reputation of collapsing in BCS games. Could the Buckeyes be finally due for a BCS bowl win? Yeah, I don’t think so either.
Pick: Oregon
Florida (12-1) vs. Cincinnati (12-0)
Can it really be Tim Tebow’s last game? Relax, I am not showing any jubilation or sadness. But you cannot argue that when he does leave Florida, he will, more than likely, be remembered as one of the greatest college football players ever…I don’t care who you are. A classic proverbial match up between David and Goliath. Good thing I am not Brian Kelly. There are not a whole lot of weaknesses that Florida exhibits. Cincinnati will need to find a way to establish the run, even though that is not their strong suit. Tony Pike cannot through 45-50 times during this game. The Bearcats will also need to have long, successful drives to keep the powerful Gator offense on the sidelines. The Cincinnati defense needs to try and keep the Gators out of the endzone; limit them to just field goals. Florida is going to score, but limiting the opportunities to do so is imperative. But, when the clock ticks down to :00, the Gators will be celebrating another BCS win and also closing the chapter on an era.
Pick: Florida
South Florida (7-5) vs. Northern Illinois (7-5)
Another inconsistent team in South Florida, you just never know what to expect from this Bulls. Much like their 2007 season, a great start by the Bulls evaporated and then mediocracy set in. South Florida’s rushing attack is lead by freshman B.J. Daniels, who will be a stud one day. Northern Illinois has a potent rushing attack of their own that ranks in the top 20 in the nation. Running back Chad Spann of the Huskies, might have some difficulty with the quick and talented front seven of South Florida. A game that is not very appealing, I think the Bulls, thanks in part to their running game, come out victorious.
Pick: South Florida
South Carolina (7-5) vs. Connecticut (7-5)
Who couldn’t root for the Connecticut Huskies this year, especially after the tragic death of Jasper Howard? UConn has been on a hot streak recently and is looking to carry that momentum into this match up with the Gamecocks. South Carolina has had some problems as of late, but got a much needed win over their in-state rival, Clemson. The Huskies will want to win this game for their fallen teammate, however, the South Carolina defense won’t be so willing to accommodate. The Connecticut players will be playing inspired football but they will come up a little short as the Gamecock defense is the difference in this game.
Pick: South Carolina
Oklahoma State (9-3) vs. Ole Miss (8-4)
It seems that Ole Miss has fallen victim to the Sooner-syndrome. No, not because of devasting injuries but because of terribly high expectations that were never met. The Rebels sat atop the preseason poll ranked #8 in the country. After climbing as high as #4, losses started mounting up and the realization that Ole Miss wasn’t going to challenge for the SEC West started to be evident. A similar story can be told about Oklahoma State, especially after their opening win against Georgia. Now, these two teams square off against each other in what should be an entertaining game. The Rebels have one of the most dynamic and versatile players in the SEC in Dexter McCluster and also boast Jevan Snead, who can be said that he, just like his team, has underachieved this season given his expectations. Nonetheless, these two will give the Cowboys’ defense some trouble, especially in containing McCluster. Zac Robinson, like most of the season, will be without Dez Bryant, who was the Cowboys’ deep threat target but that hasn’t stopped Robinson or the rest of the Cowboys from racking up 9 wins. This could possibly be one of the most difficult games to predict the winner as both teams seems to match up with each other well. I am counting on McCluster’s play making abilities and Rebels defense to get the job done.
Pick: Ole Miss
Arkansas (7-5) vs. East Carolina (9-4)
Skip Holtz’s team finished the season with their signature win of the year after having upset Houston. However, with Houston being the exception, every decent team ECU faced, the outcome was the same: loss. The Purple Pirates now face an offensively gifted team in Arkansas, led by Ryan Mallett. ECU defeated Houston but Case Keenum still tossed for 527 passing yards. I predict Ryan Mallett will have a similar day. He won’t throw for 500 yards but he will have a great day through the air. ECU’s defensive unit will keep the team in the game but look for Arkansas to pull away late, thanks in part to the Razorback’s offense.
Pick: Arkansas
Michigan State (6-6) vs. Texas Tech (8-4)
This is one game that should on the top of most people’s confidence sheets. Texas Tech has the second best passing attack in the nation. What else would we expect from Texas Tech? Taylor Potts had enormous shoes to fill with the departure of Graham Harrell last year and for the most part, has done a great job. Potts now goes up against a Michigan State team that has been inconsistent all season, particularly on the defensive side of the ball. The Spartan secondary ranks 96th in the country in pass efficiency defense. Look for Taylor Potts to have a huge day as Texas Tech wins.
Pick: Texas Tech
Boise State (13-0) vs. TCU (12-0)
I am not going to dwell too much on the controversy of this bowl as my previous post reflected my opinion of what I think of this bowl (Fiesta Bowl Bust). From a purely competitive standpoint, I think this will be a great game: great offense vs. great defense. Furthermore, don’t discredit TCU’s offense, which ranks 4th in the country in total yards per game and 5th in points scored per game. The Horned Frogs’ stingy defense is anchored by Jerry Hughes, who just collected the Ted Hendricks award, which recognizes the country’s best defensive end. The front seven of TCU will definitely challenge the offensive line of Boise State and pressure Bronco quarterback Kellen Moore. Kellen Moore has looked great all season, tossing 39 touchdowns on the season with only 3 interceptions. TCU’s secondary will be constantly challenged from Moore and his receivers. A rematch from last year’s Poinsettia Bowl, which TCU edged out Boise State 17-16, this version should be one heck of a game, as the stage is larger and the stakes higher. I think there is not a whole lot these defenses can do to completely each other’s offenses. However, TCU’s defense I believe is the real deal. TCU wins this game in a close one.
Pick: TCU
Iowa (10-2) vs. Georgia Tech (11-2)
How do you stop Paul Johnson and his Yellow Jackets’ triple-option attack? It’s not easy, but Iowa has the defensive unit to do it. They don’t win gracefully and put up 40 points but they do find ways to win. I guess it was inevitable that Iowa wasn’t going to stay undefeated forever because every week it came down to the fourth quarter against a team that the Hawkeyes should have beat by double-digits. I feel sorry for all of you gamblers out there that constantly kept picking Iowa to cover the spread. Now, comes arguably the greatest challenge the Hawkeyes have faced all season. Paul Johnson might be the most creative and strategically offensive mind in the country. He doesn’t have a game plan because his game plan changes after every play unfolds. Kirk Ferentz and his defense will have their hands full. If they can manage to slow down Georgia Tech’s triple-option and keep them out of the endzone, which is like asking you to walk on water, then Iowa might have a chance. The Hawkeyes will be happy to welcome Ricky Stanzi back from injury and this will give the Iowa offense a much needed boost since his departure. It is hard to pick against Paul Johnson and it is amazing that in only his second year as the Yellow Jackets’ head coach, he will have one his first Orange Bowl.
Pick: Georgia Tech
Central Michigan (11-2) vs. Troy (9-3)
For those who don’t know, Notre Dame was originally slated to play against Central Michigan. Instead, Notre Dame officials withdrew their name and Troy is now the lucky school that must face Central Michigan’s Dan LeFevour. And who could blame Notre Dame? Dan LeFevour is probably the most successful player in Central Michigan football history, accumulating three MAC Championships in the four years he has been quarterback. Now, his successful career is coming to a close with only one game left. The Chippewas are out to avenge two consecutive bowls losses and LeFevour would like nothing more than to go out on top. What is predicted to be a high scoring battle, both Central Michigan and Troy will put up huge numbers offensively. The leadership and inspiration to finish a winner will drive Dan LeFevour and the rest of the Chippewas to a victory.
Pick: Central Michigan
Texas (13-0) vs. Alabama (13-0)
The most anticipated game of the postseason, the Longhorns square off against the Crimson Tide. This game not only features two Heisman candidates but also two of the best defenses in the country. The game is still a little less than month away and I am hearing it already from other blogs and analysts, “how Texas doesn’t have a chance,” in this game. I know it is easy to look back a few weeks and see how Texas struggled both offensively and defensively, especially when Texas A&M embarrassed the Longhorn defense. Another example can be shown from just as recent as last week’s Big 12 Championship game, where Nebraska almost cost Texas its shot at the national title and its undefeated season. But don’t forget, Texas did finish undefeated in the Big 12. Call it what you want, but the Longhorns have earned their spot in this game. Alabama comes into this game with all the momentum in the world after trouncing Florida in the SEC Championship game and it looks like the Crimson Tide might just roll over Texas and give the SEC its fourth consecutive national championship. However, Texas is in a great position to be in. With so many doubters and disbelievers, Texas might just shock the Crimson Tide. Momentum won’t carry much weight a month from now and teams are coached to have a short memory. I expect this game to be closer than what most experts are calling. However, in the end, Mark Ingram and the Crimson Tide win the national title over Colt McCoy and the Longhorns and give the SEC four straight.
Pick: Alabama
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