Oklahoma State-Oregon Football: Mitch Picks the Holiday Bowl

The Pacific Life Holiday Bowl: Qualcomm Stadium, San Diego, CA

Oklahoma State (9-3) vs. Oregon (9-3)

Tuesday Dec. 30, 2008, 8 p.m. EST; The Line: Oregon + 2 1/2

Overview

In the big picture that is college football bowl season, this game qualifies as an upper tier match up. While these aren't the conference winners, these are two very good, athletic teams that have played the highest level of competition. These are two programs that appear to be in good shape for a while and Mike Gundy and Mike Belotti would both be deserving coaches of the year this season.

Oregon's season could have easily been a disaster and looked over before it ever started as it seemed they were going through quarterbacks by the week. While Belotti has done a fine job coaching throughout his career, managing to put together this type of record after the injuries the Ducks have suffered may have been his finest coaching job ever.

Mike Gundy has his players buying into his program. Gundy stuck his neck out last year and defended his players and they have rallied around him.

Of course, it hasn't hurt that Gundy has recruited some fine talent. Considering he recruits against some of the best recruiters in the country, Gundy has been second to none in evaluating talent and finding diamonds in the rough.

See Mitch's Holiday Bowl pick against the spread.