2011 Bowl Predictions: Oklahoma vs. Iowa and Blowouts Worth Watching

Not every game of the bowl season is going to be a good one. Conference matchups don't always set up the most competitive possible games. 

These games gall into that category, but will still be fun to watch. And more than just because it's sometimes fun to watch a blowout. No, these games will be fun for more than that. 

Washington vs. Baylor: Alamo Bowl. Thursday, Dec. 29 at 9 p.m. EST

Neither of these defenses is anything special. This game will come down to one man. 

If you had to have one man to win a game, that's a pretty good way to go. Washington won't have the firepower to stick with Robert Griffin III for four quarters. They'll put up points, but not enough to keep it close. 

Why it's worth watching: Despite winning the Heisman Trophy, Griffin remains relatively under the radar. It happens when you play at Baylor. This will be a great opportunity for the rest of the country to see the nation's most dynamic player for four quarters. He won't disappoint. 

Also, as previously said, Washington will score points. They won't score enough to keep the game close, but we'll get plenty of offense in this one. 

Prediction: Baylor 41, Washington 24

Oklahoma vs. Iowa: Insight Bowl. Friday, Dec. 30 at 10 p.m. EST

While they had a dismal season for a team that entered No. 1, Oklahoma is one of the more talented teams in the country. 

Why it's worth watching: Oklahoma is just shaky enough and Iowa is just sneaky enough for an upset to occur here. It's not likely, but it's certainly possible. 

This will also be Landry Jones' last chance to show his skills off to potential NFL scouts. He's a junior, but with Matt Barkley returning to USC, don't be surprised to see Jones vault up the draft board, should he chose to enter. 

Lastly, will Bob Stoops have his team prepared? A team like Oklahoma certainly had bigger expectations this year. They're not in the National Championship Game, or any BCS game. Will they come out hard?

Prediction: Oklahoma 37, Iowa 14

Houston vs. Penn State: Ticketcity Bowl: Monday, Dec. 2 at 12 p.m. EST

These two teams had disappointing seasons, but not in the same way. Houston had their ticket punched to a BCS game, but blew the Conference USA title game to Southern Miss. Penn State's story is documented. 

Houston is a better team. They can score points with any team in the country, no exceptions. Penn State won't match up with them. 

Why it's worth watching: Houston's offense is fun to watch. It will be a lot of fun to see Case Keenum in his final game for the Cougars. As for Penn State, this season has been more tumultuous on those players than anyone could ever fathom. 

It will be interesting to see how they finish the year, and how they react when the season's over. 

Prediction: Houston 40, Penn State 17

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