Washington vs. Baylor: Robert Griffin III's NFL Decision Hinges on Alamo Bowl

The year 2011 has been a banner year for Baylor Bears Quarterback Robert Griffin III.

He led the previously second-class Bears to an impressive 9-3 ranking, and set an eye-popping 46 school records in the process.

Despite possessing one more year of eligibility, the Heisman Trophy winner will likely go pro barring a horrific performance on Thursday against Washington in the Alamo Bowl.

Right now he is projected to be a Top 10 pick. Yet he may reconsider his option with a no-show in his biggest collegiate game to date.

The good news for Griffin III is that he will be facing a Huskies defense that ranks 116th out of 120 schools in pass defense, allowing 283.8 YPG.

So, what does it mean for a Baylor offense that has a quarterback in Griffin III who has thrown for 3,998 yards, 38 touchdowns and six interceptions?

That’s as close to perfection as it gets in a powerhouse conference like the Big-12. And it’s going to spell doom to the Huskies.

The Bears primarily utilize three-and-four receiver sets that keep Griffin III in the shotgun. ESPN’s Scout Inc., talks about how a defense must adjust to the formation: 

Communication and discipline are critical for defensive backs when facing this group. The Bears use a lot of screens and quick-hitting throws underneath, so corners and safeties become anxious to get an early jump toward the line of scrimmage. Once the Bears see that, Griffin will mix in a pump fake (in any number of directions) before going up top to a receiver on a double-cut route. Washington safeties Nate Fellner and Sean Parker have shown a tendency to gamble at times rather than reading and trusting their keys, so don't be surprised if the Bears' offensive game plan incorporates more play-action, misdirection and double moves than usual.  

Considering the Bears haven’t been to consecutive bowl games since the 1991-1992 season, this is a big deal for Baylor. Expect them to bring maximum effort in what will likely be RGIII’s final game donning dark green.

With millions of dollars hanging in the balance—expect Griffin III to go out with a bang.

Prediction: Baylor 38 Washington 24