Pinstripe Bowl 2011: Rutgers and Iowa State Gunning for Inspiring Bowl Victories

The Pinstripe Bowl is about more than a bowl win for Rutgers and Iowa State on Friday.

Former Rutgers defensive tackle Eric LeGrand, who was paralyzed from the neck down in a collision on Oct. 16, 2010, has been a source of inspiration throughout the nation and has been steadily gaining movement in his arms and shoulders.

He has been spending the week with his teammates while they prepare for Friday's game.

He came out of the tunnel on Oct. 29 with the Scarlet Knights when they faced West Virginia, picked by Sports Illustrated readers as the moment of the year, earning him cover honors.

Iowa State, on the other hand, is trying to build its reputation as a rising program and will be going for its 500th victory in school history.

Rutgers players have kept in close contact with LeGrand since his collision. They've developed a bond that has been one of the most endearing stories of 2011.

Said Rutgers linebacker Steve Beauharnais, via USA Today:

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"We're a family. We have that much love for each other that we'll go the distance for each other, on and off the field."

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The Scarlet Knights have gone 8-4 this year after going 4-8 last season, but they are coming off a 40-22 defeat to Connecticut.

They will rely heavily on star receiver Mohamed Sanu, who has racked up over 1,100 yards and seven touchdowns this season and is widely considered a borderline first-round pick in the 2012 NFL draft.

They will also rely on a defense that has allowed 18.8 points per game, albeit in a conference that hasn't gained much respect in the last couple of years.

As for the Cyclones, they've gone 6-6 this season, but have shown they can compete with big time opponents, including Oklahoma State, who they beat in double overtime on Nov. 18, 37-31.

They also lost by just a touchdown to then-No. 11 Kansas State in their last game of the regular season.

Said ESPN's Chris Fowler:

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"It's a chance for people who haven't seen Iowa State very much on national TV. I think it would be impressive to cross the country as an underdog, finish with a winning record, get that milestone win.

"I think it's a chance to build."

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The Cyclones have averaged 181.2 rushing yards per game this season, 36th in the nation. They are led by sophomore running back James White, who has rushed for 701 yards and eight touchdowns.

Regardless of who wins, both of these programs have a lot to be proud of and a lot to play for on Friday.