Cotton Bowl 2012: Predictions and Spread Info for Kansas State vs. Arkansas

The Kansas State Wildcats (10-2) and Arkansas Razorbacks (10-2) will battle in the 2012 Cotton Bowl Classic. It's a game that pits two teams who got passed over by the BCS despite finishing inside the top eight of the final rankings.

Kansas State had a terrific season to be sure, but it could have been even more memorable had they knocked off one of the powerhouses from Oklahoma. The Wildcats' most impressive win came against Robert Griffin III and Baylor, which helped them earn a lot of respect from the computer polls.

If you thought Kansas State's two losses were nothing to be ashamed of, Arkansas' were even more respectable. The Razorbacks lost to LSU and Alabama with both games coming on the road. It's hard to build a better two-loss résumé than that.

Where: Cowboys Stadium in Arlington, Tex.

When: Friday, Jan. 6 at 8 p.m. ET

Watch: FOX

Listen: KMAN 1350 AM (Kansas State) or KABZ 103.7 FM (Arkansas)

Betting Line: Arkansas -7.5

Key Storyline: Which team will prove it deserved a BCS berth?

The Cotton Bowl is probably the best non-BCS bowl on this season's slate. Two elite teams squaring off in one of the world's best stadiums will give it a unique feeling, and whichever team can emerge victorious will send a clear message to the college football brass about the broken system in place.

There are so many different rules involved with claiming one of those 10 marquee bowl spots that it's virtually impossible for fans to keep track of them all. A playoff system wouldn't be perfect either, since regular season games would be devalued, but that doesn't mean there shouldn't be changes at all.

Who Might Not Play for Kansas State: DL Laton Dowling

Dowling is battling a knee injury and is listed as questionable for the game, according to USA Today. The Wildcats are going to need as much depth along as possible along the offensive line while attempting to slow down Arkansas' high-octane offense, which makes Dowling's presence important.

Who Might Not Play for Arkansas: RB Knile Davis

Davis, who led the Razorbacks in rushing last season with over 1,300 yards, has missed the entire season with an ankle injury. He's getting closer to full strength, but his status for the Cotton Bowl remains unclear based on a report from Robbie Neiswanger.

What They're Saying

Kansas State is the most efficient college football program in the country, according to Kellis Robinett of the Wichita Eagle:

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The Wildcats were ranked as the nation’s top college football team for the money. According to Forbes, K-State had $11 million in football expenses this season. Based on its 10-2 record, it spent a nation low $1,086,705 per win.

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Based on stats reported by Edward Aschoff, Arkansas lived and died with the big play this season:

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Arkansas leads the SEC and is tied for 22nd in the FBS with 41 plays that gained 25 yards or more. The Razorbacks had at least two such plays in every game this season, except for in their only two losses when they had one each against Alabama and LSU.

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Kansas State Player To Watch: QB Collin Klein

Klein was basically a one-man offense for the Wildcats this season. He threw for over 1,700 yards and ran for 1,100 more while scoring 38 total touchdowns. If Kansas State is going to keep pace with the Razorbacks, he'll need to have another monster performance.

Arkansas Player To Watch: WR Jarius Wright

One of the nation's best senior receivers, Wright caught 63 passes for more than 1,000 yards and 11 touchdowns. His great speed allowed him to spread the defense, which benefited his teammates by giving them more room to operate. He'll be targeted early and often on Jan. 6.

Key Matchup: Wildcats pass defense vs. Razorbacks QB Tyler Wilson

Kansas State gave up two passing touchdowns per season during the regular season. That bodes well for Wilson, who has had to deal with an inconsistent running game throughout the year. If he's able to take advantage, the Razorbacks will cruise to victory.

Prediction

Arkansas 38, Kansas State 28