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ATLANTA, GA - DECEMBER 04:  Quarterback Cam Newton #2 of the Auburn Tigers leads the team out to face the South Carolina Gamecocks during the 2010 SEC Championship at Georgia Dome on December 4, 2010 in Atlanta, Georgia.  (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Imag
ATLANTA, GA - DECEMBER 04: Quarterback Cam Newton #2 of the Auburn Tigers leads the team out to face the South Carolina Gamecocks during the 2010 SEC Championship at Georgia Dome on December 4, 2010 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty ImagKevin C. Cox/Getty Images

Bowl Schedule 2010: Predicting a Winner for All 35 Bowl Games

David SolarDec 10, 2010

With bowl season starting a week from tomorrow and the national championship game scheduled exactly a month from now, the anticipation is building. Not only do we have a phenomenal BCS title game with two of the nation's most dynamic offenses, but there are also a surplus of unbelievable matchups on tap.

We’ll find out whether or not TCU deserves to play with the big boys, find out if the Big East earned their automatic bowl bid and see just how weak the bottom of the Pac-10 really is.

What are the best games? How will your team fare? Who is in line for an upset? Read on for predictions on all 35 games.

New Mexico Bowl

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FORT WORTH, TX - OCTOBER 16:  Quarterback Jake Heaps #9 of the BYU Cougars throws a pass against the TCU Horned Frogs at Amon G. Carter Stadium on October 16, 2010 in Fort Worth, Texas. TCU beat BYU 31-3. (Photo by Tom Pennington/Getty Images)
FORT WORTH, TX - OCTOBER 16: Quarterback Jake Heaps #9 of the BYU Cougars throws a pass against the TCU Horned Frogs at Amon G. Carter Stadium on October 16, 2010 in Fort Worth, Texas. TCU beat BYU 31-3. (Photo by Tom Pennington/Getty Images)

BYU (6-6) vs. UTEP (6-6)

In a matchup of two very marginal teams, my money is on BYU. The Cougars' balanced offense should be able to score at will against a Miners defense that struggled all season against the run.

Prediction: 31-21 BYU

Humanitarian Bowl

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BOISE, ID - NOVEMBER 19:  Ryan Colburn #15 of the Fresno State Bulldogs looks for the handoff against the Boise State Broncos at Bronco Stadium on November 19, 2010 in Boise, Idaho.  (Photo by Otto Kitsinger III/Getty Images)
BOISE, ID - NOVEMBER 19: Ryan Colburn #15 of the Fresno State Bulldogs looks for the handoff against the Boise State Broncos at Bronco Stadium on November 19, 2010 in Boise, Idaho. (Photo by Otto Kitsinger III/Getty Images)

Northern Illinois (10-3) vs. Fresno State (8-4)

The former home of Falcons running back Michael Turner, Northern Illinois will run all over Fresno State in what should be an exciting and high-scoring affair.

The Huskies offense totaled 60 touchdowns this season and rushed for an average of 265 yards per game.

Quarterback Chandler Harnish is a sturdy field general, while running back Chad Spann may be one of the best under-the-radar players in college football (1,293 yards and 20 TDs this season).

Prediction: 34-27 Northern Illinois

New Orleans Bowl

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COLUMBUS, OH - SEPTEMBER 18:  Quarterback Boo Jackson #8 of the Ohio Bobcats calls signals against the Ohio State Buckeyes at Ohio Stadium on September 18, 2010 in Columbus, Ohio.  (Photo by Jamie Sabau/Getty Images)
COLUMBUS, OH - SEPTEMBER 18: Quarterback Boo Jackson #8 of the Ohio Bobcats calls signals against the Ohio State Buckeyes at Ohio Stadium on September 18, 2010 in Columbus, Ohio. (Photo by Jamie Sabau/Getty Images)

Ohio (8-4) vs. Troy (7-5)

The New Orleans Bowl pits two very different teams against each other. Troy quarterback Corey Robinson was tremendous this season, throwing for 3,320 yards and 24 touchdowns.

Robinson carried the load for a team that allowed over 400 yards per game. Ohio, on the other hand, has been successful through a diverse running game and tough defense.

These two contrasting schools won’t draw big ratings, but should play a tight game.

Prediction: 27-24 Troy

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Beef ‘O’ Brady’s Bowl

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LAWRENCE, KS - SEPTEMBER 26:  Quarterback Austin Davis #12 of the Southern Mississippi Golden Eagles scrambles during the game against the Kansas Jayhawks on September 26, 2009 at Memorial Stadium in Lawrence, Kansas.  (Photo by Jamie Squire/Getty Images)
LAWRENCE, KS - SEPTEMBER 26: Quarterback Austin Davis #12 of the Southern Mississippi Golden Eagles scrambles during the game against the Kansas Jayhawks on September 26, 2009 at Memorial Stadium in Lawrence, Kansas. (Photo by Jamie Squire/Getty Images)

Southern Mississippi (8-4) vs. Louisville (6-6)

This matchup features a classic offense-versus-defense battle as the high-octane Southern Mississippi offense takes on a rock-solid Louisville defense.

The Eagles are led by junior quarterback Austin Davis, who threw for 2,900 yards while adding 436 more on the ground. Davis tallied 28 touchdowns versus only six turnovers, making him one of the more dynamic quarterbacks in Division I.

On the other side, speedy cornerback Johnny Patrick and defensive end Rodney Gnat, who recorded nine sacks on the season, lead Louisville’s stout D. Louisville is favored in this game, but a 6-6 record in a weak Big East is not enough to impress me.

Prediction: 30-24 Southern Mississippi

Maaco Bowl

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BOISE, ID - NOVEMBER 19:  Kellen Moore #11 of the Boise State Broncos passes against the Fresno State Bulldogs at Bronco Stadium on November 19, 2010 in Boise, Idaho.  (Photo by Otto Kitsinger III/Getty Images)
BOISE, ID - NOVEMBER 19: Kellen Moore #11 of the Boise State Broncos passes against the Fresno State Bulldogs at Bronco Stadium on November 19, 2010 in Boise, Idaho. (Photo by Otto Kitsinger III/Getty Images)

Utah (10-2) vs. Boise State (11-1)

Two missed kicks and Boise State gets relegated from a possible BCS birth to the Maaco Bowl. It just doesn’t seem fair. For much of the season, Utah shared in the BCS bubble-bursting picture before losing back-to-back games against TCU and Notre Dame by a combined score of 75-10.

Former Heisman hopeful Kellen Moore (33 TDs to only five INTs) and running back Doug Martin (1,113 yards rushing, 11 TDs) lead a potent Boise State offense that should be out for vengeance after the late-season collapse.

Vegas named the Broncos a 17-point favorite, and I would still buy BSU. Utah lacks dynamic playmakers, and the Broncos could hang over 40 on this defense.

Prediction: 45-20 Boise State

Poinsettia Bowl

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SAN DIEGO - NOVEMBER 20:  Quarterback Ryan Lindley #14 of the San Diego State Aztecs throws a pass against the Utah Utes at Qualcomm Stadium on November 20, 2010 in San Diego, California.  Utah won 38-34.  (Photo by Stephen Dunn/Getty Images)
SAN DIEGO - NOVEMBER 20: Quarterback Ryan Lindley #14 of the San Diego State Aztecs throws a pass against the Utah Utes at Qualcomm Stadium on November 20, 2010 in San Diego, California. Utah won 38-34. (Photo by Stephen Dunn/Getty Images)

Navy (8-3) vs. San Diego State (8-4)

Navy squares off against Army this week, but will be playing just a week later against San Diego State. The Aztecs have a great aerial attack, led by quarterback Ryan Lindley and his 3,554 passing yards. 

He is joined in the backfield by running back Ronnie Hillman, who piled up 1,304 rushing yards and 14 TDs. That type of offensive output may prove to be too much for a Navy team that lost at home to Duke.

Navy will run the ball all game long (they average 300 rushing yards per game), but could be in trouble if they fall behind on the scoreboard early.

Prediction: 27-24 SDSU

Hawaii Bowl

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SOUTH BEND, IN - OCTOBER 30: G.J. Kinne #4 of the Tulsa Golden Hurricane throws a pass against the Notre Dame Fighting Irish rushes at Notre Dame Stadium on October 30, 2010 in South Bend, Indiana. Tulsa defeated Notre Dame 28-27. (Photo by Jonathan Danie
SOUTH BEND, IN - OCTOBER 30: G.J. Kinne #4 of the Tulsa Golden Hurricane throws a pass against the Notre Dame Fighting Irish rushes at Notre Dame Stadium on October 30, 2010 in South Bend, Indiana. Tulsa defeated Notre Dame 28-27. (Photo by Jonathan Danie

Hawaii (10-3) vs. Tulsa (9-3)

Tulsa is tasked with a difficult mission: traveling to Aloha Stadium for a matchup with Hawaii. Once again, the Warriors' spread offense allows the team to air the ball out, and, boy, have they ever.

Quarterback Bryant Moniz threw for 4,629 yards with 36 touchdowns and 11 interceptions, while running back Alex Green ran for 1,168 yards on an astounding 8.8 yards per carry.

Given that Tulsa’s defense allows over 300 passing yards per game, this one could get ugly. Tulsa has an explosive offense, and this should be a high-scoring affair, but Hawaii features the better defense and more potent offense. Factor that in with home-field advantage, and the Warriors seem like a sure thing.

Prediction: 48-31 Hawaii

Little Caesars Pizza Bowl

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Toledo (8-4) vs. Florida International (6-6)

Florida International will try to be on their best behavior as they travel to Detroit to play Toledo in what used to be known as the Motor City Bowl. This newly (and poorly) named bowl features the Sun Belt champions (FIU) against the MAC’s No. 2.

Neither team overwhelmed their competition this season, and this should be one of the duller bowl games.

If there’s one player to watch, it’s Toledo’s freshman QB Terrance Owens. Owens took over for the ineffective Austin Dantin, winning three of the team's final four games. Owens posted a 12:2 touchdown-to-pick ratio and threw for 185 yards per game.

Prediction: 27-24 Toledo

Independence Bowl

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LAS VEGAS - NOVEMBER 18:  Quarterback Tim Jefferson Jr. #7 of the Air Force Falcons gets instructions from his sideline during a game against the UNLV Rebels at Sam Boyd Stadium November 18, 2010 in Las Vegas, Nevada. Air Force won 35-20.  (Photo by Ethan
LAS VEGAS - NOVEMBER 18: Quarterback Tim Jefferson Jr. #7 of the Air Force Falcons gets instructions from his sideline during a game against the UNLV Rebels at Sam Boyd Stadium November 18, 2010 in Las Vegas, Nevada. Air Force won 35-20. (Photo by Ethan

Georgia Tech (6-6) vs. Air Force (8-4)

This year’s Independence Bowl features two teams that employ the option offense. Both teams rush for over 300 yards per game and rank second and third nationally in the category.

Just practicing every day is one of the best ways to prepare for the opposition, as both defenses are incredibly familiar with the option offense.

Quarterbacks Tim Jefferson (Air Force) and Josh Nesbitt (Georgia Tech) both passed for fewer than 1,500 yards this season, but rushed for over 700.

This could be one of the more interesting early bowl games and could set a record for combined rushing yards.

Prediction: 28-27 Air Force

Champs Sports Bowl

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LOUISVILLE, KY - NOVEMBER 20:  Noel Devine #7 of the West Virginia Mountaineers runs with the ball during the Big East Conference game against the Louisville Cardinals at Papa John's Cardinal Stadium on November 20, 2010 in Louisville, Kentucky.  (Photo b
LOUISVILLE, KY - NOVEMBER 20: Noel Devine #7 of the West Virginia Mountaineers runs with the ball during the Big East Conference game against the Louisville Cardinals at Papa John's Cardinal Stadium on November 20, 2010 in Louisville, Kentucky. (Photo b

N.C. State (8-4) vs. West Virginia (9-3)

If there was one Big East team I felt might have deserved a BCS bowl, it was West Virginia (and I stress “if”). Instead, the Mountaineers will take on Tom O’Brien and the N.C. State Wolfpack.

West Virginia is led by lightning-fast running back Noel Devine, who struggled this season, rushing for only 886 yards after gaining 1,465 a season ago.

N.C. State is like Alan from The Hangover—a one-man Wolfpack. Senior Russell Wilson is an unbelievable quarterback who has led his team to victory despite lacking any semblance of a running game. Wilson passed for nearly 3,300 yards this season, and will need to put this team on his shoulders if they hope to win.

Prediction: 27-20 West Virginia

Insight Bowl

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IOWA CITY, IA - NOVEMBER 20:  Quarterback Ricky Stanzi #12 of the University of Iowa Hawkeyes signals a call at the line during second half action against the Ohio State Buckeyes at Kinnick Stadium on November 20, 2010 in Iowa City, Iowa. Ohio State won 2
IOWA CITY, IA - NOVEMBER 20: Quarterback Ricky Stanzi #12 of the University of Iowa Hawkeyes signals a call at the line during second half action against the Ohio State Buckeyes at Kinnick Stadium on November 20, 2010 in Iowa City, Iowa. Ohio State won 2

Iowa (7-5) vs. Missouri (10-2)

The Insight Bowl features an intriguing matchup as the Iowa Hawkeyes square off against the Missouri Tigers. Led by defensive end Adrian Clayborn, Iowa sports one of the nation’s premier defenses. The Hawkeyes allowed only 317 total yards per game despite playing in the Big Ten against some of the nation’s top offenses.

On the other side, Missouri has unheralded QB Blaine Gabbert, who has quietly put up a phenomenal season. The 6’5" junior threw for 2,750 yards this season after chucking for 3,593 as a sophomore.

Will Iowa’s defense prevail or will Missouri be able to score on this stout defense? 

Prediction: 17-13 Iowa

Military Bowl

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BLACKSBURG, VA - SEPTEMBER 18:  Quarterback Dominique Davis #4 of the East Carolina Pirates runs with the ball against the Virginia Tech Hokies at Lane Stadium on September 18, 2010 in Blacksburg, Virginia.  (Photo by Geoff Burke/Getty Images)
BLACKSBURG, VA - SEPTEMBER 18: Quarterback Dominique Davis #4 of the East Carolina Pirates runs with the ball against the Virginia Tech Hokies at Lane Stadium on September 18, 2010 in Blacksburg, Virginia. (Photo by Geoff Burke/Getty Images)

Maryland (8-4) vs. East Carolina (6-6)

East Carolina quarterback Dominique Davis will face off against Maryland for the second time in his career—but for the first time as a Pirate. Davis, a transfer from Boston College, helped the Eagles defeat the Terrapins, 28-21, back in 2008. The freshman quarterback completed 12 of 24 passes for 134 yards and two touchdowns leading BC to a spot in the ACC Championship Game. 

Davis was a liability as a freshman at Boston College, but the brother of NFL tight end Desmond Clark has been a revelation this year. In 12 games, Davis passed for 3,699 yards and 36 touchdowns while adding nine scores on the ground.

Meanwhile, Maryland features a balanced offense and a solid defense led by Alex Wujciak.

Will Davis be able to duplicate his results from more than two years ago? You’ll have to tune in to find out.

Prediction: 35-31 East Carolina

Texas Bowl

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CHICAGO - NOVEMBER 20: Mikel Leshoure #5 of the Illinois Fighting Illini runs on his way to a 339 yard rushing performance against the Northwestern Wildcats during a game played at Wrigley Field on November 20, 2010 in Chicago, Illinois. Illinois defeated
CHICAGO - NOVEMBER 20: Mikel Leshoure #5 of the Illinois Fighting Illini runs on his way to a 339 yard rushing performance against the Northwestern Wildcats during a game played at Wrigley Field on November 20, 2010 in Chicago, Illinois. Illinois defeated

Illinois (6-6) vs. Baylor (7-5)

Illinois has struggled to throw the ball all season, but has had great success running the ball with stud back Mikel LeShoure (1,513 rush yards and 14 TDs). Baylor’s offense, on the other hand, has far more equilibrium.

Quarterback Robert Griffin threw for 3,195 yards while adding another 591 on the ground. Running back Jay Finley came from nowhere to rush for over 1,000 yards on an impressive 6.3 yards per carry.

The oddsmakers like this to be a close game, but Baylor looks to be the far more impressive team.

Prediction: 31-20 Baylor

Alamo Bowl

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WACO, TX - OCTOBER 24:  Justin Blackmon #81 and Cooper Nicholas #89 of the Oklahoma State Cowboys celebrate a touchdown in front of Jordan Lake #21 of the Baylor Bears at Floyd Casey Stadium on October 24, 2009 in Waco, Texas.  (Photo by Ronald Martinez/G
WACO, TX - OCTOBER 24: Justin Blackmon #81 and Cooper Nicholas #89 of the Oklahoma State Cowboys celebrate a touchdown in front of Jordan Lake #21 of the Baylor Bears at Floyd Casey Stadium on October 24, 2009 in Waco, Texas. (Photo by Ronald Martinez/G

Arizona (7-5) vs. Oklahoma State (10-2)

This game has all the makings of a blowout. Oklahoma State features Big 12 Player of the Year Justin Blackmon (102 catches for 1,665 yards and 18 TDs) and pint-sized dynamo Kendall Hunter (1,516 yards and 16 TDs).

Arizona slipped into this bowl game despite a 4-5 conference record, but does feature a potent passing game. Nonetheless, the Cowboys have one of the nation’s best offenses and could put up big points on this unproven Wildcats defense.

Prediction: 35-24 Oklahoma State

Armed Forces Bowl

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DALLAS - SEPTEMBER 24:  Wide receiver Aldrick Robinson #24 of the SMU Mustangs is tackled by Greg McCoy #7 of the TCU Horned Frogs at Gerald J. Ford Stadium on September 24, 2010 in Dallas, Texas.  (Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images)
DALLAS - SEPTEMBER 24: Wide receiver Aldrick Robinson #24 of the SMU Mustangs is tackled by Greg McCoy #7 of the TCU Horned Frogs at Gerald J. Ford Stadium on September 24, 2010 in Dallas, Texas. (Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images)

SMU (7-6) vs. Army (6-5)

The 6-5 Army Black Knights take on Navy this weekend in their annual rivalry, and could enter their matchup with Southern Methodist with a .500 record. The Army offense revolves around their running game, as they pass the ball for under 80 yards per game while rushing for over 250.

SMU, on the other hand, has a well-balanced offense that averages 414 total yards per game. QB Kyle Padron tallied 3,526 yards through the air while adding 254 on the ground. His 39 total touchdowns rank amongst the best in the country, as the unheralded signal-caller has thrived in his sophomore season.

Prediction: 34-20 SMU

Pinstripe Bowl

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CINCINNATI - OCTOBER 30:  Nick Provo #80 of the Syracuse Orange runs with the ball while defended by Camerron Cheatham #21 and Wesley Richardson #24 of the Cincinnati Bearcats at Nippert Stadium on October 30, 2010 in Cincinnati, Ohio.  (Photo by Andy Lyo
CINCINNATI - OCTOBER 30: Nick Provo #80 of the Syracuse Orange runs with the ball while defended by Camerron Cheatham #21 and Wesley Richardson #24 of the Cincinnati Bearcats at Nippert Stadium on October 30, 2010 in Cincinnati, Ohio. (Photo by Andy Lyo

Syracuse (7-5) vs. Kansas State (7-5)

Although the actual matchup is somewhat of a snoozefest (K-State was outgained during the season and Syracuse managed only 300 yards per game), there is one big reason to watch this game.

As the name indicates, this game is being played in Yankee Stadium, giving the Orange a unique home-field advantage. 

If you need another reason to watch the game, how about Daniel Thomas?

The Wildcats running back ran for 1,495 yards with 16 TDs while trucking linebackers all over the Big 12. The 6’2", 230-pound bruiser is far and away the best player in this game and should give K-State the leg up.

Prediction: 27-20 Kansas State

Music City Bowl

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EAST HARTFORD, CT - SEPTEMBER 12:  Bruce Carter #54 of the North Carolinia Tar Heels celebrates his sack with teammates Melvin Williams #10, Marvin Austin #9 and Quan Sturdivant #52 in the final minute of the game against the Connecticut Huskies on Septem
EAST HARTFORD, CT - SEPTEMBER 12: Bruce Carter #54 of the North Carolinia Tar Heels celebrates his sack with teammates Melvin Williams #10, Marvin Austin #9 and Quan Sturdivant #52 in the final minute of the game against the Connecticut Huskies on Septem

Tennessee (6-6) vs. North Carolina (7-5)

North Carolina overcame the loss of a dozen players to earn a 7-5 record and a bowl bid. T.J. Yates leads their offense, but this team is all about their defense. Linebacker Bruce Carter and defensive end Robert Quinn are both surefire first-round picks (as is DT Marvin Austin, who was thrown off the team for accepting illegal benefits).

For Tennessee, wide receiver Denarius Moore caught 43 balls for 912 yards and nine TDs and emerged as one of the best big-play threats in the SEC.  

Both teams have had disappointing seasons, but only one of them will be able to end their season on a high note.

Prediction: 31-27 North Carolina

Holiday Bowl

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ARLINGTON, TX - DECEMBER 04:  Quarterback Taylor Martinez #3 of the Nebraska Cornhuskers drops back to pass against the Oklahoma Sooners during the Big 12 Championship at Cowboys Stadium on December 4, 2010 in Arlington, Texas.  (Photo by Ronald Martinez/
ARLINGTON, TX - DECEMBER 04: Quarterback Taylor Martinez #3 of the Nebraska Cornhuskers drops back to pass against the Oklahoma Sooners during the Big 12 Championship at Cowboys Stadium on December 4, 2010 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Ronald Martinez/

Nebraska (10-3) vs. Washington (6-6)

What an absolute mess. Nebraska was only three points away from a BCS birth while Washington needed a win last weekend just to gain bowl eligibility.

Taylor Martinez is a dual-threat quarterback with great speed who ran for 942 yards this season. Running back Roy Helu is a powerful back with good speed who earlier this season ran for 307 yards against Missouri!

The Huskies have a porous defense and will need another huge game out of running back Chris Polk if they hope to keep this game close—but don’t expect it.

Prediction: 38-17 Nebraska

Meineke Bowl

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AUBURN, AL - SEPTEMBER 18:  Da'Quan Bowers #93 of the Clemson Tigers against the Auburn Tigers at Jordan-Hare Stadium on September 18, 2010 in Auburn, Alabama.  (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)
AUBURN, AL - SEPTEMBER 18: Da'Quan Bowers #93 of the Clemson Tigers against the Auburn Tigers at Jordan-Hare Stadium on September 18, 2010 in Auburn, Alabama. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)

Clemson (6-6) vs. USF (7-5)

The more you read about the bowl matchups, the more obvious it seems that a playoff system is needed and that the standards for bowl eligibility need to be raised. Clemson’s offense was a huge disappointment after losing C.J. Spiller, while USF managed an ugly 3-4 conference record in the Big East.

Neither team features well-run offenses and, in all reality, this bowl game should not exist. Clemson is far and away the more talented team, but expect a close finish.

And if you need a player to watch, check out Clemson defensive end Da'Quan Bowers. The 280-pound end has a unique blend of speed and strength that allowed him to record 16 sacks this season.

Prediction: 21-20 Clemson

Sun Bowl

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LOS ANGELES - NOVEMBER 27: Head coach Brian Kelly of the Notre Dame Fighting Irish gestures during the game with the USC Trojans at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum on November 27, 2010 in Los Angeles, California.  Notre Dame won 20-16.  (Photo by Stephe
LOS ANGELES - NOVEMBER 27: Head coach Brian Kelly of the Notre Dame Fighting Irish gestures during the game with the USC Trojans at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum on November 27, 2010 in Los Angeles, California. Notre Dame won 20-16. (Photo by Stephe

Notre Dame (7-5) vs. Miami (7-5)

This game features two of the most well-known and historic football programs in the nation. Unfortunately, this isn’t the 1980s.

Dayne Crist and the Irish offense have looked very ordinary this season, while freshman Stephen Morris has put up hideous numbers in relief of Jacory Harris (191 yards per game and five TDs vs. eight INTs).

Notre Dame may have the better coaching, but Miami is just far more talented on both sides of the ball.

Prediction: 31-21 Miami

Liberty Bowl

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AUBURN, AL - NOVEMBER 13:  A.J. Green #8 of the Georgia Bulldogs fails to pull in this reception against Richard Samuel #22 of the Auburn Tigers at Jordan-Hare Stadium on November 13, 2010 in Auburn, Alabama.  (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)
AUBURN, AL - NOVEMBER 13: A.J. Green #8 of the Georgia Bulldogs fails to pull in this reception against Richard Samuel #22 of the Auburn Tigers at Jordan-Hare Stadium on November 13, 2010 in Auburn, Alabama. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)

UCF (10-3) vs. Georgia (6-6)

Central Florida went 10-3, including a 7-1 record within Conference USA. Sorry to say, C-USA doesn’t exactly provide the best competition. Second-place SMU managed a 6-2 conference record, but only a 7-6 record overall.

Outside the conference, UCF suffered a home loss to NC State and a loss to Kansas State.

Alternatively, Georgia may have only recorded a 6-6 record, but had to deal with one of the most difficult schedules in the country. Bulldogs receiver A.J. Green is one of the most dynamic playmakers in the country and totaled 771 yards in just eight games.

Georgia is battle-tested with a far more talented roster and should easily defeat the Knights.

Prediction: 31-17 Georgia

Chick-fil-A Bowl

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CHARLOTTE, NC - DECEMBER 04:   Teammates EJ Manuel #3 and Christian Ponder #7 of the Florida State Seminoles watch on during warmups before the start of their game against the Virginia Tech Hokies at Bank of America Stadium on December 4, 2010 in Charlott
CHARLOTTE, NC - DECEMBER 04: Teammates EJ Manuel #3 and Christian Ponder #7 of the Florida State Seminoles watch on during warmups before the start of their game against the Virginia Tech Hokies at Bank of America Stadium on December 4, 2010 in Charlott

Florida State (9-4) vs. South Carolina (9-4)

Both these teams lost their conference championships—and a slot in the BCS—so expect an intense game from both sides. Freshman Marcus Lattimore has been a welcome surprise for coach Steve Spurrier and the Gamecocks, while Stephen Garcia has been quietly efficient.

For the Seminoles, Christian Ponder was a bit of a disappointment after garnering a plethora of preseason accolades. The talented quarterback threw for only 2,038 yards, but did have a solid 20-to-8 touchdown-to-interception ratio.

This should be a fantastic game and could come down to a late field-goal attempt.

Prediction: 27-24 South Carolina

TicketCity Bowl

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LUBBOCK, TX - SEPTEMBER 18:  Quarterback Taylor Potts #12 of the Texas Tech Red Raiders against the Texas Longhorns at Jones AT&T Stadium on September 18, 2010 in Lubbock, Texas.  (Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images)
LUBBOCK, TX - SEPTEMBER 18: Quarterback Taylor Potts #12 of the Texas Tech Red Raiders against the Texas Longhorns at Jones AT&T Stadium on September 18, 2010 in Lubbock, Texas. (Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images)

Northwestern (7-5) vs. Texas Tech (7-5)

The ticketcity.com bowl? I couldn’t cringe any harder if I saw Rosie O’Donnell shaving her back. Name aside, Texas Tech always has an exciting run-and-gun attack that makes for great television.

On the other side is Northwestern, which earned a bowl bid in spite of a 3-5 conference record. The Wildcats are led by dual-threat QB Dan Persa, who threw for 2,581 yards while adding another 519 rushing.

Northwestern’s defense has struggled all season, allowing 415 total yards per game, meaning Red Raiders QB Taylor Potts should be in for a gigantic game.

Prediction: 41-24 Texas Tech

Outback Bowl

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JACKSONVILLE, FL - OCTOBER 30:  Head coach Urban Meyer of the Florida Gators watches the action during the game against the Georgia Bulldogs at EverBank Field on October 30, 2010 in Jacksonville, Florida.  (Photo by Sam Greenwood/Getty Images)
JACKSONVILLE, FL - OCTOBER 30: Head coach Urban Meyer of the Florida Gators watches the action during the game against the Georgia Bulldogs at EverBank Field on October 30, 2010 in Jacksonville, Florida. (Photo by Sam Greenwood/Getty Images)

Florida (7-5) vs. Penn State (7-5)

In their first season in the post-Tebow era, the Gators struggled. Now, after a difficult season, head coach Urban Meyer has announced his retirement for the second consecutive year.

Will Florida be able to win one for the Gipper? If Florida can pound the run with their stable of running backs, they will be met with little resistance from the Nittany Lions' weak rush defense (164 yards per game).

Prediction: 24-20 Florida

Capital One Bowl

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TUSCALOOSA, AL - NOVEMBER 13: Running back Mark Ingram #22 of the Alabama Crimson Tide rushes upfield against the Mississippi State Bulldogs November 13, 2010 at Bryant-Denny Stadium in Tuscaloosa, Alabama.  (Photo by Al Messerschmidt/Getty Images)
TUSCALOOSA, AL - NOVEMBER 13: Running back Mark Ingram #22 of the Alabama Crimson Tide rushes upfield against the Mississippi State Bulldogs November 13, 2010 at Bryant-Denny Stadium in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. (Photo by Al Messerschmidt/Getty Images)

Alabama (9-3) vs. Michigan State (11-1)

Despite missing out on a BCS bowl, Michigan State still got a BCS-caliber opponent in Alabama. The Crimson Tide feature last year’s Heisman winner in Mark Ingram, one of the nation’s top receivers in Julio Jones, and a defense filled with NFL talent.

Although I’m a big fan of Kirk Cousins and the Spartans offense, they look to be overmatched. Alabama is a far more talented team than most of the BCS schools, and may be too much for Michigan State to handle.

Prediction: 30-17 Alabama

Gator Bowl

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COLUMBUS, OH - NOVEMBER 27:  Quarterback Denard Robinson #16 of the Michigan Wolverines runs with the ball against the Ohio State Buckeyes at Ohio Stadium on November 27, 2010 in Columbus, Ohio.  (Photo by Jamie Sabau/Getty Images)
COLUMBUS, OH - NOVEMBER 27: Quarterback Denard Robinson #16 of the Michigan Wolverines runs with the ball against the Ohio State Buckeyes at Ohio Stadium on November 27, 2010 in Columbus, Ohio. (Photo by Jamie Sabau/Getty Images)

Mississippi State (8-4) vs. Michigan (7-5)

This isn’t the most amazing bowl, but as always, Denard Robinson provides ample reason to tune in. The sophomore quarterback fell off in his Heisman campaign, but still finished the season with mind-blowing statistics (2,316 yards passing and 1,643 rushing).

Robinson will have to play at 100 percent if he hopes to lead the Wolverines to victory over a Mississippi State team whose only losses are to Arkansas, Alabama, LSU and Auburn.

The 21st-ranked Bulldogs have two talented running backs in Vick Ballard and LaDarius Perkins, who do a great job of easing the burden on QB Chris Relf (683 yards rushing). I expect a high-scoring affair that really could go either way.

Prediction: 31-27 Michigan

Rose Bowl

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ALBUQUERQUE, NM - NOVEMBER 27: James Dunbar #56 of the TCU Horned Frogs celebrates the win over the New Mexico Lobos on November 27, 2010 at University Stadium in Albuquerque, New Mexico. TCU won 66-17. (Photo by Eric Draper/Getty Images)
ALBUQUERQUE, NM - NOVEMBER 27: James Dunbar #56 of the TCU Horned Frogs celebrates the win over the New Mexico Lobos on November 27, 2010 at University Stadium in Albuquerque, New Mexico. TCU won 66-17. (Photo by Eric Draper/Getty Images)

Wisconsin (11-1) vs. TCU (12-0)

Talk about a tough game to pick. Wisconsin's James White, John Clay and Montee Ball combined for over 2,800 yards rushing this season for an offense that scored at least 70 points on three separate occasions. Quarterback Scott Tolzien has been a great decision-maker all season and has only been intercepted six times while taking only 11 sacks. He utilizes the play fake well and brings great balance to the Badgers offense.

On the other side, you have the TCU Horned Frogs. One of three undefeated teams in the nation, TCU will look to prove that they deserved a shot at the national title game by thumping the Badgers. TCU features one of the nation’s best defenses as they lead all FBS schools in scoring defense and yards allowed (11.4 points, 215 yards).

The Horned Frogs will challenge Wisconsin’s rushing attack as no team has this season, but will it be enough? Andy Dalton is an efficient passer who completed 66 percent of his passes on the season while throwing only six picks and taking a mere eight sacks. TCU has had only two games decided by single digits, but I have a feeling this will be No. 3.

Prediction: 27-24 TCU

Fiesta Bowl

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ARLINGTON, TX - DECEMBER 04:  Defensive end Jeremy Beal #44 of the Oklahoma Sooners celebrates with the Big 12 Championship Trophy after the Sooners beat the Nebraska Cornhuskers 23-20 at Cowboys Stadium on December 4, 2010 in Arlington, Texas.  (Photo by
ARLINGTON, TX - DECEMBER 04: Defensive end Jeremy Beal #44 of the Oklahoma Sooners celebrates with the Big 12 Championship Trophy after the Sooners beat the Nebraska Cornhuskers 23-20 at Cowboys Stadium on December 4, 2010 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by

Oklahoma (11-2) vs. Connecticut (8-4)

Well…at least somebody in the Big East will deserve a BCS bowl next season when TCU becomes a member of the conference. Honestly, this matchup should anger fans. The big six conferences are just given automatic BCS bids, while a team like Boise State plays in the Maaco Bowl? It’s preposterous.

Anyway, the 8-4 Huskies should enjoy their first BCS berth now because I’m not sure how fondly they will remember this game many years from now. This is a team that lost to Temple and got blanked by Louisville. They deserve a BCS game like Keanu Reeves deserves an Oscar.

The Oklahoma offensive line should be able to overpower the smaller UConn front four and DeMarco Murray will have a field day.

Prediction: 48-17 Oklahoma

Orange Bowl

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PALO ALTO, CA - NOVEMBER 27:  Andrew Luck #12 of the Stanford Cardinal in action against the Oregon State Beavers at Stanford Stadium on November 27, 2010 in Palo Alto, California.  (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
PALO ALTO, CA - NOVEMBER 27: Andrew Luck #12 of the Stanford Cardinal in action against the Oregon State Beavers at Stanford Stadium on November 27, 2010 in Palo Alto, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)

Virginia Tech (11-2) vs. Stanford Cardinal (11-1)

After the Hokies' 0-2 start, including a home loss to James Madison, the entire football community wrote off Virginia Tech. People figured this was a team that would struggle to make any bowl game, let alone a BCS game. The Hokies silenced critics and proved fans around the nation wrong by running off 11 straight wins, including a 44-33 win over Florida State in the ACC Championship Game.

As always, Beamer Ball has produced a tough defense and ferocious special teams, but this year VT has an offense to match. Tyrod Taylor earned the ACC Player of the Year Award by throwing for 2,521 yards with 23 touchdowns and only four picks. Taylor added 637 yards on the ground to complement the three-headed rushing attack of Ryan Williams, Darren Evans and David Wilson.

As impressive as Taylor’s season was, his counterpart's may have been even more remarkable. Stanford’s Andrew Luck passed for over 3,000 yards while rushing for an additional 438—earning the praise of coaches all across the nation and possibly the top overall draft slot in next year’s NFL draft.

This game pits two of the game's top coaches against each other in VT’s Frank Beamer and SU’s Jim Harbaugh. This should be a strategic battle with both coaches having weapons on either side of the ball.

Prediction: 34-27 Stanford

Sugar Bowl

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COLUMBUS, OH - NOVEMBER 27:  Quarterback Terrelle Pryor #2 of the Ohio State Buckeyes rolls out of the pocket against the Michigan Wolverines at Ohio Stadium on November 27, 2010 in Columbus, Ohio.  (Photo by Jamie Sabau/Getty Images)
COLUMBUS, OH - NOVEMBER 27: Quarterback Terrelle Pryor #2 of the Ohio State Buckeyes rolls out of the pocket against the Michigan Wolverines at Ohio Stadium on November 27, 2010 in Columbus, Ohio. (Photo by Jamie Sabau/Getty Images)

Arkansas (10-2) vs. Ohio State (11-1)

Two of the top quarterbacks in the country face off in this year’s Orange Bowl. Ohio State’s Terrelle Pryor has evolved from a scrambling quarterback to a true pocket passer with the ability to scramble. Pryor’s QB rating is up 30 points from last year, while he’s completing his passes at a 10 percent higher rate than a season ago.

For Arkansas, the offense is all about Ryan Mallett. The 6’7" gunslinger has a howitzer hanging from his shoulder and may be the nation's top quarterback (sorry to all the Andrew Luck supporters out there). Mallett already resembles Ben Roethlisberger in the pocket, and has put up gaudy numbers against elite SEC competition.

On the season, Mallett has a 170 QB rating on the strength of 3,592 yards passing and 30 scores. Mallett spreads the ball as no quarterback I have ever seen and somehow had five receivers with at least 575 yards receiving.

There should be no shortage of passing yardage, so the ability of the backs to keep the defense off balance may be the key to the game.

Prediction: 34-31 Ohio State

Cotton Bowl

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BATON ROUGE, LA - NOVEMBER 20:  Patrick Peterson #7 of the Louisiana State University Tigers breaks up a pass intended for Korvic Neat #28 of the Ole Miss Rebels at Tiger Stadium on November 20, 2010 in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.  (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Gett
BATON ROUGE, LA - NOVEMBER 20: Patrick Peterson #7 of the Louisiana State University Tigers breaks up a pass intended for Korvic Neat #28 of the Ole Miss Rebels at Tiger Stadium on November 20, 2010 in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Gett

LSU (10-2) vs. Texas A&M (9-3)

This is another game that pits yin against yang. Receivers Jeff Fuller and Ryan Swope lead the Texas A&M offense. Both players caught at least 65 balls this season despite a midseason quarterback change from the talented but erratic Jerrod Johnson to the more composed Ryan Tannehill.

For the Tigers, everything starts on the defensive side of the ball. Cornerback Patrick Patterson is arguably the best cover corner in the game right now (Prince Amukamara of Nebraska is his only competition), while the defensive line is amongst the best in the country at applying pressure.

LSU has the edge in talent, but things haven’t fully come together for the Tigers offense. If Jordan Jefferson can take time with his reads, LSU should cruise to victory.

Prediction: 20-13 LSU

GoDaddy.com Bowl

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NEW ORLEANS - DECEMBER 20:  Dwight Dasher #9 of the Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders celebrates after throwing a touchdown pass against the Southern Miss Golden Eagles during the R+L Carriers New Orleans Bowl at the Louisiana Superdome on December 20, 2009 i
NEW ORLEANS - DECEMBER 20: Dwight Dasher #9 of the Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders celebrates after throwing a touchdown pass against the Southern Miss Golden Eagles during the R+L Carriers New Orleans Bowl at the Louisiana Superdome on December 20, 2009 i

Miami of Ohio (9-4) vs. Middle Tennessee State (6-6)

For those of you who need a football fix between significant bowl games, have I got a game for you. The 6-6 Mid Tennessee State Blue Raiders took third in the Sun Belt Conference and earned themselves a matchup with the MAC champion Miami (Ohio) Red Hawks.

For the Blue Raiders, the key to the game lies in the ground attack. The team rushed for 180 yards per game, but unfortunately also surrendered 193. On the other side, the Red Hawks have struggled to establish a running game all season, and allow only 120 yards per game on the ground.

I expect underutilized back Thomas Merriweather to have a big game against MTSU, as the Red Hawks win in easy fashion.

Prediction: 34-13 Miami (Ohio)

Compass Bowl

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PITTSBURGH - DECEMBER 05: Jonathan Baldwin #82 of the University of Pittsburgh Panthers catches a pass against the Cincinnati Bearcats on December 5, 2009 at Heinz Field in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.(Photo by Jared Wickerham/Getty Images)
PITTSBURGH - DECEMBER 05: Jonathan Baldwin #82 of the University of Pittsburgh Panthers catches a pass against the Cincinnati Bearcats on December 5, 2009 at Heinz Field in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.(Photo by Jared Wickerham/Getty Images)

Kentucky (6-6) vs. Pittsburgh (7-5)

Yawn. Pittsburgh has a dynamic receiver in Jon Baldwin, but there is very little reason to watch this game except for those who can’t wait two days for the BCS Championship National Game. 

One of these teams had a 5-2 conference record while the other sported a 2-6, but you know what? I still like the 2-6 team to win in a close one.

Prediction: 27-23 Kentucky

Kraft Fight Hunger Bowl

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LAS VEGAS - OCTOBER 02:  Quarterback Colin Kaepernick #10 of the Nevada Reno Wolf Pack looks to pass against the  UNLV Rebels in the third quarter of their game at Sam Boyd Stadium October 2, 2010 in Las Vegas, Nevada. Nevada Reno won 44-26.  (Photo by Et
LAS VEGAS - OCTOBER 02: Quarterback Colin Kaepernick #10 of the Nevada Reno Wolf Pack looks to pass against the UNLV Rebels in the third quarter of their game at Sam Boyd Stadium October 2, 2010 in Las Vegas, Nevada. Nevada Reno won 44-26. (Photo by Et

Boston College (7-5) vs. Nevada (12-1)

As a diehard BC fan, now seems like an opportune time to plug the heinously named Kraft Fight Hunger Bowl. The Eagles are in the midst of a five-game winning streak immediately on the heels of a five-game losing streak.

With star running back Montel Harris out, they will start freshmen at quarterback, running back and wide receiver—and that’s just on the offensive side of the ball. This mediocre offense is offset in large part by one of the nation’s top linebacking corps.

Sophomore Luke Kuechly led the nation in tackles after coming in second last year as a true freshman. Senior OLB Mark Herzlich overcame Ewing’s Sarcoma (a rare form of cancer), in addition to a litany of injuries, to post a stellar season. Add in freshman Kevin Pierre-Louis (85 tackles as a true freshman), and the Eagles have one of the best rush defenses in the country.

It’s a good thing, too, because Nevada can flat-out run the rock.

The team now infamous for bursting Boise State’s BCS bubble averages 305 rushing yards per game, including 91 yards per game from quarterback Colin Kaepernick. Add to that running back Vai Taua (1,534 yards and 19 TDs), and perhaps the Wolf Pack’s win over Boise wasn’t such an upset. I hate to admit defeat, but I’m not sure BC can compete with this potent ground game.

Prediction: 24-17 Nevada

BCS National Championship Game

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CORVALLIS, OR - DECEMBER 4: LaMichael James #21 of the Oregon Ducks celebrates a touchdown in the fourth quarter of the game at Reser Stadium on December 4, 2010 in Corvallis, Oregon. The Ducks beat the Beavers 37-20 to likely go on to the BCS Championshi
CORVALLIS, OR - DECEMBER 4: LaMichael James #21 of the Oregon Ducks celebrates a touchdown in the fourth quarter of the game at Reser Stadium on December 4, 2010 in Corvallis, Oregon. The Ducks beat the Beavers 37-20 to likely go on to the BCS Championshi

Auburn (13-0) vs. Oregon (12-0)

I don’t know about you, but I’ve been waiting all season for this game. The nation’s two most exciting players square off in Oregon’s LaMichael James and Auburn’s Cam Newton. Rather than seeing the nation’s top defenses square off, we get to see the most potent offenses.

Gene Chizik and his misdirection offense rank sixth in scoring offense (42.7) and fourth in rushing offense. For the green gang, the offense ranks fifth in rushing yards, second in yards per game and first in points at a staggering 49.7 points per game.

This is East vs. West. North vs. South.  Unlike the college hoops championship, there are no David vs. Goliath story lines. This is Goliath vs. Goliath.

With an over/under of 74 1/2, the experts are projecting that this will be the highest-scoring bowl game this year, and I couldn’t ask for anything more from a title game. 

Whether you’re a football fan or not, there are reasons to watch this game, and a number of well-written articles on the website go in depth to examine every aspect of this game. The game's exactly a month away and already I’m filled with excitement.  Cam Newton has a chance to become a legend with a big performance and an Auburn win.

Let’s see if he can do it.

Prediction: Auburn 38, Oregon 35

Ohtani Little League HR 😨

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