2011 Bowl Games: 4 Spreads You Can Bet You'll Lose Your Money on

With all of the bowls set, it’s time to pick which teams win their games. And if you have a little extra money from a Christmas bonus, you can put a wager against the spread.

The full list of opening lines can be viewed here.

Because of the long layover between games, bowls can have some funky outcomes, but they are, for the most part, pretty predictable.

Here are five games that you’ll lose money on if you bet with the majority of people.

Capital One Bowl

South Carolina vs. Nebraska (-1)

If there is one game that you can take to the bank, it is South Carolina beating Nebraska. It all comes down to one thing: the Huskers defending a mobile quarterback. This season they have failed miserably at doing that.

Michigan, Wisconsin and Northwestern all had elusive quarterbacks, and all of those games were losses. Besides, if Braxton Miller didn’t get injured, Ohio State would’ve added a fourth.

Connor Shaw averages 53 yards on the ground per game. Unless the team suddenly figures out how to defend a QB with quick feet, this game is going to the Gamecocks.

AT&T Cotton Bowl

Kansas State vs. Arkansas (-8.5)

Arkansas has played really poorly away from home this season, going 3-2 with wins coming against teams that are a combined 14-26 by a total of 12 points.

And if there is one thing Kansas State has done well season, it is win close games.

The Wildcats may not win this one, but they should definitely cover.

TicketCity Bowl

Penn State vs. Houston (-9)

Houston got exposed last week against the best defense it's seen all season. Penn State’s defense is light years ahead of Southern Miss’, and that is a huge problem for Case Keenum and company.

Silas Redd is also the best running back the Cougars have seen all season.

This combination sets up for a big Penn State win—not a big Houston one.

Sugar Bowl

Michigan vs. Virginia Tech (pick ’em)

Based on the anger over Virginia Tech’s selection for the Sugar Bowl, a lot of people will be betting on Michigan. Wrong move.

The Hokies always play better as underdogs, will be excited to play in a big time bowl (as opposed to the Chick-fil-A Bowl) and have only struggled against teams with quality defensive line play.

The Wolverines just don’t have a talented line, and Denard Robinson has never really impressed against a quality defense in his career.