2011 Bowl Games: 3 Bowls That Will Put the BCS Title Game to Shame

Some fans are excited to watch the title game rematch between LSU and Alabama. For these fans, the first game was an instant classic that showcased how defense is supposed to be played and how blood is supposed to be spilled.

For the rest of us, the first matchup between LSU and Alabama showed how offenses are supposed to suck and how field goals are supposed to be kicked. And how not to be kicked, for that matter.

Let's face it: The Game of the Century was not a classic. And because LSU and Alabama haven't undergone any major changes since their first meeting, the second game will likely feature more of the same.

If that's not your cup of tea, I recommend watching other bowls instead. If you're looking to be entertained, I think there are three non-BCS bowl games in particular that should do the trick.

Maaco Bowl Las Vegas: Arizona State vs. Boise State

Both the Sun Devils and the Broncos disappointed this season (which is saying something about Boise State's expectations), but their battle in the Maaco Bowl Las Vegas is definitely going to be one worth watching.

On the one hand, you're going to get to see Kellen Moore lead Boise State's offense one last time. He's been a truly great quarterback during his career at Boise State, and you know that he's going to go out with a bang.

That is, unless Vontaze Burfict and the Arizona State defense have something to say about it. The Sun Devils were maddeningly inconsistent on defense this season, but they should be able to leave Moore and friends with a few bruises before this game over.

But hey, don't sleep on Arizona State's own offense either. It scored over 33 points per game, and is led by a solid quarterback in Brock Osweiler and key playmakers in running back Cameron Marshall and wide receiver Gerell Robinson.

This game could be a shootout or a heavyweight fight. Either way, it will be fun to watch.

Valero Alamo Bowl: Washington vs. Baylor

This bowl matchup is flying under the radar somewhat, and the only reason people are paying attention to it at all is because of Baylor quarterback and Heisman Trophy finalist Robert Griffin III.

RG3 is definitely deserving of the attention, but don't overlook Washington quarterback Keith Price. He had a great season in his first year taking over for Jake Locker, and he's the kind of quarterback who could match RG3 stride for stride.

It helps that Price has Chris Polk to rely on. He's one of my favorite running backs to watch, as it seems like there are few things he can't do. Polk dominated last year's Holiday Bowl against Nebraska, and I wouldn't be surprised if he did the same in this game.

That said, my gut feeling is that Washington is only winning this game if RG3 lets it happen. Look for him to end his college career on a high note.

AT&T Cotton Bowl: Kansas State vs. Arkansas

You would think that a matchup between the No. 8 and No. 6 team in the country would be reserved for a BCS bowl.

But nope. Kansas State and Arkansas will be playing in the Cotton Bowl instead, which admittedly is not a bad consolation prize.

This shouldn't be a bad game either. We're going to see two very different styles of offense, as Kansas State is one of the top rushing teams in the country and Arkansas is one of the top passing teams in the country.

Because of that, I like the Razorbacks' chances to get a lead early, thus forcing Kansas State to take to the air. Even then, I don't think the Hogs are going to be able to run away with this one. The Wildcats are going to play them tough.

Ultimately, this one will go down to the wire. You'll be glad you watched.