2011 Bowl Predictions: Trent Richardson and Others Who'll Shine on Big Stage

BCS bowl games and the moments they provide raise NFL draft stocks and create stars. When this season's bowl games kick off on Jan. 2, the big-time college football postseason will be under way.

Here are the players that will shine brightest when the lights come on:

LaMichael James, Rose Bowl

James is a dynamic player in space and ultra quick with the ball in his hands. He's a bit on the small side at 5'9" 185 lbs, but he has rushed for 1,646 yards this season. 

The Oregon offense is high-powered and James is its biggest weapon. James will shine in a Oregon victory over the Wisconsin Badgers.

Justin Blackmon, Fiesta Bowl

Blackmon will solidify his place as the top WR in the 2012 NFL Draft. Many compare Blackmon to Andre Johnson and Anquan Boldin, but Blackmon's speed is a bit underrated and I think he projects more like Terrell Owens.

In a game that figures to be a shootout, Blackmon is the game's best run-after-the-catch threat, and he knows this is his biggest stage since he made his announcement about turning pro.

He will have a monster game as the Cardinal don't have anyone that matches up well with him.

David Wilson, Sugar Bowl

Wilson is one of the three best running backs in college football. He goes unnoticed in most forums, but Wilson should have been a Heisman finalist over LSU's Tyrann Mathieu.

His 11 rushes for only 32 yards against Clemson didn't help his case, but he did rush for 1,627 yards and nine TDs.

Wilson will run with a chip on his shoulder and shine against the Wolverines.

Sammy Watkins, Orange Bowl 

Watkins is the best freshman WR I've ever seen. He is so dynamic with the ball in his hands; he's like a bigger, stronger Percy Harvin.

His 77 catches for 1,184 yards and 11 TDs were big time this season. Clemson will ride Watkins to the victory in this game.

Trent Richardson, BCS National Championship Game

Richardson believes he deserved the Heisman and it's hard to argue with him, but Robert Griffin III is a remarkable player.

Richardson will show up for the BCS title game with something to prove to LSU and the voters that didn't hand him the trophy.

Richardson had a nice game against LSU in the first contest, and he will be the best player on the field in the rematch.