Little Caesars Bowl 2011: Bold Predictions for an Exciting Game

Purdue is going to lose to Western Michigan in the 2011 Little Caesars Bowl. This is just one of the realities of the future I am privy to.

For the details of that prediction and two others, please read on.

WR Jordan White Will Win His Battle vs. CB Ricardo Allen

This is one of the best individual matchups of bowl game. Allen is the Boilers' best defensive player. He is an aggressive and talented corner that has the tools to hang with White.

However, it is asking too much of him to stop the scintillating White. The Broncos WR leads the nation in both yards (137.2) and catches per game (10.58).

White will find a way to make Allen's aggression work against him. He will set up the talented CB with some quick routes and then hit him over the top with some double moves.

Prediction: eight catches, 141 yards, two touchdowns

Purdue's Akeems Will Rush for over 150 Yards

The Boilers will be without their leading rusher Ralph Bolden for this game. He suffered a torn ACL in the team's final regular season game.

This leaves the rushing duties primarily up to Akeem Shavers. Shavers won't be the only one getting carries. Among others, Akeem Hunt will also get his chance. Shavers is a consistent downhill runner. He will turn out yards against a defense that is 107th in rushing. 

That poor defense also means that Hunt is going to find some holes. The dynamic ball carrier hasn't had a lot of touches this season, but he has done the most with what he's had.

Hunt averages 8.6 yards per carry. He will hit for a big run in this game, and he will combine with Shavers to top the 150-yard mark.

Hunt and Shavers Rushing Prediction: 173 yards, two touchdowns

Broncos Win a Tight Battle

This is going to be a close game all the way through with plenty of big plays. The Broncos are going to excel with their passing game, and the Boilers will excel in the run game.

The Broncos will take control in the late stages of this game as they come together as a team and the Boilers' lack of focus shows. 

Since the end of the season, Purdue has had three players arrested and one suspended. They also have to deal with the key injury of their starting tailback. This will be too much for them to overcome.

Prediction: Western Michigan 35, Purdue 31