Jan 12, 2015; Arlington, TX, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes head coach Urban Meyer receives the College Football Playoff trophy from College Football Playoff executive director Bill Hancock (left) after the game against Oregon Ducks in the 2015 CFP National Championship Game at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports
Bowl games are often matchups of teams who rarely see each other, so picking against the spread can be tricky.
RELATED: Ranking all 41 College Bowl Games By Watchability
I’m not a Swami and my nickname isn’t “The Greek”, so I don’t profess myself to be a professional handicapper. But when it comes to college football bowl picks, I seem to get into the zone every season, with my success rate against the spread hitting over 80 percent in the last four years.
I’ve broken down each bowl game, and looked at the average betting lines to give you some solid bowl game wager advice this season.
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Some fun bowl game betting facts for this year, via Phil Steele:
- The SEC and Big Ten each face nine Power-5 foes in the bowls, the Big 12 takes on seven, the ACC faces six, and the Pac 12 faces five out of their 10 bowl games.
- The ACC is involved in six bowls vs a Power-5 conference opponent, and is an underdog in all them.
- The SEC is favored in 9 of their 10 bowl games, with the only underdog being Florida.
- The Pac 12 is favored in 9 of their 10 bowls, with Oregon coming in at even in theirs. They’re the only conference not an underdog in any bowl.
Time for some picks. Here’s a brief breakdown of each game, some looks at the current spread and what I think teams will cover or beat.
Next: Begin Slideshow
Sep 3, 2015; Atlanta, GA, USA; Alcorn State Braves quarterback John Gibbs (3) attempts a pass in the first quarter of their game against the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets at Bobby Dodd Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports
Air Force Reserve Celebration Bowl
Alcorn State vs. North Carolina A&T
Atlanta | Georgia Dome
Dec. 19, Noon on ABC
This is the inaugural game for this bowl, and features two schools from the SWAC and MEAC, conferences featuring the Historically Black Colleges and Universities.
Alcorn State defeated Grambling State 49-21 in the SWAC Championship Game to make their way into this bowl, and North Carolina A&T finished in a three-way tie in the MEAC along with North Carolina Central and Bethune-Cookman. Based on their strength of schedule and wins against tougher opponents, they were given the bid for this bowl.
This is strength against strength, with Alcorn State scoring 40.6 points per game, while NCA&T only allowed opponents 15.6 points per game.
Line: NCA&T, -1.5
Take Alcorn State to cover and win. The Braves have too much offense, and won’t have the rust factor that NCA&T will have, not having played since Nov. 21. Braves by 6.
Next: New Mexico Bowl
Oct 24, 2015; San Jose, CA, USA; New Mexico Lobos quarterback Lamar Jordan (13) warms up before the start of the game against the San Jose State Spartans at Spartan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Cary Edmondson-USA TODAY Sports
Gildan New Mexico Bowl
Arizona vs. New Mexico
Albuquerque | University Stadium
Dec. 19, 2 p.m. on ESPN
A disappointing end to the season for Arizona, and a chance for a “home” bowl game for the Lobos.
Although this one may look like a laugher or an early-season warmup game for the Wildcats at first glance, make no mistake, New Mexico will be prepared for this game.
Arizona finished the season 19th in the nation in scoring offense., putting up 36.8 points per game The Lobos finished 64th in scoring defense, giving up 27 points per game in the Mountain West Conference. That alone is an indicator that it could be a long afternoon for the hometown team.
However, Arizona’s defense has not played well this season, and they were particularly awful against the pass giving up 274.8 passing yards per game. The Lobos did average just under 30 points per game, using primarily the run as their weapon. We might have a shootout on our hands .
Line: Arizona, -9.5
This one will be for pride on both sidelines. The Lobos might not be able to pull off the upset, but they should beat any spread larger than 7.
Next: Las Vegas Bowl
Oct 3, 2014; Provo, UT, USA; Brigham Young Cougars head coach Bronco Mendenhall enters the field prior to the game against the Utah State Aggies at Lavell Edwards Stadium. Utah State won 35-20. Mandatory Credit: Russ Isabella-USA TODAY Sports
Royal Purple Las Vegas Bowl
BYU vs. Utah
Las Vegas | Sam Boyd Stadium
Dec. 19, 3:30 p.m. on ABC
This game between in-state rivals could end up being one of the better bowl games this year. There’s no love lost between the two schools, and the idea of some of these nice, clean-cut kids being exposed to Vegas for a weekend adds to the intrigue.
Halfway through the season it looked like Utah might be able to run away with the Pac-12, but injuries and some suspect line play caught up with them. BYU was once again robbed of seeing starting QB Taysom Hill do some real damage in the meat of the schedule thanks to another season-ending injury. Now with losing head coach Bronco Mendenhall makes this a very important bowl game for the Cougars.
Both the Utes and Cougars finished 31st in the nation in scoring defense, giving up 21.8 points per game. Offensively, a slight edge goes to BYU who put up 34.2 points per game against Utah’s 30.3 points. Either way, this is about as evenly matched a bowl game as you’ll find.
Line: Utah, -2.5
With Mendenhall staying on to coach the Cougars in the bowl game, it will be an emotional one for BYU. They’ll win this by at least three points. Take BYU in the upset.
Next: Camellia Bowl
Dec 20, 2014; Montgomery, AL, USA; Bowling Green Falcons head coach Dino Babers and his players celebrate after defeating South Alabama to win the Camellia Bowl at Cramton Bowl. The Falcons defeated the Jaguars 33-28. Mandatory Credit: Marvin Gentry-USA TODAY Sports
Raycom Media Camellia Bowl
Ohio vs. Appalachian State
Montgomery, Alabama | Cramton Bowl
Dec. 19, 5:30 p.m. on ESPN
Hopefully the reason you’d watch this bowl is because you wagered on a few of the prop bets and the game outcome. Not much else reason to see the Sun Belt take on the MAC in a postseason bowl.
Still, the Mountaineers put together a pretty respectable season in a less than respectable conference, with wins over…well, they only lost two games, one of them being to Clemson. The Bobcats lost four games, with their only signature win coming over Northern Illinois.
This will be a fairly forgettable game in a bloated bowl season.
Line: Appalachian State, -7
Take the Mountaineers and any points up to 10, they are clearly a better team than the Bobcats and should easily win this game.
Next: Cure Bowl
Sep 19, 2015; Eugene, OR, USA; Georgia State Panthers cheerleader carries the team flag in front of the Oregon Ducks at Autzen Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Scott Olmos-USA TODAY Sports
Cure Bowl
San Jose State vs. Georgia State
Orlando | Orlando Citrus Bowl
Dec. 19, 7 p.m. on CBSSN
Another yawner in an inaugural bowl we probably don’t need featuring Georgia State in their first ever bowl appearance since the football program was launched in 2010. Only five seasons to get to a bowl playing three years of FBS football really isn’t that bad, it’s the fact that they went from zero wins, to one win and then up to six wins that made everyone in Atlanta jump.
San Jose State is a more seasoned program, and plays in the much tougher Mountain West Conference. However, they are a 5-7 team playing postseason ball. Anyone else for change in this system?
One team has never had a postseason berth, the other hopes to reach .500 with a bowl win. Yuck. At least GSU scheduled Oregon this season.
Line: San Jose State, -3
I don’t know why, but something tells me that Georgia State is treating this game with much more appreciation and urgency than SJS. Take the Panthers to at least beat the 3, possibly win the game.
Next: New Orleans Bowl
Oct 10, 2015; San Antonio, TX, USA; Louisiana Tech Bulldogs quarterback Jeff Driskel (6) throws a pass against the UTSA Roadrunners during the first half at Alamodome. Mandatory Credit: Soobum Im-USA TODAY Sports
R+L Carriers New Orleans Bowl
Arkansas State vs. Louisiana Tech
New Orleans | Mercedes-Benz Superdome
Dec. 19, 9 p.m. on ESPN
The New Orleans Bowl has actually given us some entertaining games in the past, and 8-4 LaTech against 9-3 Arkansas State might keep that tradition going.
Both teams can score, and score a lot, with Arkansas State putting up 41 points per game, and LaTech tallying an average of 34 points. On the same token, both teams give up between 26-28 points per game on defense.
There’s a strength against strength matchup in this game as well, with Arkansas State ranked 14th in the nation at 236 yards per game on the ground and LaTech ranked 9th nationally in rushing defense, giving up only 114.5 yards per game. This game will have to come down to who can throw the ball and/or defend the pass.
Advantage there goes to Louisiana Tech.
Line: La Tech, -2
Take the Bulldogs from LaTech to cover those two points any anything up to 7. Their passing game will be too much for the Red Wolves to deal with.
Next: Miami Beach Bowl
Dec 5, 2015; Bowling Green, KY, USA; Western Kentucky Hilltoppers running back D
Miami Beach Bowl
Western Kentucky vs. South Florida
Miami, Florida | Marlins Park
Dec. 21, 2:30 p.m. on ESPN
Question: How do you get over 5,000 people in Marlins Park at once?
Answer: Host a bowl game there, and make one of the teams the South Florida Bulls.
The Bulls started off the season in poor fashion, but got better as each week passed. By the end of the season they were playing some of the best football in the nation. But this game will come down to how well the Hilltoppers air it out.
Western Kentucky has one of the top passing offenses in the nation at 365 yards per game, and USF has a mediocre pass defense with a penchant for being burned on big plays. That could be their undoing. The Bulls will have to do what they do best – run the ball and control the clock – if they want to put a stop to the WKU aerial attack.
Line: W. Kentucky, -2.5
Pretty solid bet there, as the Hilltoppers should win this by a touchdown easily.
Next: Famous Idaho Potato Bowl
Dec 21, 2013; Boise, ID, USA; Buffalo Bulls huddle around the Boise State logo on midfield at Bronco Stadium before the Famound Idaho Potato Bowl against the San Diego State Aztecs. Mandatory Credit: Brian Losness-USA TODAY Sports
Famous Idaho Potato Bowl
Akron vs. Utah State
Boise, Idaho | Albertsons Stadium
Dec. 22, 3:30 p.m. on ESPN
MAC vs. MWC, 7-5 vs. 6-6. A matchup about as exciting as a bowl of mashed potatoes, and with less starch.
Let’s just get this one over with. Both teams play middle of the road defense, while Akron has been much more efficient offensively this season. Both lost to every Power-5 team they played this season, and both were up and down playing within their respective conferences.
Talk about a coin flip. Perhaps edge goes to Akron for playing in a tougher(?) conference.
Line: Utah State, -6.5
Don’t ask me why, but I like the Zips to cover in this one. Utah State has only won once in Boise since 1977, and while the Zips aren’t quite the Broncos, I’ll defer to the Smurf Turf curse.
Next: Boca Raton Bowl
Dec 23, 2014; Boca Raton, FL, USA; Detail photo of the Boca Raton Bowl logo before a game between the Northern Illinois Huskies and Marshall Thundering Herd at FAU Football Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Robert Mayer-USA TODAY Sports
Marmot Boca Raton Bowl
Toledo vs. Temple
Boca Raton, Florida | FAU Stadium
Dec. 22, 7 p.m. on ESPN
At the beginning of the season you may have shuddered to think of this as a bowl game, but it may actually turn out to be one of the better postseason games this year.
Temple has had an absolutely Cinderella season, culminating in an AAC Championship game appearance. The Owls were taken lightly by far too many teams and ended up upsetting some pretty big names, including Penn State. They did it by fielding one of the best defenses in the nation, coming in at No. 16 in scoring defense and No. 18 in total defense.
Toledo was one of the favorites to win the MAC this season, and looked to be on their way after upsetting Arkansas and Iowa State, but two late-season losses to Northern Illinois and Western Michigan put them behind the 8-ball. Like many teams in the MAC, the Rockets rely on scoring quickly and often, putting up 35 points per game.
Line: Temple, -1.5
This isn’t the easiest game to pick, but should be fun to watch. Bet on Temple’s defense which has been tough all year.
Next: Poinsettia Bowl
Dec 4, 2015; Detroit, MI, USA; Northern Illinois Huskies quarterback Tommy Fiedler (16) passes against the Bowling Green Falcons in the first half of the MAC Championship at Ford Field. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports
San Diego County Credit Union Poinsettia Bowl
Boise State vs. Northern Illinois
San Diego | Qualcomm Stadium
Dec. 23, 4:30 p.m. on ESPN
Two teams who looked to topple the system a few years ago now going head-to-head in one of the oldest mid-tier bowls.
This wasn’t the Boise State of the BCS-buster years, but still a quality team, putting up 37.8 points per game and limiting opponents to 21.3 points. They don’t have the explosive plays they were once known for, and defensive struggles to close out the season against New Mexico, Air Force and San Jose State don’t bode well against the Huskies.
Northern Illinois also lost some of their swagger this season, but still managed to get to the MAC Championship game, where they were routed by Bowling Green. They still have some firepower on offense, but have also struggled on defense. Two teams with practically mirror images.
Line: Boise State, -8
Normally I’d advise to never bet against the Broncos in a postseason game, but eight points is just too rich. Take the Huskies to beat that spread in a close game.
Next: GoDaddy Bowl
Dec 4, 2015; Detroit, MI, USA; Mac commissioner Jon Steinbrecher prepares to award trophies to the Bowling Green Falcons for winning the MAC Championship against the Northern Illinois Huskies at Ford Field. Bowling Green won 34-14. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports
GoDaddy Bowl
Georgia Southern vs. Bowling Green
Mobile, Alabama | Ladd-Peebles Stadium
Dec. 23, 8 p.m. on ESPN
MAC champion Bowling Green has a lot of weapons on offense, and Georgia Southern’s game is to run, run, run and keep the clock moving in their favor. This game could be brutal.
Georgia Southern boasts the number one rushing attack in the nation at 356 yards per game, over 30 yards per game better than the number two rushing team, Air Force. They run a hybrid option attack that can play out like the triple-option, but quarterbacks Kevin Ellison and Favian Upshaw can run the read-option as well. The Eagles were a middling team on defense, both against the pass and run.
Bowling Green is on the opposite side of the spectrum, finishing 3rd nationally in passing offense at 376 yards per game. They did defend the run better than the pass.
Line: Bowling Green, -7.5
In a game like this, unless one or the other has a shutdown defense, you have to lean towards the team who can strike the quickest. The spread is big, but the Falcons should be able to win by 10.
Next: Bahamas Bowl
Nov 28, 2015; San Antonio, TX, USA; Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders quarterback Austin Grammer (2) runs the ball against the UTSA Roadrunners during the second half at Alamodome. The Blue Raiders won 42-7. Mandatory Credit: Soobum Im-USA TODAY Sports
Popeyes Bahamas Bowl
Middle Tennessee vs. Western Michigan
Nassau, Bahamas | Robinson National Stadium
Dec. 24, Noon on ESPN
If you’re watching this game you have to either be a big fan of one of the two teams involved or you want to see some beautiful scenery. Other than that…
MTSU coming in out of Conference-USA at 7-5 and Western Michigan coming in at 7-5 out of the MAC has all the makings of two teams who probably would be watching from the sofa 10 years ago. Both team scored over 34 points per game this season, and neither were able to hold opponents to less than 25 points.
Last one with the ball wins? One thing Middle Tennessee can do is throw the ball pretty well, and Western Michigan had their troubles stopping the pass. Weather tolerance edge in the heat and humidity to MTSU.
Line: W. Michigan, -3
Western Michigan has provided us with some interesting bowl games in the past, but the Blue Raiders came on strong late in the season. Take MTSU to beat any spread and win.
Next: Hawai'i Bowl
Dec 5, 2015; San Diego, CA, USA; San Diego State Aztecs running back Rashaad Penny (20) runs for a fourth quarter touchdown against the Air Force Falcons at Qualcomm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jake Roth-USA TODAY Sports
Hawai’i Bowl
San Diego State vs. Cincinnati
Honolulu | Aloha Stadium
Dec. 24, 8 p.m. on ESPN
Talk about two programs going in different directions, you’ve got it here. Cincinnati, who under Brian Kelly became one of the best non-P5 teams in the nation has regressed terribly under Tommy Tuberville, and is now seeing an exodus of recruits.
San Diego State finished with their best record in a decade and took down Air Force to win the Mountain West Championship. The Aztecs bring the number ten scoring defense in the nation, only giving up 17 points per game, while the Bearcats depend on offense to win since their defense has been essentially a non-factor.
The Bearcats are in a tailspin of season, and Tuberville needs a bowl win if he hopes for any chance of returning. Unfortunately, he just doesn’t have the horses.
Line: Cincinnati, -1.5
If you watched the Bearcats give up 65 points to USF, you know why this is a ridiculous line. Take the Aztecs to win this one going way.
Next: St. Petersburg Bowl
Nov 21, 2015; East Hartford, CT, USA; Connecticut Huskies quarterback Tim Boyle (14) celebrates with his teammates after defeating the Houston Cougars at Rentschler Field. UConn defeated the Houston Cougars 20-17. Mandatory Credit: David Butler II-USA TODAY Sports
St. Petersburg Bowl
Connecticut vs. Marshall
St. Petersburg, Florida | Tropicana Field
Dec. 26, 11 a.m. on ESPN
Another Florida city with a baseball park that undersells, another bowl that we probably don’t need.
Marshall was the darling of the Group of Five teams last season, coming within a whisker of going undefeated and possibly upsetting the College Football Playoff system in its first year. This season the Thundering Herd still played well, but nothing up to last season’s standard.
UConn is in a bowl game…at 6-6.
Hooray.
In fairness to the Huskies, the did lose six games to six quality teams, and played pretty decently on defense all year (other than giving up 37 points to Cincinnati). On the flip side, Marshall’s three losses were to the only three quality team they played all year, all of them also playing in postseason games.
Line: Marshall, -4
Vegas seems to be under the delusion that less losses on a weaker schedule is better. UConn’s defense can win this game, and certainly keep it under four points. Take the Huskies.
Next: Sun Bowl
Dec 31, 2013; El Paso, TX, USA; The Sun Bowl logo is seen on the center of the field before the Virginia Tech Hokies face the UCLA Bruins at Sun Bowl Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Ivan Pierre Aguirre-USA TODAY Sports
Hyundai Sun Bowl
Miami vs. Washington State
El Paso, Texas | Sun Bowl
Dec. 26, 2 p.m. on CBS
This year’s Sun Bowl features two programs who could have bright futures – one with a new coach (Mark Richt) beginning next season, and one with a coach (Mike Leach) who needs to show he’s worth what he’s being paid.
The Hurricanes hopes for this game rest on the arm of Brad Kaaya, and given the fact that Washington State surrendered 223 yards in the air per game, that bodes well for Miami. The Canes’ weakness has been stopping the run, something that the Cougars can’t do having finished last in the nation in rushing at less than 80 yards per game.
If Miami’s secondary can stop the prolific passing of Washington State quarterback Luke Falk, they’ll be doing something few teams have done. This one has all the makings of a big shootout.
Line: Washington State, -3
The Cougars seem to play down to their opponent, but even at that, Miami’s defense is just too porous to stop such a high-powered pass game. Washington State covers.
Next: Heart of Dallas Bowl
Oct 17, 2015; Seattle, WA, USA; Washington Huskies head coach Chris Petersen speaks with his players during the second quarter against the Oregon Ducks at Husky Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jennifer Buchanan-USA TODAY Sports
Zaxby’s Heart of Dallas Bowl
Washington vs. Southern Miss
Dallas | Cotton Bowl
Dec. 26, 2:20 p.m. on ESPN
You have to like what Chris Petersen is doing at Washington, and the Huskies’ end of season blowout of rival Washington State was quite the statement. A game in the Cotton Bowl will be a nice showcase for the youngest team in the FBS.
Southern Miss has a good team, but struggled against quality opponents this season. It’s clear that Conference-USA has a long way to go before they catch up with some of the other Group of Five leagues. They’ll find playing in this game will be as tough as any they’ve had this season.
Line: Washington, -8.5
Seems like a big spread, but honestly the difference between a middle Pac-12 team and a top C-USA team is huge. Also, Chris Petersen loves bowl games. Huskies cover, and then some.
Next: Pinstripe Bowl
Nov 28, 2015; Winston-Salem, NC, USA; Duke Blue Devils quarterback Parker Boehme (12) runs the ball during the first quarter against the Wake Forest Demon Deacons at BB&T Field. Mandatory Credit: Jeremy Brevard-USA TODAY Sports
New Era Pinstripe Bowl
Indiana vs. Duke
Bronx, New York | Yankee Stadium
Dec. 26, 3:30 p.m. on ABC
Still can’t get used to this whole “bowl game in Yankee Stadium” thing, but it is pretty cool. As for the teams, here are two traditional basketball powers who suddenly are making noise on the gridiron.
Good for you, Indiana and Duke.
Both teams play solid offense, scoring over 30 points per game, and Duke plays decent defense, while Indiana is atrocious, allowing a bloated 37 points per game. That should make the Blue Devils’ mouths water.
The Blue Devils are a very balanced offense, and have the ability to hang on to the ball and run the clock, or strike quickly when needed. It could be a very long afternoon for this Hoosier defense, who surrenders a whopping 507 yards per game.
Line: Indiana, -2
I sense some Big Ten love or ACC hate going on in Vegas. Duke should really put this game away early. Take the Devils to beat that spread.
Next: Independence Bowl
Nov 28, 2015; Charlottesville, VA, USA; Virginia Tech Hokies head coach Frank Beamer is carried by his players after defeating the Virginia Cavaliers 23-20 at Scott Stadium. Mandatory Credit: James Lang-USA TODAY Sports
Camping World Independence Bowl
Tulsa vs. Virginia Tech
Shreveport, Louisiana | Independence Stadium
Dec. 26, 5:45 p.m. on ESPN
This bowl will get good ratings simply by being the farewell game for Virginia Tech coach Frank Beamer.
I can break this one down any way you like, but the bottom line is the Hokies aren’t going to lose this one no matter what. They’ll send Beamer off with a W.
Line: Virginia Tech, -13.5
Like I said, VT will win the game, but nearly 14 points? Don’t forget what Tulsa was able to do on offense this year. Tulsa covers the spread.
Next: Foster Farms Bowl
Nov 21, 2015; Salt Lake City, UT, USA; UCLA Bruins quarterback Josh Rosen (3) passes the ball during the second half against the Utah Utes at Rice-Eccles Stadium. UCLA won 17-9. Mandatory Credit: Russ Isabella-USA TODAY Sports
Foster Farms Bowl
UCLA vs. Nebraska
Santa Clara, California | Levi’s Stadium
Dec. 26, 9:15 p.m. on ESPN
UCLA deserved a better opponent than Nebraska, and the Cornhuskers are lucky to even be in a bowl at 5-7.
Mike Riley’s Cornhuskers looked like they’d been in the corn mash this season, with some incredibly bad losses to bad teams, and a huge upset of Michigan State. Don’t let that single game fool you, this is not a good Nebraska team, and UCLA should run away with it.
The Bruins have been decimated on defense this season, but was still able to hold opponents to 25 points per game. The Huskers’ 122nd ranked pass defense is going to picked on in this game, and picked on a lot. Look for points early and often.
Line: UCLA, -6.5
Take the Bruins to cover that spread. They’ll win by 10 or more against an atrocious Nebraska team.
Next: Military Bowl
Dec 12, 2015; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Navy Midshipmen quarterback Keenan Reynolds (19) poses with students after leading the Naval Academy past the Army Black Knights 21-17 at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Danny Wild-USA TODAY Sports
Military Bowl presented By Northrop Grumman
Pittsburgh vs. Navy
Annapolis, Maryland | Jack Stephens Field at Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium
Dec. 28, 2:30 p.m. on ESPN
This will be an absolute joy of a game to watch, and seeing Navy’s triple-option offense run to perfection by senior quarterback Keenan Reynolds is a don’t-miss attraction.
Everyone knows what Navy will do, and yet few have been able to stop them from doing it. They control the ball, the clock, and their hardnose defense creates turnovers. That’s the formula for one of the best teams a service academy has seen in decades.
Pittsburgh has seen a bit of a renaissance under first-year head coach Pat Narduzzi, and he almost had the Panthers in the ACC title game. Pitt runs a much more balanced offense, and has a more pro-style scheme. They’ve managed to put up a middle of the road 28 points per game.
Defense is where the Panthers make their living, and stopping the run is one of the things they do best. This is going to be a pounding on both sides, and the team who wins the turnover battle will probably win the game (Navy was second best in the country in turnover margin)
Line: Navy, -3.5
Defending the option is a monster task if you don’t do it often. Pitt faces Georgia Tech every season, but Navy’s offense is a a different level. Take the Midshipmen to cover.
Next: Quick Lane Bowl
Nov 14, 2015; Iowa City, IA, USA; Minnesota Golden Gophers quarterback Mitch Leidner (7) prepares to throw a pass against the Iowa Hawkeyes during the first quarter at Kinnick Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeffrey Becker-USA TODAY Sports
Quick Lane Bowl
Central Michigan vs. Minnesota
Detroit | Ford Field
Dec. 28, 5 p.m. on ESPN2
What the heck is the Quick Lane Bowl? It’s the bowl that was the yet-to-be-named Detroit, Mi. bowl last season.
A Michigan team is playing in it…that’s something…and it would have been nice to see former Minnesota coach Jerry Kill be able to finish out the season and finally notch his first bowl win in six tries. Instead, we’re left with this.
Minnesota’s simply a better team, and the Chippewas have struggled against lesser ones this season.
Line: Minnesota, -6
Win one for Kill, fellas. Gophers cover and then some. Sorry Chippewas.
Next: Armed Forces Bowl
Sep 19, 2015; Austin, TX, USA; California Golden Bears quarterback Jared Goff (16) reacts in the final seconds against the Texas Longhorns during the fourth quarter at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium. Cal beat Texas 45-44. Mandatory Credit: Brendan Maloney-USA TODAY Sports
Lockheed Martin Armed Forces Bowl
California vs. Air Force
Ft. Worth, Texas | Amon G. Carter Stadium
Dec. 29, 2 p.m. on ESPN
Another service academy who can run the ball like crazy, against a Cal team with an NFL-ready quarterback, Jared Goff. Gotta love bowl games.
The Falcons were the Mountain West Conference runner-up, but have really been scrapping on defense, especially towards the end of the season. They finished 39th in the nation, giving up only 23 points per game, but during their last four games (one of their toughest stretches) they gave up nearly 30 points per game.
Cal was hot early in the season, and had a lot of folks on Tightwad Hill excited. But the Golden Bears struggled in the middle of the season, losing four straight to elite Pac-12 opponents. Even the games the Bears won this season were high-scoring shootouts. If Air Force played bad defense at the end of the season, then Cal played none.
Line: Cal, -7
This one is hard to figure because of the disparity in the two conferences these teams come from. But even with bad defense, Air Force won’t be able to score enough to keep up with Cal. The Bears cover 7, but no more.
Next: Russell Athletic Bowl
Dec 5, 2015; Waco, TX, USA; Baylor Bears wide receiver Corey Coleman (1) leaps over a Texas Longhorns defender during the second half at McLane Stadium. The Longhorns defeat the Bears 23-17. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports
Russell Athletic Bowl
North Carolina vs. Baylor
Orlando | Orlando Citrus Bowl
Dec. 29, 5:30 p.m. on ESPN
Ten years ago you would have laughed if someone told you that North Carolina and Baylor were going to be national football powers. But they are, and they are both darn good teams.
If Baylor weren’t nursing so many injuries at quarterback (last we heard, 3rd string Chris Johnson was slated to start) this would be a much tighter game to call. Both teams have explosive offenses and both teams have their struggles on defense.
What will decide this game is which elite player steps up and carries his team to a win – North Carolina quarterback Marquise Williams, or Baylor wide receiver Corey Coleman? Both of them have the knack for showing up when needed most, and both are facing defenses that leave a lot to be desired.
Emotional edge has to go to Baylor in this game, as they were thinking national title from the start of the season, until injuries simply went too deep for them to fix. Carolina was a bit of surprise, and played Clemson tough in the ACC title game. They’re “just happy to be here” more than likely.
Line: Baylor, -2
Williams is prone to mistakes, and he has more opportunity to cost his team than does Coleman. Bears dispatch of the Tar Heels by at least 3 and cover.
Next: Arizona Bowl
Nov 7, 2015; Laramie, WY, USA; Colorado State Rams head coach Mike Bobo (L) talks to quarterback Nick Stevens (7) on the sidelines against the Wyoming Cowboys during the third quarter at War Memorial Stadium. The Rams won 26-7. Mandatory Credit: Troy Babbitt-USA TODAY Sports
NOVA Home Loans Arizona Bowl
Nevada vs. Colorado State
Tucson, Arizona | Arizona Stadium
Dec. 29, 7:30 p.m. on Campus Insiders
This will be short and sweet.
Welcome to head coaching and your first bowl game in that position, Mike Bobo.
Welcome to a late season game with meaning that doesn’t involve a cannon, Nevada.
Both teams play mediocre defense. The Rams average a handful more points a game than the Wolf Pack. The bottom line is we have a 6-6 team and a 7-5 team in a bowl that you can only watch on the internet.
This is why I drink.
So, in this battle of two mules fighting over a carrot stick, toss a coin.
Line: Colorado State, -3
Sure, why not. The Rams average four points more per game, so covering the three points spread sounds like a winner.
Next: Texas Bowl
Nov 26, 2015; Austin, TX, USA; Texas Tech Red Raiders running back DeAndre Washington (21) and quarterback Patrick Mahomes II (5) react against the Texas Longhorns during the second half at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium. Texas Tech beat Texas 48-45. Mandatory Credit: Brendan Maloney-USA TODAY Sports
AdvoCare V100 Texas Bowl
LSU vs. Texas Tech
Houston | NRG Stadium
Dec. 26, 9 p.m. on ESPN
This is probably not the bowl in Texas that LSU envisioned themselves in November, when everyone had them picked to run away with the SEC and Leonard Fournette to do the same with the Heisman.
What a difference a month makes.
The Tigers broke a string of three straight losses near the end of the season to win a yawner over Texas A&M (and save Les Miles’ job). They haven’t looked like the same LSU team since being blasted by Alabama on Nov. 7, and Fournette simply faded away.
Texas Tech, if nothing else, is good for a lot of trick plays, scoring and just fun football. They’re in a no-lose situation, and head coach Kliff Kingsbury is likely to pull out all the stops to make a good showing against the SEC.
Unless Leonard Fournette suddenly finds himself again, and the Tigers remember how to play pass defense (finishing the season 47th in the nation in that category) there is no way they’ll beat the Red Raiders.
Line: LSU, -7
That’s an awful lot of respect for the SEC in that spread, and Texas Tech is going to beat it, and probably win the game. Take the Raiders in the upset.
Next: Birmingham Bowl
Nov 28, 2015; Memphis, TN, USA; Memphis Tigers wide receiver Daniel Hurd (83) stiff arms Southern Methodist Mustangs defensive back Jordan Wyatt (15) during the second half at Liberty Bowl Memorial Stadium. Memphis Tigers defeats Southern Methodist Mustangs 63-0 .Mandatory Credit: Justin Ford-USA TODAY Sports
Birmingham Bowl
Auburn vs. Memphis
Birmingham, Alabama | Legion Field
Dec. 30, Noon on ESPN
They should call this one the “mighty have fallen” bowl. Auburn was a near consensus pick to win the SEC West in the preseason, and everyone had Memphis hands down winning the American.
Not so fast my friend.
Now what we have are two teams picking up shreds of their remaining dignity to play in a bowl game that has been one of the lowest attendance draws of any.
Auburn’s gimmicky offense has finally been figured out by most teams, and the genius Gus Malzahn is now looking like another guy who should probably stick to a coordinator position. Memphis (a team with a reputation for playing dirty) can come in and make a statement by beating an SEC power.
The Tigers from Alabama hired Will Muschamp to fix their defensive woes. They ended up 91st in the nation in total defense, and 69th in scoring defense. Probably still needs a little work. Memphis is seventh nationally in scoring offense, and 13th in total offense. That pretty much sums up what we’ll see in this game.
Line: Auburn -2.5
Not sure which Auburn team the folks in Vegas have been watching, but Memphis will easily top that and win this game. Take the Tennessee Tigers.
Next: Belk Bowl
Nov 28, 2015; Starkville, MS, USA; Mississippi State Bulldogs quarterback Dak Prescott (15) makes a pass during the first quarter of the game against the Mississippi Rebels at Davis Wade Stadium. Mississippi won 38-27. Mandatory Credit: Matt Bush-USA TODAY Sports
Belk Bowl
NC State vs. Mississippi State
Charlotte, N.C. | Bank of America Stadium
Dec. 30, 3:30 p.m. on ESPN
The Belk Bowl has turned into one of the better SEC-ACC battles of the bowl season in recent years, and this year should be another good one.
Dak Prescott will have one last opportunity to show what he can do (not that he hasn’t shown it plenty in this career) and coming up against NC State will be a great way to close it out for the Bulldogs’ quarterback.
NC State plays pretty solid defense all around. Nothing spectacular, and no real big standout players, but they get the job done pretty well. They also play a pretty balanced offense, a little run heavy at times, but effective when needed. That said, they’re a hard team to figure, losing two games to pretty bad teams and three to pretty good ones.
Mississippi State was picked to finish dead last in the SEC West, and ended up just one notch above that. However, the 4-4 conference record is deceptive, as they really fought hard against tough teams like LSU and Ole Miss, while being taken to the woodshed by Alabama and Texas A&M.
Line: Mississippi State, -5
That seems a fair bet with Dak Prescott being the difference maker to separate these two evenly matched teams. Bulldogs cover.
Next: Music City Bowl
Nov 28, 2015; Lexington, KY, USA; Louisville Cardinals safety Jermaine Reve (27) celebrates after catching an interception pass against the Kentucky Wildcats in the second half at Commonwealth Stadium. Louisville defeated Kentucky 38-24. Mandatory Credit: Mark Zerof-USA TODAY Sports
Franklin American Mortgage Music City Bowl
Texas A&M vs. Louisville
Nashville | Nissan Stadium
Dec. 30, 7 p.m. on ESPN
And coming to Nashville, we have two teams who are absolutely in a tailspin. Louisville simply crushed any expectations of improvement this season by putting up an ugly crooked number in the loss column, while TAMU simply nose-dived from week six on.
Now the Aggies are losing quarterbacks and recruits like crazy, and no one is sure what the heck is going on in College Station.
These are two coaches who are fighting to keep jobs after next season, and this game may not matter at all either way. Offensively and defensively they are evenly matched, and neither has played fundamentally sound football this season. At least Louisville still plays their big in-state rival.
This game may be the ugliest bowl game of the year.
Line: Louisville, -1
Things are so bad in College Station right now, that betting on Bobby Petrino actually looks like a good idea. Take Louisville to cover.
Next: Holiday Bowl
Nov 28, 2015; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Wisconsin Badgers wide receiver Jordan Fredrick (9) holds the Paul Bunyan Axe after defeating the Minnesota Golden Gophers at TCF Bank Stadium. The Badgers won 31-21. Mandatory Credit: Jesse Johnson-USA TODAY Sports
Holiday Bowl
USC vs. Wisconsin
San Diego | Qualcomm Stadium
Dec. 30, 10:30 p.m. on ESPN
Actually not a bad matchup in this bowl game. Both teams had some struggles early in the year and bounced back, and both of them lost their season finales (although USC’s was in a conference title game).
USC has a little more offensive firepower than the Badgers, but Wisconsin does have the best scoring defense in the nation, giving up only 13.1 points per game. The Trojans have had their issues getting going against defenses this good.
This will come down to a battle of wills, and the Badger defense has been really turning their will up a notch of late. Still…USC is no Minnesota, Maryland or Rutgers offensively, so it could be closer than some may think.
Line: USC, -3
Normally I’d say when all else fails, bet on defense. That will hold true here as well. Take the Badgers to beat any spread up to five.
Dec 31, 2014; Atlanta , GA, USA; General view of the logo on the field prior to the game between the TCU Horned Frogs and the Mississippi Rebels in the 2014 Peach Bowl at the Georgia Dome. Mandatory Credit: Paul Abell/CFA Peach Bowl via USA TODAY Sports
Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl
Houston vs. Florida State
Atlanta | Georgia Dome
Dec. 31, Noon on ESPN
The Peach Bowl is one of the oldest bowls in the nation, and traditionally has provided some of the top games in every bowl season. Last year’s mudhole stomping of Ole Miss by TCU an obvious exception.
Things are a little different in Atlanta this year. Once again, the bowl’s traditional SEC-ACC matchup is gone, and for the second straight year it’s an early start time.
Houston’s dream season will conclude with a shot to knock off the Florida State Seminoles, and head coach Tom Herman can up his stock for the eventual move to take over at Texas when Charlie Strong is ushered out (predictions? yes, predictions). Herman’s offense has been spectacular this season, busting out 40.6 points per game. They’ve played pretty good defense, but haven’t faced a team as talented as the Seminoles either.
For FSU’s part, they ran into a bit of bad luck in Atlanta against Georgia Tech back in October, and then hit the Clemson buzzsaw a few weeks later. Still, given that they were trying to replace Jameis Winston with a transfer quarterback and were dealing with an lot of talent going to the NFL, Jimbo Fisher can’t be totally displeased. This is still an elite team with a lot to prove.
Line: FSU, -7
Houston has had a wonderful year, but this is FSU. The Cougars haven’t faced anyone even close to this caliber. Take the Seminoles to cover up to 10.
Dec 31, 2014; Miami Gardens, FL, USA; A general view of the logo and end zone marker prior to the the 2014 Orange Bowl at Sun Life Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brad Barr-USA TODAY Sports
College Football Playoff Semifinal at the Capital One Orange Bowl
No. 4 Oklahoma vs. No. 1 Clemson
Miami Gardens, Florida | Sun Life Stadium
Dec. 31, 4 p.m. on ESPN
Talk about firepower at the quarterback position, here you have it. Heisman finalist Deshuan Watson against coulda-been Heisman finalist Baker Mayfield. Let the drama begin.
Clemson is undefeated, and with that comes a heavier burden in each game. Not only are the Tigers 13-0 this season, but they are 16-0 going back to the end of 2014…which included a 40-6 drubbing of Oklahoma in last year’s Russell Athletic Bowl. Clemson is no doubt the most complete team in the nation, but long streaks can trump talent.
Oklahoma has quietly built a nice resume, excluding their embarrassing loss to Texas in the Red River Showdown. While many want to give the Sooners a lot of credit, I’m one of the doubters who looks at OU as very lucky (which you have to be to win a title sometimes).
Line: Oklahoma, -4
13-0 and poor Clemson still gets no respect. The Tigers won’t dominate the Sooners like last season, but it will still be a win. However, it may take a last second field goal to do it. Tigers beat the spread.
Next: Cotton Bowl Classic
Jan 1, 2015; Arlington, TX, USA; General view of the Goodyear Cotton Bowl logo before the game between the Baylor Bears and Michigan State Spartans in the 2015 Cotton Bowl Classic at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports
College Football Playoff Semifinal at the Goodyear Cotton Bowl Classic
No. 3 Michigan State vs. No. 2 Alabama
Arlington, Texas | AT&T Stadium
Dec. 31, 8 p.m. on ESPN
Here are two coaches who know each other, two programs who play similar styles of football, and two teams who are among the elite in the nation.
Bruises? Probably a few.
The Spartans play solid defense. Alabama plays stellar defense.
The Crimson Tide will bring a good quarterback, Jake Coker. Michigan State will bring an outstanding quarterback, Connor Cook.
The Spartans play a very balanced offense, with a little more pass than run. Alabama plays a very balanced offense, with a little more run than pass.
So far, each team is cancelling the other one out. The X-factor? Heisman Trophy winner Derrick Henry. Despite Michigan State having a top ten rush defense, this will be Henry’s day. He’ll help to avenge Alabama of the last two year’s postseason disappointments.
Line: Alabama, -9.5
That seems like a pretty big spread for two evenly matched teams. Have to take the Spartans to keep it closer than that.
Nov 28, 2015; Knoxville, TN, USA; Tennessee Volunteers running back Alvin Kamara (6) runs the ball against the Vanderbilt Commodores during the second half at Neyland Stadium. Tennessee won 53-28. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports
Outback Bowl
Northwestern vs. Tennessee
Tampa | Raymond James Stadium
Jan. 1, Noon on ESPN2
Nobody expected much out of Northwestern this season, and everyone expected too much out of Tennessee.
Northwestern relies solely on their defense, as their offense is severely limited. They finished the season seventh nationally in scoring defense, giving up only 16.4 points per game, but only managed to score an average of 20.7 points per game, 112th in the nation. They did pull some big upsets and spoil a few seasons along the way.
The Vols can score, but on defense they’ve been Jekyll and Hyde all season. Even from half to half in some games. Depending on which Tennessee defense shows up, we might see a low-scoring defensive game, or we might see something worse.
Line: Tennessee, -8
The Vols are still a team that has a lot to lose in this game, and they’ll be fired up. Joshua Dobbs has beaten better pass defenses than this. Take the Vols to cover.
Next: Citrus Bowl
Nov 28, 2015; Ann Arbor, MI, USA; Michigan Wolverines head coach Jim Harbaugh on the sideline during the first half against the Ohio State Buckeyes at Michigan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Tim Fuller-USA TODAY Sports
Buffalo Wild Wings Citrus Bowl
Michigan vs. Florida
Orlando | Orlando Citrus Bowl
Jan. 1, 1 p.m. on ABC
The Gators and Wolverines both surprised a lot of people with how well they played under new head coaches, and both defenses are among the best in the country.
Florida wasn’t supposed to be this good this fast, and although they didn’t look to be in the same class as Alabama in the SEC Championship game, they still remain one of the top teams in the country. Defensively they rank 8th in scoring defense and 6th in total defense, making them a tough team to beat no matter who you are.
Michigan pitched some mean shutout football during the season, and probably should have won their game with Michigan State. They were simply outplayed by rival Ohio State and nobody knows how they lost that opener to Utah. The Wolverines rank 4th in total defense and 10th in scoring defense, meaning we are probably in for a lot of punts in this bowl.
The difference? The Wolverines have themselves a quarterback in Jake Rudock, and as LSU, FSU and Alabama proved, that’s how you beat the Gators.
Line: Michigan, -4
Can’t argue with that spread. The Wolverines simply have more weapons on offense, and Florida’s defense will get overworked again.
Next: Fiesta Bowl
Nov 21, 2015; Columbus, OH, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes wide receiver Braxton Miller (5) congratulates running back Jalin Marshall (7) after his touchdown against the Michigan State Spartans at Ohio Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Greg Bartram-USA TODAY Sports
BattleFrog Fiesta Bowl
Notre Dame vs. Ohio State
Glendale, Arizona | University of Phoenix Stadium
Jan. 1, 1 p.m. on ESPN
The Fiesta Bowl usually proves to be one of the more interesting games to watch, and watching traditional powers Ohio State and Notre Dame clash will be a classic.
It would be nice if they’d pick a sponsor and stick with it….BattleFrog?
The Buckeyes waded through their easy schedule, looking beatable but never being beaten, until they faced Michigan State. That single loss compounded with the light opponents kept Ohio State out of the playoffs. Their quarterback play has been sporadic, and Braxton Miller and Ezekiel Elliot have been the lone bright spots on what was supposed to be an unstoppable offense.
The Fighting Irish had a schedule which looked tougher at the start of the year, but as each week passed, it was clear some of their victories weren’t as good as once thought (Texas, Georgia Tech, USC). Still, they kept it together despite an unreal number of key injuries, including the starting quarterback…twice, and put together a fine season.
These two should play more often and develop a more heated rivalry.
Line: Ohio State, -6.5
I’ll buy into a Buckeyes win, but it won’t be by nearly a touchdown. This will be a close one coming down to the end. Take the Irish to beat any spread above 3.
Next: Rose Bowl
Nov 14, 2015; Pasadena, CA, USA; General view of the Rose Bowl exterior before the NCAA football game between the UCLA Bruins and the Washington State Cougars. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
Rose Bowl Game Presented by Northwestern Mutual:
Stanford vs. Iowa
Pasadena, California | Rose Bowl
Jan. 1, 5 p.m. on ESPN
The “Granddaddy of Them All” has the chance to be a real classic this year, with two tough-as-nails teams from the traditional conferences of the Big Ten and Pac-12 ready to lock up.
Stanford and Iowa are teams that really are mirror images of each other. Both run the ball well, albeit Stanford a little better. Both play excellent defense, albeit Iowa a little better. Both are conservative in play-calling and use fundamentally sound football to win games.
Iowa’s lone loss of the season came in the Big Ten title game to Michigan State. Somehow that made the committee see fit to leave them out of the playoffs. (Yeah, scratching my head too). Stanford stumbled in their opener against Northwestern, and again in conference play against Oregon, but still managed to absolutely dominate USC in the Pac-12 title game.
The difference in this game will be who plays run defense the best, and right now you’d have to lean towards Iowa in that department.
Line: Stanford, -6.5
Nobody believed in Iowa all season long, and their weaker schedule was a reason why. Still, they held Michigan State to 16 points and nearly won that game. Take the Hawkeyes to beat any spread over 4.
Next: Sugar Bowl
Nov 28, 2015; Starkville, MS, USA; Mississippi Rebels quarterback Chad Kelly (10) celebrates with the Egg Bowl trophy after the game against the Mississippi State Bulldogs at Davis Wade Stadium. Mississippi won 38-27. Mandatory Credit: Matt Bush-USA TODAY Sports
Allstate Sugar Bowl
Oklahoma State vs. Ole Miss
New Orleans | Mercedes-Benz Superdome
Jan. 1, 8:30 p.m. on ESPN
Ole Miss gets to represent the SEC in the Sugar Bowl for the first time since 1970, and while this season may not have gone as planned for the Rebels, they have to look at being here against a team like Oklahoma State as a win.
The Cowboys were another Big 12 team who was in the hunt right down to the wire, and their two end of season losses to Baylor and Oklahoma did them in. They get the joy of facing the only team to beat Alabama this season.
Oklahoma State will want to air it out, and they have the guns in their holsters to do it, coming in throwing for 357 yards per game, seventh nationally. Ole Miss isn’t far behind at number ten in passing offense, tossing it around for 334 yards per game.
So which team can defend the pass best? Neither were very good this season, with the Cowboys giving up 244 pass yards per game, and the Rebels giving up 255. Rushing and rushing defense don’t show a lot of distance between these two teams either (although if Ole Miss is without Robert Nkemdiche, that could prove to be a difference. Right now he looks to be playing.)
Who makes the least number of mistakes and who protects their quarterback best will tell the tale here.
Line: Ole Miss, -7
Ole Miss had 12 less sacks than Oklahoma State this season, but the Cowboys allowed more sacks per game. Turnover margin in favor of Okie State. Cowboys may not win the game, but they’ll beat the spread.
Next: Taxslayer Bowl
Jan 2, 2015; Jacksonville, FL, USA; A general view showing the field logo before the start of the 2015 TaxSlayer Bowl at EverBank Field. The Tennessee Volunteers beat the Iowa Hawkeyes 45-28. Mandatory Credit: Phil Sears-USA TODAY Sports
TaxSlayer Bowl
Penn State vs. Georgia
Jacksonville, Florida | EverBank Field
Jan. 2, Noon on ESPN
This is obviously not your 1983 Sugar Bowl, and both Georgia and Penn State are hoping for something to send them out of this season on a positive note.
For Georgia, the question is who will be left to coach? Mark Richt and both coordinators are gone, so defensive coach and recruiting coordinator Bryan McClendon will be the interim head coach. Position coaches will step up to help out, but this will probably be a very basic set of plays for the Bulldogs.
Penn State is trying to snap a 3-game losing streak (all to tough opponents) and to see if they can get through 60 minutes more of football without getting quarterback Christian Hackenberg killed. The return of defensive star Carl Nassib, who led the nation in sacks before his injury, will be something to watch against Georgia’s suspect offensive line.
Line: Georgia, -6.5
It’s actually amazing UGA is favored int his game. Don’t let PSU’s five losses fool you. They played a much tougher schedule. Take the Nittany Lions to cover that spread.
Nov 27, 2015; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks running back Alex Collins (3) rushes in the fourth quarter against the Missouri Tigers at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Arkansas defeated Missouri 28-3. Mandatory Credit: Nelson Chenault-USA TODAY Sports
AutoZone Liberty Bowl
Kansas State vs. Arkansas
Memphis | Liberty Bowl Memorial Stadium
Jan. 2, 3:20 p.m. on ESPN
This may be one of the biggest mismatches of this year’s bowl season. Kansas State has been plagued by injuries and has been about as streaky as you can get, losing six games in the middle of the season bookended by to 3-game winning streaks. Despite Hall of Fame coach Bill Snyder being at the helm, there isn’t much to hope for if you’re a Wildcat fan in this one.
Arkansas has come on strong once again at the end of the season, and salvaged Bret Bielema’s job. The ground-and-pound Razorback running attack finished the season strong, and the defense also steadily improved.
Line: Arkansas, -11
The Razorbacks will absolutely win this game, but it’s hard to see a Bill Snyder coached team losing a bowl game by double-digits. Unfortunately they will. Take Arky and the points.
Next: Alamo Bowl
Dec 30, 2013; San Antonio, TX, USA; Detailed view of a Alamo Bowl logo before the game between the Oregon Ducks and the Texas Longhorns at Alamo Dome. Mandatory Credit: Soobum Im-USA TODAY Sports
Valero Alamo Bowl
Oregon vs. TCU
San Antonio, Texas | Alamodome
Jan. 2, 6:45 p.m. on ESPN
Two teams who love fast-paced offenses, scoring quickly, and finding new ways to get running backs involved in games are featured in this year’s Alamo Bowl – probably the best, least known bowl of the year.
TCU had the makings of a national championship team, but dropping two heartbreakers to Oklahoma and Oklahoma State did in their title hopes. Make no mistake, this is still one of the best teams in the country, and they’ll be out to prove they are against a very deceptively good Oregon team.
Oregon, for their part, was doing their best to replace Heisman winner Marcus Mariota and still play Ducks football. The early-season inconsistencies were fixed a little too late, and Oregon found themselves on the outside looking in.
On offense, these two teams are almost dead even, but as hard as it may be to believe, TCU plays tougher defense than Oregon, and that’s what will carry them to a win in this game. Neither team has an big edge in turnover margin.
Line: Pick ’em
Lay the bet on TCU. They’ll get more stops on defense, regardless of how many points are scored.
Next: Cactus Bowl
Nov 7, 2015; Pullman, WA, USA; Arizona State Sun Devils quarterback Mike Bercovici (2) celebrates a touchdown against the Washington State Cougars during the second half at Martin Stadium. The Cougars won 30-24. Mandatory Credit: James Snook-USA TODAY Sports
Motel 6 Cactus Bowl
West Virginia vs. Arizona State
Phoenix | Chase Field
Jan. 2, 10:15 p.m. on ESPN
Want some fun to watch offense while you recover from the food and beverage coma? Here you go. The Sun Devils and Mountaineers will provide what you need.
WVU put up 33 points per game, while ASU put up 34, and both teams absolutely have their strengths. The Sun Devils will want to stretch the field and go downfield, and the Mountaineers have one of the best running attacks in the nation.
The Sun Devils have had their struggles on defense, but do tend to be strong against the run. West Virginia’s secondary has been their undoing this season, and coming up against a quarterback like Mike Bercovici will make that even more apparent.
Line: WVU, -1
The Sun Devils played a devilishly difficult schedule, but still remained competitive. They will be able to exploit the Mountaineers defensive backs. Take ASU.
Next: National Championship
Jul 14, 2014; Irving, TX, USA; College football playoff executive director Bill Hancock speaks to the media at a press conference to unveil the new championship trophy at the college football playoff headquarters. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports
College Football Playoff National Championship Presented by AT&T
Glendale, Arizona | University of Phoenix Stadium
Jan. 11, 8:30 p.m. on ESPN
Given that there are any number of ways this could end up, and my above picks could be wrong, I’m simply going to give you my early spreads and picks for any possible combination:
Clemson (+4) vs. Alabama (-4)
Clemson (-2.5) vs. Michigan State (+2.5)
Oklahoma (E) vs. Alabama (E)
Oklahoma (-6) vs. Michigan State (+6)
Next: Top 30 College Football Coaches of All Time
Remember, it’s all for fun and if you use my advice for your winning wagers, I expect a thank you Tweet at the very least. Enjoy this year’s bowl season and good luck to your favorite team.
All stats via cfbstats.com
All betting information/lines via teamrankings.com