Similar to the invincibility of a dominant fantasy running back, the window of opportunity is short. What may have been a lock, a guarantee last year is no longer. Father time may get a slow start out of the gate, but he is always running downhill and hits full stride just as your breathing begins to labor. However, this should not cause despair, unless your ARE a fantasy running back, because yesteryear’s LaDainian Tomlinson is this year’s Chris Johnson.

Both sports and life are constantly evolving, bringing forth the amazing with a small side of unintended consequences. For example, the spread offense in football has injected high scoring, excitement and evened the playing field so that dominant size and strength have been neutralized by speed and quickness. Non BCS universities such as TCU and Boise State can now compete at the highest level with any team in the country, but this parity has made the fullback, the I-formation and straight ahead power running a distant memory in college football. Sometimes the change we see is not necessarily new, but more a refinement and reawakening to the yesteryear’s past. Take for instance the recent success of Georgia Tech and its Option lead offense. Just as equal a departure from a pro-style offense and polar opposite in most respects to the Spread.

The point – constants are just that, until they are not. Always keep your feet moving because that pulling tackle may now be a slot receiver coming at you from behind.

• BCS. You want amazing – the BCS still exists. Division I(FBS) college football is still absent a playoff system, but I am not as upset as I was the year prior. Arguably every team in a BCS Bowl game is deserving, however one could argue there are two competing championship games. The true National Championship game between Texas and Alabama and the Fiesta Bowl featuring TCU and Boise State. TCU, Texas and Alabama have dominating defenses, while Boise State’s offense is to be feared. One of the larger arguments against a playoff system is that the other bowl games would be devalued. I can state unequivocally that we are already there. I have mad passion for all that is football and yet zero interest in any game prior to Jan. 1. The orange blood that flows throughout my body for the Longhorns is uncompromised, but I question strongly whether the winner of the National Championship game is truly the best team in America without first facing the winner of the “other” championship game. What’s the point of the “other” game, since its a long-standing truism that second place is the first loser. Who really wants or cares to be ranked second in the country at the close of the season?
• Tiger Woods. He is winner of Sports Illustrated Sportsman of the Year, the Associated Press Athlete of the Year and Best Male Athlete ESPY Award. Perhaps the most recognizable athlete or even individual in the world. Similar to Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant and Michael Vick, Tiger proved that no one is untouchable and personal transgressions can bleed into and impact an individual’s ability to compete. The question remains – to be a star athlete must you also be a decent, respectable person? Should the personal lives of our athletes impact our view of them as athletes or their ability to perform?
• Heisman. Mark Ingram is a fantastic football player and clearly deserving of being nominated for the Heisman award. Being nominated for such awards as an underclassman is an award in itself, but historically the Heisman is an upperclassman award for the best player in the country. The 2009 Heisman was a travesty and disrespectful to college football fans. Senior Toby Gerhart was the best running back in the country and we may never see a more dominating lineman in the sport than Senior Ndamukong Suh. Gerhart was my favored choice, but I would have been equally happy with Suh winning the award. Suh did continue on and make history as the first defensive player to win the Associated Press College Football Player of the Year. It has now been three consecutive years that a sophomore has won the Heisman despite of deserving upperclassman. The Heisman is on a slippery slope to floundering in the same pool the BCS has found itself. Perhaps what once was has come full circle again, but with a small twist. The National Championship will be determined by the AP poll and so to the best player may also be determined by the AP as well. Would not that be intriguing if TCU or Boise State is ranked number 1 in the AP poll this year following the “Championship” game. I will say this for Ingram, I do not recall seeing a better, more compelling Heisman speech.

The story goes that the tipping point for Hip Hop came during the 1977 New York blackout. After the city was plunged into darkness on the night of July 13, all hell broke loose. If you weren’t snorting rails at Studio 54 or wrapped up in a seventeen-person orgy at Plato’s Retreat, there’s a possibility you were stealing polyester pants from a shattered display window in one of the five boroughs. This was Abe Beame/Ed Koch bad old New York at its absolute apex, and the chaos resulted in 1037 reported fires and tens of millions of dollars in looted goods. Some items desired among local youth then were turntables, mixers, microphones and vinyl records. Within two years, Hip-Hop, specifically rap, had quickly expanded beyond it’s South Bronx roots, was on every street corner in the city, and was on its way to global status.

Overstated or not, the moment was a tipping point. Not unlike the year 2005 of this decade, when YouTube debuted. Do you remember life before YouTube? Of course you don’t. You have forgotten .wmv, QuickTime and RealPlayer videos. I’m not even sure what this decade was called. The 2000s? Sounds like that could be the whole millenium. The oo’s? The aughts?  When I was looking ahead to this decade as a teen in the 90s I called it the no-name decade, which sort of works. Because shit got real fucked up the last 10 years. I personally became used to the go-go freak show aspect of life as we now know it round about early ‘06, when YouTube became an integral part of my day. Because not only can the site embarrass the hell out of an unknown person who gets drunk next to somebody with a cellphone camera, it can have all the great moments in time at our fingertips within seconds.

So here are the moments of the decade, brought to you mostly by (but clearly not sponsored by) YouTube. And if you are expecting actual real important moments (Obama inauguration, 9/11, Tsunami)  you have come to the wrong place.

10. Donald Trump vs. Rosie O’Donnell 2007

After second thought, this easily beats Tiger’s amateur voice mail. It’s one thing for Rosie O’Donnell to rip Donald Trump, but her hypocrisy is astounding. If someone had done a mock homosexual accent on TV like she once did a racist imitation of Asians, she would have flown off the handle and started petitions. That’s why Trump’s work in this piece is some of his best ever, better than Trump World Tower or Melania Knauss.

9. Jake Brown @ 2007 X-Games

His shoes pop off. And he lived.

8. Steve Bartman 2003

Few moments can become part of lore. This did. When the Cubs still haven’t won the World Series in 2129, the cyborgs will still talk about it.

7. Keith Closs fight 2000

This was pre-YouTube, which is probably why you forgot it existed. Closs was a rail-thin center for the Los Angeles Clippers with a sweet ‘fro. Sadly he cornrowed it this night, when he decided to take on a little dude and what looks like half of Crenshaw Boulevard – and got his ass kicked. Looks like just another amateur fight video now, but this thing broke ground – an NBA player fighting a bunch of Joes with his shirt off on a busy street?

Link only:

http://www.buzzhumor.com/videos/9175/NBA_Player_Keith_Closs_Beat_Down_By_A_Mob

6.  David Hasselhoff’s munchies 2007

Like Norm MacDonald said, Germans love David Hasselhoff. So too does his daughter, who taped him eating a burger in a stupor so he could see how retarded he looked when drunk. Aside from some of his jibberish this isn’t frankly that entertaining, but it’s a hallmark of the decade that proves how much society loves watching celebrities self-destruct.

5. Heads up W! – 2008

I always figured George W. Bush would be a good guy to shitfaced with – it’s just too bad for the planet he stopped drinking. But he deserves credit for ducking these leather missiles. Physically speaking, he looked quick for an old guy. At that close a range, I probably would have just tried to block them with my hands.

4. Boise State 2007

This is the only pure sports moment on this list, because it may have been the greatest single-game sports story ever. Underdog Boise State against heavily favoured Oklahoma in the Fiesta Bowl. David vs. Goliath, etc. The hook and ladder, the Statue of Liberty, the way Boise State won. Then the guy who scores the winning touchdown drops down to one knee on the sideline and proposes to his cheerleader girlfriend. Eric Roth or Aaron Sorkin would never come up with stuff like that in a million years. People watch sports for decades, often unentertained, in the off-chance you see something like this.

3. Malice at the Palace 2004

I got home this Friday night in November of 2004, put on highlights, and in a drunken haze saw this. I knew the NBA would never be the same, and it hasn’t been. You can no longer buy oversized beers in NBA arenas. Thanks, Ben Wallace.

2. Boom Goes the Dynamite 2005

Not much else can be said. Stunningly, this guy works on-air in Texas now.

1. Pat O’Brien 2005

Before there was Tiger, there was Pat O’Brien. And he set the voice mail bar so high, it likely will never be touched.

Here’s to another bizarre-ass 10 years where the world doesn’t end. Happy holidays!

One of the most peculiar things that happens in college basketball is a team that does something really well will occasionally fail tremendously at its speciality.

Saw a basketball contest Monday night where that occurred. Portland State made more than 50 percent of its shots over its first 11 games and then suddenly couldn’t drop the ball into the impressive Flathead Lake in Montana if it was standing on an adjacent pier.

The Vikings shot a season-low 32.8 percent (22 of 67) during a 69-62 loss to Boise State. Make a few more shots and the result may have been different.

Portland State’s leading scorer, guard Dominic Waters, put it this way:

“Our two best shooters shot bad tonight and missed some chippies around the rim that they don’t normally miss,” Waters said of Julius Thomas (67.9 percent for the season) and Jamie Jones (62.6). “If they make the shots that they usually do, we win the game by 10 or 15 points. We just missed easy shots.”

Of course, that’s part of the game in college basketball, which always contains more surprises than the NBA brand of basketball.

For a more complete picture of what happened in the Portland State-Boise State hoops game, read this stellar story: http://www.oregonlive.com/vikings/index.ssf/2009/12/vikings_go_cold_shoot_season-l.html

Welcome back to The Rival Rundown! If you’ve always wanted to give props to your school on CC, now’s your chance! Shoot us an email explaining what’s awesome and unique about your school (or what stinks about Rival U) at rivalrundown [at] collegecandy.com!

The Gem State may a lack major-league sports team, but the spirit of competition isn’t unfamiliar to Idahoans. This week, we shine the spotlight on two schools–Boise State and the University of Idaho–who embody the passions of Idaho sports fans!

Quick Facts

Boise State: Public research institution in Boise, Idaho with 17,000 undergraduates.
Idaho: Public research institution in Moscow, Idaho with 9,000 undergraduates.

1. Football Rivalry Record

Boise State: 21-17-1
Idaho: 17-21-1

Three credits to: Boise State

2. Bowl Series Schedule

Boise State: Watch Buster Bronco lead Boise State to this year’s Fiesta Bowl on January 4!
Idaho: Likewise, the U of I Vandals will be fighting for victory in the Humanitarian Bowl on December 30!

Three credits to: Boise State, whose Broncos led them to the more prestigious Fiesta Bowl.

3. Fun Facts

Boise State: Boise State is the only accredited university in the country to offer a master’s in Raptor Biology, a specified study of birds.
Idaho: Want to be a lawyer in Idaho? U of I offers the only law school in the state!

Three credits to:  Boise State

4. Ass-Kicking Alumni

Boise State: Orlando Jordan (WWE wrestler), Dr. Robert Kustra (former Lt. Governor of Illinois, current Boise State President)
Idaho: Sarah Palin, Dan O’Brien (1996 Olympic Decathlon Champion)

Three credits to:   Idaho’s alumni are going rogue and dreaming big!

5. Acceptance Rate Agony

Boise State: 86.2%
Idaho: 77.9%

Three credits to:  Idaho

And the diploma goes to: Boise State! The city of Boise is the cultural and legal capital of Idaho, so it’s no wonder its university takes top honors.

This is my personal list. Some games just missed.

10. Gonzaga-Michigan St., 2005, Maui Invitational- Me and fellow blogger Leary have continually talked about how great this game was. 3 overtimes, Morrison, 43 points, and Ager, 36 points, just went back and forth in what was a classic for basketball fans. A game where I didn’t care who won, and just enjoyed a great game.

9. Texas-USC, Rose Bowl, 2006- The game where Vince Young literally became a college football legend. To be honest, I hated both teams, but could not stand Bush and Leinart. I remember having a basketball game the next day and on the bus to the game, the conversation was dominated by this game, instead of who we were playing. Lets just say we got killed that game.

8. Steelers-Cardinals, Superbowl, 2009- Another game where you just sat back and enjoyed the game. Rooting hard for Warner and the underdog Cards, it looked like they could take it home. Big Ben though proved that he is just clutch though, making a perfect throw to the yearly fantasy bust Santonio Holmes.

7. Tiger Over Rocco Mediate, 2008 U.S. Open- I remember sitting at my house watching this. I was just blown away by Tiger playing on what would later be revealed as a torn ACL, and he was just battling with Rocco. I really liked Rocco as well, but how could you root against Tiger, well, until now.

6. Aaron Boone’s homer in game 7 of the ALCS against the Sox- There was just so much that went into this game. Grady Little and Pedro and that whole drama set up what was going to happen. The best part about it all is that Aaron Boone of all people jacked a bomb to win it. Moments like those just made you buy into curses.

5. Mets-Cardinals, game 7 NLCS, 2006- The roller coaster of emotions I went through this game killed me. We had the god awful Oliver Perez starting this game, and he threw a gem. Willie came out, left him in for one batter, and Scott Rolen jacked a bomb. I was devastated until Endy Chavez made the greatest catch I have ever seen. He robbed the homer and became a Met legend. How could the Mets lose after that? Then that SOB Aaron Heilman left a change up (his best pitch) up in the zone and Yadier Molina hit a homer and won the game. I honestly never been so devastated after a game. I barley talked in school the next day. That game just sums up my life as a sports fan.

4. Michael Phelps over Milorad Cavic in the Olympics by 1/100 of a second for the 7th Gold- We drove back from Orlando to my Grandma’s house in Maryland just in time to watch this. This is at the height of Phelps mania. Phelps came from behind and I couldn’t tell you how he touched before Cavic, but it was the most exciting Olympic Moment I have ever seen live.

3. 6 OTs, Syracuse-Uconn- Who the hell could have thought this game was going to wind up in 6 OTs. That night we started the pregame when the game started. By the time we got to the bar, The game just got into the first overtime, I think at least. The rest of the night consisted of me and my group of friends hanging with the Captain of the Hofstra Basketball team, Mike Davis Saab, watching the game on the TV at Nachos. Syracuse won, which sucked, but it also lead to our friend Eddie, who loves Cuse, buying all of us drinks.

2. Pats-Giants Superbowl- My hatred for the Pats cannot be put into the words. Considering both Leary and Frank are huge Giants fans, I put beside my jealously of their success and rooted for the Giants big time. The game was amazing. The Hail Manning will go down as the greatest Superbowl play ever. Honestly, everything you could have asked for in a Superbowl was that game.

1. Boise State-Oklahoma- This is simple, I hate the cries for a playoff. I like the BCS and I think it works well. But this game is the only legit argument for a playoff. Boise just outplayed Oklahoma. Oklahoma almost won on pure talent. But then the craziest thing I have ever seen happened. Boise scored on a hook and ladder, then pulled out the Statue of Liberty play to win. Second best ending to any college football game next to Flutie.

2009-10 NCAA College Football Computer Simulated Playoffs

Round One

The opening round of the computer simulated playoffs are in the books, and four teams have advanced to the quarterfinals to play the top four seeds, all of whom received first round byes.

For a better understanding of these playoffs, see my December 7, 2009, post.  In the opening round, the four bowls hosting these games were the Outback Bowl, Alamo Bowl, Holiday Bowl, and Gator Bowl.  

In the Outback Bowl, #5-Seed Florida did nothing offensively in the first half against #12 seed LSU, but the Gators outscored the Tigers 13-3 in the second half to win 16-9.

In the Alamo Bowl,  #6 Boise State started the game with a nine play, 80-yard touchdown drive and never looked back in t 34-13 win over  #11 Virginia Tech. 

In the Holiday Bowl,  #7 Oregon scored two touchdowns in the final 6:41 to come back and beat #10 Iowa 27-19.

In the Gator Bowl, #9 Georgia Tech rushed for 145 yards in the first quarter while building a 14-0 lead over #8 Ohio State and then held on as the Buckeyes rallied in the second half to make it a 30-24 final

Here are the statistics for the games:

Outback Bowl

Alamo Bowl

Holiday Bowl

Gator Bowl

Quarterfinal Round

In the next round, #5 Florida takes on #4 T C U in the Cotton Bowl; #6 Boise State plays #3 Cincinnati in the Capital One Bowl; #7 Oregon plays #2 Texas in the Rose Bowl; and #9 Georgia Tech plays #1 Alabama in the Sugar Bowl.

These games would be the four New Year’s Day Bowl Games.  Wouldn’t it be great when all four January 1 bowls would actually mean something and guarantee that every game contributed to the real National Championship?

Check back on January 2 for results of the college football Elite Eight.

Tom O'Leary

Jack Johnson

We are officially done with the extensive 34 game undercard leading up to the vaunted BCS Championship: #1 vs. #2. Horns vs. the Tide. Alabama’s six All-Americans are going up against the all-time winningest quarterback in college football history. If you want to throw down in fisticuffs, I’ve got Jack Johnson and Tom O’Leary right here, ready to go. Ladies and Gentlemen! Let’s get it on!

AT&T Cotton Bowl–Ole Miss vs. Oklahoma St. (Jan. 2) Line: Ole Miss-3

Consider this the welterweight SEC/Big 12 title game. Both teams redefined “uninspired” during their last game of the season. Okla St. was shut out against their rival Sooners–with a BCS berth in the balance. Ole Miss found a way to lose to a scrappy Mississippi State team. Not exactly the way you want to go out.

On paper this is an easy pick, Ole Miss actually has talented players on offense (Snead, Hodge, McCluster). But Snead beat out Jonathan Crompton for the national headcase of the year award. Hodge doesn’t get a lot of help from the other receivers. And Nutt occasionally forgets to give the ball to McCluster. Luckily for the Rebels, they have a better defense than Oklahoma State.

When you look at Ole Miss’ schedule, if they had just taken care of two marginal teams they finish the regular season with 10 wins. But they could have just as easily lost to LSU and finished with 7 wins. Weird season.

AT&T is your corporate sponsor. I read an article where an independent firm said that AT&T actually had better service than Verizon, that the problems with the iphone had more to do with the phone than the service. So quit whining about AT&T. They’re bringing you the Cotton Bowl, for Chrissakes.

I can't quit you, Coach Nutt...

Reason to pick Ole Miss: Rebs are 7-2 with six straight wins in bowls vs. the Big 12

Reason to pick Oklahoma St: To curry favor with billionaire T. Boone Pickens.

Reason to watch: You’ve already broken your New Year’s Resolution, can’t resist the charisma of Houston Nutt.

Pick: Ole Miss

AutoZone Liberty Bowl–Arkansas vs. East Carolina (Jan. 2) Line: Ark-7

I’d make fun of the Liberty Bowl, but at least Memphis has a local corporation buying the naming rights to the game. Here in Birmingham, we have to ride the coattails of the Papa John’s empire. The actual stadium is just as decrepit as Legion Field, so that at least is some consolation.

If for some reason you are walking by the television when this game is on, be sure to ask yourself the question, “Do I really want to spend the next three hours watching the Liberty Bowl?”

Reason to pick Arkansas: You like watching 7′ quarterbacks.

Reason to pick East Carolina: You are looking for any reason to pick against an SEC team.

Mallett towers over the competition.

Reason to watch: You literally have nothing else to do.

Pick: Arkansas

Valero Alamo Bowl–Texas Tech vs. Michigan State (Jan. 2) Line: Texas Tech-7.5

The good people at Valero really need to do something about that aquamarine color scheme they’ve got going–driving across Texas is a sea of foamy colors splashed across the Valero signage. Actually, that is probably the least of your worries driving across Texas. The biggest chafe in Texas is the use of the service road, which forces you to constantly make a U-turn when you want to fill up at a Valero station. Drives me crazy.

I think there should probably be some rules in place so that a 6-6 team (I’m looking at you, Michigan State) does not get to play after January 1st. It kind of takes the shine off of the experience.

Anyway, nothing like having your mind made up on a pick within twelve seconds of reading the breakdown: Michigan St. has one of the worst pass defenses in the country. And they are suspending 11 players for the game. I thought the Oregon/Ohio State game was a lock. I don’t really trust Texas Tech, but they have beaten the teams they were supposed to beat (excepting a weird blowout loss to Texas A&M). Anyway, go for it.

Reason to pick Texas Tech: Lots of offense.

Reason to pick against Michigan State: Lots of missing players.

Reason to watch: You’ve watched 29 bowl games to this point. Why stop now?

Pick: Texas Tech

Tostitos Fiesta Bowl–Boise St. vs. TCU (Jan. 4) Line: TCU-7

This is going to be the second best bowl game of the season. Watching TCU beat Utah was about as thorough of a beating as you’ll see all year. I watched Boise beat Oregon in the first game of the year, and they handled a top 10 team and made them quit. Both of these teams have great coaches, great offensive players, solid defenses.

I think TCU is going to win. The key for Boise is going to be the defensive end (Hughes) for TCU–if they can keep him contained (Boise St has given up 5 sacks all season) then they are going to have a shot. It will be interesting to see if this turns out to be a shootout or if the coaches get conservative.

Jerry Hughes should have a big impact on the Fiesta Bowl.

Anyway, I just feel like 7 points is too much in this game. I’d feel better if Boise’s best receiver wasn’t trying to come back from a fractured leg.

Reason to pick TCU: They have dominated the competition.

Reason to pick Boise St: They aren’t intimidated by anyone.

Reason to watch: Might be the most entertaining game of the year.

Pick: Boise St.

FedEx Orange Bowl–Georgia Tech vs. Iowa (Jan. 5) Line: Ga Tech-4

Remember when the Orange Bowl was a big time football game?

Quick! Pick against the Big 10.

Reason to pick Georgia Tech: Playing against the Big 10.

Reason to pick against Iowa: Unfortunately in the Big 10.

Reason to watch: You mistakenly believe you’re watching the 1984 Orange Bowl on ESPN Classic.

Pick: Georgia Tech

GMAC Bowl–Central Michigan vs. Troy (Jan. 6) Line: Cent Mich-3

It can’t be a good time to be a GMAC representative. Financing car purchases has surely hit the skids, and the next year probably doesn’t look too bright. The GMAC Bowl is usually one of the best games if you like watching high scoring, video game offenses. The over/under on this game is 63.5, which is probably about 20 shy of where it sould be.

Anyway, this game has two of the best quarterbacks in the country not named Tebow or McCoy. Without getting too involved in the analysis, Troy’s defense has been suspect this season. Not a good thing when you’re up against Dan LeFevour.

Expect some offense courtesy of Dan LeFevour in the GMAC Bowl.

Reason to pick Central Michigan: I’ve got LeFevour!

Reason to pick Troy: solid, well coached, they score a ton of points.

Reason to watch: This will actually be a good game.

Pick: Central Michigan

CITI BCS National Championship–Alabama vs. Texas (Jan. 7) Line: Alabama -3.5

There will be somewhere in the neighborhood of 750,000 words written about this game, so I’ll be brief. There is a weird mood among Alabama fans–we were so fixated about Florida that we feel like beating them, as soundly as we beat them, assures us of a national championship.

We’ve finished the award season with a Heisman, a Broyles, a couple of awards for Rolando McClain, and six different players were named First Team All-Americans.

Nothing is weirder than college football’s award season happening before the season is over.

I hope the players can find the motivation to prepare for this game. Texas has nothing to lose and is going to be ready to go. They were literally one second away from playing Iowa in a semi-crappy BCS Bowl. Now they are playing for the National Championship. And some speculate that they’re not be the best team in Texas.

So the motivation edge should tilt in UT’s favor. The saving grace for Alabama is that our coach is going to prepare for this like Patton going up against Rommell. What am I saying? He probably prepared for this over the summer.

Could Patton outwork Saban?

Anyway, good luck to the Texas fans. I hope it’s a great game for America. I hope Alabama wins, and that 20 years from now I’ll be flipping channels and I can think about the game and how much vodka I drank and where I was and hopefully these will be good memories.

I’m abstaining from picking this one, much like Herbstreit before he jets off to cover a game. I think it’s going to be a good game. As a fan, it probably doesn’t get better than this. I’m going to have the big bottle of Svedka with me. It’s been there for me all season. Actually, Svedka should be the presenting sponsor of this blog: “Helping neurotic fans deal with adversity since…”

Thanks for checking out these posts. I think I clocked somewhere around 7500 words on all the bowl games. I think it’s a fairly thorough recap of what you need to know. It’s almost time for the New Mexico Bowl to kickoff.

Happy holidays, and enjoy the games. JB

Bowl season gets underway Saturday with the first of 34 bowl games.  Damn, that’s 68 bowl bids.  I guess when a team loads up on FCS and Sun Belt teams in the nonconference, being bowl eligible doesn’t mean much.  But here we are anyway, and I’ll attempt to pick all 34, though I will likely only watch about half of them.

New Mexico Bowl – Fresno State vs Wyoming
Fresno finished strong with a dramatic overtime win over Illinois in Champaign.  A loaded schedule included losses to Wisconsin, Cincinnati and Boise State, but that should have them ready.  Props for Dave Christensen for getting Wyoming back to a bowl in his first season.
Pick:  Fresno State

Beef ‘O’ Brady’s Bowl – Central Florida vs Rutgers
When Rutgers lost by 32 at home to Cincinnati in week one, things weren’t looking good.  But the Scarlet Knights pulled it together and finished 8-4 in a surprisingly competitive Big East.  However, Central Florida basically has a home game here, and containing Tim Brown’s big play ability will be key.  Rutgers’ D ranks 99th.
Pick:  Central Florida

New Orleans Bowl – Southern Mississippi vs Middle Tennessee State
Sub Belt runner-up Middle Tennessee’s lone conference loss was to Troy, and 9-3 should be considered a success.  Al logic says pick the Blue Raiders, but I’m going against my logic on this.  Southern Mississippi had some heartbreaking losses against good teams, which will ultimately have them prepared for this game.
Pick:  Southern Mississippi

Las Vegas Bowl – Oregon State vs BYU
The Beavers were just a few plays away from playing Ohio State in the Rose Bowl.  Instead, they settle for Vegas and a great matchup with BYU.  The Beavers played five teams in the top 25, while the Cougars played just two.  Max Hall should have fun with the Beaver defense, but Oregon State will win a high-scoring game.
Pick:  Oregon State

Poinsettia Bowl – Utah vs California
Jahvid Best should be ready for this game, but how well he will do coming back from the concussion is unknown.  The Golden Bears, ranked as high as #6 earlier this year, fell after back to back blowout losses mid-season.  Utah’s defense is #20 in the country, while Cal ranks at #70.
Pick:  Utah

Sheraton Bowl – Nevada vs SMU
SMU will snap its 25 year bowl drought when it takes the field in Honolulu on Christmas Eve to play Nevada.  The Wolfpack got hot at the end of the season, winning eight of their final nine after an 0-3 start.  SMU will be happy to be here.  Nevada isn’t leaving without a win.
Pick:  Nevada

Little Caesars Bowl – Marshall vs Ohio
One of only two bowls north of the Mason Dixon line takes place in Detroit between two virtually equal teams.  Marshall is 6-6 but has played a tougher schedule.  Ohio is 9-4 after a MAC Championship loss to Central Michigan.  Ohio did play Tennessee and UConn tough.
Pick:  Ohio

Meineke Car Care Bowl – Pittsburgh vs North Carolina
Like Oregon State, Pittsburgh has to be crushed knowing that an Orange Bowl date with Georgia Tech was probably one or two plays away.  After a heartbreaking loss to Cincinnati, the Panthers settle for a “neutral” site game in Charlotte with the Heels.  Carolina’s defense will keep it close, but the ‘Heels just can’t score.
Pick:  Pittsburgh

Emerald Bowl – Boston College vs USC
I’m really entertained to see what the line on this game will turn out to be.  Right now it’s USC -9, and I’ll take the Trojans to cover.  Boston College has a terrible offense, and USC’s defense can be good despite some poor games.  This is a weird bowl to see USC playing in, and you know they are peeved about it.  Watch out BC.
Pick:  USC

Music City Bowl – Kentucky vs Clemson
Clemson, suffering from the Pitt/Oregon State virus, will have to watch their team take on a -not-as-good-as-their-record Kentucky team.  I’ve thought the ‘Cats were overrated all year, and Clemson has a chance to prove me right.  Kentucky’s rush D is ranked #100.  C.J. Spiller will have a field day.
Pick:  Clemson

Independence Bowl – Texas A&M vs Georgia
The interesting matchup here is Georgia’s fairly good defense against Texas A&M’s explosive offense.  The Aggies lit up Texas’ third ranked D and can do it again when they play the Bulldogs.  But the Aggie defense is awful, and Georgia should have its chances to score as well.
Pick:  Georgia

EagleBank Bowl – UCLA vs Temple
Games like this are the toughest to pick.  UCLA is 6-6, but with the #11 schedule in the nation.  Temple is 9-3, but had the sixth easiest schedule.  UCLA’s offense is ranked #88.  Temple’s is #89.  UCLA’s defense is #39, Temple’s is #37.  I’ll take the Bruins because of the schedule.
Pick:  UCLA

Champs Sports Bowl – Miami vs Wisconsin
Another game with no distinct advantage is a good one which features two 9-3 teams.  Wisconsin’s loss to Northwestern cost them their shot at a New Year’s Day bowl game despite a better overall record than the Wildcats.  Jacory Harris will make enough plays to push the ‘Canes to victory in their home state.
Pick:  Miami

Humanitarian Bowl – Bowling Green vs Idaho
Idaho fans were on a roller coaster early this season with the team’s 6-1 start.  But that vanished after the Vandals lost four of their final five, and they limp into Boise, where they lost on the same field by 38.  This time, Tyler Sheehan and Bowling Green are the opponents.  Limiting Sheehan’s big plays will be key for Idaho.
Pick:  Idaho

Holiday Bowl – Arizona vs Nebraska
Geographically, Arizona has the edge, but Husker fans will travel to watch their near Big 12 champions play.  Both defenses are really good, which is why I think 17 points may be enough.  The difference is that Arizona can score, and has, against good teams.  The Huskers haven’t shown consistent offense all season.
Pick:  Arizona

Armed Forces Bowl – Houston vs Air Force
The Armed Forces have their team, the Falcons, in this game.  Awaiting the Falcons is the #1 offense in the nation – the Houston Cougars.  Case Keenum and James Cleveland will be faced with its toughest task of the season with the Falcons’ #10 defense.  It’s Keenum’s chance to prove he deserved an invite to New York.
Pick:  Houston

Sun Bowl – Oklahoma vs Stanford
How about this high-profile matchup?  Last year, the final score of the Sun Bowl was 3-0.  This year Heisman runner-up Toby Gerhart and the Cardinal will need more than that to beat the Sooners.  Gerhart will look to add to his nation-best 26 touchdowns against the seventh ranked Sooner rush defense.
Pick:  Stanford

Texas Bowl – Navy vs Missouri
Missouri became the first team in college football history to scout its bowl opponent in a live game, as the Army/Navy game took place after the bowl selection process.  It’s Navy’s fourth ranked rush attack vs Missouri’s #12 rush defense.  Navy’s only chance is if they can find a way to pass.
Pick:  Missouri

Insight Bowl – Minnesota vs Iowa State
The Insight Bowl took the Cyclones, who are bowling for the first time since 2001.  That decision makes for a good game.  Neither team’s offense or defense is any good, but the Gophers at least have a respectable defense.  Iowa State can’t stop anyone.
Pick:  Minnesota

Chick-fil-A Bowl – Virginia Tech vs Tennessee
Here’s a game that I don’t think will be close.  Virginia Tech has an outstanding defense, and Tennessee doesn’t do much to move the ball.  The Vols defense may keep it respectable for a while, but eventually Virginia Tech, who was ranked as high as number four even after the ‘Bama loss, will pull away.
Pick:  Virginia Tech

Outback Bowl – Northwestern vs Auburn
Would you believe me if I told you Auburn has played seven top 30 teams?  That’s right, seven.  The Tigers won three of those games, but it’s more about the fact that they played those games that has them prepared for this New Year’s Day dandy.  Northwestern played well at the end of the year and won’t go down without a fight.
Pick:  Auburn

Capital One Bowl – Penn State vs LSU
The best bowl game of the season is in Orlando.  LSU played Florida and Alabama tough, but Penn State will be a monstrous challenge as well.  The Lions’ D is eighth best in the country, and LSU has the twelfth worst offense in the nation.  It’s going to be tough for the Tigers to score.
Pick:  Penn State

Gator Bowl – West Virginia vs Florida State
How ironic is it that Bobby Bowden’s last game is against the team he used to coach?  As fun as the Bowden storyline should be, the Seminoles have no business being in this game.  Other ACC schools (Clemson, Miami) have to be peeved about the ‘Noles getting the Gator bid.
Pick:  West Virginia

International Bowl – South Florida vs Northern Illinois
Sophomore quarterback Chandler Harnish has been very efficient for Northern Illinois, but they haven’t played a team nearly as good as South Florida since a week one loss to Wisconsin.  The Bulls played tough in a good Big East conference.  The only bowl not played in the U.S. should be a fun one.
Pick:  South Florida

Papajohns.com Bowl – South Carolina vs Connecticut
Middle-of-the-pack teams clash in the only bowl named for a pizza.  UConn lost all five games by four points or fewer, which is quite unbelievable when you think about it.  A few bounces going the other way could make this team 12-0.  Four of South Carolina’s five losses came by double digits.
Pick:  Connecticut

Cotton Bowl – Oklahoma State vs Mississippi
Both of these teams started the season in the top 10 and had national championship aspirations.  Jevan Snead was supposed to win the Heisman and go #1.  Zac Robinson, Kendall Hunter and Dez Bryant were supposed to combine to form the best offense in the country.  This is a game of disappointment.
Pick:  Mississippi

Liberty Bowl – Arkansas vs East Carolina
The Pirates were awfully impressive in capturing their second straight Conference USA championship by knocking off Houston.  Their reward is a date with Arkansas.  Ryan Mallett had a heck of a year that went unnoticed because the Hogs lost five games.
Pick:  Arkansas

Alamo Bowl – Michigan State vs Texas Tech
Everyone knew this would be a down year for Texas Tech following the losses of Graham Harrell and Michael Crabtree, but 8-4 is surprisingly respectable for the Red Raiders.  First year starter Taylor Potts threw for more than 3,000 yards, and he’ll have another big game against the Spartans.
Pick:  Texas Tech

GMAC Bowl – Central Michigan vs Troy
Central Michigan’s turnaround led to a MAC championship.  Now Butch Jones is bolting for Cincinnati to fill the void left by Brian Kelly.  Coach or no coach, the Chippewas should have no trouble moving the ball at will against Troy.  Troy has the offense to keep it close, so look for a high-scoring game.
Pick:  Central Michigan

Rose Bowl – Ohio State vs Oregon
Jeremiah Masoli and the Ducks could have folded after losing to Boise State to open the season.  Instead, the Ducks won 10 of 11, dethroned USC to win the Pac 10, and earned a Rose Bowl berth.  Ohio State is on the other end, making this the best BCS game on this year’s slate.
Pick:  Oregon

Sugar Bowl – Cincinnati vs Florida
Tim Tebow lost the game he wanted to win more than anything.  Now he plays his last college game against a team without a coach.  Cincinnati has scored a lot of points on a lot of people, but they haven’t faced a defense like Florida’s.  Tebow won’t let the Gators lose this one.
Pick:  Florida

Fiesta Bowl – Boise State vs TCU
We can talk all we want about the fact that these are two non-BCS teams playing each other, or about them both being undefeated, or about them playing in the national championship game.  But the matchup is what it is, and it should be entertaining.  TCU won last year, and they’ll repeat this year.
Pick:  TCU

Orange Bowl – Iowa vs Georgia Tech
The Hawkeyes were an overtime loss away from winning the Big Ten, but they’ll take their first BCS bowl game since the era began.  Awaiting Iowa and its #11 defense is Georgia Tech’s second ranked rush offense, led by Jonathan Dwyer and Josh Nesbitt.
Pick:  Georgia Tech

BCS National Championship – Alabama vs Texas
Which Texas team will show up?  The Horns that blew out Okie State in Stillwater?  It better be.  The team that “beat” Nebraska?  Stay home.  We know the Tide and Heisman winner Mark Ingram will be there.  Both teams have good enough defenses to keep from getting blown out.  Bottom line: roll Tide.
Pick:  Alabama

Looking for definitive proof that there are way too many college football bowl games? Then try coming up with snappy one-liners for all 34 games.

Simple math tells me that 68 major-college teams will be playing in bowl games between Dec. 19 and Jan. 7. I scanned the list at least 28 times and I can’t find San Diego State anywhere.

Oops, I forgot. The last place you’ll ever find San Diego State is in a bowl game. Hard to make a bowl game when your most recent winning season came in 1998.

So let’s move on to the teams that don’t start their offseasons as early as the Aztecs annually do. Here’s your one-stop primer for all 34 college football bowl games.

Saturday, Dec. 19
New Mexico (Albuquerque): Wyoming (6-6) vs. Fresno State (8-4) – Wyoming’s presence shows college football needs to drop at least half a dozen bowl games.

St. Petersburg (St. Petersburg, Fla.) Rutgers (8-4) vs. Central Florida (8-4) – Hopefully Central Florida coach George O’Leary doesn’t forget to put this on his falsified resume.

Sunday, Dec. 20
New Orleans: Southern Mississippi (7-5) vs. Middle Tennessee (9-3) – Is there a Middle Kentucky? If not, why is there a Middle Tennessee?

Tuesday, Dec. 22
Las Vegas: Brigham Young (10-2) vs. Oregon State (8-4) – Sources say BYU is hoping to play in 32 consecutive Las Vegas Bowls; current count is at 5.

Wednesday, Dec. 23
Poinsettia (San Diego): Utah (9-3) vs. California (8-4) – I can remember Cal coach Jeff Tedford being bitter about playing in Holiday Bowl. So how unhappy is he to be at San Diego’s second-rate bowl?

Thursday, Dec. 24
Hawaii (Honolulu): Southern Methodist (7-5) vs. Nevada (8-4) – SMU coach June Jones returns to the Islands but something tells me this won’t be a memorable return.

Saturday, Dec. 26
Little Caesar’s (Detroit): Marshall (6-6) vs. Ohio (9-4) – Thundering Herd in because Big Ten didn’t have seven bowl-eligible teams.

Meineke Car Care (Charlotte, N.C.): Pittsburgh (9-3) vs. North Carolina (8-4) – This would make a good basketball matchup. Wonder if the hoops teams are available that day?

Emerald (San Francisco): Boston College (8-4) vs. USC (8-4) – The Trojans are used to playing in major bowls so it has to be a shock to play in a baseball ballpark where both teams stand on the same side of the field.

Sunday, Dec. 27
Music City (Nashville, Tenn.): Clemson (8-5) vs. Kentucky (7-5) – This season’s top all-purpose player (Clemson’s C.J. Spiller) against next season’s best (Kentucky’s Randall Cobb).

Monday, Dec. 28
Independence (Shreveport, La.): Texas A&M (6-6) vs. Georgia (7-5) – Can we just change the name to the Major Disappointment Bowl?

Tuesday, Dec. 29
EagleBank (Washington, D.C.): Temple (9-3) vs. UCLA (6-6) – Why is there an EagleBank Bowl and what is UCLA doing playing in it?

Champs Sports (Orlando): Miami (9-3) vs. Wisconsin (9-3) — How does “Champs” get in the name when it’s the fourth-best ACC team playing the fifth-best Big Ten team?

Wednesday, Dec. 30
Humanitarian (Boise, Idaho): Bowling Green (7-5) vs. Idaho (7-5) – This would be a big-time who cares regular-season game so how does it qualify as a bowl game?

Holiday (San Diego): Nebraska (9-4) vs. Arizona (8-4) – See if you can say Ndamukong Suh really fast five consecutive times. And think, it’s more difficult to block him.

Thursday, Dec. 31
Armed Forces (Fort Worth, Texas): Air Force (7-5) vs. Houston (10-3) – Tune in to see if the arm of Houston quarterback Case Keenum (659 pass attempts in 13 games) finally falls off.

Sun (El Paso, Texas): Stanford (8-4) vs. Oklahoma (7-5) – My Heisman Trophy winner, Toby Gerhart, has outside chance of 2,000-yard rushing season.

Texas (Houston): Missouri (8-4) vs. Navy (9-4) – If I didn’t watch the Army-Navy game, why would Missouri-Navy intrigue me?

Insight (Tempe, Ariz.): Minnesota (6-6) vs. Iowa State (6-6) – OK, why are they playing in Arizona? Are all the small ice hockey rinks in Minnesota and Iowa booked?

Chick-fil-A (Atlanta): Virginia Tech (9-3) vs. Tennessee (7-5) – Does Tennessee’s football hostesses get to make the trip?

Friday, Jan. 1
Outback (Tampa): Northwestern (8-4) vs. Auburn (7-5) – This game would intrigue me if Charles Barkley was coaching Auburn.

Capital One (Orlando): Penn State (10-2) vs. LSU (9-3) – Hope the game is close so LSU coach Les Miles can mess up clock management on the first day of the new year.

Gator (Jacksonville): Florida State (6-6) vs. West Virginia (9-3) – Bobby Bowden’s final game as Seminoles’ coach comes against the school he coached before leaving for Florida State.

Rose (Pasadena): Ohio State (10-2) vs. Oregon (10-2) – Wouldn’t it be fun to see LeGarrette Blount throw a postgame punch at stoic Buckeyes coach Jim Tressel?

Sugar (New Orleans): Florida (12-1) vs. Cincinnati (12-0) – Tim Tebow’s final collegiate game is taking place 2,000 miles further east than he wanted.

Saturday, Jan. 2
International (Toronto): South Florida (7-5) vs. Northern Illinois (7-5) – Can’t imagine too many Canadians being excited about this directional pairing.

Papa Johns (Birmingham, Ala.): Connecticut (7-5) vs. South Carolina (7-5) – Lou Holtz didn’t get it done at South Carolina and neither has the Ol’ Ball Coach, Steve Spurrier.

Cotton (Arlington, Texas): Oklahoma State (9-3) vs. Mississippi (8-4) – I’ve set the over/under on text messages Ole Miss coach Houston Nutt receives in the hour before kickoff from female Arkansas TV reporters at 52.

Liberty (Memphis, Tenn.): East Carolina (9-4) vs. Arkansas (7-5) – I’d be very, very excited to watch … if Chris Johnson (East Carolina) and Darren McFadden (Arkansas) were playing.

Alamo (San Antonio): Michigan State (6-6) vs. Texas Tech (8-4) – Has it ever dawned on you that Michigan State’s famous mascot (Sparty) usually looks tougher than the players?

Monday, Jan. 4
Fiesta (Glendale, Ariz.): Boise State (13-0) vs. Texas Christian (12-0) – The BCS Busters got shafted by being pitted against one another, which saves two major programs (yeah, Florida, I’m including you) from being beaten.

Tuesday, Jan. 5
Orange (Miami): Georgia Tech (11-2) vs. Iowa (10-2) – This would be a solid first-round playoff game but the BCS system has rendered this contest meaningless.

Wednesday, Jan. 6
GMAC (Mobile, Ala.): Troy (9-3) vs. Central Michigan (11-2) – Spending this night watching a D-League basketball game never sounded so good.

Thursday, Jan. 7
BCS National Championship Game (Pasadena): Alabama (13-0) vs. Texas (13-0) – Hopefully Colt McCoy now understands how to stop the clock in the final seconds.

It’s that glorious time of year again where just about anyone with a stadium & a sponsor can host their own college bowl game. It wasn’t always this way and once upon that time the bowl games actually meant something. Then cable television was born and so too were a countless number of craptastic games looking for any kind of an audience. This year there are actually 34 bowl games and it all kicks off on December 19th with the New Mexico Bowl and it all ends on January 7th when Alabama takes on Texas in the BCS National Championship game. Now I will admit that 34 games can be quite daunting for the non-football fan but that is why I am here to help. So without further ado, let’s get to the plethora of pigskin that awaits us.

12/19 – New Mexico Bowl – Wyoming vs Fresno St.

One of Wyoming’s wins the year was facilitated thanks to state snow plows & a police escort. That is how bad their opponent was and how much they needed to get to 6 wins to qualify for Bowl Season. Fresno St will win this game easily.

12/19 – St. Petersburg Bowl – Rutgers vs Central Florida

This basically a home game for UCF and Rutgers has done nothing but flop in big games this year. The Scarlet Knights start the season with a loss and end it with a loss too.

12/20 – New Orleans Bowl – Middle Tennessee vs Southern Miss

Middle Tennessee is probably the best 9 win team that no one has ever heard of and they will be the best 10 win team that no one has ever of after the game. And let’s face it, no one really loses when they get to go to New Orleans ?

12/22 – Maaco Las Vegas Bowl – Oregon St vs BYU

Nobody loses when they get to go to Las Vegas either and Las Vegas certainly loves the way the BYU fans travel. However, I just don’t see the Beavers taking a licking in this one.

12/23 – Poinsettia Bowl – Utah vs California

Utah certainly knows how to beat up & beat on BCS conference teams – just ask anyone in Alabama. Cal is more schizophrenic than a cougar I once dated back in the mid 80’s…..give me a moment please…..YIKES !

12/24 – Hawaii Bowl – Nevada vs SMU

Nevada runs the ball like they have a couple of Eric Dickerson’s & Craig James’ in their backfield. At least SMU gets a trip to Honolulu out of the deal.

12/26 – Little Caesars Bowl – Ohio University vs Marshall

Who cares who wins this game ? All that really matters is that once upon a time when I was a mascot for our local hockey team, I beat up the Little Caesars mascot. I hit him with a Domino’s box.

12/26 – Meineke Car Care Bowl – North Carolina vs Pitt

Pitt was just one kick & one catch away from playing in the Orange Bowl. This may be a relative home game for the Tar Heels but this ball isn’t round.

12/26 – Emerald Bowl – Boston College vs USC

A great matchup of two underachieving overhyped programs that looks great on paper. Not sure if they have ever even played each other before. You might think I am “nuts” but BC cracks open a win in this one.

12/27 – Music City Bowl – Kentucky vs Clemson

There is only two reasons to watch this game. The first is CJ Spiller of Clemson and the second is because it is the only game on that day. This game won’t even be close.

12/28 – Independence Bowl – Texas A&M vs Georgia

I lost interest in this game years ago when Poulan Weedeater dropped their sponsorship of the game. I lost even more interest when I saw the two teams playing this year. Just can’t ever pick the Aggies (unless they play Notre Dame) so the Bulldogs win this one.

12/29 – Eagle Bank Bowl – UCLA vs Temple

I think the last time Temple played in a bowl game they played in the now defunct Garden State Bowl and KC & the Sunshine ban were on the charts. This actually wouldn’t be a bad matchup if they were playing basketball. I just can’t see UCLA losing this one.

12/29 – Champs Sports Bowl – Miami vs Wisconsin

Wisco won’t be able to handle Miami’s speed and this game is going to be over early. Miami will be a team to be reckoned with 2010.

12/30 – Humanitarian Bowl – Idaho vs Bowling Green

The best thing about this game is that it is being played on the SMURF TURF ! Idaho started out winning 6 of the first 7 before they went 0 for November again. Despite the home field advantage, I am leaning towards Bowling Green.

12/30 – Holiday Bowl – Nebraska vs Arizona

I have no idea how to pronounce Ndamukong Suh’s first name but expect to hear it a lot as the Cornhuskers wear down the Wildcats out in San Diego.

12/31 – Armed Forces Bowl – Air Force vs Houston

I don’t think a platoon of F-16’s could help stop the bombing that Casey Keenum is going to lay down on Air Force. Houston is going to win this one in high scoring fashion.

12/31 – Sun Bowl – Stanford vs Oklahoma

How did such a crappy bowl game (El Paso – nuff said) get such a good game to watch. Should be fun to watch Heisman Almost Winner Toby Gerhart try to run on the Sooner D. Sorry Mom (she’s a Cal Grad) but I think the Cardinal win this one.

12/31 – Texas Bowl – Missouri vs Navy

Yawn – though it will be fun to see Navy try to avenge their loss to Mizzou from 1961. Look for Mizzou to throw, throw & throw and Navy to run, run & run.

12/31 – Insight Bowl – Minnesota vs Iowa State

I wonder how many people on the Insight Bowl Selection Committee killed themselves after they got stuck with this game ? The Big 12 is better than the Big 10 but I am picking Minnesota anyway because I got a speeding ticket in Iowa once.

12/31 – Chick Fil-A Bowl – Virginia Tech vs Tennessee

This game is a lot more interesting on paper than it will be on TV. I’ll take the Hokies because somebody has to win and I can’t see a former raiders coach doing that.

1/1 – Outback Bowl – Northwestern vs Auburn

A Big 10 surprise and a SEC disappointment for the first game of New year’s Day. Auburn shot it’s load in the Iron Bowl when they almost beat Bama. Northwestern should win this one.

1/1 – Capital One Bowl – Penn State vs LSU

2 teams that both had BCS Championship aspirations early on that just couldn’t close the deal when they needed to do it. I love LSU and have never picked against them.

1/1 – Gator Bowl – West Virginia vs Florida State

It kind of cracks me up that in Bobby Bowden’s farewell game as the Seminoles coach, he has to play in the “Gator” Bowl. West Virginia won’t roll over in awe of his career and the Mountaineers will kill them.

1/1 – Rose Bowl – Oregon vs Ohio State

Oregon was really one punch and one loss away from serious national title consideration. Ohio State is a team I have hated ever since I knew what football was. Go Ducks !

1/1 – Sugar Bowl – Cincinnati vs Florida

This could have been a much better game if Brian Kelly hadn’t run away to go coach Notre Dame. It does still have an interesting storyline in that you have Tim Tebow’s final game and you have a Cincinnati team that will either be out to prove that they don’t need their old turncoat coach or a you will have a Cincinnati team that rolls over from the controversy of it all. I think we will see the former since Mardy Gilyard is a real threat to score any & every time he touches the ball.

1/2 – International Bowl – South Florida vs Northern Illinois

This would be an interesting matchup in early September. It’s a reason to change the channel in January. I’m going with the underdogs from Northern Illinois.

1/2 – Papajohns.com Bowl – Connecticut vs South Carolina

I hate all Steve Spurrier coached teams and Connecticut has played well all season losing it’s 5 games by a combined total of 15 points. The Huskies have an intangible to play for that the Gamecocks don’t. I like Connecticut by a slice or two.

1/2 – Cotton Bowl – Oklahoma State vs Mississippi

The Cotton Bowl used to be one of the Big 4 Bowl Games but now it has been relegated to 2nd tier status but it always gets a fun game to watch. I like both teams in this game so I really don’t care who wins but I will be putting my bowl picks pool money on OK State.

1/2 – Liberty Bowl – East Carolina vs Arkansas

I really liked the way that East Carolina handled Houston in the Conference USA Championship Game to get here. I don’t see them having any problems whatsoever handling the Razorbacks too.

1/2 – Alamo Bowl – Texas Tech vs Michigan State

I like the San Antonio Riverwalk. I like Texas Tech. Not much else to say about this game other than it finishes off an extremely long day of football.

1/4 – Fiesta Bowl – TCU vs Boise State

In some ways this battle of Non-BCS Conference undefeated teams is a cop out because both of these teams would have beaten any BCS Conference team that they faced but in other ways it isn’t because this is a football fan’s dream matchup. Both teams can & do score at will. Both teams are exciting. Everyone remembers what Boise State did to Oklahoma and everyone should remember Billy Clyde Puckett & Shake Tiller – 2 of TCU’s most famous football graduates. This game could actually inspire Dan Jenkins to even write another football book – at least I hope so. I bleed orange & blue on both a college & pro level so my heart and my head both tell me to take Boise State.

1/5 – Orange Bowl – Georgia Tech vs Iowa

A nice placeholder/palate cleanser game between the main course (Fiesta) and the dessert (BCS Championship). Neither team truly excites me but both will show up ready to play but like I said earlier, I once got a speeding ticket in Iowa (Marengo – 1981 to be exact) so I will cheering for the Rambling Wreck from Georgia Tech.

1/6 – GMAC Bowl – Central Michigan vs Troy

Where is the outrage & outcry over the Central michigan’s coach taking the job in Cincinnati ? Exactly. Troy is a team on the rise but Central Michigan has a QB that has found the end zone more often than any other QB in FBS history. Look for him to find it a few more times in this game as CMU finishes the season off with their 12th win.

1/6 – BCS National Championship Game – Alabama vs Texas

Based on their conference championship games, this should be a blowout of snoozefest proportions with Heisman winner Mark Ingram rolling the Tide over Heisman also ran Colt McCoy & the Longhorns but I don’t like o use comparative scores when looking at a game like this. I think both conferences are overrated & over-hyped but these are indeed the best teams from both. The Longhorns are 5 point underdogs and I fully expect them to cover the spread. I also think that based on Bama’s performance against Auburn that Texas has more than a fighting chance of pulling off the upset. I’m liking the Longhorns pulling it out in their final drive as time expires.

So there you go. 34 games. 34 winners. Check back often to see why there is a reason that Las Vegas loves me as much as they do.

And that is the view for now from Behind The Shades and on the sidelines…..swampy abides….

No pictures… No real explanations… Just the picks…

Fresno State Over Wyoming

Rutgers over UCF

Southern Miss over Middle tennessee State

Oregon State over BYU

Utah over California

Nevada over SMU

Ohio over Marshall

North Carolina over Pitt in an upset…

BC over USC

Clemson over Kentucky

Georgia over Texas A&M

Temple over UCLA

Miami over Wisconsin

Bowling Green Over Idaho

‘Zona over Nebraska in an upset of mild proportions….

Houston over Air Force

Oklahoma over Stanford

Missouri over Navy

Minnesota over Iowa State

Va. Tech over Tennessee (Against The Gut)

Auburn over Northwestern

Saint Bobby and the ‘Noles over West Virginia!!!!

LSU over Penn State

Ohio State over Oregon

Florida over ‘Nati

Soth Florida over Northern Illinois

South Carolina over UConn

Ole Miss over Okie State

Arkansas over East Carolina

Texas Tech over Michigan State

TCU over Boise again

Ga. tech over Iowa

Central Michigan over Troy

AND….

Texas over ‘Bama in a monumental upset… I picked Texas at the beginning of the year. I’m stickin’ with ‘em… Texas wins the National Championship over the Tide!

After a couple of “pro-Blue” comments to the “Does Boise State’s Field Give Them an Unfair Advantage?” it seems that that blog has been deleted. This is unfortunate due to the fact that Boise State has to continued to prove they are worthy of post season Bowls they play. Continuing to discuss the color of the field, the weak schedule, etc. does nothing but waste time. A previous blogger pointed out facts including having one of the QB’s in the nation, BSU having multiple NFL prospects, they also have one of the best winning records in collegate history. Coach Peterson has taken the team to their third undefeated season in 5 years. He was a finalist in the 2008 Paul “Bear” Bryant Coach of the Year award. We can talk stats all day if you’d like but to question the ability of BSU or even ask whether or not the color of the field enters in the equation is complete BS-U.

On Selection Sunday, TCU fans packed the Daniel Myers Coliseum to wait to find out where they would be playing this bowl season. Much to their dismay, the Horned Frogs only got a rematch of last year’s Poinsettia Bowl against Boise State. The only difference this year is both teams are undefeated and they’ll be playing in the Fiesta Bowl.

This is not what TCU deserved. They proved throughout the entire year that they deserved a shot at the big boys. Yet all they got was a date with another non-BCS team and denied a chance to play Florida.

How is this right? A team that beat two ACC teams at their own stadiums and blew out BYU AND Utah does not deserve to play against another team from a bigger conference. Something just don’t make sense here.

The BCS was created in 1998 to match-up #1 and #2 for the national championship, but in recent memory, the legitimacy of the system has been questioned as undefeated non-BCS teams have beaten top tier teams. For example,last year Utah went undefeated and played Alabama in the Sugar Bowl where they promptly dismantled the Crimson Tide. Yet the only thing they were given was an “at-a-boy” and a meaningless trophy despite the fact that they were the only undefeated team.

Thankfully, Senator Joe Barton is taking the initiative on this issue. He is working on a bill to try an do away with the BCS system. He said the system is “a cartel to maximize revenue for members of the cartel”.

The BCS is nothing but a sham and pitting TCU against Florida would only prove that point. The BCS, on the other hand, didn’t want that to happen and placed to non-BCS teams, TCU and Boise State, against each other to ensure that they would not be shown up by a non-BCS team. TCU deserved a better match up to show the world what they were made of and to show what a scam the BCS is.

Play-offs?!?  Who needs the play-offs?!?  Certainly not Division 1 football or the Kansas City Chiefs (or Joe Flacco, sadly). 

What better way to reward a season-long of bitter in-fighting than with a series of meaningless games geared toward economic stimulation of numerous cities across the country (the #1 reason to keep the current system)?  I’m excited and can’t wait (which I’m sure is not the feeling in Boise, Ft. Worth, and Cincinatti… But those are the breaks.  All the proposed plans for the four-team play-offs would’ve left one or two of you out, anyway.)

Without further ado, here’s my guide to the bowl season:

New Mexico – December 19^th

            Wyoming v. Fresno State

The last time Wyoming played in a bowl game, Michael Jordan was dominating the NBA, milk and a galloon of gas cost a little over a dollar, and Barack Obama was a barely visible community organizer on the south side of Chicago.  Needless to say it’s been awhile.  Expect the Cowboys to be distracted by the vibrant, Albuquerque nightlife (don’t laugh… ‘querque is LA compared to Laramie)

            Prediction: Fresno State 31, Wyoming 17

St. Petersburg – December 19^th

            Rutgers v. Central Florida

Here’s a battle of Knights, version red and golden.  Rutgers coach Greg Schiano prides himself on being able to recruit in Florida, so this game will have a little more riding on it than the average bowl game.  Mid-tier recruits notwithstanding (seriously, no blue chipper from the Sunshine State is going to Jersey or Orlando unless they’ve been charged with a felony… Even then, they’ll probably elect to go to Tennessee), look for Rutgers to grind out a fairly, easy win.

            Prediction: Rutgers 26, Central Florida 13 

New Orleans – December 20^th

            Middle Tennessee v. Southern Miss

Southern Miss can score points in bunches (Just ask Houston) and Middle Tennessee’s marquee win was when they barely beat Maryland, possibly the worst team in a major conference.  This one won’t be for the defensive minded fan, but I don’t think people usually turn on the New Orleans Bowl for clinical football.

            Prediction: Southern Miss 55, Middle Tennessee 35

Las Vegas – December 22^nd

            BYU v. Oregon State

This one is the lone, marquee match-up in this year’s first week of bowls (sorry, USC-BC).  Can BYU slow down the Rodgers brothers?  Not Likely.  Will Max Hall write one last, statistically-insane chapter to his legend?  Perhaps (OSU slowed down Jeremiah Masoli, but not Andrew Luck and Matt Berkley).  This one is a toss-up, I just hope the scoreboard in Sin City has been serviced recently because it’ll get a workout with this game.

            Prediction: Oregon State 51, BYU 49

Poinsetta – December 23^rd

            Utah v. California

In the season’s first bowl game not named for a place, two schools, named for a place, play each other.  Utah is far removed from last year’s dream 13-0 season, but still has a talented squad.  Matt Riley’s Golden Bears are every bit as talented, and soft, as any squad he’s ever coached.  I’ll take heart and Mormonism in this one.

            Prediction: Utah 24, California 19

Hawaii – December 24^th

            SMU v. Nevada

This game will be a Homecoming for once favorite son, SMU Coach June Jones, who established an exciting program at the Univeristy of Hawaii.  Look for his SMU team to relish their first post-season visit in like 2934873 years with another high-scoring game against the Wolfpack.  Both teams are big on offense and not so much on defense.  I give the edge to Nevada since they have Hawaii in their conference, they shouldn’t be too fazed by the environment.

            Prediction: Nevada 62, SMU 45

Meineke Car Care – December 26^th

            UNC v. Pittsburgh

This should be titled the letdown bowl.  After promising expectations (in Pitts case, a great 9-3 season which saw them 1:45 away from being BCS-bound.  A horrible exchange… No offense, Charlotte), both these teams are left to rue over another pre-New Year’s bowl.  Which team will use this to launch their season for next year?  I’m guessing the Tar Heels, which only lose two starters combined on offense and defense and should threaten for a conference (and even National) championship next season.  Though, we’ve heard this before.

            Prediction: UNC 27, Pitt 21

Little Caesars – December 26^th

            Ohio v. Marshall

The only thing that tops my shock that Little Caesars still exists, and that they can sponsor a bowl game, is the fact that Marshall is playing in a bowl game.  Does this game pit the MAC #8 and MAC#9 teams?  Wow.  Does it even matter who wins this game?  I guess this doubles as some sort of rivalry.

            Prediction: Ohio 24, Marshall 10

Emerald – December 26^th

            USC v. Boston College

Ah… In one corner, we have the class of the college football world for the past decade finally having a mortal season.  In the other corner, we have Boston College who is just happy to be here.  If USC were to play like this were a gateway back to prominence for next season, this game wouldn’t be close.  However, I feel they’ll play pretty uninspired, dissatisfied with themselves and their season, and hoping to get over as soon as possible.  Unfortunately, Boston College doesn’t possess 1/5^th the talent to trouble the hapless Trojans.

            Prediction: USC 30, Boston College 17

Music City – December 27^th

            Kentucky v. Clemson

Like Pittsburgh, Clemson came oh so close to playing in a BCS game (the Pitt-Clemson ratings would’ve been abysmal.  The Orange Bowl Committee is much happier with the GT-Iowa matchup.  MUCH HAPPIER).  Alas, they’ll have to content themselves with Nashville, a definite downgrade from Miami.  Unfortunately for Kentucky, Dabo Swinney is now coaching the Tigers, as opposed to Tommy “I can’t win after Halloween” Bowden.  At least Kentucky can save on air fare and tell their grandkids they played against C.J. Spiller.

            Prediction: Clemson 44, Kentucky 27

Independence – December 28^th

            Georgia v. Texas A&M

Jerrod Johnson made himself a household name by leading in undermanned Aggies squad in a just-short upset bid over rival, Texas.  This game will determine whether he’s the frontrunner for All-Big 12 and (possibly) Walter Camp honors next year, or whether he’ll follow fellow underclassmen, Jimmy “Glass Jaw” Clausen into the draft.  Looking at what fellow Big 12 QB, Josh Freemen, was able to accomplish last year with a good combine (1^st round pick despite a largely mediocre, college career), Johnson might try his luck.  I think he could use another year, but who’d turn down guaranteed millions?

            Prediction: Texas A&M 38, Georgia 23

Eagle Bank – December 29^th

            UCLA v. Temple

Up until Saturday, this was going to be a three-way brawl (as the original line had Army/UCLA v. Temple), terrordome-style or Rick Neuheisel was waiting to the 11^th hour, trying to convince his team to fly cross country to beat up on an opponent of no consequence (In all seriousness, Army needed to beat their rivals, Navy, in order to secure the requisite win total to be bowl-eligible.  They didn’t.  Their loss is UCLA’s sorta gain).  The Owls, making their first bowl bid seemingly since Jim Thorpe spurned their Letter of Intent to sign with the Carlyle School, are ecstatic to have a post-season to play in and would’ve taken either opponent.  Unfortunately, Navy really wanted that Commander-and-Chief trophy.

            Prediction: UCLA 20, Temple 16

Champ Sports – December 29^th

            Miami (FL) v. Wisconsin

In what is now becoming a yearly rite of passage, Wisconsin will travel down to sunny Florida to get the crap kicked out of them by a more athletic, annoyed ACC team.  Last year, Florida State scored about 381294872 points on them after a lackluster season.  This year, look for Jacorry Harris and Company to take out a late season collapse on the Badgers.  This one will be over by halftime.

            Prediction: Miami (FL) 51, Wisconsin 17

Humanitarian – December 30^th

            Idaho v. Bowling Green

Welcome to big-time football, Idaho!  As a reward, you get to be featured, nation-wide televised, at your bigger, better in-state rival.  That’s gotta leave every Vandal smarting just a little bit… They can score and will do so often on the Falcons.

            Prediction: Idaho 63, Bowling Green 41

Texas – December 30^th

            Missouri v. Navy

This bowl might be over in less than three hours.  Neither team is particularly in love with the forward pass; Navy, because their triple option attack is so lethal, and Missouri, because they’re just not that good.  Navy almost upset Ohio State and finished off Notre Dame in South Bend.  Missouri plays in the weakest division in major college football and didn’t come close to winning the division. 

            Prediction: Navy 27, Missouri 16

Holiday – December 30^th

            Arizona v. Nebraska

San Diego is this year’s location for the official “Bride’s maid” Bowl.  Arizona saw their Rose Bowl dreams vanish in a Jeremiah Masoli OT TD, Nebraska saw their Fiesta Bowl dreams evaporate on a fortuitous, instant replay reversal which allowed Texas’ escape.  Ndamukong Suh will be the reason Nebraska wins this one…  I’m glad he didn’t win the Heisman.  That’s why they have the Outland Trophy.

            Prediction: Nebraska 23, Arizona 13

Armed Forces – December 31^st

            Air Force v. Houston

The Falcons are back to where long-time coach Fisher DeBerry constantly had the team back in the “hey day”s of the 90s.  While not ready to challenge Navy for the Commander-and-Chief Trophy, they’re not a far way off.  However, they’re a far way off of challenging Houston. 

            Prediction: Houston 59, Air Force 20

Sun – December 31^st

            Stanford v. Oklahoma

The Toby Gearhart bowl should be one of the most highly talked about bowls that have no real bearing on the future of anything.  Part of the talk will deal with Sooner coach Bob Stoops.  As one of the game’s highest paid coaches in especially recession-hit Oklahoma, Stoops’ salary, as well as the Sooners 7-5 record, will be the talk of bloggers.  Expect Gearhart to play with Heisman vengeance.

            Prediction: Stanford 23, Oklahoma 21

Insight – December 31^st

            Minnesota v. Iowa State

This game wins the “Wait… those teams are bowl eligible!?!?!” award.  The Gophers have a QB identity crisis and the Cyclones (who have an identity crisis of their own… they look like they’re wearing USC’s uniforms) were the first to expose the world to the fact that the Cornhuskers have no offense.  This one isn’t worth missing a New Year’s Eve party over.  Though, it does beat the slew of New Year’s eve specials.

            Prediction: Minnesota 14, Iowa State 12

Chick-Fil-A – December 31^st

            Virginia Tech v. Tennessee

Some games, especially this one, feel like they should be rivalry games and played on a semi-regular basis.  These two, separated by 236 loosely populated miles, have been brand names in the College Football world for quite some time that it’s a wonder how they haven’t found a way to renew acquaintances more often.  The similarities don’t stop there as Lane Kiffin seems to be bringing a Frank Beamer-esque toxic atmosphere to the banks of Knoxville.  Look for Tyrod Taylor and friends to save some face for a lackluster 2009 season in emphatic fashion.

            Prediction: Virginia Tech 31, Tennessee 7

Outback – January 1^st

            Northwestern v. Auburn

The Gene Chizik Era started off with “Told you so!” enthusiasm (5-0) and finished with a more expected result (2-5, with one win over a FBS team).  However, I do give Chizik credit for assembling a staff of “us vs. the world”ers (headlined by the always vengeful Gus Malzahn and his super powered offense).  Now, the test will be what he does next year in a loaded SEC West.  A good start would be to beat an overmatched Wildcat squad.  If betting were legal, I’d take Northwestern to cover the spread.

            Prediction: Auburn 27, Northwestern 24

Capital One – January 1^st

            Penn State v. LSU

Joe Paterno must be loving life right now.  With Bobby Bowden’s retirement, he stands alone, with no other challengers within sight, at the precipice of the coaching profession (in terms of wins).  I expect him to coast for the next few years, getting eight to nine wins in the “competitive” Big 10, and calling it a career, handing over the reins to his son.  That being said, look for Penn State to win most of the games they should, and none of the ones they shouldn’t.  This game falls into the latter category.

            Prediction: LSU 20, Penn State 9

Gator – January 1^st

            Florida State v. West Virginia

Here’s the final curtain call for two legends as long-time Defensive Coordinator, Mickey Andrews, and Hall of Fame Head Coach, Bobby Bowden, take the sideline for the final time (at least as Florida State coaches).  The whole notion of “win one for us” will be out there from every news outlet with even a semblance of coverage for the game and it will carry the day.  Unfortunately, this middling-to-average Seminole squad should’ve invoked that strategy against a flawed Gator team in the season finale as opposed to a very limited Mountaineer team.  Oh well, look for Noel Devine and Tavon Austin to make it interesting.

            Prediction: Florida State 30, West Virginia 24

Rose – January 1^st

            Ohio State v. Oregon

The Granddaddy of them all isn’t exactly your granddaddy’s Rose Bowl.  The Buckeyes and Ducks should put on an aerial display with two of the game’s most exciting QBs in Jeremiah Masoli and Tyrelle Pryor, but the game will hinge on defense.  Unfortunately, the Buckeyes haven’t really stepped up their game and will need a Herculean effort from Pryor to overcome the Ducks.  Unfortunately, Pryor hasn’t brought one of those this season (see: Ohio St.-USC and Ohio St.-Purdue) and Masoli has twice (see: Oregon-Arizona and Oregon-Oregon State).

            Prediction: Oregon 34, Ohio St. 23

Sugar – January 1^st

            Florida v. Cincinnati

Last we saw wunderkid, Tim Tebow, he was pulling an Adam Morrison as the final moments of the SEC Championship game ticked away.  Now, as he makes his annual Award show circuit, he’ll be reminded daily of his teary eyed defeat and we’ll get a chance to see the real Tim Tebow.  Will he wilt, lose his confidence, and fade into oblivion (a la Adam Morrison) or will he show resolve, fire up his teammates, and obliterate the Bearcats in New Orleans?  I’m thinking somewhere between the two (not that he’s not tough, but he’s only lost seven times out of fifty four career games, two of his last twenty-six… this is an unusual feeling for him and his teammates).  I’m expecting a tough, gritty Gator win (this was written before Brian Kelly took the Notre Dame job… Florida is going to knock the Bearcats back to irrelevance)

            Prediction: Florida 41, Cincinnati 13

International – January 2^nd

            South Florida v. Northern Illinois

It has been quite some time that we’ve seen a four-year, successful starter so easily forgotten in the wake of a true freshmen’s promise (last occurrence: Florida 2006), yet, that is the case at South Florida.  B.J. Daniels has all but erased program-maker Matt Groethe (for good reason… Daniels is superior in every single way.  Speaking of that, Brother A.J. made a funny remark about the Yankees recently signing Curtis Granderson in relation to Johnny Damon: “That’s it for Damon.  Granderson is better in every conceivable way that one can be better than someone else.  He’s faster, younger, more successful with the ladies… his charities raise more money.  He’s better!”.  South Florida in a blowout, unless the Toronto cold prevails.

            Prediction: South Florida 34, Northern Illinois 16

Papajohns.com – January 2^nd

            Connecticut v. South Carolina

Still reeling from the death of star Cornerback, Jasper Howard, UCONN has pressed through this season, courageously and unified.  While that didn’t show up on the scoreboard the first three games after Howard’s murder, it has the past few weeks in a major way.  Look for the Huskies to keep the streak going in one more tribute to their fallen brother and for Coach Randy Edsell to be on a short list of the various, coaching vacancies.  Though, how could he leave a school, and players, after forming such a permanent bond with them?  How could he stay at a school with that dark mark hanging over him?

            Prediction: Connecticut 20, South Carolina 16

Cotton – January 2^nd

            Mississippi v. Oklahoma State

Here is a bowl featuring two teams that were expected to have an outside shot at getting to Pasadena for the BCS Championship.  Once again, we find, championships aren’t won in August (but through luck and follow-through).  Mike “I’m still a man!  I’m 41!!” Gundy is in more dire straits as his team gagged away a BCS bowl berth down the stretch and his star QB had a total loss of confidence, Flacco Fever (yes, I’m bitter this very attainable, Ravens season is slipping away before my eyes).  Houston Nutt, the king of gadgetry, is the ultimate trickster who will relish three weeks to game plan.

            Prediction: Mississippi 34, Oklahoma State 26

Liberty – January 2^nd

            East Carolina v. Arkansas

This game is usually an annual blowout waiting to happen.  Conference USA is, usually, not in the same league as the SEC (which is why we don’t have a play-off).  However, this year may be an exception.  Though, that has nothing to do with the caliber of Skip Holtz’ Pirates (they’re good), but, more so, with the rebuilding going on with Bobby Petrino’s Razorbacks.  Ryan Mallet is going to be a star; he’s just not there yet.  This one will be close, but I give it to the hogs and their superior athletes.

            Prediction: Arkansas 30, East Carolina 19

Alamo – January 2^nd

            Michigan State v. Texas Tech

I can’t pretend to care about this game.  I’m tired of reading articles about “how smart” and “how advanced” Bob Leach, and his Red Raiders’ offenses, has become over the years.  Until he can pretend to care about defense, I can’t take them seriously (obviously, last year was an exception.  Though, Crabtree is just that good).  On the other side, you have the Spartans which are abysmal in every sense.  This one won’t be pretty.

            Prediction: Texas Tech 44, Michigan State 23

Fiesta – January 4^th

            TCU v. Boise State

Here is a game that should’ve happened during the regular season.  I think that, in order to end all of this mid-major for BCS conversation, the Mountain West champion should play the WAC champion.  That way, we’ll have one qualified winner come out that should contend with the rest of the major conference teams.  That’s unfair, you say?  Then these programs should dedicate their athletic programs to reaching the level of a major conference and apply for membership.  Beside the point, I know, TCU has too much defense and just enough offense.

            Prediction: TCU 27, Boise State 22

Orange – January 5^th

            Iowa v. Georgia Tech

How did the 2-loss Hawkeyes get into a BCS bowl?  No one really knows.  Though, it has more to do with other team’s deficiencies than the merits of Iowa.  Look for their slow defense to be run ragged by the misdirection of the Yellow Jackets triple option attack. 

            Prediction: Georgia Tech 37, Iowa 17

GMAC – January 6^th

            Troy v. Central Michigan

The victory lap for prolific Chippewas’ QB, Dan LeFevour, will be as impressive as his four years at Central Michigan.  Lost in all the Tim Tebow hoopla are the otherworldly stats that LeFevour has put up in his career.  LeFevour is the only player in NCAA history to have over 12,000 passing yards and 2,500 rushing yards and is the record holder for most total touchdowns in a career.  Look for him to substantially add to both totals in this one.

            Prediction: Central Michigan 56, Troy 31

BCS Title Game – January 7^th

            Texas v. Alabama

Congratulations to Mark Ingram, the second sophomore to win the Heisman trophy.  Unfortunately, this may be the highlight of his career.  Check the track record of running backs, not named Herschel Walker, who absorb this much of a beating so early in their career.  Doesn’t look good.  I think he may have peaked, athletically, and may not be able to make the transition to being an elite Sunday player.  I see a lot of Eric Rhett in him.  Speaking of not translating, poor Colt McCoy.  Four years of winning and big stats and success without major hardware to show for it (he had the unfortunate luck to be placed in an era of other, prolific QBs).  Finally, McCoy is getting his shot at a national title.  Regrettably, he also has his weakest supporting cast.  The, supposed, equalizer was the weak play of Alabama’s QB, Greg McElroy, which was disproved in the SEC title game.  Nick Saban and the Tide will clinch their first National title since 1993.

            Prediction: Alabama 27, Texas 17

Friday was a day for memorials. After school, I went to Tom Trusky’s memorial service. I had to duck out early to get gussied up for the Blue Thunder banquet, and of course, it had a certain memorial feeling to it as well, beings as it was the first banquet we’ve had without Dave. I was happy that the students found a good balance between honoring their departed director and maintaining a celebratory sense to the evening. Two back-to-back, full-blown memorials, for the two men at Boise State I most admired, would have been just a little bit much for me to bear, I think.

My sister Meredith is one of those people who isn’t just artistic, she’s an artist. She has technical chops, good ideas, sense, a natural eye, and ridiculous amounts of innate talent. And she creates with purpose – her work has story, meaning, to it.

In the months since Dave passed away, Meredith has created several works of art to honor his memory. The most recent was an installation of small, multimedia, illustrated panels, unveiled for the first time at banquet. I don’t have a very good picture of the finished product, but she sent me some of the panels before they were completed, and (totally without her permission) I’d like to share a couple of them. I’m loving this style that she’s experimenting with – watercolors, text, simple but evocative line drawings…

There were seven panels in all. Meredith resisted, but I threatened to [fill-in-the-blank big sister torment] her, so she let me snap a picture of her next to the installation.

After banquet, someone told Lavaughn (Dave’s wife, because “widow” is a depressing word and I’m sorry but I can’t quite call her that) about the installation, and she went to see for herself. That’s when I took the following picture, which isn’t technically very good but which I like quite a lot.

Lavaughn and Meredith

Race War:   Dateline Boise

by

R.E. Prindle

http://www.ktvb.com/home/Fliers-on-BSU-campus-called-racist–78932897.html

     Boise State is back in the news.  Earlier this fall Boise State made the news when during an Oregon-Boise State football game a losing Black Oregon player crossed the line to blindside a BSU player decking him.  Then the Oregon player named Blount tried to go after fans in the stands.  Originally suspended by Oregon he was back on the field within a couple weeks.  No consequences, big deal.

     Now (Dec. 11, 2009) fliers are being circulated on World AIDS Day that wisely advise students to not have sex with homosexuals and needle users.  Acknowledging the fact that Blacks are more likely by far to be infected with numerous venereal diseases, the flier also cautions against inter-racial sex throwing in the line:  Once U go black we don’t want U back.

     As the Hope proclaimed during his campaign:  This is change that WE can believe in.  But not Jalara Walker,one of the less than 400 Blacks out of 19,000+ students, who says:  I really thought that stuff like this was over.  Hmm, tell that to Blount.

     Mention it to the National Black Foot Soldiers who shot four Whites to death in a coffee shop in Seattle.  Send a note to Denver deploring Blacks who have seriously injured Whites in unprovoked attacks.  Or in Baltimore where maurauding  Blacks jump Whites from behind beating them to the ground.

     Were Jalara Walker’s feeling hurt?   Well, try dealing with a shattered eye socket, Jalara, try removing a bullet from your heart.  You’re thinking of leaving BSU?  Do.  Then hopefully BSU will get rid of its Liberals on the faculty and quietly make the school all White; get some real education going.

     That’s what I would call the change Obama promised US.  That would be a move in the right direction.  If you’re Black go to the top multi-cultural schools in the country like Harvard, Yale or Princeton.  Blacks don’t need Boise State.

The Heisman Trophy will be awarded on Saturday night and I’m not privy to the name of the person who will win the coveted award.

But I can tell you what position he plays: Running back.

Alabama’s Mark Ingram and Stanford’s Toby Gerhart appear to be in the lead according to some of the folks who contact voters and forecast the winner.

Nebraska defensive tackle Ndamukong Suh could finish third, which would be a stunning accomplishment. Suh received no preseason hype for the award and the voters traditionally shun defensive players — probably because a large number of those casting ballots only know football on a surface level (read: stats) and don’t understand the game at a deep level.

Texas quarterback Colt McCoy appears to be fourth in line with Florida quarterback Tim Tebow running a distant fifth. Clemson running back C.J. Spiller is pushing Tebow for fifth.

I’m on record that Gerhart should be the Heisman winner (see http://mrsportsblog.wordpress.com/2009/11/17/stanfords-toby-gerhart-should-win-the-heisman/ for why) but I won’t have a major problem with Ingram or Suh taking home the hardware.

It is pretty amazing that a tradition-rich program like Alabama has never had a Heisman winner. And it certainly would be a terrific thing if Suh won the award after having a mammoth season for an interior defensive linemen — 12 sacks and 82 tackles, including 23 tackles for losses. (http://mrsportsblog.wordpress.com/2009/12/06/maybe-im-forecasting-the-wrong-heisman-winner/)

There’s nobody else in college football that will crack the top six spots. The next line of players include Houston quarterback Chase Keenum, Boise State quarterback Kellen Moore and Notre Dame receiver Golden Tate.

Episode 80: Eldrick & Elin’s Excellent Adventure

Corey and Lou catch a bad case of Tigermania…must be that damn global warming again. Also, Skymall slips into something a little more comfortable, Cash & Prizes take center stage and the Christmas spirit infects the BUCKET boys. Call us at 206-337-9910. (Direct Link to MP3, Recorded Dec. 9, 2009)

206-337-9910 is the new BUCKET line number … call the show today, let us know your thoughts!

NEWSWIRE
Tigermania takes over BUCKET:
SNL Sketch Uproar
Rachel Uchitel’s Textual Healing
Would You Sponsor This Man?
In-Laws Steal the Spotlight
Wife leaving town, taking the kids to new Sweden home?

Recession gives McDonald’s a McHit in the McWallet (Stock price steady)

SKYMALL ITEM OF THE WEEK
The Cabin Cuddler ($24.99)

SPORTS CORNER
Who will take home the Heisman Trophy this weekend?
BCS Controversy: Did TCU and Boise State get screwed by being included?

KANYE WEST MEMORIAL LOU-SER OF THE WEEK:
Danny Cahill – Winner of the Biggest Loser, Season 8

POPCORN BUCKET
How the hell is Andy Samberg nominated for a Grammy Award?
Is CBS bringing back the Golden Age of the Game Show?

RAPSTERPIECE THEATER
Sir Louis Dee III is back to explain his exile: “Blame It On the Alcohol” by Jamie Foxx

PODSAFE SONG OF THE WEEK:
“The Greatest Xmas Song Ever Written” by American Heartbreak (Music Alley)
(check out PodsafeChristmas.com for the best in podsafe music this holiday season)

REGULARLY FEATURED MUSIC and MEDIA:

“SkyMall item of the week” theme: “Planning for the Routine” by Leaving Richmond (Music Alley profile)

Sports Corner Theme: “Dodging Buses” by Derek K. Miller (Music Alley profile)

Primate Update Theme: “Meltdown Man” by Derek K. Miller (Music Alley profile)

The new BUCKET Remix theme composed and performed by The Geoff Smith. Old theme too!

All podsafe artists/music are courtesy of IODA Promonet and Music Alley.

SUPPORT INDIE MUSIC!!
Know of a great podsafe/indy artist we should feature? Let us know at BUCKETRemix(at)gmail.com!

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206-337-9910 is the new BUCKET line number … call the show today, let us know your thoughts!

After spending 17 hours on creating this lovely image, Hans Toomer found out that Mark Ingram did not win the Heisman Trophy Award afterall.

Alabama Crimson Tide Mark Ingram gave a Heisman Trophy Award acceptance speech for the ages. Every tear came at the right moment. His words were heartfelt. The sentiment was much appreciated. His “thank yous” were perfectly appropriate. Too bad that his timeless speech given for taking home this ageless trophy is all for naught.

In one of the most crucial mistakes in sports-voting history, Ingram was mistakenly given college football’s top honor, instead of Stanford running back Toby Gerhart, who actually won the award.

“This is an outcry and a shame for not only this program, but for all of college football,” Tide coach Nick Saban said. “How could they make an error of this proportion? If nothing else, they should split the award and call it even Steven.”

It was initially reported that Ingram received 227 first-place and 1,304 total votes to Toby Gerhart’s 222 first-place and 1,276 total votes. But officially, Gerhart had the 227 first-place votes and Ingram only had 222, putting Gerhart ahead of Ingram for the 2009 Heisman Trophy Award.

“I can’t top that that speech, nor is my team in the BCS Championship game,” Gerhart said. “But all the tear-jerking speeches in the world won’t get him this trophy. There’s always next year, Mark [Ingram].”

Prior to the Alabama men’s basketball game vs. No. 5 Purdue, an announcement came that Ingram won the prestigious award, which led to an enormous roar from the near sold-out Coleman Coliseum in Alabama.

Thousands of Heisman T-shirts with “Ingram” on it had already been sold. But now, those shirts are just memories of what was all just one big mistake.

“Dude, I could have bought popcorn and candy instead of this T-shirt,” Burt Riley, a longtime Alabama fan said. “C’mon…. c’mon!”

Meanwhile, the original Heisman winner was taken aback but the end result.

“I don’t know what to say,” Ingram said. “To me, this was a team award more than anything else, but to have it taken away from you because of a mistake is wrong. It’s almost as bad as if we were to go undefeated this season and not compete for the BCS Championship. Luckily, that’s never happened before.”

Game Notes:
Alabama and Texas will play in the BCS Championship, but Cincinnati, Boise State and Texas Christian also finished their regular seasons undefeated. Too bad so sad, they are left out of the title game.

As the Official Movers of The University of Washington and Boise State Athletics, we couldn’t be more proud! The Washington Huskies won the Apple Cup in November with their first shut out in 45 years against long-time rival Washington State [30-0]. Our Boise State Broncos have secured their place in the Tostitos Fiesta Bowl to be played January 4, 2010 on FOX!

In this entry I will explain how the BCS bowl system does not give all teams a fair chance to win the National Championship.  In addition, I will evaluate the system based upon how the current playoff system affects the college football regular season negatively.

The college football postseason system that is currently in place does not meet the expectations of college football fans.  First, not all teams have an opportunity to win the National Championship.  For example, teams from non-BCS conferences, meaning those from conferences other than the SEC, Big XII, Big Ten, Big East, PAC 10, and ACC, may go undefeated and still not even have the opportunity to play for a National Championship.  Only three seasons ago, the Boise State Broncos, from the Western Athletic Conference, or WAC, went undefeated.  However, the team was not placed in the BCS Championship Game but the Tostitos Fiesta Bowl.  Boise State played one of the most flawless games in college football history and defeated the mighty Oklahoma Sooners to cap a perfect season.  The BCS Committee decided that Boise State did not deserve a chance to play for a National Championship, instead of letting the teams decide that for themselves.

Last season, the Utah Utes, from the Mountain West Conference, also played an undefeated regular season.  The team was assigned to the Sugar Bowl against the formidable Alabama Crimson Tide, who had lost in a nail biting game in the SEC conference championship to the eventual National Champion Florida Gators.  Utah outplayed Alabama in every aspect of the game, even though nearly every expert thought that Utah could not match up with Alabama’s size.  The BCS Committee decided that Utah did not deserve a chance in the BCS Championship Game.

These examples of small teams defeating some of the country’s best teams are numerous.  However, these teams enter spring practices knowing that they can not become National Champions.  That is not was the NCAA is about.  The NCAA claims to focus on giving all student athletes the opportunities to succeed.  This is not the case in college football.  The injustice does not end there.  Extremely talented teams, often with one loss, do not have a chance to prove that they are the best team in college football.

For example, nearly every year, the USC Trojans have one loss, often against a lesser foe that the team seems to “look past.”  Each year, there are either two undefeated teams from BCS conferences, or one loss teams from the SEC or Big XII that play in the National Championship instead of USC.  Last year, Penn State was beaten by one point, in one game, by a field goal made with one second left, on the road against Iowa.  Why does Penn State not have a chance at the National Championship? Why does USC not have chance at the National Championship?  Because the way the BCS bowl system is arranged, only two teams enter the postseason with a chance to become champions.  The system in place today does not meet the high standards demanded by such an entertaining sport.

While most college football fans realize that the BCS does not give all teams opportunities to win the National Championship, most do not realize that the BCS affects the regular season negatively as well.  The poor setup of the postseason affects the quality of play in the regular season.  Teams know full well going into each season that one loss can end their BCS hopes.  Therefore, teams often lighten their schedules in order to eliminate the chances of losses.  For example, Penn State’s 2009 out of conference schedule included the following: Akron, Syracuse, Temple, and Eastern Illinois.  Those four teams are horrific, and the team that had the closest point differential against Penn State was Syracuse with 21.  Why does Penn State do this?  The athletic director and coaches know that if the team plays Florida and Oklahoma out of conference and loses to either one of those teams, another one loss Big XII or SEC team would still top Penn State’s bid for the BCS National Championship Game.  Why should Penn State take such chances?  Realistically, they should not.  Therefore, Penn State focuses solely on going undefeated in regular season play and hopes that other big name teams lose so that Penn State can sneak into the title game.

Who loses when teams soften their schedules in this way?  The fans.  The reason college football is considered the most entertaining sport with the most entertaining regular season is because fans can watch marquee games every week with big name programs squaring off.  That trend is changing.  With the scheduling the way it is now, it is rare to see a non-conference game between two highly ranked teams.  Therefore, in college football today, the BCS system is even affecting the regular season in a negative way.

The answer to this problem is to create a college football playoff system.  For my take on what type of playoff system is best for college football, see my December 2^nd blog entry, “Why College Football Needs a Playoff System…And Why an 8 Team System is not the Answer.”

Last night at 8 PM, the BCS bowl schedule was released.

Texas and Alabama will play in the BCS Championship Game.  This game will come down to which defense handles the other team’s star player more effectively.  Mark Ingram, the Alabama running back, is a Heisman candidate who has played extremely well against many tough, stout SEC defenses.  The Big XII is not a well renowned defensive conference like the SEC.  This could be the difference in the game.  Texas star Colt McCoy is probably the Heisman favorite this year, although that may have been compromised by his poor performance against Nebraska.  My prediction is that the top ranked Alabama defense will be able to stop the Texas offense that has not played often against high caliber, speedy, physical defenses.  The Alabama running game, led by Mark Ingram, will wear down the Texas defense, who has not faced many high octane offenses this year.  Greg McElroy will have opportunities to make plays in the passing game because of Texas’ need to put many men in the box to stop Ingram.  This combination of Alabama’ offensive firepower and stout defense will prove to be the difference in the game.

My prediction: Alabama 31-Texas 20

Boise St. and TCU will play in the Fiesta Bowl.  This matchup is an interesting matchup, as it pairs the top 2 non-BCS conference teams.  Boise State and TCU are both undefeated to this point, and the Fiesta Bowl is the only BCS Bowl other than the National Championship to pair two undefeated teams.  In my opinion, this game comes down to how well the Boise offense can play against the talented TCU defense.  TCU should not have too much of a problem scoring on the Boise defense.  However, the TCU defense is of top tier quality, and could provide offensive problems for Boise State and quarterback Kellen Moore.

My prediction: TCU 41-Boise State 24

Ohio State and Oregon will play in the Rose Bowl Game.  This game is an interesting matchup because it poses the conservative Buckeyes against the run and gun dual option threat Oregon Ducks.  Jeremiah Masoli and Terrelle Pryor, the two quarterbacks, will be the difference makers in this game.  Jeremiah Masoli has run the option magnificently for the Ducks this year, and has established at times an unstoppable offense.  Terrelle Pryor has proven to be the one explosive offense player Ohio State has.  The key to this game will be how well Terrelle Pryor plays.  If Terrelle can effectively mix the pass and run, Ohio State will be able to move the ball consistently against the mediocre Oregon defense.

In the end, I think Oregon’s offense will be too much for the Buckeyes to handle.  My prediction:  Oregon 35-Ohio State 17.

The Sugar Bowl will be Florida against Cincinnati.  Cincinnati is the other undefeated team in the BCS besides the four listed above.  Florida has one loss, and is coming off the loss to Alabama in the SEC Championship.  This game will come down to how well Tony Pike can handle the Florida defense, ranked 2nd in the SEC behind only Alabama.  To this point, the Bearcats have had their way against many mediocre Big East defenses this year.  It will be interesting to see if the Bearcat offense is for real.  Another X-factor will be how well Tebow can respond to his disappointing performance in the SEC Championship.

My prediction: A high scoring game with Florida coming out victorious: 37-31

The final BCS Bowl game is the Orange Bowl.  The last BCS qualifying Iowa Hawkeyes will face the triple option Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets.  The key aspect of this game will be how well the Iowa defense can handle the triple option, which Georgia Tech lives and dies by.  Iowa’s offense has not been very dynamic this year, but will have a chance to redeem itself against a defense that is not as stout as those in the Big 10.

My prediction:  Georgia Tech 27 Iowa 17

The final BCS spot came down to Iowa and Penn State.  Many Penn State fans thought that Penn State would get the final bid because of the identical records between the teams and the fact that Penn State has a much larger fan base and would provide more revenue than Iowa.

However, as much as it pains me to say so, the correct decision was made.  First, Iowa defeated Penn State on the road by 11 points early in the season.  To those who say that one must also consider how the teams finished, such as the case of Oregon and Boise State, I realize that that is important.  However, it is necessary to remember that towards the end of the season, Penn State lost to Ohio State at home by 17 points.  The very next week, Iowa lost to Ohio State, on the road, in overtime, 27-24, without Stanzi at quarterback.  Therefore, Iowa outplayed Penn State at the beginning of the year, by defeating the Lions in Beaver Stadium, and at the end of the year, shown by the teams’ performances against Ohio State.  Iowa truly deserved the BCS bid over Penn State.