St. Petersburg Bowl: Saint Petersburg, Florida.
Connecticut Huskies vs. Marshall Thundering Herd

If there ever was a defensive grudge match for the ages, it begins and ends right here in Saint Petersburg, Florida.  Allowing only 19.8 PPG (17th in FBS), the Huskies live and died by how effective their defense can be as their offense (17.8 PPG, 122nd in FBS) lacks any real playmakers who can score consistently. Although the Thundering Herd are heavily reliant on their potent defense as well (18.4 PAPG, 14th in FBS), their offense is capable scoring in  hurry when they get into a rhythm (32.6 PPG, 46th in FBS). This due largely in part to the rapid maturation of freshman quarterback Chase Litton (22 TD's on season). At 6'6", Litton has the vision and arm strength to get the ball downfield and is especially dangerous when he gets into a groove. In the end, while the Huskies potent defense is inspiring, their stagnant offense has been their Achilles heel all season long. Despite having some offensive missteps themselves, the Thundering Herd at least have the talent to score when they need to.
Huskies 20 Thundering Herd 30

Sun Bowl: El Paso, Texas
Miami Hurricanes vs. Washington State Cougars

Sporting the best passing game in the league (397 PYPG, 1st in FBS), the Cougars are at their best when sophomore quarterback Luke Falk (70.7 CMP%, 36 TD's) leads the way. Under head coach Mike Leach, Falk has been able to reach his true potential as the Cougars starting quarterback and has made a name for himself as one of the best pocket passers in the game. Although the Hurricanes have a strong armed quarterback as well in Brad Kaaya (15 TD's, 8.43 YPA), their lack of a sufficient defense could prove to be a problem against this pass happy Cougar offense (28.8 PAPG, 83rd in FBS). Ironically, the Cougars defense is just as weak, which will result in an undoubtedly high scoring affair. When all is said and done, the Cougars have an unprecedented passing attack that has allowed them to stay competitive in a tough PAC-12 conference. While the Hurricanes will attempt to keep respectable, the Cougars offense will reign supreme when it matters most.
Hurricanes 40 Cougars 52

Heart of Dallas Bowl: Dallas, Texas.
Washington Huskies vs. Southern Mississippi Golden Eagles

Although most people would heed the warning of "never put all of your eggs in one basket," both of these teams have shamelessly done just that. For the Huskies, smash mouth defense is the name of the game (17.8 PAPG) while their offense can only be relied upon for the occasional scoring outburst. Conversely, the Golden Eagles are heavily reliant on their dynamic offense which consists of junior quarterback Nick Mullens (36 TD's, 63.4 CMP%) along with senior running back Jalen Richard (14 TD's, 1098 RY). While it may be hard to imagine the Huskies pulling out a victory in this game, they have proven that they can suppress even the toughest offensive opponents (see 45-10 victory over Washington State).  On top of that, the Huskies have a freshman passer in Jake Browning (16 TD's, 8 YPA), who has the capabilities to help this team score in a hurry. In the end, the Golden Eagles are the better team on paper, but Huskies have proven that they can be up to the challenge when facing a statistically superior opponent.
Huskies 27 Golden Eagles 21

Pinstripe Bowl: New York, New York.
Indiana Hoosiers vs. Duke Blue Devils

As far as competitive match ups go, this one touts two of the most evenly matched teams thus far this bowl season. For the pesky Hoosiers, it's all about utilizing the talents of their aggressive quarterback Nate Sudfield (24 TD's, 8.82 YPA), while including junior running back Jordan Howard (1213 RY, 9 TD's) in the mix. While the Blue Devils may not have the same caliber of offensive talent, junior quarterback Thomas Sirk (15 passing TD's, 6 rushing TD's) is dual threat as both a capable passer and even more effective runner. However, Duke's chances at victory won't necessarily be completely passed around their finicky albeit dynamic offense. Rather, Duke's chances of victory will be largely based on how well their defense plays (24.1 PAPG, 45th in FBS). While the Blue Devil's defense struggled mightily down the stretch, they certainly have the talent and coaching staff to rediscover a facet of their game that made them so dominant early on in the season. Although it may appear that the Blue Devils are simply limping their way into this one, the fact they have been on the verge of a post season victory for the last three seasons should be more than enough motivation for this pesky Blue Devils team to rise from the ashes of their past transgressions.
Hoosiers 27 Blue Devils 29

Independence Bowl: Shreveport, Louisiana.
Tulsa Golden Hurricanes vs. Virginia Tech Hokies

Normally, a bowl game between two 6-6 teams would hardly garner any recognition as a notable match up. However, the departure of long time Virginia Tech head coach Frank Beamer gives this game a tremendous amount of meaning and intrigue. Although the Golden Hurricanes have every reason to be confident in their passing game (329.8 PYPG, 11th in FBS), the defensive minded Hokies (24.2 PAPG, 47th in FBS) will look to secure a coveted bowl victory for their beloved coach. The key to victory for the Hokies is to keep the opposition from scoring 30 or more points, as all but one of their losses have resulted from this occurrence. While the Golden Hurricanes have been up to task when it comes to scoring (35.9 PPG, 27th in FBS), their paper thin defense (38.6 PAPG, 120th in FBS) has been the frustrating hinderance that has kept this team from being an exceptional playoff contender. When all is said and done, it's hard to bet against a team that's playing for more than just a trophy. More than likely, the swan song of Frank Beamer will result in tears of joy rather than tears of unfathomable sadness.
Golden Hurricanes 27 Hokies 31

Foster Farms Bowl: Santa Clara, California.
UCLA Bruins vs. Nebraska Cornhuskers

Despite a head scratching 5-7 record, the Cornhuskers have a lot more going for them than most people think. When the Cornhuskers have won, it's been almost always the result of Tommy Armstrong jr. (21 TD's), playing tenaciously and intelligently. For the Bruins, it's always been about being a complete team rather than a lopsided juggernaut. Freshman QB Josh Rosen has admittedly had his struggles, but when he's on his game it's nearly impossible to stop him from scoring consistently. Luckily, junior running back Paul Perkins (1275 rushing yards, 13 TD's) has been a huge crutch for this team as a capable runner as well as dynamic receiving threat coming out of the backfield. While the Bruins talent level may surpass that of the Cornhuskers, there is something to be said for this Nebraska team who's losses have all been by a touchdown are less. If Bruins hope to win, it wold behoove them to not underestimate this Cornhuskers team that can score quickly when they are firing on all cylinders. Although it would be nice to see the underdog come out on top, the Bruins simply have a better team that can score in a multitude of ways while utilizing a capable defense that suppress even the most tenacious of offenses.
Bruins 30 Cornhuskers 29

College Football Bowl Mania Preview: December 24th

Bahamas Bowl: Bahamas.
Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders vs. Western Michigan Broncos

Although both of these teams are known for their potent offenses, they execute their playing styles in very different ways. The Broncos have a favorable combination of an effective running game (197.2 RYPG, 34th in FBS) while utilizing the big arm of junior quarterback Zach Terrell (66.8 CMP%, 8.84 YPA). The Blue Raiders may not have a reliable rushing game (148.3 RYPG, 96th in FBS), however they more than make up for it with a talented freshman quarterback in Brent Stockstill (66.7 CMP%, 8.16 YPA). To be sure, both teams will rely heavily on their gifted passers to guide them to a well deserved victory as each of these quarterbacks thrive when they throw the ball downfield. However, the fact that the Blue Raiders lack an intimidating rusher will ultimately be their downfall.

Blue Raiders 33 Broncos 39

Hawaii Bowl: Honolulu, Hawaii.
San Diego State Aztecs vs. Cincinnati Bearcats

While their have been several games thus far that have displayed one dimensional albeit aggresive offensive powerhouses, non have been as lopsided as these two teams are. While the Aztecs have a formidable running game (235.5 YPG, 15th in FBS), their passing efficiency leaves something to be desired to say the least (143 PYPG, 119th in FBS). On the flip side, the Bearcats have a spectacular passing game (373,1 PYPG, 4th in FBS) while their paper thin defense (30.3 PAPG, 88th in FBS) has failed to be anything more than a slight hinderance to opposing offenses. Ultimately, the winner here will be the one who can exploit their opponents glaring weaknesses while attempting to use their unique talents to cover up their blatant shortcomings. In the end, the Aztecs relentless rusher Donnel Pumphrey (1554 RY, 16 TD's) and their stout defense will give them the advantage down the stretch.

Aztecs 30 Bearcats 28

College Football Bowl Mania Preview: December 23rd

Poinsettia Bowl: San Diego, California.
Boise State Broncos vs. Northern Illinois Huskies

Although there have been several sensational defense vs. offense match ups, this game will be anything but a defensive grudge match. The Broncos have an effective passing game (304.6 YPG, 19th in FBS) while the Huskies have a tenacious running game (205.1 RYPG, 29th in FBS) led by Junior running back Joel Bouagnon (1269 rushing yards and 18 TD's on the season). Although the Broncos freshman quarterback Brett Rypien may not be the flashiest passer, his strong arm (7.63 YPA) and intuitive decision making (62.6 CMP%,) make him a force to be reckoned with. While scoring shouldn't be a problem for either of these teams, it is their underrated defenses that will make the difference in this game. Even though it's more likely that this will be a possession by possession offensive duel, a timely turnover by either of these defenses could be the difference between supreme victory or humiliating defeat. When all is said and done, the Huskies formidable running game won't be able to keep up with the relentless passing threat that the Broncos bring to the table.

Broncos 43 Huskies 36

GoDaddy Bowl: Mobile, Alabama.
Georgia Southern Eagles vs. Bowling Green Falcons

Admittedly, it may be difficult to discover any intrigue to this match up initially, but a closer look will reveal two prolific offenses that are dominant in their respective playing styles. Between the Falcons nearly unstoppable passing attack (376.1 YPG, 3rd in FBS) and the Eagles formidable running prowess (355.6 RYPG, 1st in FBS), this game has all the fixings for an extremely high scoring affair. Falcons senior quarterback Matt Johnson has continued to beef up his already impressive resume with over 4700 passing yards combined with a hand cannon for an arm that can accurately get the ball downfield (8.8 YPA and 43 TD's). However, the Eagles have a gifted offensive weapon of their own in junior running back Matt Breida who has been nearly flawless in his execution and vigilance. While his 16 TD's on the season would be intriguing in and of itself, it's his ability to break tackles for huge chunks of yardage that makes him a truly fantastic players. In the end, the Falcons versatility will give them the edge over the one dimensional albeit aggressive running game of the Eagles.

Eagles 48 Falcons 55

College Football Bowl Mania Preview: December 22nd

Famous Idaho Potato Bowl: Boise, Idaho.
Akron Zips vs. Utah State Aggies

Although neither of these teams are particularly noteworthy when it comes to flashy statistics, the implications for both of these teams is what makes this match up worth watching. While the Aggies are accustomed to being perennial playoff contenders (have been to five straight bowl games), the Zips have only been to one bowl game (which they lost in 2005) since joining the FBS in 1987. However, despite this noticeable discrepancy, the Zips shouldn't fret too much as their top notch defense (21.5 PAPG, 28th in FBS) is potent enough to give the Aggies some trouble.  Although the Aggies may not have a reputable defense themselves, they have proven to be fairly effective when it comes to scoring (29.5 PPG, 63rd in FBS). This is due largely in part to the physical rushing capabilities of junior running back Devante Mays (5.5 yards per carry), which has been the key to Aggies success on offense. In the end, both of these teams will be eager to prove that they are better than their lack of statistical accolades appear to indicate. However, the Aggies slightly better offense will give them the edge when all is said and done.

Zips 23 Aggies 28

Boca Raton Bowl: Boca Raton, Florida.
Temple Owls vs. Toledo Rockets

While both of these teams would have liked to be apart of one of the New Year Six bowl games, they should be content in the fact that they get to display their unique playing styles mano y mano. Between the Owls stingy defense (19.2 PAPG, 16th in FBS) and the Rockets relentless offense (34.7 PPG, 34th in FBS), this matchup should have a little bit everything and then some. Although it's easy to look at the Rockets well-rounded offense as the winner here, the Owls are not unfamiliar with going up against score happy opponents and winning (Beat Memphis and Cincinnati, both of whom were ranked 7th and 26th in scoring efficiency). Even with their consistent defense, the Owls would be wise to make sure that the Rockets vicious running back Kareem Hunt (5.5 YPC, 10 TD's) doesn't get into a rhythm. Although the Rockets won't go quietly, it's hard to imagine the Owls succumbing to another devastating loss, especially when their defense has been as phenomenal as it has been over the course of this season.

Owls 24 Rockets 20

College Football Bowl Mania Preview: December 21st

Miami Beach Bowl: Miami, Florida.
Western Kentucky Hilltoppers vs. South Florida Bulls

Once again, we find ourselves looking at another bowl game that features two contrasting styles of play. With the Hilltoppers sensational passing prowess (365.4 PYPG, 6th in FBS) and the Bulls running capabilities (242.9 RYPG, 11th in FBS), this matchup will premiere two underrated opponents who will look to cap off their season with a bowl victory. Despite the Bulls rock solid defense (21.1 PAPG, 25th in FBS), the Hilltoppers have one of the most gifted passers in college football. Senior quarterback Brandon Doughty has been nearly flawless as the Hilltoppers reliable quarterback. Between his remarkable accuracy (71.8 CMP%) and aggressiveness as a downfield passer (9.26 yards per pass), Doughty has all the tools to dismantle the Bulls defense. Although the Bulls have a hefty running back in sophomore Marlon Mack (6.6 yards per carry, 1273 rushing yards on the season), their lack of a potent passing game puts them at a severe disadvantage to a Western Kentucky team that won't let up when it comes to executing their score happy offense.

Hilltoppers 38 Bulls 29

College Football Bowl Mania Preview: December 19th

Arguably one of the most anticipated post season events of the year, the nearly month long slew of do or die college football match ups has always been captivating for sports fans.  Although not all of the over 40 bowl games are nearly as intriguing as the last (this has been made apparent by the inclusion of three teams with 5-7 records), they are if nothing else a last hurrah for teams to salvage their underwhelming seasons. While the inaugural day of the college football post season may seem a bit scarce with noteworthy competition, it is still the start of something that is treasured by any football fan.

Celebration Bowl: Atlanta, Georgia.

Alcorn State Braves vs. North Carolina A&T Aggies

While it may an arduous task to initially discern what entertainment value there is between two FCS teams, it at least features two opponents that have impressive overall record (Braves 9-3, Aggies 9-2). Aside from this accomplishment, both of these teams are exceptional on the offensive and defensive side of the ball. Although the Braves offense is slightly more prolific (40 PPG for the Braves compared to the Aggies 30 PPG), the Aggies have proven be much more efficient when it comes to their defensive prowess (15.6 PAPG for the Aggies compared to 21.1 PAPG for the Braves). In the end, this matchup has a decent amount intrigue but unfortunately not enough national relevance to be on the average sports fans radar.

Braves 23 Aggies 24

New Mexico Bowl: Albuquerque, New Mexico.

Arizona Wildcats vs. New Mexico Lobos

As the first FBS bowl game of the day, it's fairly safe to say that all eyes will be on this PAC-12 vs. Mountain West matchup that should display a little of everything. Between the Lobos' potent rushing attack (246.6 RYPG, 8th in FBS) and the Wildcats passing prowess (268.3 PYPG, 32nd in FBS), this is a game in which both of these opponents will look to execute their unique offensive strategies. However, the Lobos will have to rely on some defensive magic if they hope to throw off the unforgiving versatility of the Wildcats offense. While a last minute defensive miracle from the Lobos would be incredible, it seems more likely that Wildcats quarterback Anu Solomon will find way to score enough points to put this one out of reach.

Wildcats 31 Lobos 22

Las Vegas Bowl: Las Vegas, Nevada.

BYU Cougars vs. #22 Utah Utes

As a matchup that features two stingy defenses, it would seem logical that these two teams are poised for a low scoring, physical grudge match. However, one only has to dig a little bit deeper to see that this isn't simply another one dimensional affair. Winning seven of their last eight games, the BYU Cougars have every reason to feel confident in their ability to pull out a win here, especially since they have quarterback Tanner Magnum on their side (21 TD's to just 7 INT's). However, what the Utes lack in passing efficiency, they more than make up for with a physical running game (187.8 RYPG, 43rd in FBS). Although it may be tempting to go with the passing capabilities of the Cougars, the Utes have garnered more quality wins against ranked opponents and have a little something to prove after their late season struggles.

Cougars 24 Utes 28

Camellia Bowl: Montgomery, Alabama.

Ohio Bobcats vs. Appalachian State Mountaineers

Although this may seem like a unremarkable match up at first glance, both of these teams are much improved over last season. For the Bobcats, they have made a killing at simply being an above average team at rushing (187.1 RYPG, 45th in FBS), passing (238 PYPG, 49th in FBS) and defense (24.8 PAPG, 51st). However, while the Mountaineers may not have a well-rounded offense themselves, they more than make up for it with a formidable rushing attack (268.8 RYPG, 6th in FBS) and a opportunistic defense (18.3 PAPG, 13 in FBS). Although running back Marcus Cox may not be having the season he did last year when he had 19 rushing touchdowns (Only eight rushing TD's this season), he hasn't lost his touch when it comes to finding ways to evade tenacious line backers (5.8 YPC and 1261 yards on the season). In the end, the Bobcats well balanced nature won't be quite enough to suppress the Mountaineers physical style of play. While this will most likely be a fairly close game, Appalachian State will find a away to take advantage of a tired Ohio team during the waning moments of the game.

Bobcats 23 Mountaineers 26

Cure Bowl: Orlando, Florida.

San Jose State Spartans vs. Georgia State Panthers

Although it may seem like Georgia State has an overwhelming advantage here thanks to having one of the best passing attacks in the game (346.6 YPG, 8th in FBS), the Spartans are potent scorers themselves (28.2 PPG). Despite their unimpressive 5-7 record, the Spartans have been a handful when both their passing attack (232.8 PYPG, 56th in FBS) and rushing capabilities (181 RYPG, 54th in FBS) are in sync. However, the Spartans will have to contend with one of the most prolific passers in college football in Nick Arbuckle (4160 YPG and 26 TD's). Although the Spartans defense isn't terrible, it can hardly be expected to for this team to rely on it's inconsistent defense for a victory. More than likely, the Spartans ability to persevere will be based on how well junior quarterback Kenny Porter performs as he'll have to be at his best to come out on top here (68.5 CMP% and 14 TD's). In the end, while the Panthers have a scary efficient passing attack, the Spartans have the advantage of having a solid rushing game that is backed up by quarterback that is an supremely accurate passer and can get the ball downfield (7.55 YPPA). 

Spartans 47 Panthers 44

New Orleans Bowl: New Orleans, Louisiana.

Arkansas State Red Wolves vs. Louisiana Tech Bulldogs

The nightcap for the first day of bowl games is a matchup between two very different teams that have found ways to win through their one-dimensional ways. Although the Red Wolves may not have a tenacious defense (28.8 PAPG), they more than make up for it with a nearly unstoppable rushing threat (235.8 RYPG, 14th in FBS) that can score points quickly and efficiently (41 PPG). On the flip side, the Bulldogs have relied on a potent passing attack (311.9 YPG, 15th in FBS) to win thanks to senior quarterback Jeff Driskel (3575 PYPG and 24 TD's). Although this will clearly be a high scoring affair, it's difficult to see who has the distinct advantage here. Both teams are capable of scoring quickly and consistently, despite being one dimensional in their respective playing styles. When all is said and done, this game will come down to who has the final possession of the ball during the final seconds. The Red Wolves get the slight edge here since they are a bit more prolific when it comes to scoring.

Red Wolves 52 Bulldogs 48