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

Sunday NFL Game Of The Week: Green Bay Packers (6-3) vs. Minnesota Vikings (7-2)

It's hard to imagine that just a few short weeks ago the Green Bay Packers had one of the most effective defenses in the NFL. In their first six victories of the season, the Packers stingy defense allowed a mere 16.8 PPG while their relentless offense scored over 27 PPG. However, the once invincible force that was capable of steam rolling over any opponent in their path,has now regressed into a incomprehensibly distraught mess of their former selves. In their last three losses, the Packers have allowed opponents to score 28 PPG while only scoring a meek 18.3 PPG themselves. While the Packers Dr. Jekyll to Mr. Hyde transformation is undoubtedly disturbing, it's hard to imagine that a team that is clearly athletically adept, succumb to their recent shortcomings.

In order for the Packers to return to their former glory, they'll need their prolific passer to step when it matter losses. Despite throwing for over three hundred yards in the Packers last three losses, Aaron Rodgers has been unable to resurrect this teams perseverance that has allowed them to dominate in weeks past. This is also due in part to the Packers lack of a rushing attack as former starter Eddie Lacy has failed to live up to his previous successes as he had over 1,000 rushing yards in his last two seasons. This year, Lacy has only rushed for two touchdowns and just over 300 yards more than half way through the season. This lack of versatility has forced Aaron Rodgers to throw a plethora of passes in an attempt to carry the weight of this now one-dimensional offense (has attempted over 100 passes in his last two games alone). No matter how great of a passer Rodgers is, without a opportunistic defense and a potent rushing attack, he can hardly be expected to right this sinking ship on his own.

For the Vikings, the name of the game is a smash mouth defense (17.1 PAPG, 2nd in NFL) and a unstoppable rushing attack (147.2 RYPG, 1st in NFL). Although Teddy Bridgewater is a dynamic game manager (64.3 CMP%), he lacks the scoring proficiencies of the elite passers in the game (7 TD, 6 INT). This is where the essential production of runnings back Adrian Peterson comes into play for a Vikings team that simply refuses to lose. At 4.9 yards per carry, Peterson has progressively transformed back into the gifted rusher that the Vikings have relied upon as their most gifted and capable player. If the Vikings can combine Peterson's rushing capabilities with Bridgewater's sound decision making skills, this team could come away with a crucial victory that would give them some elbow room at the top of the NFC North.

In the end, the woeful Packers will have to dig deep to beat a red hot Vikings team that has seemingly dominated the competition in recent weeks. If the Packers lose today, it will be blatantly apparent that this team doesn't have what it takes to contend for a division that was once theirs for the taking.  

Final Score: Packers 23 Vikings 20

Are The Lakers Better Off Without Kobe Bryant?

Once a franchise that exemplified greatness, the Los Angeles Lakers have reached an unimaginable low. From the numerous injuries sustained by the legendary Kobe Bryant to the questionable hirings initiated by upper management (hiring Mike D'Antoni and Byron Scott), the Lakers have unquestionably self destructed.

However, while their are a plethora of misguided decisions that have contributed to the Lakers tumultuous downfall, it seems clear that their failures are more of a player personnel disparity rather than poor coaching on the part of Byron Scott. Specifically, the physical and mental decline of Kobe Bryant has been especially difficult to witness on a regular basis. His resilient resolve that once allowed him become one of the best players in the NBA, has now eradicated as he has incurred one devastating injury after the other.

Thus far during the Lakers head shaking 0-4 start, Bryant has averaged a meek 15.8 PPG (25.3 PPG career average) while shooting 32.3% from the field (45.1% career average). However, while Bryant's statistical variances are definitely alarming, it is also the result of him taking less shots. Bryant's attempted shots per game have hovered around 20 throughout his career, this season has seen a less aggressive shooter with Bryant averaging just 15.5 shots per game. Although this could be the result of Bryant's apparent physical regression, it is also just as likely that Bryant's confidence in his abilities is beginning to come apart at the seams. In years past, Bryant hardly ever unveiled any type of self deprecation. No matter what the imposing obstacle was, Bryant was unconditionally determined to overcome it. And more often than not, he did just that.

Yet, it became difficult for Bryant to remain jovial as his career became sidetracked by one freak injury after another. Although Bryant seems to be healthy from a athletic stand point, his fiery perseverance is no longer present. Not only does this energy hurt Bryant's ability to be great, it also inhibits the growth and progression of his young teammates. While being a nurturing leader was never one of Bryant's strong suits, he lead by his performance on the court, which at one time was a miraculous sight to behold. Now, Bryant's inability to lead by example has crippled his team from moving forward.

While it may seem unfair to oust a man who has helped the Lakers win five championships in the 21st century, it can't be denied that father time has finally caught up to the 19-year veteran.  Without a confident and skillful leader that can remain resilient through any situation, a team is doomed to flounder in the realm of mediocrity. Although it won't be easy an easy notion to accept for any die hard Laker fan, the inevitable retirement of Bryant should happen sooner rather than later.

When all is said and done, the Lakers will be able to retain their title of perennial championship contenders when they have completely established themselves with a new generation of players. Although Bryant's presence was once a model for rookies to emulate, his continuous regression both physically and mentally has not been a helpful attribute for a team that has enough struggles to deal with. For the Lakers to create another successful dynasty, they will have to let go of the final piece of their last five championship teams.

Sunday Night Football Preview: Green Bay Packers vs. Denver Broncos

In years past, a matchup of this magnitude would have been considered a quarterback grudge match for the ages. In their primes, both of these passers have shown an innate ability to read defenses on the fly while being able to make pin point passes to their prolific receivers. While Aaron Rodgers hasn't shown any signs of regression, Peyton Manning hasn't looked like the legendary pocket passer that he used to be. Playing in his 18th season, Manning has seemingly succumbed to the inevitable proposition that father time cannot be evaded. Although Manning clearly makes the proper looks when targeting a receiver, the velocity and graceful touch that was once apart of Manning's passing repertoire has become a hinderance to the Denver Broncos. Despite Manning's frustrating shortcomings, the Broncos have developed into one of the best defensive teams in the league (have allowed only 17 points per game this year, 2nd in NFL).

However, despite the Broncos new found defensively charged identity, they have yet to be challenged by an offensive powerhouse. While the Broncos are currently undefeated on the season, their six victories have been won by eight point or less, and four of their six wins have come against teams with records currently below .500. Watching Manning and company narrowly cheat defeat has become a staple of how this team has stayed competitive despite the inconsistent performances of both the passing (240.8 passing yards per game, 18th in NFL) and running games (85 rushing yards per game, 31st in the NFL). Without a potent offense, the Broncos are simply a defensively inspired team that can only keep the listless Peyton Manning in tight games for so long.

For the Green Pay Packers, their primary mode of success will be predicated on the arm of the always reliable Aaron Rodgers. Not only is Aaron Rodgers a supremely accurate passer (68.1 completion percentage), he is also tenacious when it comes to launching the ball downfield for big gains (8.19 yards per pass attempt).

However, the most noticeable discrepancy between Manning and Rodgers is their margin for turnovers...and it's not even close. As usual, Rodgers has proven to be a superb talent when it comes to ball security as he has only thrown 2 INT's to Manning's 10 INT's. Worse for Manning still is the fact that he'll have to face the toughest defense in the league (16.8 points allowed in the league for Green Bay, 1st in NFL). Seeing how Manning has struggled against bottom tiered defenses such as the banged up Baltimore Ravens (26th in the league in points allowed) and the offensively scrappy albeit defensively challenged Oakland Raiders (21st in the league in points allowed), it's hard to imagine the Broncos having any type of success against a Packers team that is looking to make a run to the Super Bowl.

In the end, the legacy of Manning will likely take a turn for the worst in tonights matchup with the Packers. Although Manning is certainly a 1st ballot hall of fame inductee, his once reputable skill set has withered away noticeably, leaving the Broncos with a discouraged quarterback who simply doesn't have it anymore. Although Manning and company will keep the game somewhat respectable, the Broncos won't be able stifle a stacked Packers squad that will look to be 7-0 when all is said and done.

Final Verdict: Packers 28 Broncos 19

College Game Day Preview: Notre Dame Fighting Irish vs. Temple Owls

If you had told any college football fanatic that the Temple Owls would be an undefeated program at 7-0, they would have glared at you with disgruntled confusion. To think that the Owls would be any different than yesteryears counter parts would be a dubious proposition at best. Yet, despite these radical and justified beliefs, Temple has finally found a way to emulate their winning program from 2009, who's surprising success was based on a smash mouth defense that easily stifled any opposing offense they faced. While on the surface it seemed that Temple's glowing 9-4 record was indicative of their weak schedule rather an a opportunistic defense, this year has proven that the Owls are a legitimately great team. Between a decisive victory over in state rival Penn State in their home opener and a defensive lockdown of one of the most prolific passers in college football in Cincinnati's Gunner Kiel (4 INT's for Owls defense in 34-26 win), the Owls have asserted themselves as a fearless force to be reckoned.

However, even with Temple's improbable rise to greatness, they have yet to face a well balanced offense like that of the Notre Dame Fighting Irish. Having running back C.J. Prosise alone would be enough to justify the Irish's chances to defeat the Owls on the road. Add to that a star studded quarterback in DeShone Kizer (65.4% completion percentage, 10 TD's), and it seems that the Owls have their work cut out for them.

Ultimately, the Owls will have to rely on their relentless pass rush and prolific running game if they hope to pull off one of the most spectacular upsets of the season. Although P.J. Walker is capable of methodically moving his offense down the field, the Owls are at their best when their running game is effective thanks to their shifty running back Jahad Thomas. When Thomas isn't breaking tackles in the open field for massive chunks of yardage, he's running down the throats of tenacious defenders in the red zone. Simply put, Thomas is the crux that allows this offense to extend drives to put his team in a position to score on successive drives.

Notre Dame may be the favorite to win (rightfully so), but the Owls have persevered to achieve a team accolade that is more than just a fantastical fluke. Although it will take everything Temple has and then some to win this game and remain undefeated, it couldn't happen on a better night than Halloween, where the bumps in the night become your worst fears.  Tonight, the Temple Owls will be more than a cliche figment of a child's wild imagination, they will be the imposing and cunning monster that comes ready to play.

Final Verdict. Fighting Irish 23 Owls 26