Review: WEST VIRGINIA 70 Clemson 33 X
Field goals get you beat, especially when you're swapping field goals for touchdowns. And when the other team is converting your turnovers into touchdowns, you've got a mountain to climb. Too bad it wasn't the Mountaineers attempting the comeback. Clemson had a lead heading into the second quarter, but when you give up five touchdowns in a quarter, it's hard to fight back. In that explosive second quarter, one of the biggest momentum swings was a 99-yard fumble recovery by Mountaineers safety Darwin Cook on what seemed to be an Andre Ellington Tigers touchdown. That in itself was a 14 point swing and seemed to be a game changer. West Virginia quarterback Geno Smith tied the bowl record for touchdown passes with six, and wide receiver, Tavon Austin, also tied the bowl record for most touchdown receptions with four. The team as a unit set the bowl scoring record with 70 points, which had just been set six night's ago in the Alamo Bowl by Baylor with 67 points.
Thursday, January 5, 2012
Wednesday, January 4, 2012
Things are starting to heat up,
or slow down depending on how you look at it. 30 games are in the books, only five more to go. Too bad my eight game win streak was put on the foot of a kickoff guy turned field goal kicker. Again I'm left saying my, my, Myer.
Review: MICHIGAN 23 Virginia Tech 20 OT X
For the first time ever two BCS bowl games have taken overtime to decide a winner. It was another exciting game to add to this year's bowl slate that has produced several memorable matches. Yet again, it came down to a kicker's battle in overtime, but the Hokies third-string kicker Justin Myer was unable to knock through a 37 yarder in overtime. He was 4-4 in regulation. The Hokies opted to go for it on 4th and 1 at the 4 yard line instead of trying their third field goal of the game. Hindsight is 20/20. Michigan took the lead right before halftime on a 3rd and 17 play good for 45 yards and a touchdown, but a fumble on the kickoff return gave the Wolverines the ball again and they were able to tack on a field goal to go up 10-6 at the break. VT fought back to tie the game early in the fourth quarter with a touchdown and 2-point conversion. The Wolverines got a field goal to go up 20-17, but the Hokies scored with only a few seconds remaining in regulation to send the game to overtime. Michigan managed to win on a less than stellar offensive performance. The Wolverines only mustered up 184 yards of offense all night, compared to the Hokies 377. Crazier things have happened in bowl games.
Discover Orange Bowl
Preview: West Virginia v. Clemson
Another match-up in a BCS bowl where neither team is ranked in the top 10. Both also have three losses coming into tonight's game. What kind of system is this? Last night's game matched two of the nation's top defenses, whereas tonight, offensive firepower will be on display. Clemson improved their total offense by more than 100 yards per game this season, while breaking the school records for passing yards, total yards and scoring. This game pits two teams who average scoring more than 30 points per game and racking up over 440 yards. Maybe the system isn't that broken after all. Whatever the case, this game should prove to be another exciting one for bowl fans. I've got the Clemson Tigers in this one (& I have actually watched them play this season as they took on Troy to begin the year).
Review: MICHIGAN 23 Virginia Tech 20 OT X
For the first time ever two BCS bowl games have taken overtime to decide a winner. It was another exciting game to add to this year's bowl slate that has produced several memorable matches. Yet again, it came down to a kicker's battle in overtime, but the Hokies third-string kicker Justin Myer was unable to knock through a 37 yarder in overtime. He was 4-4 in regulation. The Hokies opted to go for it on 4th and 1 at the 4 yard line instead of trying their third field goal of the game. Hindsight is 20/20. Michigan took the lead right before halftime on a 3rd and 17 play good for 45 yards and a touchdown, but a fumble on the kickoff return gave the Wolverines the ball again and they were able to tack on a field goal to go up 10-6 at the break. VT fought back to tie the game early in the fourth quarter with a touchdown and 2-point conversion. The Wolverines got a field goal to go up 20-17, but the Hokies scored with only a few seconds remaining in regulation to send the game to overtime. Michigan managed to win on a less than stellar offensive performance. The Wolverines only mustered up 184 yards of offense all night, compared to the Hokies 377. Crazier things have happened in bowl games.
Discover Orange Bowl
Preview: West Virginia v. Clemson
Another match-up in a BCS bowl where neither team is ranked in the top 10. Both also have three losses coming into tonight's game. What kind of system is this? Last night's game matched two of the nation's top defenses, whereas tonight, offensive firepower will be on display. Clemson improved their total offense by more than 100 yards per game this season, while breaking the school records for passing yards, total yards and scoring. This game pits two teams who average scoring more than 30 points per game and racking up over 440 yards. Maybe the system isn't that broken after all. Whatever the case, this game should prove to be another exciting one for bowl fans. I've got the Clemson Tigers in this one (& I have actually watched them play this season as they took on Troy to begin the year).
Tuesday, January 3, 2012
On a roll
There's nothing like going 6-0 in New Years Day (late) bowl games!
Review: HOUSTON 30 Penn State 14 √
As I said, the Cougars ended the year on top, rebounding from their own loss of the season to down the Nittany Lions. The loss ended a less than memorable (but forever remembered) season for Penn State. Houston quarterback Case Keenum had another stellar performance racking up 532 yards and three touchdowns. Keenum already hold several records including being the NCAA career leader in passing yards and touchdown passes, and broke the record for the most passing yards in a single quarter in any bowl game with 227 in the opening 15 minutes of the game. Houston ended the day with 600 yards of total offense compared to Penn State's 306. The Nittany Lions also had three turnovers on the day, while Houston, who had two in their last game, didn't give it up a single time.
Review: FLORIDA 24 Ohio State 17 √
My, My, Myer. Your former team looked like they had it out for the squad you'll be manning next year. This game may not have been about offense, but the Gators lived up to the SEC's reputation of having a defense to keep your eyes on. The Gator's had six sacks in the game, and special teams also played a big part in Florida's victory as Andre Debose took the ball 99 yards on a kickoff return for a touchdown, which was the longest scoring play in bowl history. They also managed to block a punt and Chris Rainey returned it for a touchdown. The loss ended Ohio State's year at 6-7, giving them their first losing season since 1988. The seven losses were the most since 1897. Meyer, you might have your hands full.
Review: SOUTH CAROLINA 30 Nebraska 13 √
The Cornhuskers managed 13 points in the first quarter and led 13-9 entering the second quarter, but from there on it was all Gamecocks as they reeled off 21 unanswered to win the Capital One Bowl. Does this mean Capital One Bowl Week (or MONTH) is finally over? In a season that involved cutting the starting quarterback and losing your star running back to injury, who knew Steve Spurrier would be able to rally the troops and give the Gamecocks their winningest season on record. The Gamecocks did most of their damage through the air as the Cornhuskers out-rushed South Carolina by 16 yards. Conner Shaw, who stepped in after Stephen Garcia was kicked off the team, went 11 of 17 on the day for 230 yards and two touchdowns. South Carolina won their first bowl game in the last four tries.
Review: MICHIGAN STATE 33 Georgia 30 3/OT √
What a thriller in Tampa, though it didn't start out that way! When Georgia led 2-0 after the first quarter, who knew this one would take three overtimes to decide a champion. I didn't get the chance to see any of this one, but I tuned in to the final 3 minutes of the game and the overtimes on the radio. The Bulldogs led 16-0 at halftime and seemed to be in control, but in the third quarter, the Spartans cut that lead to just two, putting two touchdowns on the board. On Michigan State's first touchdown of the day, they went for the 2-point conversion and got it, but the second touchdown, courtesy of a Darqueze Dennard interception returned for six, was just good for six as the 2-point conversion was no good. The fourth quarter was back and forth but the Spartans tied the game with 14 seconds to go, sending them into overtime. After Kirk Cousins pass was intercepted during State's possession in overtime, Mark Richt opted to try a 42 yard field goal on 3rd down, and Blair Walsh missed it. Double Overtime. Walsh would redeem himself with a 47 yard field goal this time, but Michigan State's Dan Conroy would make from 35 to tie the game again. Triple Overtime. Again, the game was left to the kickers as Conroy knocked another through, this time a 28 yard field goal. Walsh got his chance from 47 yards but it was blocked, giving Michigan State their first bowl win under head coach Mark Dantonio.
Review: OREGON 45 Wisconsin 38 √
I changed my pick, and I couldn't be happier that I did. This game looked like it might outscore the Alamo Bowl at first, with 28 points scored in the first and second quarters. It was an explosive game, but in the end it came down to final review by the officials to confirm that indeed Wisconsin had pulled a Les Miles. They had snapped the ball and spiked it, but there was no time left on the clock. Game over. The Ducks claimed their first Rose Bowl in 95 years. D. Thomas was a common name on the stat sheet as quarterback Darron Thomas and freshman running back De'Anthony Thomas racked up most of the Oregon yards. Darron Thomas threw for 268 yards and 3 touchdowns, and while LaMichael James did lead the Ducks in rushing yards with 159 on 25 carries, De'Anthony Thomas had 155 yards on two carries of 91 yards and 64 yards, both for touchdowns. Looks like the Ducks still have plenty to work with for another season. One of the biggest plays of the night, besides the spiking of the ball that ran the clock out, was a fumble by Wisconsin's Jared Abbrederis after a reception near the Oregon sideline with 4 minutes to go in the game. Abbrederis and the Oregon defenders slid out of bounds, but the ball stopped. The ball lay on the field right infront of Oregon's head coach Chip Kelly. Kelly was jumping up and down, pointing at the ball and looked as if he'd have recovered it himself if he could have. Oregon's Michael Clay recovered the fumble and let the Ducks run the clock down to 16 seconds. It's a good thing they did because if Wisconsin had just a few more seconds on the clock, this game might've had a different ending.
Review: OKLAHOMA STATE 41 Stanford 38 OT √
It seems like the Cardinal's luck ran out. What a way to end a day full of exciting college football. I said I'd see every snap, and I wish I had. Stanford took a 14 point lead early in the second quarter, but two touchdown passes from Brandon Weeden to Justin Blackmon tied the game. Blackmon finished the game with three touchdowns, including a 43 yarder and a 67 yarder. He also made a big play with 1:00 to go until halftime as the Cowboys had the ball in a 4th and 4 situation at the 32 yard line. Blackmon made a 23 yard reception to get the cowboys inside 10 yard line and make it 1st and goal.
That led to a Weeden rushing touchdown to tie the game at 21 going in at halftime. Oklahoma State never took a lead in regulation, but continued to fight back to tie the game. Tied at 38 they headed into overtime where Stanford and Andrew Luck got the opportunity to strike first. However, they were forced to try a 43 yard field goal and Jordan Williamson missed it. The Cowboys got the ball to the one yard line, centered it up on the next play and Quinn Sharp knocked through a 22 yard field goal to give Oklahoma State their first lead of the night, and the only one they'd need. Luck finished with 347 yards and two touchdowns on the night. Weeden ended with one shy of 400 yards and 3 touchdowns.
AllState Sugar Bowl
Preview: Michigan v. Virginia Tech
This might be the most surprising match-up out of all the games in bowl season. Not counting Boise State of course. Though Boise could make a stand that they deserve to be in this game more so than either of these teams. They aren't even top 10 teams. Both have two losses. Despite that, I was offered a ticket to this game and I hate I couldn't go, because this will likely be a good game between two good, but not great teams. This may not be a high scoring shootout like the Fiesta Bowl or Alamo Bowl since these are two top 20 defenses. I've been a Denard Robinson fan since the start of the 2010 season, though I haven't kept up with him much this year. Virginia Tech has had some off the field distractions this bowl season as kicker Cody Journell was suspended indefinitely Dec. 22. Despite the distraction, I've got the Hokies taking this one. Here's hoping I make it to nine in a row!
Review: HOUSTON 30 Penn State 14 √
As I said, the Cougars ended the year on top, rebounding from their own loss of the season to down the Nittany Lions. The loss ended a less than memorable (but forever remembered) season for Penn State. Houston quarterback Case Keenum had another stellar performance racking up 532 yards and three touchdowns. Keenum already hold several records including being the NCAA career leader in passing yards and touchdown passes, and broke the record for the most passing yards in a single quarter in any bowl game with 227 in the opening 15 minutes of the game. Houston ended the day with 600 yards of total offense compared to Penn State's 306. The Nittany Lions also had three turnovers on the day, while Houston, who had two in their last game, didn't give it up a single time.
Review: FLORIDA 24 Ohio State 17 √
My, My, Myer. Your former team looked like they had it out for the squad you'll be manning next year. This game may not have been about offense, but the Gators lived up to the SEC's reputation of having a defense to keep your eyes on. The Gator's had six sacks in the game, and special teams also played a big part in Florida's victory as Andre Debose took the ball 99 yards on a kickoff return for a touchdown, which was the longest scoring play in bowl history. They also managed to block a punt and Chris Rainey returned it for a touchdown. The loss ended Ohio State's year at 6-7, giving them their first losing season since 1988. The seven losses were the most since 1897. Meyer, you might have your hands full.
Review: SOUTH CAROLINA 30 Nebraska 13 √
The Cornhuskers managed 13 points in the first quarter and led 13-9 entering the second quarter, but from there on it was all Gamecocks as they reeled off 21 unanswered to win the Capital One Bowl. Does this mean Capital One Bowl Week (or MONTH) is finally over? In a season that involved cutting the starting quarterback and losing your star running back to injury, who knew Steve Spurrier would be able to rally the troops and give the Gamecocks their winningest season on record. The Gamecocks did most of their damage through the air as the Cornhuskers out-rushed South Carolina by 16 yards. Conner Shaw, who stepped in after Stephen Garcia was kicked off the team, went 11 of 17 on the day for 230 yards and two touchdowns. South Carolina won their first bowl game in the last four tries.
Review: MICHIGAN STATE 33 Georgia 30 3/OT √
What a thriller in Tampa, though it didn't start out that way! When Georgia led 2-0 after the first quarter, who knew this one would take three overtimes to decide a champion. I didn't get the chance to see any of this one, but I tuned in to the final 3 minutes of the game and the overtimes on the radio. The Bulldogs led 16-0 at halftime and seemed to be in control, but in the third quarter, the Spartans cut that lead to just two, putting two touchdowns on the board. On Michigan State's first touchdown of the day, they went for the 2-point conversion and got it, but the second touchdown, courtesy of a Darqueze Dennard interception returned for six, was just good for six as the 2-point conversion was no good. The fourth quarter was back and forth but the Spartans tied the game with 14 seconds to go, sending them into overtime. After Kirk Cousins pass was intercepted during State's possession in overtime, Mark Richt opted to try a 42 yard field goal on 3rd down, and Blair Walsh missed it. Double Overtime. Walsh would redeem himself with a 47 yard field goal this time, but Michigan State's Dan Conroy would make from 35 to tie the game again. Triple Overtime. Again, the game was left to the kickers as Conroy knocked another through, this time a 28 yard field goal. Walsh got his chance from 47 yards but it was blocked, giving Michigan State their first bowl win under head coach Mark Dantonio.
Review: OREGON 45 Wisconsin 38 √
I changed my pick, and I couldn't be happier that I did. This game looked like it might outscore the Alamo Bowl at first, with 28 points scored in the first and second quarters. It was an explosive game, but in the end it came down to final review by the officials to confirm that indeed Wisconsin had pulled a Les Miles. They had snapped the ball and spiked it, but there was no time left on the clock. Game over. The Ducks claimed their first Rose Bowl in 95 years. D. Thomas was a common name on the stat sheet as quarterback Darron Thomas and freshman running back De'Anthony Thomas racked up most of the Oregon yards. Darron Thomas threw for 268 yards and 3 touchdowns, and while LaMichael James did lead the Ducks in rushing yards with 159 on 25 carries, De'Anthony Thomas had 155 yards on two carries of 91 yards and 64 yards, both for touchdowns. Looks like the Ducks still have plenty to work with for another season. One of the biggest plays of the night, besides the spiking of the ball that ran the clock out, was a fumble by Wisconsin's Jared Abbrederis after a reception near the Oregon sideline with 4 minutes to go in the game. Abbrederis and the Oregon defenders slid out of bounds, but the ball stopped. The ball lay on the field right infront of Oregon's head coach Chip Kelly. Kelly was jumping up and down, pointing at the ball and looked as if he'd have recovered it himself if he could have. Oregon's Michael Clay recovered the fumble and let the Ducks run the clock down to 16 seconds. It's a good thing they did because if Wisconsin had just a few more seconds on the clock, this game might've had a different ending.
Review: OKLAHOMA STATE 41 Stanford 38 OT √
It seems like the Cardinal's luck ran out. What a way to end a day full of exciting college football. I said I'd see every snap, and I wish I had. Stanford took a 14 point lead early in the second quarter, but two touchdown passes from Brandon Weeden to Justin Blackmon tied the game. Blackmon finished the game with three touchdowns, including a 43 yarder and a 67 yarder. He also made a big play with 1:00 to go until halftime as the Cowboys had the ball in a 4th and 4 situation at the 32 yard line. Blackmon made a 23 yard reception to get the cowboys inside 10 yard line and make it 1st and goal.
That led to a Weeden rushing touchdown to tie the game at 21 going in at halftime. Oklahoma State never took a lead in regulation, but continued to fight back to tie the game. Tied at 38 they headed into overtime where Stanford and Andrew Luck got the opportunity to strike first. However, they were forced to try a 43 yard field goal and Jordan Williamson missed it. The Cowboys got the ball to the one yard line, centered it up on the next play and Quinn Sharp knocked through a 22 yard field goal to give Oklahoma State their first lead of the night, and the only one they'd need. Luck finished with 347 yards and two touchdowns on the night. Weeden ended with one shy of 400 yards and 3 touchdowns.
AllState Sugar Bowl
Preview: Michigan v. Virginia Tech
This might be the most surprising match-up out of all the games in bowl season. Not counting Boise State of course. Though Boise could make a stand that they deserve to be in this game more so than either of these teams. They aren't even top 10 teams. Both have two losses. Despite that, I was offered a ticket to this game and I hate I couldn't go, because this will likely be a good game between two good, but not great teams. This may not be a high scoring shootout like the Fiesta Bowl or Alamo Bowl since these are two top 20 defenses. I've been a Denard Robinson fan since the start of the 2010 season, though I haven't kept up with him much this year. Virginia Tech has had some off the field distractions this bowl season as kicker Cody Journell was suspended indefinitely Dec. 22. Despite the distraction, I've got the Hokies taking this one. Here's hoping I make it to nine in a row!
Monday, January 2, 2012
A day late
Not my post, just the "New Years Day" games that are now being played on the 2nd. Totally throwing me off.
Ticketcity Bowl
Preview: Houston v. Penn State
This is anything but just another bowl game. Houston is coming off their only loss of the season at the hands of a Southern Miss squad who ruined the Cougars chances at a BCS bowl berth. Penn State? It doesn't take explaining to say why this is important for the Nittany Lions. With the season they've had dealing with the Jerry Sandusky sex scandal and Joe Paterno being let go midway through the season, will Penn State show up ready to prove themselves? Or will the Cougars rebound, led by quarterback Case Keenum in his final outing? Keenum is still around but head man, Kevin Sumlin, has already moved on and accepted the opening at Texas A&M and will not coach the Cougars in their bowl. Penn State will have plenty to play for, in an attempt to put a positive cap on this ugly season, but I see Houston rebounding from a tough loss and ending the year on top.
Taxslayer.com Gator Bowl
Preview: Ohio State v. Florida
Otherwise known as the Urban Meyer Bowl. Meyer's former school, Florida, will be taking on the squad he'll be coaching next season, Ohio State. Both these teams finished 6-6, though they were probably expected to do a little better. Florida was 0-5 against ranked opponents this season, dropping six of their final eight games. The Buckeyes went 2-3 against the top 25 with wins over Illinois and Wisconsin in back to back weeks, but they dropped their final three games, one against the Nittany Lions. Meyer says he may not even watch this game because of the emotions he has tied to both programs now, and sadly, I won't be getting the chance to see it either. I've got the Gator's in the Gator Bowl. Fitting, right?
Outback Bowl
Preview: Michigan State v. Georgia
This game pits two 10-3 teams against one another, but the Spartans haven't won a bowl game in their last five tries. For the fourth time in five seasons, they'll be playing a bowl in Florida, though with the history they've had, that doesn't seem to play to their advantage. The Bulldogs are making their 15th straight bowl season appearance after facing top ranked LSU in the SEC title game. Any other year, Georgia might've stood a chance in the conference title game, but with the way LSU has played, the fact that the Bulldogs kept it so close was incredible to me. Today's game will be the final outing for Michigan State's winningest quarterback and all-time leader in receiving yards, as Kirk Cousins and B.J. Cunningham finish their careers with the Spartans. I see them going out big and Cousins adding to his record. I've got Michigan State.
Capital One Bowl
Preview: Nebraska v. South Carolina
Up next is the team that kept Michigan State from reaching the Rose Bowl, Nebraska (with the old conference alignment, Michigan State would've received the automatic bid), and the team that handed Georgia their only regular season conference loss, South Carolina. The Gamecocks are one win away from their winningest season in the program's history, however, they have dropped three straight in postseason play. With a win, the Cornhuskers could reach 10 wins for the third straight year. Nebraska hasn't played an SEC opponent since a loss to Auburn in the Cotton Bowl after the 2006 season. Maybe that bodes well for the Gamecocks. I've got Steve Spurrier leading his team to their 11th win and finishing with the winningest season in school history.
Rose Bowl
Preview: Wisconsin v. Oregon
Finally getting into top 10 matches. The Ducks were still waiting to play this time last year as they awaited the Auburn Tigers in the title game. The Tigers have already finished their year at 8-5, while the Ducks have 11 wins entering today's game. Clearly, the Ducks had more success coming out of the title game as the defeated squad than the Tigers did winning the championship and losing their front man, Hesiman trophy winner, Cam Newton. The Badgers have their own Heisman connection as Montee Ball traveled to New York this season as a Heisman finalist. He didn't come home with the hardware, but Ball led the country with 1,759 rushing yards and 38 total touchdowns. Wisconsin is no stranger to the Rose Bowl as they played in this game last season against TCU. A failed 2-point conversion left the Horned Frogs undefeated, while the Badgers were sent home licking their wounds. So, you've got two teams who suffered heartbreaking losses in bowl games last season. Who'll rebound? I changed my pick this morning. I had the Badgers, but I'm going with the Ducks. Kelly, I couldn't have pulled harder against you last year in the title game, but this year I'll be a big fan. Sorry I couldn't make the trip out though ;)
Tostitos Fiesta Bowl
Preview: Stanford v. Oklahoma State
What a game this should be. 3 v. 4. And I was in this venue last year for the championship game. Good luck to anyone trying to get in the stadium. All of you have one gate to go through. Keep smiling. Andrew Luck will be finishing his career with the Cardinal, while the Cowboys will be looking to prove they should've had their chance against LSU in the title game. Both these teams were national title contenders until late in the season. The Cardinal lost to Oregon on Nov. 12, and the Cowboys fell to Iowa State nearly a week later on the 18th. Last year's Fiesta Bowl had nowhere near the excitement level of this game. Oklahoma versus a four-loss Connecticut team didn't seem to have the draw this match-up brings. This will likely be one of the best bowl games of the season, and I intend to see every snap. I see the Cowboys taking this one, though I see it being close.
Ticketcity Bowl
Preview: Houston v. Penn State
This is anything but just another bowl game. Houston is coming off their only loss of the season at the hands of a Southern Miss squad who ruined the Cougars chances at a BCS bowl berth. Penn State? It doesn't take explaining to say why this is important for the Nittany Lions. With the season they've had dealing with the Jerry Sandusky sex scandal and Joe Paterno being let go midway through the season, will Penn State show up ready to prove themselves? Or will the Cougars rebound, led by quarterback Case Keenum in his final outing? Keenum is still around but head man, Kevin Sumlin, has already moved on and accepted the opening at Texas A&M and will not coach the Cougars in their bowl. Penn State will have plenty to play for, in an attempt to put a positive cap on this ugly season, but I see Houston rebounding from a tough loss and ending the year on top.
Taxslayer.com Gator Bowl
Preview: Ohio State v. Florida
Otherwise known as the Urban Meyer Bowl. Meyer's former school, Florida, will be taking on the squad he'll be coaching next season, Ohio State. Both these teams finished 6-6, though they were probably expected to do a little better. Florida was 0-5 against ranked opponents this season, dropping six of their final eight games. The Buckeyes went 2-3 against the top 25 with wins over Illinois and Wisconsin in back to back weeks, but they dropped their final three games, one against the Nittany Lions. Meyer says he may not even watch this game because of the emotions he has tied to both programs now, and sadly, I won't be getting the chance to see it either. I've got the Gator's in the Gator Bowl. Fitting, right?
Outback Bowl
Preview: Michigan State v. Georgia
This game pits two 10-3 teams against one another, but the Spartans haven't won a bowl game in their last five tries. For the fourth time in five seasons, they'll be playing a bowl in Florida, though with the history they've had, that doesn't seem to play to their advantage. The Bulldogs are making their 15th straight bowl season appearance after facing top ranked LSU in the SEC title game. Any other year, Georgia might've stood a chance in the conference title game, but with the way LSU has played, the fact that the Bulldogs kept it so close was incredible to me. Today's game will be the final outing for Michigan State's winningest quarterback and all-time leader in receiving yards, as Kirk Cousins and B.J. Cunningham finish their careers with the Spartans. I see them going out big and Cousins adding to his record. I've got Michigan State.
Capital One Bowl
Preview: Nebraska v. South Carolina
Up next is the team that kept Michigan State from reaching the Rose Bowl, Nebraska (with the old conference alignment, Michigan State would've received the automatic bid), and the team that handed Georgia their only regular season conference loss, South Carolina. The Gamecocks are one win away from their winningest season in the program's history, however, they have dropped three straight in postseason play. With a win, the Cornhuskers could reach 10 wins for the third straight year. Nebraska hasn't played an SEC opponent since a loss to Auburn in the Cotton Bowl after the 2006 season. Maybe that bodes well for the Gamecocks. I've got Steve Spurrier leading his team to their 11th win and finishing with the winningest season in school history.
Rose Bowl
Preview: Wisconsin v. Oregon
Finally getting into top 10 matches. The Ducks were still waiting to play this time last year as they awaited the Auburn Tigers in the title game. The Tigers have already finished their year at 8-5, while the Ducks have 11 wins entering today's game. Clearly, the Ducks had more success coming out of the title game as the defeated squad than the Tigers did winning the championship and losing their front man, Hesiman trophy winner, Cam Newton. The Badgers have their own Heisman connection as Montee Ball traveled to New York this season as a Heisman finalist. He didn't come home with the hardware, but Ball led the country with 1,759 rushing yards and 38 total touchdowns. Wisconsin is no stranger to the Rose Bowl as they played in this game last season against TCU. A failed 2-point conversion left the Horned Frogs undefeated, while the Badgers were sent home licking their wounds. So, you've got two teams who suffered heartbreaking losses in bowl games last season. Who'll rebound? I changed my pick this morning. I had the Badgers, but I'm going with the Ducks. Kelly, I couldn't have pulled harder against you last year in the title game, but this year I'll be a big fan. Sorry I couldn't make the trip out though ;)
Tostitos Fiesta Bowl
Preview: Stanford v. Oklahoma State
What a game this should be. 3 v. 4. And I was in this venue last year for the championship game. Good luck to anyone trying to get in the stadium. All of you have one gate to go through. Keep smiling. Andrew Luck will be finishing his career with the Cardinal, while the Cowboys will be looking to prove they should've had their chance against LSU in the title game. Both these teams were national title contenders until late in the season. The Cardinal lost to Oregon on Nov. 12, and the Cowboys fell to Iowa State nearly a week later on the 18th. Last year's Fiesta Bowl had nowhere near the excitement level of this game. Oklahoma versus a four-loss Connecticut team didn't seem to have the draw this match-up brings. This will likely be one of the best bowl games of the season, and I intend to see every snap. I see the Cowboys taking this one, though I see it being close.
Sunday, January 1, 2012
Happy New Year!
May 2012 be a blessed year for you and yours!
Review: TEXAS A&M 33 Northwestern 22 √
Texas A&M may have had trouble maintaining second half leads throughout the season, but they hung on to claim this one as Northwestern yet again failed to win in the post season. A&M scored 27 straight at one point in this match-up, on their way to breaking a 5-game bowl losing streak. A pretty impressive way to end their Big-12 tenure. Both teams did most of their damage through the air, only racking up 132 rushing yards combined.
Review: UTAH 30 Georgia Tech 27 X
I was hoping Wetumpka would make me proud. I'll admit I was a little let down. Tech had a 14 point lead entering the fourth quarter but let the Utes score two touchdowns to tie the game, leading to overtime. That final touchdown pass came on a 4th and 14 play that was good for 28 and the score. The Yellow Jackets were the first up in overtime, but they only managed to put three points on the board. When Utah got the ball, they knew a touchdown would seal it and sure enough, that's what they got.
Review: ILLINOIS 20 UCLA 14 √
I didn't see a snap of this game. That's surprising. The Illini managed to end a six game skid and handed UCLA their eighth loss of the season. Illinois' first touchdown came late in the third quarter off an interception returned 39 yards for the score. They tacked on 10 more in the fourth to cushion their lead. The win gave the Illini their first ever back-to-back bowl wins in school history.
Review: CINCINNATI 31 Vanderbilt 24 X
SEC? Disappointed. So much for going perfect in bowl season. I thought Vandy had a chance after a 68-yard touchdown pass from Larry Smith to Chris Boyd put the Commodores up 21-17, but on the ensuing kickoff momentum was taken out of Vandy's hands as the Bearcats Ralph Abernathy took the kickoff 90 yards for a touchdown to put Cincy up for good. 17 of the 27 fourth quarter points scored with scored within the time frame from 14:41-13:51. 17 points in less than a minute of game clock. Cincinnati finished the year with ten wins for the fourth time in five years.
Review: AUBURN 43 Virginia 24 √
War Eagle, and Happy New Year! 2011 started with a National Championship for the Tigers, and ended with a bowl win. With how the 2011 season had gone, I'd consider that a success. Of course, I watched more of this game than the others on Saturday, so I have more to say. With Chizik being in charge of the defense after letting Ted Roof go, I was impressed by the fire this team seemed to be playing with. If this team had played like that all season, their record might've been a little better. Chizik will not only be looking to replace the defensive coordinator, but also the offensive coordinator as Gus Malzahn is heading to Arkansas State for his first head coaching position. He too seemed to be pulling out all the stops on New Years Eve. While offense and defense are important, special teams played a huge role in this game. Auburn had two blocked punts (one for a safety), a successful onside kick that the kicker recovered and they stopped a Virginia fake field goal. Barrett Trotter outdid himself after Clint Moseley was knocked out with an ankle injury in the first quarter. Did you see the 50 yarder to Emory Blake? This guy was good. Too bad the rest of the season hadn't been this good. At any rate, I was proud to be cheering for the tigers. It was an exciting match and they now are tied for the most consecutive bowl wins at five in a row.
Review: TEXAS A&M 33 Northwestern 22 √
Texas A&M may have had trouble maintaining second half leads throughout the season, but they hung on to claim this one as Northwestern yet again failed to win in the post season. A&M scored 27 straight at one point in this match-up, on their way to breaking a 5-game bowl losing streak. A pretty impressive way to end their Big-12 tenure. Both teams did most of their damage through the air, only racking up 132 rushing yards combined.
Review: UTAH 30 Georgia Tech 27 X
I was hoping Wetumpka would make me proud. I'll admit I was a little let down. Tech had a 14 point lead entering the fourth quarter but let the Utes score two touchdowns to tie the game, leading to overtime. That final touchdown pass came on a 4th and 14 play that was good for 28 and the score. The Yellow Jackets were the first up in overtime, but they only managed to put three points on the board. When Utah got the ball, they knew a touchdown would seal it and sure enough, that's what they got.
Review: ILLINOIS 20 UCLA 14 √
I didn't see a snap of this game. That's surprising. The Illini managed to end a six game skid and handed UCLA their eighth loss of the season. Illinois' first touchdown came late in the third quarter off an interception returned 39 yards for the score. They tacked on 10 more in the fourth to cushion their lead. The win gave the Illini their first ever back-to-back bowl wins in school history.
Review: CINCINNATI 31 Vanderbilt 24 X
SEC? Disappointed. So much for going perfect in bowl season. I thought Vandy had a chance after a 68-yard touchdown pass from Larry Smith to Chris Boyd put the Commodores up 21-17, but on the ensuing kickoff momentum was taken out of Vandy's hands as the Bearcats Ralph Abernathy took the kickoff 90 yards for a touchdown to put Cincy up for good. 17 of the 27 fourth quarter points scored with scored within the time frame from 14:41-13:51. 17 points in less than a minute of game clock. Cincinnati finished the year with ten wins for the fourth time in five years.
Review: AUBURN 43 Virginia 24 √
War Eagle, and Happy New Year! 2011 started with a National Championship for the Tigers, and ended with a bowl win. With how the 2011 season had gone, I'd consider that a success. Of course, I watched more of this game than the others on Saturday, so I have more to say. With Chizik being in charge of the defense after letting Ted Roof go, I was impressed by the fire this team seemed to be playing with. If this team had played like that all season, their record might've been a little better. Chizik will not only be looking to replace the defensive coordinator, but also the offensive coordinator as Gus Malzahn is heading to Arkansas State for his first head coaching position. He too seemed to be pulling out all the stops on New Years Eve. While offense and defense are important, special teams played a huge role in this game. Auburn had two blocked punts (one for a safety), a successful onside kick that the kicker recovered and they stopped a Virginia fake field goal. Barrett Trotter outdid himself after Clint Moseley was knocked out with an ankle injury in the first quarter. Did you see the 50 yarder to Emory Blake? This guy was good. Too bad the rest of the season hadn't been this good. At any rate, I was proud to be cheering for the tigers. It was an exciting match and they now are tied for the most consecutive bowl wins at five in a row.
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