Today are the first BCS Bowl games. And that gives me the possibility to give my opinion on these games and predict a winner. I’ve seen quite a few games (although the coverage on NASN is mainly focused on the SEC), but it’s still hard to follow college football from Europe.
Illinois vs. USC
The Fighting Illini are responsible for a nice upset against Ohio State and had quality wins against Penn State and Wisconsin, but also lost against Michigan, Missouri and Iowa. I’m not sure how strong they really are, but I don’t think they can beat USC. USC had a pretty bad year, for USC standards. The loss at Stanford basically ended their run for the big game, followed by that loss at Oregon sealing the deal. But in the remainder of the season USC showed that they are probably one of the strongest teams right now (with Oklahoma). So the Rose Bowl will once again go to USC.
Hawaii vs. Georgia
Hawaii is having a great season, going 12-0. But they have played only against one ranked opponent, Boise State. So it’s understandable why there is little BCS love for Hawaii. But they love to play football, showing that you can win games while having fun doing it. That might be the key to success against Georgia. I’ve seen Georgia play a few times, against Alabama, Florida and Auburn. They’ve impressed me in those matches and I have to go with Georgia to win this one.
West Virginia vs. Oklahoma
Probably one of the more exciting Bowl games this year. Oklahoma is in my opinion one of the strongest teams right now, West Virginia had another good season. The path to success for WVU is in their passing game, with OU not very strong against the pass. The running game of WVU is solid, but so is OU’s run defense. I think Oklahoma is better in every aspect of the game and will walk away with the win. My prediction: Oklahoma Sooners.
Kansas vs. Virginia Tech
Seen as the weakest of the five Bowl games, this one has written Virginia Tech all over it. The Jayhawks had a great season, but their spot should have gone to Missouri. Virginia Tech is probably stronger and faster on both offense and defense, which has many pick the Hokies as the winner here. But I go with Kansas for two reasons. First, I need an upset in my predictions. And second and most importantly, the most wonderful woman I know is from Kansas, so I feel morally obliged to pick them. Not the best of reasons, but they work for me.
LSU vs. Ohio State
Ohio State was the favorite before the season started. Then came the Illinois game and everything seemed lost. But the other teams crumbled under the pressure, giving Ohio State a chance to redeem themselves after their loss against Florida last year. LSU lost twice, against Kentucky and Arkansas, and have won a number of very close games. In my opinion they should have lost at least two of the three games against Florida, Alabama and Auburn. Not losing those games make the LSU Tigers my favorites to win this one.
