2013 Mountain West Preview

2013 Predicted Standings

Mountain Division
1.  Boise State Broncos (6-2, 9-4)
2.  Utah State Aggies (6-2, 9-3)
3.  Wyoming Cowboys (4-4, 7-5)
4.  Air Force Falcons (4-4, 6-6)
5.  Colorado State Rams (2-6, 5-8)
6.  New Mexico Lobos (1-7, 3-9)

South Division
1.  Fresno State Bulldogs (7-1, 12-1)
2.  San Jose State Spartans (6-2, 9-3)
3.  San Diego State Aztecs (5-3, 7-5)
4.  Nevada Wolfpack (4-4, 5-7)
5.  UNLV Running Rebels (2-6, 4-8)
6.  Hawaii Rainbows (1-7, 1-11)

Mountain West Championship Game:  Fresno State Bulldogs over Boise State Broncos

BCS Busting Bulldogs - If you have been reading my previews, you may have noticed one spot remaining in the final BCS Bowl Games and assumed that it would be Notre Dame or Boise State filling that slot. Instead it is Fresno State, an experienced team returning 15 starters that was embarrassed in their bowl game a season ago, giving them the motivation to come back stronger in 2013.  Senior quarterback Derek Carr looks to out-due his brother's legacy by taking the Bulldogs to the BCS.  Davante Adams is one of the top receivers in the country not named Marqise Lee.  On defense, 8 starters return from a defense that was #22 in the Nation in 2012 and #2 against the pass.  Finally, the schedule sets up with tough early games against Rutgers and Boise State at home.  I am expecting big things out of Fresno State in 2013.

Mountain West New Kids - Utah State and San Jose State both join the Mountain West from the WAC and I expect both to have a successful initial campaign and cause immediate problems for the Mountain West elite.  Both teams bring back experienced quarterbacks, with Chuckie Keaton at Utah State and David Fales at San Jose State.  Both teams had top 25 defenses a year ago, although San Jose State must replace 6 starters on theirs.  The unknown lies with the coaching, as the Spartans and Aggies will both be breaking in first year head coaches in the new league.  Despite that fact, I would be shocked if both teams were not contenders for the Mountain West Championship Game.


Quick Hits:

• Boise State will not be bad, I just think at some point they need a slight rebuild.  With only 8 starters back this year, a step back would be natural.  They have proved people wrong many times before, but it is just my gut feeling with this team and its difficult road schedule.
• Nevada has been a perennial contender in the Mountain West, but I also see the Wolfpack taking a step back.  The defense is porous and they have a road schedule that includes UCLA, Florida State, San Diego State, Boise State and Fresno State.  
• Either Wyoming or Colorado State will bounce back and be bowl-eligible in 2013.  I am going with the Cowboys, but their success hinges on a full year of health for Brett Smith.

Best Non-Conference Schedule:  Nevada.  Road games at UCLA and at Florida State coupled with a visit from BYU makes for quite the non-conference schedule.

Worst Non-Conference Schedule:  New Mexico.  Nobody will argue UTSA, UTEP, Pittsburgh or New Mexico State among the Nation's elite.

Thank You Mountain West Schedule:  Utah State.  The Aggies get to host Boise State and have the easiest cross-over schedule with both UNLV and Hawaii.

Curse You Mountain West Schedule:  New Mexico.  The Lobos play at Boise State, plus have cross-over games at San Diego State and at Fresno State.

Best Player:  Derek Carr, Fresno State.  It is a toss-up between Carr and Fales, but team success gives Carr the edge this season.

Best Newcomer:  Josh Quezada, Fresno State.  The BYU transfer will step in for the departed Robbie Rouse at running back in Fresno State's vaunted attack.  The guess is that hardly anyone will notice the change.

Weekly Games to Watch
Aug 31 - Boise State at Washington

Sept 7- San Jose State at Stanford

Sept 14 - Nevada at Florida State

Sept 20 - Boise State at Fresno State

Sept 27 - Utah State at San Jose State

Oct 5 - Air Force at Navy

Oct 12 - Boise State at Utah State

Oct 19 - Colorado State at Wyoming

Oct 26 - Fresno State at San Diego State

Nov 2 - Nevada at Fresno State

Nov 9 - San Diego State at San Jose State

Nov 16 - Wyoming at Boise State

Nov 23 - Boise State at San Diego State

Nov 29 - Fresno State at San Jose State

Dec 7 - Mountain West Championship Game


Bowl Line-Up
BCS Fiesta Bowl:  Fresno State Bulldogs
Las Vegas Bowl:  San Jose State Spartans
Poinsettia Bowl:  Boise State Broncos
Armed Forces Bowl:  Utah State Aggies
Hawaii Bowl:  San Diego State Aztecs
Famous Idaho Potato Bowl:  Air Force Falcons
New Mexico Bowl:  Wyoming Cowboys

2013 PAC 12 Preview

2013 Predicted Standings

North Division
1.  Oregon Ducks (9-0, 13-0)
2.  Stanford Cardinal (7-2, 10-2)
3.  Oregon State Beavers (5-4, 8-4)
4.  Washington Huskies (5-4, 8-4)
5.  California Golden Bears (2-7, 3-9)
6.  Washington State Cougars (1-8, 3-9)

South Division
1.  Arizona State Sun Devils (7-2, 9-4)
2.  USC Trojans (6-3, 9-4)
3.  UCLA Bruins (6-3, 8-4)
4.  Arizona Wildcats (4-5, 7-5)
5.  Utah Utes (2-7, 3-9)
6.  Colorado Buffaloes (0-9, 1-11)

PAC 12 Championship Game:  Oregon Ducks over Arizona State Sun Devils

Chip Who? - A new era starts in Oregon with Chip Kelly's departure to the NFL.  Mark Helfrich is the new man in charge and he inherits a roster full of talent.  Hiring the offensive coordinator should ease the transition for the always prolific offense, and retaining Nick Aliotti at defensive coordinator ensures the defense remains in good hands.  The Ducks also skirted any serious NCAA sanctions, positioning them for big things in 2013.  Probably the most important factor though is the return of Marcus Mariota at quarterback.  Mariota is arguably the best all-around quarterback the Ducks have had, accounting for 2,677 passing and 752 rushing in his first season at the controls.  Those numbers are expected to rise and I would not be surprised if Mariota joined the 3,000/1,000 club in 2013.  With the current issues swirling around Johnny Football, Mariota jumps to the forefront of the Heisman race. 

The Oregon offense is not a one-man show with the return of De'Anthony Thomas and several returning receivers, along with three-fifths of the offensive line.  The defense returns 7 starters, including the entire defensive backfield.  The key on defense is replacing the linebackers and pass rush of Dion Jordan.  With the offense that Oregon trots out, the defense doesn't have to be special, but this could be one of the best they have had in recent memory. 

There are never any guarantees, but the schedule is not daunting for Oregon and one could argue there is no reason for them to finish any worse than 11-1.  It can also be argued that it is a one-game season.  That game is at Stanford on Thursday, November 7th.  It could all unfold differently, it is the great thing about sports, but I see the Ducks playing for and winning the National Championship in 2013.

The Rise of the Cardinal - Stanford has become one of the Nation's elite programs, as hard as that is to say.  The Cardinal will be formidable in 2013 and it all starts with defense.  Stanford was difficult to score on a year ago and the task will be no easier this season.  The defensive line is arguably the best in College Football and will wreak havoc all year in opposing backfields.  Kevin Hogan will be at the reins of the offense and more will be put on his shoulders this year with the departure of Stefan Taylor.  The offensive line is strong, so the running game should not take a complete step backward.  The offense will miss the tight ends the most, with the departures of Zach Ertz and Lavine Toilolo to the NFL. 

Stanford is not a long shot for an undefeated season.  They play Oregon at home and will be favored in almost every game.  The margin of error and luck element (not Andrew) influenced my 10-2 projection.  Winning 8 games by a touchdown or less last season is rarely replicated.  The losses on offense will likely emerge in at least a couple of games.  A lot of people love Stanford this year.  I just like them.

The Fall of the Trojan - USC was supposed to win it all last year.  They went 7-6.  They are loaded with top recruits all over the field.  It all doesn't matter when you are consistently out-coached.  The Trojans will be better in 2013 because they really can't be much worse with the roster they have.  Lane Kiffin will hold them back though.  They are also unsettled at quarterback, so I can't get on board with anything better than a decent season, which may not cut it for Kiffin's job. 


Quick Hits:

• Arizona State could be loaded on defense, returns its quarterback and is in the 2nd year of Todd Graham's system.  The schedule is a bear, but I like the Sun Devils to emerge in the PAC-12 South.
• UCLA's schedule is equally daunting and the Bruins were made-out as a bit ordinary down the stretch last season.  They should bounce back, but a return to elite status is a bit premature.
• Ka'Deem Carey is not mentioned anywhere else in this preview.  He has an outstanding shot at leading the Nation in rushing if he stays healthy.  The Arizona offense needs to score to support its floundering defense and Carey is the bell-cow.
• The team that will most likely exceed my expectations is Utah.  It is hard to see it on paper, but they are usually better than expected.

Best Non-Conference Schedule:  Arizona State.  Games against Wisconsin and Notre Dame thrust around two big conference games will show us what the Sun Devils are made of.

Worst Non-Conference Schedule:  Arizona.  Northern Arizona, UNLV and UTSA makes a 3-6 conference record all that is needed for bowl-eligibility.

Thank You PAC 12 Schedule:  Oregon.  No Arizona State or USC in cross-over, although the Ducks do have to play at Stanford.

Curse You PAC 12 Schedule:  UCLA.  The Bruins miss out on Washington State in cross-over and have to play at Stanford, Oregon, Arizona and USC.

Best Player:  Marqise Lee, USC.  Can USC find a suitable quarterback to get the Nation's top WR the ball?

Best Newcomer:  Su'a Cravens, USC.  The freshman will likely start at safety and become the next great Trojan at that position.

Weekly Games to Watch
Aug 31 - Boise State at Washington...The Huskies open their new stadium against the team they met in last season's bowl.

Sept 7- San Jose State at Stanford...The Spartans kept close a year ago and present a dangerous opponent for a Cardinal team with big aspirations.

Sept 14 - UCLA at Nebraska...The Bruins took last year's meeting at home to set the tone for a quality season.

Sept 21 - Arizona State at Stanford...The first big conference game of the year.  Could these two meet again?

Sept 28 - USC at Arizona State...The PAC-12 South could be determined by the winner of this early-season conference battle.  

Oct 5 - Notre Dame vs Arizona State (Arlington, TX)...A brutal 4-game stretch for the Sun Devils ends with a neutral site tussle against the Irish.

Oct 12 - Oregon at Washington...The Huskies always manage one of the better upsets each year.  Duck fans beware.

Oct 19 - UCLA at Stanford...The Cardinal beat the Bruins twice a year ago and revenge is on UCLA's mind.

Oct 26 - UCLA at Oregon...Who scheduled this two-week stretch says the Bruin fan.

Nov 1 - USC at Oregon State...If USC is going to be better in 2013, they need to win tough road games like this one.

Nov 7 - Oregon at Stanford...The PAC-12 Game of the Year and potential National Semi-Final.

Nov 16 - Stanford at USC...If Stanford survives Oregon, it doesn't get any easier.

Nov 23 - Arizona State at UCLA...PAC-12 South implications appear imminent in this one.

Nov 29 - Oregon State at Oregon...Kicks off a good final weekend of PAC-12 football.

Dec 7 - PAC-12 Championship Game...Will there be National Title implications on the line? 


Bowl Line-Up
BCS Championship Game:  Oregon Ducks
BCS Rose Bowl:  Stanford Cardinal
Alamo Bowl:  Arizona State Sun Devils
Holiday Bowl:  USC Trojans
Sun Bowl:  UCLA Bruins
Las Vegas Bowl:  Oregon State Beavers
Kraft Fight Hunger Bowl:  Washington Huskies
New Mexico Bowl:  Arizona Wildcats

2013 ACC Preview

2013 Predicted Standings

ACC Coastal
1.  Virginia Tech Hokies (7-1, 10-3)
2.  North Carolina Tar Heels (6-2, 9-3)
3.  Miami Hurricanes (6-2, 9-3)
4.  Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets  (5-3, 8-4)
5.  Pittsburgh Panthers (3-5, 6-6)
6.  Duke Blue Devils (1-7, 4-8)
7.  Virginia Cavaliers (1-7, 3-9)

ACC Atlantic
1.  Florida State Seminoles (8-0, 13-0)
2.  Clemson Tigers (7-1, 10-2)
3.  Maryland Terrapins (4-4, 7-5)
4.  North Carolina State Wolfpack  (3-5, 6-6)
5.  Boston College Eagles (2-6, 5-7)
6.  Syracuse Orange  (2-6, 4-8)
7.  Wake Forest Demon Deacons  (1-7, 3-9)

ACC Championship Game:  Florida State Seminoles over Virginia Tech Hokies

Will Florida State tease once again? - The talent has been undeniable, the expectations realistic, the results disappointing.  Jimbo Fisher finally got an ACC Championship last season, but the Seminole fan base craves more.  Gone are E.J. Manuel at quarterback and 7 defensive starters, but the expectations will remain the same...this team is good enough to play for the final BCS Championship 16 years after playing in the first.  Start with a defense that allowed just 14.7 ppg and the second fewest yards in the country.  There are starters to be replaced, especially along the defensive line, but some of the replacements were more effective than the starters last season.  The defense may face some early bumps, but the Seminoles should not be seriously challenged in the first five weeks.  On offense, most of the skill players return along with 4 offensive lineman.  The big change is at quarterback, where redshirt freshman Jameis Winston steps in for Manuel.  The early reviews are glowing and Winston seems most likely to follow in the Cam Newton and Johnny Manziel footsteps.  If he is as good as advertised, this is a Championship contender.

I obviously am buying the hype with my 13-0 prediction.  The biggest games are at Clemson and at Florida.  A week off before the Clemson game works in the favor of the 'Noles.  Florida is poised for a challenging season and will not be the roadblock many would expect.  The obvious challenge might be avoiding a loss to a surprise opponent.

Right now, my Bowl Projection has Florida State out of the National Championship Game.  With the current uncertainty surrounding Manziel at Texas A&M, they could find themselves in that slot before the season starts (as I promise not to give you Alabama).

Is the Tigers defense ready for prime-time? - Other than Louisville, Clemson might have the most positive momentum from their bowl victory after upsetting LSU in the Chick-Fil-A Bowl.  With Tajh Boyd and Sammy Watkins back, the Tigers offense looks to be prolific once again.  The key is the development on defense, especially in games against Georgia, South Carolina and Florida State.  Georgia is loaded on offense, South Carolina currently has Clemson's number and FSU rang up over 600 yards and 49 points a year ago against Clemson.

The Georgia and Florida State games come first and are both at home, where traditionally Clemson is tough to beat.  If they can win those and avoid the pitfalls that can be NC State and Georgia Tech, the South Carolina game could vault Clemson into National Title contention.  One key component that should not be overlooked is if these games are close, Clemson has the top kicker in Chandler Catanzaro.

Who returns to the top, the Hokies or Hurricanes? - There is a lot of hype surrounding the return of the Miami Hurricanes to the top of the ACC.  They are a popular pick to win the Coastal and play in the ACC Championship game.  There is a lot to like about this team, with senior Stephen Morris leading the way at quarterback, but the defense remains a huge question mark.  I have a hard time backing a team that gave up over 30 ppg last season and looked lost in the spring.  The Hurricanes will be good, but not Coastal-winning good.

That brings me to Frank Beamer's Hokies, who struggled on defense for a time last season before turning it around late.  That turn-around, with 9 defensive starters returning is reason for great optimism.  Florida State and Clemson are also off the schedule, replaced by Maryland and Pittsburgh.  The key will be Logan Thomas and the offense, who will need to score points against the likes of Georgia Tech, North Carolina and Miami.

Quick Hits:

• The Tar Heels should not be counted out of the Coastal race.  Bryn Renner is a stud and the Tar Heels had the best scoring margin in the Coastal last season by almost 10 points.  If the defensive improves slightly, this team could be playing for the ACC Championship.
• Maryland was injury-riddled last season, so you probably missed the emergence of Stefon Diggs.  The wide receiver/return man is as explosive as any player in College Football.  The key for the Terps will be finding ways to put the ball in his hands as often as possible.
• Pittsburgh and Syracuse join the conference, but hardly a peep is expected from either as they adjust to ACC-life.  That will change come basketball season.

Best Non-Conference Schedule:  Clemson.  They host Georgia and play at South Carolina.  The other two games are FCS games, but no other ACC team comes close to matching the other two.

Worst Non-Conference Schedule:  Maryland.  FIU, Old Dominion, UConn and West Virginia provide the Terrapins a legit chance at starting off the season 4-0.

Thank You ACC Schedule:  Clemson.  The Tigers play in the weaker Atlantic where Florida State is the only major challenge.  Cross-over games against Georgia Tech and Virginia are manageable.

Curse You ACC Schedule:  Virginia.  The Cavaliers play in the tougher Coastal Division, plus they draw Clemson and Maryland in cross-over.  It could be a long year.

Best Player: Tajh Boyd, Clemson.  Want a sleeper pick for the Heisman?  Boyd has the marquee games to steal the award.

Best Newcomer: Jameis Winston, Florida State.  There will be no Heisman to steal if Winston's Seminoles go into Clemson and win.

Weekly Games to Watch
Aug 31 - Virginia Tech vs Alabama (Atlanta)...This will be a good measuring stick for the Hokies defense, trying to contain the Crimson Tides power running game and speed on the outside.

Sept 7- Florida at Miami...An in-state rivalry is renewed and the ACC hopes to get one from the SEC.

Sept 14 - Virginia Tech at East Carolina...This could be a tricky road game for Beamer's boys.

Sept 21 - North Carolina at Georgia Tech...Two Coastal Division hopefuls try to take an early-season advantage.

Sept 26 - Virginia Tech at Georgia Tech...If the Yellow Jackets are for real, we will know after this 5-day stretch.

Oct 5 - Georgia Tech at Miami...A third straight week of Coastal contenders for the Ramblin' Wreck.

Oct 12 - Virginia at Maryland...Not much going on this week, so check out Stefon Diggs if you have the opportunity.

Oct 19 - Florida State at Clemson...The biggest game on the list, the Seminoles haven't won at Clemson since 2001.

Oct 26 - Clemson at Maryland...A tricky game on the Tigers schedule, considering the week prior.

Nov 2 - Miami at Florida State...See above.  The Hurricanes could ruin the Seminoles season.

Nov 9 - Virginia Tech at Miami...The back-end of a tough two-game stretch for the Hurricanes.

Nov 14 - Georgia Tech at Clemson...I am not sure the Clemson defense has figured out the Tech offense, despite last season's victory.

Nov 23 - Pittsburgh at Syracuse...Don't confuse this for the Big East when you look at the schedule.

Nov 30 - Clemson at South Carolina...Depending on how things fall, this game could have National Title implications.

Dec 7 - ACC Championship Game...Florida State and Clemson hope bigger things are on the line than the Orange Bowl if they get to here.


Bowl Line-Up
BCS Orange Bowl:  Florida State Seminoles
Chick-Fil-A Bowl:  Clemson Tigers
Russell Athletic Bowl:  Miami Hurricanes
Sun Bowl:  Virginia Tech Hokies
Belk Bowl:  North Carolina Tar Heels
Music City Bowl:  Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets
Advocare V100 Bowl:  North Carolina State Wolfpack
Military Bowl:  Pittsburgh Panthers
Pinstripe Bowl:  Maryland Terrapins (replacement for Big 12)

2013 SEC Preview

2013 Predicted Standings

SEC East
1.  South Carolina Gamecocks  (7-1, 11-2)
2.  Georgia Bulldogs  (6-2, 9-3)
3.  Florida Gators  (5-3, 8-4)
4.  Vanderbilt Commodores  (4-4, 8-4)
5.  Missouri Tigers  (2-6, 6-6)
6.  Tennessee Volunteers  (2-6, 5-7)
7.  Kentucky Wildcats  (0-8, 2-10)

SEC West
1.  Texas A&M Aggies  (8-0, 13-0)
2.  Alabama Crimson Tide  (7-1, 11-1)
3.  Ole Miss Rebels  (5-3, 8-4)
4.  LSU Tigers  (4-4, 8-4)
5.  Auburn Tigers  (3-5, 7-5)
6.  Mississippi State Tigers  (2-6, 5-7)
7.  Arkansas Razorbacks  (1-7, 5-7)

SEC Championship Game:  Texas A&M Aggies over South Carolina Gamecocks


Johnny "Football" quiets the critics - Much has been made of the off-season of returning Heisman winner Johnny Manziel.  The consensus is that it will have a negative impact on his upcoming season.  I am not buying it.  Manziel is one of those rare players who has the "it" factor and while he might have made every stop along the party circuit thus far in 2013, there is no evidence that he will not be the same quarterback we last saw thrashing the Oklahoma defense.  In fact, he lit up the A&M Spring Game and looked more polished then the 2012 version of Johnny "Football".  Add in a deep stable of backs, 4 returning offensive line starters and go-to receiver Mike Evans and the Aggies offense looks downright scary.  The defense will have to be good in most games and be better than good against Alabama, Ole Miss, LSU and potentially against the SEC East Champion.

As I stated, I think Johnny Manziel is one of those transcending players that you will end up telling your children about and the final step of his legend will be leading the Aggies to the National Title in 2013.  Yes, Texas A&M is the Jabesblog pick for 2013.

What??  Not Alabama?? - The Crimson Tide are the consensus pre-season #1 and for good reason.  3 Titles in 4 years will earn you that honor.  The 2013 version of the Tide is going to be very, very talented and very, very good once again.  Nick Saban said it himself though, the SEC Media is 4 for its last 17 in picking the SEC Champions.  Alabama has a huge target on its back and now has a new nemesis to join LSU in A&M and Manziel.  Here are my concerns with the Tide...1.  They were able to lose a game each of the last two seasons and still make the Championship Game.  I am not sure this team will be as good as the last two and their luck of getting in with one loss is bound to run out.  2.  They lost a ton of experience and talent along the offensive line in Jones, Warmack and Fluker.  I think its easier to plug defensive holes with highly-touted recruits than along the offensive line.  The early games against Virginia Tech and Texas A&M will test this theory immediately.  3.  The A&M game is in College Station and outside of the former annual Texas games, there hasn't been a bigger game to hit there in a long time.  The "12th Man" will be rocking on September 14th.

Georgia Disappoints - Coming off an "almost" in the SEC Title game, Georgia is expected to have a potentially special season in 2013.  The more I looked at it though, the Bulldogs season is going to go one of two ways.  Only 2 starters return on defense and while there is talent to step-in typical of that of an SEC-power, the defense will have to have a quick learning curve.  Georgia opens the season at Clemson and hosts South Carolina in its first two games.  These are not the opponents I would want to break in 9 new defensive starters against.  Maybe the Dawgs offense can carry them through, but I can't get the 35-7 result against the Gamecocks last year out of my head...and that was with Jones, Ogletree, Geathers, Rambo, et al.  I have Georgia starting 0-2 and recovering for a "nice" season due to a pretty forgiving schedule afterwards.  If they do survive the first two weeks at 2-0, that schedule will thrust them into National Title Consideration.

Quick Hits:

• Florida has a lot of defensive talent to replace and I am not sold on Jeff Driskill.  The Gators had a lot of close calls in 2012 and I don't think 2013 will be as forgiving.
• LSU at 8-4, 4-4 seems like a bold prediction, but for a team replacing a lot of defensive talent and a quarterback who seems more mediocre than anything, maybe it is not too far-fetched.  Road games at Georgia, Ole Miss and Alabama are supplemented with a neutral site game against TCU and home dates with Florida and Texas A&M.  I have the Tigers 2-4 in those games.
• Auburn is back (kind of).  After an 0-8 SEC record a year ago, I think the Tigers will bounce back to play in a bowl in 2013.  Gus Malzhan is an offensive guru and will find a quarterback to work his system.
• Don't sleep on Ole Miss.  They return Bo Wallace at quarterback and add a highly-rated recruiting class to the mix.  The Rebels are going to be no fun to play this year. 

Best Non-Conference Schedule:  Florida.  The Gators play a good Toledo team, travel to Miami FL and host Florida State.  Georgia Southern is their FCS opponent.

Worst Non-Conference Schedule:  Vanderbilt.  Wake Forest is the marquee name and the Demon Deacons will not be very good this year.  Austin Peay, UMass and UAB are the others.

Thank You SEC Schedule:  Alabama.  Tennessee and Kentucky are their cross-over games.  LSU and Ole Miss come to Tuscaloosa.

Curse You SEC Schedule:  Arkansas.  A 4-week stretch goes Texas A&M, at Florida, South Carolina, at Alabama.  They also play at Ole Miss and LSU.  Good luck Bret Beilema.

Best Player:  Jadeveon Clowney, South Carolina.  Manziel, A.J. McCarron and Aaron Murray form a pretty formidable race for top quarterback, but Clowney is the most dominant.

Best Newcomer:  Robert Nkemdiche, Ole Miss.  The younger Nkemdiche should have an immediate impact on the Rebels defense.

Weekly Games to Watch
Aug 31 - LSU vs TCU (Arlington, TX)...A tough test for the Tigers out of the gate.  Zach Mettenberger must produce immediately.

Sept 7-  South Carolina at Georgia...The Gators may beg to differ, but I will call this the SEC East Championship Game.

Sept 14 - Alabama at Texas A&M...The Game of the Year in College Football, I will call this one a BCS Semifinal.

Sept 21 - Missouri at Indiana...The Tigers bowl-eligibility may hinge on whether they can win on the road against an improved Hoosier team.

Sept 28 - LSU at Georgia...The best of the cross-over games in 2013 and why Les Miles and Nick Saban are at odds.  LSU gets Florida and Georgia, Alabama gets Kentucky and Tennessee.

Oct 5 - Ole Miss at Auburn...Interesting match-up between two teams who should be better in 2013.

Oct 12 - Texas A&M at Ole Miss...The Aggies prevailed by 3 points a year ago.  This could be the game that puts the Rebels on the map.

Oct 19 - Georgia at Vanderbilt...The Commodores deserve mention somewhere on this page.  A solid but unspectacular team, this is their best shot at a major upset.

Oct 26 - Tennessee at Alabama...A light schedule for the SEC on this day, so we check to see whether Butch Jones has the Vols headed in the right direction.

Nov 2 - Florida vs Georgia...The annual "Cocktail Party" has had higher stakes in recent years.

Nov 9 - LSU at Alabama...More often than not, this one lives up to the hype.

Nov 16 - Florida at South Carolina...If the Gators can find some offense this season, this game might be very meaningful.

Nov 23 - Texas A&M at LSU...If the Aggies beat Alabama, many would point toward this game as the one to trip them up.  My guess would be that LSU wants this one at night.

Nov 30 - Clemson at South Carolina...Depending on how things fall, this game could have National Title implications.

Dec 7 - SEC Championship Game...Winner likely will play for National Championship


Bowl Line-Up
BCS National Championship Game:  Texas A&M Aggies
BCS Sugar Bowl:  Alabama Crimson Tide
Capital One Bowl:  South Carolina Gamecocks
Cotton Bowl:  LSU Tigers
Outback Bowl:  Georgia Bulldogs
Chick Fil-A Bowl:  Ole Miss Rebels
Gator Bowl:  Florida Gators
Music City Bowl:  Auburn Tigers
Liberty Bowl:  Vanderbilt Commodores
Advocare V100 Bowl:  Missouri Tigers

2013 Big 12 Preview

2013 Predicted Standings

Big 12
1.  Oklahoma State Cowboys (8-1, 11-1)
2.  Oklahoma Sooners (7-2, 10-2)
3.  Texas Longhorns (7-2, 10-2)
4.  Baylor Bears (6-3, 9-3)
5.  Kansas State Wildcats (6-3, 9-3)
6.  TCU Horned Frogs (5-4, 7-5)
7.  Texas Tech Red Raiders (3-6, 6-6)
8.  West Virginia Mountaineers (2-7, 5-7)
9.  Iowa State Cyclones (1-8, 3-9)
10. Kansas Jayhawks (0-9, 1-11)

NOTE:  Two projected defensive starters for TCU have recently left the program.  Combined with the suspension of Devonte Fields requires an adjustment to the final projection for the Horned Frogs.

Big 12 Non-Conference Success - By my calculations, I am projecting the Big 12 to go 26-4 in their non-conference slate, including 23-1 by the top 8 teams.  Before we start crowning the Big 12 the best conference in College Football, we have to look into this a little further.  8 of those wins are projected against FCS schools.  Only 6 of those games are against BCS conference foes + Notre Dame and BYU.  In the Big 12's favor is the potential of an SEC sweep if TCU can upset LSU, Texas beats Ole Miss and Oklahoma State handles Mississippi State.

Cowboys back on top - Just two years ago, Oklahoma State arguably should have played for a National Championship.  After struggling in big games a year ago, I expect the Cowboys to be back and return to the top in 2013.  The main reason for this optimism is the talent at the quarterback position where Clint Chelf looks to become the conference's next great quarterback and J.W. Walsh provides quality depth.  The defense must improve and/or revert to the ball-hawking ways of the 2011 team.  Expect a lot of points once again when Oklahoma State takes the field.

Don't sleep on Texas - The Longhorns return the most experience in the Big 12 and arguably are the most talented team, so it would be no shock if it all came together for a Conference Title in 2013.  This collection of players has not tasted that success and one would slant toward saying they have underachieved.  With their top 3 running backs returning and Mike Davis and Jaxson Shipley at WR, it will be up to David Ash to lead this team to the next step.  The defense must also regain a little bit of its bite, as the talented Big 12 spread offenses have given it trouble in recent years.  With many of these teams now inexperienced, especially at quarterback, it is time for an experienced Texas defense to take advantage.

Quick Hits:

• Big 12 defenses will not be sad to see Geno Smith, Collin Klein, Landry Jones, Seth Doege and Nick Florence gone.  Those 5 combined for over 20,000 total yards and 180 TD's a season ago.  Meet Paul Millard, Daniel Sams, Blake Bell, Michael Brewer and Bryce Petty, the 5 replacements for the quarterbacks mentioned above.
• Speaking of Blake Bell, it would appear Oklahoma's fortunes are partially tied to his development as a complete quarterback.  He has already made a name as the "Belldozer", but can he pass the ball well enough to keep the Sooner offense at an elite level.  Talent is never a problem for Oklahoma, but quarterback play could be what separates them from Oklahoma State and Texas above them.
• Bill Snyder has seemingly worked a miracle in re-resurrecting the Kansas State football program.  Now with Collin Klein gone, it is time to witness the next miracle.  The Wildcats have to come back to the pack a little bit this year, don't they?
• Iowa State is always an enigma to me.  When I stack them up against the other Big 12 teams, it never looks good, but the past two years they have been a solid, bowl-eligible team.  Once again I am projecting doom and gloom, now that the heart of their defense has graduated.  I wouldn't be shocked if they proved me wrong once again.
• Kliff Kingsbury takes over at Texas Tech.  He was Johnny Manziel's quarterback coach last season and coached Case Keenum prior to that.  I would expect the Red Raiders to put up plenty of points this season and who knows, Michael Brewer might be the next big star.

Best Non-Conference Schedule:  Oklahoma.  Louisiana-Monroe and Tulsa at home and a trip to Notre Dame is the best it gets in the Big 12.

Worst Non-Conference Schedule:  West Virginia.  William & Mary and Georgia State lead it off, with a neutral site game against Maryland being the biggest challenge.

Thank You Big 12 Schedule:  Oklahoma State.  It is a 5 home game year for the Cowboys and Texas is the only Top 6 predicted team they play on the road.

Curse You Big 12 Schedule:  Oklahoma.  TCU is the only contender the Sooners draw at home.

Best Player:  Devonte Fields, TCU.  Fields earned Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year as a freshman.  He hopes to wreak more havoc as a sophomore.  Unfortunately, he must sit out the LSU game.

Best Newcomer:  Jake Waters, Kansas State.  Waters has to beat out Daniel Sams to be the starting QB, but watch out if he does.

Weekly Games to Watch
Aug 31 - LSU vs TCU (Arlington, TX)...The Horned Frogs go just down the road to play the mighty Tigers out of the SEC.  LSU has issues to resolve and TCU looks in prime position for an upset.

Sept 7-  Texas at BYU...Provo is not the easiest place to play for a team with big-time aspirations.

Sept 12 - TCU at Texas Tech...A good early season battle, TCU last won in Lubbock 22 years ago.

Sept 21 - Kansas State at Texas...The Longhorns are not sad to see Collin Klein go.

Sept 28 - Oklahoma at Notre Dame...The Irish defense is still going to be very good and this will be Blake Bell's first big test.

Oct 5 - TCU at Oklahoma...The Horned Frogs hope to get an Oklahoma team beat up from the week before and looking ahead to the Red River Rivalry.

Oct 12 - Oklahoma vs Texas (Dallas, TX)...Did someone say Red River?  The Longhorns look to avenge last season's embarrassment against the Sooners.

Oct 19 - TCU at Oklahoma State...The Horned Frogs are featured prominently with their early season schedule, so we will know a lot about them after this one.

Oct 26 - Texas at TCU...The Horned Frogs could also be well out of the race after this one.

Nov 2 - Oklahoma State at Texas Tech...If the Cowboys are going to win the Big 12, they must go through treacherous Lubbock.

Nov 9 - Oklahoma at Baylor...Two teams that hope their Title aspirations remain for this showdown in Waco.

Nov 16 - Oklahoma State at Texas...There is an outside chance this could be a battle of unbeaten teams.

Nov 23 - Oklahoma at Kansas State...The Sooners try to avenge last season's loss that derailed their season.

Nov 30 - Baylor at TCU...If not in the Title hunt, these two will likely be battling for bowl positioning.

Dec 7 - Oklahoma at Oklahoma State...Big 12 Title Game?  National Title implications?  Or simply "Bedlam"!


Bowl Line-Up
BCS Fiesta Bowl:  Oklahoma State Cowboys
BCS Sugar Bowl:  Texas Longhorns
Cotton Bowl:  Oklahoma Sooners
Alamo Bowl:  Baylor Bears
Buffalo Wild Wings Bowl:  Kansas State Wildcats
Holiday Bowl:  TCU Horned Frogs
Meineke Car Care Bowl:  Texas Tech Red Raiders

2013 American Athletic Conference Preview

2013 Predicted Standings

American Athletic Conference
1.  Louisville Cardinals (7-1, 11-1)
2.  Cincinnati Bearcats (6-2, 10-2)
3.  UCF Golden Knights (6-2, 8-4)
4.  Rutgers Scarlett Knights (5-3, 7-5)
5.  Houston Cougars (4-4, 6-6)
6.  South Florida Bulls (3-5, 5-7)
7.  Connecticut Huskies (3-5, 4-8)
8.  SMU Mustangs (3-5, 4-8)
9.  Memphis Tigers (2-6, 4-8)
10. Temple Owls (1-7, 4-8)


New Name, Same Unamazing Reputation - As we head into the final season of the BCS, the league formerly known as the Big East gets one last go-round as the ugly step-child before stepping out of the major conference mix.  The makeover continues this year, with Pittsburgh and Syracuse moving to the ACC and the American Athletic Conference welcoming in UCF, Houston, SMU and Memphis.  Next season Louisville and Rutgers are out and Villanova, East Carolina, Tulsa and Tulane are in, with Navy joining in football for 2015.  While all of this movement has hurt the conference, the Big East was never a great football powerhouse.  The conference is looking a lot like a version of Conference USA (10 of the future members were at one time a part of C-USA), but at least the conference did not go the way of the WAC.

Louisville's Undefeated Quest - When the Cardinals upset Florida in the Sugar Bowl, attention immediately turned to what this team could do with Teddy Bridgewater back in 2013.  Louisville is experienced across the board and appears to be the class of the AAC.  Couple that with a non-conference schedule void of any serious threats and the undefeated talk gets serious.  There is a legitimate chance the Cardinals are sitting at 12-0 in early December.  The toughest road game is the finale at Cincinnati, which would have extra meaning and incentive if an undefeated regular season was on the line.  Even more interesting might be what the BCS does with a 12-0 Louisville team if there are no other undefeated teams in the country?  Obviously a 1-loss SEC team is going to be ahead of Louisville, but would they have a chance against a 1-loss Ohio State, Oklahoma State or Texas?  My guess is not.  I am also not sold that there isn't a slip-up along the line, so the point would be moot at 11-1.

UCF number 1 - The Golden Knights are a team to keep an eye on in their first season in the former Big East.  The transition from Conference-USA should not be too drastic, especially since Tulsa, who beat them twice last year for their only conference losses is a year behind in joining.  With an experienced quarterback in Blake Bortles, the key will be replacing 7 defensive starters.  If the defense comes together, this becomes a dangerous team for front-runners Louisville, Cincinnati and Rutgers. 

Quick Hits:

• Rutgers floundered down the stretch in 2012 after a great start.  Will there be any carry-over effect into 2013?  I think their inability to score will be the biggest carry-over that holds them back this season.
• Cincinnati's defense will be the best in the AAC, mark it down.  All five starters also return on the offensive line, so it is up to a group of inconsistent or new skill position players to take this team to the next level.
• The key to Houston's season is also with their offense.  When the Cougars have been good in recent and even distant memory, it has always been based on prolific offenses.  I can't remember the last time Houston's dominating defense was the story.  In 2012, the offense took a step back and went through coordinator changes and turnover issues.

Best Non-Conference Schedule:  SMU.  The Mustangs play FCS Montana State sandwiched between games against Texas Tech, Texas A&M and TCU.

Worst Non-Conference Schedule:  Louisville.  Ohio and Kentucky are decent opponents, but neither is on the Cardinals level.  FIU is one of the worst FBS teams and Eastern Kentucky is the FCS opponent.

Thank You AAC Schedule:  SMU.  They are the one team that does not have to face Louisville.

Curse You AAC Schedule:  Rutgers.  The Scarlett Knights miss out on Memphis and have to travel to both Louisville and UCF.

Best Player:  Teddy Bridgewater.  There is still improvement to be made in his game and if he takes that next step, watch out.

Best Newcomer:  Traylon Shead.  Shead will replace Zach Line at RB for the Mustangs.  The former Texas recruit comes from the JC ranks and should take off immediately.

Weekly Games to Watch
Aug 29 - Rutgers at Fresno State...This will be a great measuring stick for the Scarlett Knights.

Sept 7- Cincinnati at Illinois...The Bearcats open with Purdue and could be going for a Big 10 sweep to start the season.

Sept 14 - UCF at Penn State...Don't dismiss this one in the Nittany Lions favor.  UCF has the ingredients to pull the upset.

Sept 21 - Michigan at Connecticut...The Huskies get a chance to host one of the big names in College Football.

Sept 28 - South Carolina at UCF...The Golden Knights non-conference schedule is second only to SMU as they host Jadeveon Clowney and the Ol' Ball Coach.

Oct 5 - Rutgers at SMU...Will the Mustangs have anything left after their brutal non-conference schedule?

Oct 10 - Rutgers at Louisville...Will the Scarlett Knights have anything left playing on the road for the second time in 5 days?

Oct 18 - UCF at Louisville...One of the top contenders visits Louisville for a Friday Night Showcase.  Can Blake Bortles out duel Teddy Bridgewater?

Oct 26 - Houston at Rutgers...The offensive-minded Cougars travel to Piscataway to face the defensive-minded Scarlett Knights in a clash of styles.

Oct 30 - Cincinnati at Memphis...Nothing better on a Wednesday night than watching two rivals from the old Conference-USA go at it.

Nov 8 - Louisville at Connecticut...The Huskies look to upset the Cardinals for the second year in a row after last season's perplexing OT thriller.

Nov 16 - Cincinnati at Rutgers...Any hopes the Bearcats have of stealing the conference title requires a tough win at Rutgers.

Nov 23 - Cincinnati at Houston...If the Cougars regain their offensive swagger, this game could mean a lot more than first glance.

Nov 29 - South Florida at UCF...A new conference rivalry for the state of Florida.

Dec 5 - Louisville at Cincinnati...Will this game be for the Conference Title?  Will Louisville be going for an undefeated regular season? 


Bowl Line-Up
BCS Orange Bowl:  Louisville Cardinals
Russell Athletic Bowl:  Cincinnati Bearcats
Belk Bowl:  UCF Golden Knights
Pinstripe Bowl:  Rutgers Scarlett Knights
Beef O'Brady's Bowl:  Houston Cougars

2013 Big Ten Preview

2013 Predicted Standings

Leaders Division
1.  Ohio State Buckeyes (7-1, 12-1)
2.  Wisconsin Badgers (6-2, 9-3)
3.  Penn State Nittany Lions (4-4, 8-4)
4.  Indiana Hoosiers (3-5, 6-6)
5.  Purdue Boilermakers (1-7, 2-10)
6.  Illinois Fighting Illini (0-8, 2-10)

Legends Division
1.  Nebraska Cornhuskers (7-1, 11-2)
2.  Michigan Wolverines (6-2, 10-2)
3.  Northwestern Wildcats (6-2, 10-2)
4.  Michigan State Spartans (5-3, 8-4)
5.  Iowa Hawkeyes (2-6, 4-8)
6.  Minnesota Golden Gophers (1-7, 4-8)

Big 10 Championship Game:  Ohio State Buckeyes over Nebraska Cornhuskers

Ohio State is back, officially - It almost feels like last season did not count for the Buckeyes, at least to everyone outside Columbus.  The task now is for Urban Meyer to come back and have his guys do it all over again.  There are lofty expectations for this team to repeat its undefeated season and rightly so, as many of the pieces are in place for a special 2013.  Braxton Miller will lead the way and could be your next Heisman Trophy winner.  There are top recruits littering the field on both sides of the ball, although only 4 starters return on defense.

Will the Buckeyes repeat their undefeated season?  One thing is for certain, they appear to be the class of the Big 10 conference.  They also have a favorable schedule that offers only 4 or 5 real challenges on the surface.  It is just so difficult to repeat undefeated seasons.  Keep in mind that Alabama has won back-to-back championships with one-loss in each season.  Also of note is the fact that last season the Buckeyes escaped with a 1-point victory at Michigan State, a 3-point victory at Indiana, a 5-point victory vs Michigan and had to beat both Purdue and Wisconsin in overtime.  I have watched enough football to know that eventually, those close games are going to even out a little bit. 

The other worry for the Buckeyes is the defense, especially a pass defense that struggled a year ago.  While they do return 3 players in the secondary, the defensive front will be all new and must apply pressure.  If not, the Buckeyes defense will continue to be vulnerable through the air, which could ultimately lead to their demise.

If they do lose one game, the lack of beef in the schedule will make it almost impossible to play in the National Championship Game. 

Wild Times Ahead in the Legends - Michigan is the trendy pick to win the Legends Division, but they will be locked in a 4-way battle that will represent one of the most intriguing conference races of the 2013 season.  The Wolverines, along with Michigan State, Nebraska and Northwestern all have the talent to play in Indianapolis.  They also all have question marks, which brings that element of mystery to the race this year. 

Michigan returns 11 starters from an 8-5 team and hands the full-time quarterback duties over to Devin Gardner.  Gardner provided a spark last year, but teams will be more prepared for him this season than last, when Denard Robinson was questionable to play in all the games Gardner started.  I am cautious that the Wolverines are actually one more year away from that big season and that 2013 will just be another step on the road. 

Northwestern had their most successful season in 2012 since the 1995 Rose Bowl team, culminating the season with a victory over Mississippi State in the Gator Bowl.  15 starters return, including all skilled position players on offense, giving Wildcat fans reason for great optimism.  Also note that in last year's 10-3 season, two of the losses were a 1-point heart breaker to Nebraska and an equally painful overtime loss at Michigan.  That is how close this team was to 12-1.  Working against Northwestern are two major factors.  The first is depth and recruiting that does not quite match-up with the other 3 programs mentioned here.  The second is a schedule that includes the 3 other Legends contenders, plus cross-over games against Ohio State and Wisconsin.  Would it be a complete shock to see Northwestern in Indianapolis?  No.  I think they settle for another tremendously successful season and one in which they beat Michigan or Ohio State.

Michigan State has the best defense in the Big 10.  I won't get many arguments to the contrary.  The problem in East Lansing is an anemic offense that lost its only star (Leveon Bell) and has a quarterback quandary that could plague it all season long.  The Spartans were seemingly in every game a year ago, but lost almost every close game.  While I think this year will be better, the quarterback and offensive issues are going to hold this team back.  In Sparty's favor is the fact that its cross-over games are against Purdue, Illinois and Indiana, but the offense is going to cost them against one of those teams, or against Iowa or Minnesota, all games they need to win to get back to Indianapolis.

Nebraska's offense could be explosive this year, with Taylor Martinez in his final season and experience at almost every position.  Ameer Abdullah could be the break-out star in the Big 10 this season, taking over full-time at running back.  The questions for Nebraska are on defense, where they were atrocious in losses to Ohio State and Wisconsin last season.  Bo Pelini is a defensive coach, so I would not expect this defense to be as bad as it was a year ago.  There will be a lot of new faces on defense, but that could be a blessing based on some of last season's results.  The Cornhuskers also replace cross-over games of Ohio State and Wisconsin last year with Purdue and Illinois.  They also get Northwestern and Michigan State at home.  I am banking on an improved defense and potent offense to lead Nebraska back to Indianapolis to face the Buckeyes.


Quick Hits:

• Wisconsin replaces almost an entire coaching staff for the 2nd year in a row, this time adding the Head Coach as they transition to Gary Andersen.  Andersen does not inherit a bare cupboard, but how these players respond to these coaching changes once again will be telling.  There were some struggles in 2012 that could be directly linked to coaching changes as the offense did not live up to expectations, especially along the line.  The Badgers are also not set at quarterback, making a 3rd straight trip to Indianapolis seem unlikely at best.
• Indiana is making strides as a football program and the next step will be bowl-eligibility.  While there is little room for error, I expect the Hoosiers to make this step.  The offense, especially through the air should be very good.  It will be the defense that will make or break the season in Bloomington.

Best Non-Conference Schedule:  Purdue.  The Boliermakers travel to Cincinnati and then later play Notre Dame and Northern Illinois at home.  They likely will be underdogs in all 3 games.

Worst Non-Conference Schedule:  Minnesota.  UNLV and New Mexico State are two of the worst FBS programs and FCS opponent Western Illinois was 3-8 last season.  Only a home game against San Jose State offers a quality opponent.

Thank You Big 10 Schedule:  Wisconsin.  The Badgers play in the weaker Leaders Division and draw Northwestern, Iowa and Minnesota for cross-over games, with the toughest one (Northwestern) at Camp Randall Stadium.

Curse You Big 10 Schedule:  Iowa.  The Hawkeyes have a tough top 4 in the Legends Division with Michigan, Michigan State, Nebraska and Northwestern, plus they draw cross-over games with Ohio State and Wisconsin.

Best Player:  Braxton Miller.  Many think he is the favorite for the Heisman Trophy.  I won't go that far, but his dynamic play gives Ohio State a definite edge.

Best Newcomer:  Christian Hackenberg.  With a great pedigree and Bill O'Brien as your coach, Hackenberg has all the makings of a successful debut as quarterback for the Nittany Lions.  If he stays all 4 years, he can play in a bowl as a senior.

Weekly Games to Watch
Aug 31 - Northwestern at California...The Big 10 starts off slow, with the Wildcats one of the few teams facing a BCS opponent, and on the road to boot.

Sept 7- Notre Dame at Michigan...The rivalry will soon be over, but I would expect another good one this year.

Sept 14 - Wisconsin at Arizona State...Big 10 teams have struggled going west, Wisconsin included.  This will be a great measuring stick for both teams.

Sept 21 - Michigan State at Notre Dame...Two of the nation's best defenses will take the field in this one.

Sept 28 - Wisconsin at Ohio State...With Penn State ineligible, this realistically could be the Leaders Division Championship Game. 

Oct 5 - Ohio State at Northwestern...If the Buckeyes think they have won the Leaders Division the week before, this trip to Evanston becomes even more tricky.

Oct 12 - Michigan at Penn State...The Nittany Lions have nothing to lose and their games against the Big 10 elite represent their "Bowls" for the season.

Oct 19 - Indiana at Michigan...A chance to look in on the progress of the Hoosiers.

Oct 26 - Penn State at Ohio State...Their are not expected to be a lot of tough games on the Buckeyes schedule, but this should be one of them.

Nov 2 - Michigan at Michigan State...Both teams expect to be in Indianapolis and this one will go a long way in determining that.

Nov 9 - Nebraska at Michigan...The Cornhuskers schedule is back loaded, starting with Northwestern the week before.  They hope two months is enough to re-tool a defense that struggled at times last year.

Nov 16 - Michigan State at Nebraska...Nebraska concludes a 3-week stretch against the top contenders in the Legends Division.

Nov 23 - Michigan State at Northwestern...If Nebraska or Michigan doesn't grab the headlines, one of these two will.

Nov 30 - Ohio State at Michigan...Will they play two weeks in a row?  Will the Buckeyes be unbeaten going to Ann Arbor?

Dec 7 - Big 10 Championship Game...Last chance for an Ohio State-Michigan clash before they become East Division rivals.


Bowl Line-Up
BCS Rose Bowl:  Ohio State Buckeyes
Capital One Bowl:  Nebraska Cornhuskers
Outback Bowl:  Michigan Wolverines
Gator Bowl:  Northwestern Wildcats
Buffalo Wild Wings Bowl:  Wisconsin Badgers
Meineke Car Care Bowl:  Michigan State Spartans
Heart of Dallas Bowl:  Indiana Hoosiers