2013-14 College Football Bowl Predictions and Analysis
Gildan New Mexico Bowl
Albuquerque, N.M. – 2 p.m. ET, Dec. 21
Washington State vs. Colorado State
Winner: Washington State
Analysis: The first bowl of 2013! How exciting...We give the edge to Mike Leach as he coaches in his first bowl game since the 2008 Cotton Bowl.
Royal Purple Las Vegas
Las Vegas, Nev. – 3:30 p.m. ET, Dec. 21
Fresno State vs. USC
Winner: Fresno State
Analysis: MotleySports has pegged QB Derek Carr as the number one pick in this spring's NFL draft all year long and Carr should put up big numbers against USC defense. The Trojans enter this game with their third coach of the year, following the resignation of Ed Orgeron, who replaced Lane Kiffin mid-season and went 5-2. USC will miss Coach O's passion and enthusiasm on the sidelines.
Famous Idaho Potato Bowl
Boise, Idaho – 5:30 p.m. ET, Dec. 21
San Diego State vs. Buffalo
Winner: Buffalo
Analysis: Despite traveling a little further than the Aztecs, Buffalo will have the best player in this game, OLB Khalil Mack, who some say is a top 10 draft pick.
New Orleans Bowl
New Orleans, La. – 9 p.m. ET, Dec. 21
Tulane vs. La.-Lafayette
Winner: Tulane
Analysis: Both teams playing in their home state, so attendance could be strong. Tulane has had a magical season and move to the American Athletic Conference next year. A win here, gives them some momentum.
Beef O'Brady's St. Petersburg Bowl
St. Petersburg, Fla. – 2 p.m. ET, Dec. 23
Ohio vs. East Carolina
Winner: East Carolina
Analysis: This is an exciting matchup of two very underrated QBS. Ohio's Tyler Tettleton completed 63% of his passes, 20 TDs, and 9 INTs. East Carolina's Shane Carden completed 71% of his passes and threw 32 TD, 10 INT
Hawaii Bowl
Honolulu, Hawaii – 8 p.m. ET, Dec. 24
Oregon State vs. Boise State
Winner: Oregon State
Analysis: The Beavers likely come into this game as the hungrier team after a somewhat disappointing season. The Broncos could still be stinging from losing their head coach.
Little Caesars Pizza Bowl
Detroit, Mich. – 6 p.m. ET, Dec. 26
Pittsburgh vs. Bowling Green
Winner: Pittsburgh
Analysis: Good news for Pitt - this is the first time in four years they aren't playing a bowl game in Birmingham, Alabama. Bad news? Detroit isn't that much of an upgrade and they have to face the MAC champions, fresh off their upset win over Northern Illinois. We give Pitt the edge based on talent, but don't expect this to be a route. Also Bowling Green lost their coach to Wake Forest.
Poinsettia Bowl
San Diego, Calif. – 9:30 p.m. ET, Dec. 26
Northern Illinois vs. Utah State
Winner: Northern Illinois
Analysis: If you haven't watched Jordan Lynch play, this is your last chance. Lynch threw for 2,676 yards, 23 TD and ran for 1,881 and 22 TDs. NIU's first year coach, Rod Carey, picked up where NIU left off last year and seemed poised to return to the BCS, until they were upset in the MAC title game. Utah State's first year head coach Matt Wells did an outstanding job getting the Aggies to the MWC title game, despite losing QB Chuckie Keeton to an injury early in the season.
Military Bowl
Annapolis, Md. – 2:30 p.m. ET, Dec. 27
Maryland vs. Marshall
Winner: Marshall
Texas Bowl
Houston, Texas – 6 p.m. ET, Dec. 27
Syracuse vs. Minnesota
Winner: Minnesota
Analysis: The Gophers finished 8-4, losing their final two to Michigan State and Wisconsin, but before that were on a terrific run, having won 6 straight in the middle of the year, despite dealing with coach Jerry Kill's health issues. Minnesota is a better team than Syracuse and that will show in this game.
Fight Hunger Bowl
San Francisco, Calif. – 9:30 p.m. ET, Dec. 27
Washington vs. BYU
Winner: Washington
Analysis: QB Keith Price and RB Bishop Sankey both have a lot to prove after a disappointing season.
Pinstripe Bowl
Bronx, N.Y. – 12 p.m. ET, Dec. 28
Notre Dame vs. Rutgers
Winner: Notre Dame
Analysis: Rutgers won just 3 games in the AAC and lost to the four teams that finished higher than them by an average of 27 points. Despite losing both coordinators to head coaching jobs and going from the BCS title game to this bowl, Notre Dame is the more talented and better coached team and should be able to handle Rutgers by at least two touchdowns.
Belk Bowl
Charlotte, N.C. – 3:20 p.m. ET, Dec. 28
North Carolina vs. Cincinnati
Winner: Cincinnati
Analysis: This is the Bearcats' second straight season in Charlotte and UNC's return to a bowl game following last year's ban due to NCAA violations. Cincy is seeking their 6th 10 win season in the last 7 years, something only Alabama, Oklahoma, and Oregon have accomplished as well during that time frame.
Russell Athletic Bowl
Orlando, Fla. – 6:45 p.m. ET, Dec. 28
Miami vs. Louisville
Winner: Louisville
Analysis: The Cardinals had one of the quietest 11-1 seasons, maybe ever, considering they play in a BCS conference. They will be conference foes with Miami starting next year so this is a good way to get them acclimated to ACC football. QB Teddy Bridgewater was initially committed to The U, and is from Florida, but later de-committed due to the Miami probation, that they are still getting over. Teddy should put up big numbers in what should be his final game at Louisville.
Buffalo Wild Wings Bowl
Tempe, Ariz. – 10:15 p.m. ET, Dec. 28
Kansas State vs. Michigan
Winner: Michigan
Analysis: Both teams had disappointing seasons but Michigan's ended strongly, despite a loss to Ohio State. Michigan showed their offensive potential but the issues are they will need to make more than a few stops to beat Kansas State.
Armed Forces Bowl
Fort Worth, Texas – 11:45 a.m. ET, Dec. 30
Navy vs. Middle Tennessee State
Winner: Navy
Analysis: Expect Navy to execute their triple option and run all over MTSU.
Music City Bowl
Nashville, Tenn. – 3:15 p.m. ET, Dec. 30
Mississippi vs. Georgia Tech
Winner: Ole Miss
Analysis:
Alamo Bowl
San Antonio, Texas – 6:45 p.m. ET, Dec. 30
Texas vs. Oregon
Winner: Oregon
Analysis: Texas has difficulty stopping the run. Oregon is known for their fast paced offense and running the football. This looks like a huge mismatch on paper. Texas probably won't be able to keep up in a shoot out and if the Ducks are motivated, big if, this game will be a blow out. The only question is whether or not this is Mack Brown's final game at Texas?
Holiday Bowl
San Diego, Calif. – 10:15 p.m. ET, Dec. 30
Arizona State vs. Texas Tech
Winner: Arizona St
Analysis: The Sun Devils had a very strong season, despite losing at home in the PAC-12 championship. Texas Tech started 7-0 and lost their final 5 games. ASU should be able to quickly regroup from their loss to Stanford and take care of business against Ryan Gossling's team.
AdvoCare Independence Bowl
Shreveport, La. – 12:30 p.m. ET, Dec. 31
Arizona vs. Boston College
Winner: Arizona
Analysis: Battle of the nation's two best running backs - Kadeem Carey and Andre Williams. Steve Addazzio did a tremendous job getting BC bowl eligible and Rich Rod has the Wildcats going to their second straight bowl game during his tenure.
Sun Bowl
El Paso, Texas – 2 p.m. ET, Dec. 31
Virginia Tech vs. UCLA
Winner: UCLA
Analysis: UCLA's coaching staff remains intact, a small victory for the Bruins. Frank Beamer will have his Hokies ready, despite being far far away from Blacksburg. VT probably doesn't have enough offense to hang with QB Brett Hundley and UCLA.
Liberty Bowl
Memphis, Tenn. – 4 p.m. ET, Dec. 31
Mississippi State vs. Rice
Winner: Rice
Analysis: Mississippi State had an inconsistent season. Rice, surprisingly won Conference USA and showed a lot of potential all year. This would be a major win for the program if they can knock off an SEC team.
Chick-fil-A Bowl
Atlanta, Ga. – 8 p.m. ET, Dec. 31
Texas A&M vs. Duke
Winner: Texas A&M
Analysis: Duke has been an amazing story and had a great season and deserve a top bowl game like this. But they aren't near Texas A&M's level. A&M isn't even on Florida State's level, and the Seminoles just beat Duke 45-7 in the ACC title game. Also, keep in mind this is likely Johnny Manziel's final collegiate game. So expect him to do something amazing.
Gator Bowl
Jacksonville, Fla. – 12 p.m. ET, Jan. 1
Georgia vs. Nebraska
Winner: Georgia
Analysis: New year, new bowl, same result. Last year Georgia beat Nebraska is the Capital One bowl. This year they play in a rematch in the Gator Bowl. Georgia was destroyed by injuries this season and will look to end this year on a high note. Nebraska coach Bo Pelini desperately needs a win and strong showing in this game to help rebuild his rep in Lincoln.
Heart of Dallas Bowl
Dallas, Texas – 12 p.m. ET, Jan. 1
UNLV vs. North Texas
Winner: UNLV
Analysis: People talk about New Year's day bowls as something special and prestigious. Well, next time someone talks about how special they are, remind them that UNLV vs. North Texas happened on January 1, 2014. And than forget it ever happened.
Capital One Bowl
Orlando, Fla. – 1 p.m. ET, Jan. 1
South Carolina vs. Wisconsin
Winner: South Carolina
Analysis: Gamecocks fans hope Jadaveon Clowney shows up motivated in his final game in a USC uniform. Wisconsin has an excellent run game, but USC's run defense is also strong. South Carolina needs strong play out of QB Connor Shaw to be able to win. USC gets the edge simply because of coaching.
Outback Bowl
Tampa, Fla. – 1 p.m. ET, Jan. 1
LSU vs. Iowa
Winner: LSU
Analysis: Kudos to Iowa coach Kirk Ferentz on a bounce back season and leading the Hawkeyes to a New Year's Day bowl game. LSU has too much offensively to be held back. After a disappointing 3-loss regular season, LSU will end the season strong with a statement win over a good Big Ten team.
Cotton Bowl
Arlington, Texas – 7:30 p.m. ET, Jan. 3
Missouri vs. Oklahoma State
Winner: Missouri
Analysis: This should be a great game between former Big 12 rivals. Both teams lost de-facto conference championship games that cost them BCS appearances. Both teams will be hungry and focused so it comes down to execution. Missouri QB James Franklin has been more consistent throughout the year than OK St QB Clint Chelf. The Cowboys defense has shown cracks in the past month while Missouri's defense was doing great, before being over-exposed against Auburn.
BBVA Compass Bowl
Birmingham, Ala. – 1 p.m. ET, Jan. 4
Houston vs. Vannderbilt
Winner: Vanderbilt
Analysis: Houston quietly won 8 games and has a very good offense with a lot of weapons. WR Deontay Greenberry has plenty of time to get healthy and the extended practices will only benefit freshman QB John O'Korn in the long run. But never bet against Vandy head coach James Franklin. He will have his team ready to play. Vandy's SEC experience and Houston's record against winning teams (1-4 vs. teams over .500) gives the Commodores the edge.
GoDaddy Bowl
Mobile, Ala. – 9 p.m. ET, Jan. 5
Ball State vs. Arkansas State
Winner: Ball State
Ball State was fortunate enough to keep head coach Pete Lembo around, at least for one more year. Arkansas State, however, will begin 2014 with their 5th head coach in five years. Coaching turmoil and bowl fatigue (three straight years in Mobile for ASU) gives edge to Ball State.
BCS bowls
Rose Bowl
Pasadena, Calif. – 5 p.m. ET, Jan. 1
Michigan State vs. Stanford
Fiesta Bowl
Glendale, Ariz. – 8:30 p.m. ET, Jan. 1
Baylor vs. Central Florida
Sugar Bowl
New Orleans, La. – 8:30 p.m. ET, Jan. 2
Alabama vs. Oklahoma
Orange Bowl
Miami, Fla. – 8:30 p.m. ET, Jan. 3
Clemson vs. Ohio State
BCS title game
Pasadena, Calif. – 8:30 p.m. ET, Jan. 6
Florida State vs. Auburn
Albuquerque, N.M. – 2 p.m. ET, Dec. 21
Washington State vs. Colorado State
Winner: Washington State
Analysis: The first bowl of 2013! How exciting...We give the edge to Mike Leach as he coaches in his first bowl game since the 2008 Cotton Bowl.
Royal Purple Las Vegas
Las Vegas, Nev. – 3:30 p.m. ET, Dec. 21
Fresno State vs. USC
Winner: Fresno State
Analysis: MotleySports has pegged QB Derek Carr as the number one pick in this spring's NFL draft all year long and Carr should put up big numbers against USC defense. The Trojans enter this game with their third coach of the year, following the resignation of Ed Orgeron, who replaced Lane Kiffin mid-season and went 5-2. USC will miss Coach O's passion and enthusiasm on the sidelines.
Famous Idaho Potato Bowl
Boise, Idaho – 5:30 p.m. ET, Dec. 21
San Diego State vs. Buffalo
Winner: Buffalo
Analysis: Despite traveling a little further than the Aztecs, Buffalo will have the best player in this game, OLB Khalil Mack, who some say is a top 10 draft pick.
New Orleans Bowl
New Orleans, La. – 9 p.m. ET, Dec. 21
Tulane vs. La.-Lafayette
Winner: Tulane
Analysis: Both teams playing in their home state, so attendance could be strong. Tulane has had a magical season and move to the American Athletic Conference next year. A win here, gives them some momentum.
Beef O'Brady's St. Petersburg Bowl
St. Petersburg, Fla. – 2 p.m. ET, Dec. 23
Ohio vs. East Carolina
Winner: East Carolina
Analysis: This is an exciting matchup of two very underrated QBS. Ohio's Tyler Tettleton completed 63% of his passes, 20 TDs, and 9 INTs. East Carolina's Shane Carden completed 71% of his passes and threw 32 TD, 10 INT
Hawaii Bowl
Honolulu, Hawaii – 8 p.m. ET, Dec. 24
Oregon State vs. Boise State
Winner: Oregon State
Analysis: The Beavers likely come into this game as the hungrier team after a somewhat disappointing season. The Broncos could still be stinging from losing their head coach.
Little Caesars Pizza Bowl
Detroit, Mich. – 6 p.m. ET, Dec. 26
Pittsburgh vs. Bowling Green
Winner: Pittsburgh
Analysis: Good news for Pitt - this is the first time in four years they aren't playing a bowl game in Birmingham, Alabama. Bad news? Detroit isn't that much of an upgrade and they have to face the MAC champions, fresh off their upset win over Northern Illinois. We give Pitt the edge based on talent, but don't expect this to be a route. Also Bowling Green lost their coach to Wake Forest.
Poinsettia Bowl
San Diego, Calif. – 9:30 p.m. ET, Dec. 26
Northern Illinois vs. Utah State
Winner: Northern Illinois
Analysis: If you haven't watched Jordan Lynch play, this is your last chance. Lynch threw for 2,676 yards, 23 TD and ran for 1,881 and 22 TDs. NIU's first year coach, Rod Carey, picked up where NIU left off last year and seemed poised to return to the BCS, until they were upset in the MAC title game. Utah State's first year head coach Matt Wells did an outstanding job getting the Aggies to the MWC title game, despite losing QB Chuckie Keeton to an injury early in the season.
Military Bowl
Annapolis, Md. – 2:30 p.m. ET, Dec. 27
Maryland vs. Marshall
Winner: Marshall
Texas Bowl
Houston, Texas – 6 p.m. ET, Dec. 27
Syracuse vs. Minnesota
Winner: Minnesota
Analysis: The Gophers finished 8-4, losing their final two to Michigan State and Wisconsin, but before that were on a terrific run, having won 6 straight in the middle of the year, despite dealing with coach Jerry Kill's health issues. Minnesota is a better team than Syracuse and that will show in this game.
Fight Hunger Bowl
San Francisco, Calif. – 9:30 p.m. ET, Dec. 27
Washington vs. BYU
Winner: Washington
Analysis: QB Keith Price and RB Bishop Sankey both have a lot to prove after a disappointing season.
Pinstripe Bowl
Bronx, N.Y. – 12 p.m. ET, Dec. 28
Notre Dame vs. Rutgers
Winner: Notre Dame
Analysis: Rutgers won just 3 games in the AAC and lost to the four teams that finished higher than them by an average of 27 points. Despite losing both coordinators to head coaching jobs and going from the BCS title game to this bowl, Notre Dame is the more talented and better coached team and should be able to handle Rutgers by at least two touchdowns.
Belk Bowl
Charlotte, N.C. – 3:20 p.m. ET, Dec. 28
North Carolina vs. Cincinnati
Winner: Cincinnati
Analysis: This is the Bearcats' second straight season in Charlotte and UNC's return to a bowl game following last year's ban due to NCAA violations. Cincy is seeking their 6th 10 win season in the last 7 years, something only Alabama, Oklahoma, and Oregon have accomplished as well during that time frame.
Russell Athletic Bowl
Orlando, Fla. – 6:45 p.m. ET, Dec. 28
Miami vs. Louisville
Winner: Louisville
Analysis: The Cardinals had one of the quietest 11-1 seasons, maybe ever, considering they play in a BCS conference. They will be conference foes with Miami starting next year so this is a good way to get them acclimated to ACC football. QB Teddy Bridgewater was initially committed to The U, and is from Florida, but later de-committed due to the Miami probation, that they are still getting over. Teddy should put up big numbers in what should be his final game at Louisville.
Buffalo Wild Wings Bowl
Tempe, Ariz. – 10:15 p.m. ET, Dec. 28
Kansas State vs. Michigan
Winner: Michigan
Analysis: Both teams had disappointing seasons but Michigan's ended strongly, despite a loss to Ohio State. Michigan showed their offensive potential but the issues are they will need to make more than a few stops to beat Kansas State.
Armed Forces Bowl
Fort Worth, Texas – 11:45 a.m. ET, Dec. 30
Navy vs. Middle Tennessee State
Winner: Navy
Analysis: Expect Navy to execute their triple option and run all over MTSU.
Music City Bowl
Nashville, Tenn. – 3:15 p.m. ET, Dec. 30
Mississippi vs. Georgia Tech
Winner: Ole Miss
Analysis:
Alamo Bowl
San Antonio, Texas – 6:45 p.m. ET, Dec. 30
Texas vs. Oregon
Winner: Oregon
Analysis: Texas has difficulty stopping the run. Oregon is known for their fast paced offense and running the football. This looks like a huge mismatch on paper. Texas probably won't be able to keep up in a shoot out and if the Ducks are motivated, big if, this game will be a blow out. The only question is whether or not this is Mack Brown's final game at Texas?
Holiday Bowl
San Diego, Calif. – 10:15 p.m. ET, Dec. 30
Arizona State vs. Texas Tech
Winner: Arizona St
Analysis: The Sun Devils had a very strong season, despite losing at home in the PAC-12 championship. Texas Tech started 7-0 and lost their final 5 games. ASU should be able to quickly regroup from their loss to Stanford and take care of business against Ryan Gossling's team.
AdvoCare Independence Bowl
Shreveport, La. – 12:30 p.m. ET, Dec. 31
Arizona vs. Boston College
Winner: Arizona
Analysis: Battle of the nation's two best running backs - Kadeem Carey and Andre Williams. Steve Addazzio did a tremendous job getting BC bowl eligible and Rich Rod has the Wildcats going to their second straight bowl game during his tenure.
Sun Bowl
El Paso, Texas – 2 p.m. ET, Dec. 31
Virginia Tech vs. UCLA
Winner: UCLA
Analysis: UCLA's coaching staff remains intact, a small victory for the Bruins. Frank Beamer will have his Hokies ready, despite being far far away from Blacksburg. VT probably doesn't have enough offense to hang with QB Brett Hundley and UCLA.
Liberty Bowl
Memphis, Tenn. – 4 p.m. ET, Dec. 31
Mississippi State vs. Rice
Winner: Rice
Analysis: Mississippi State had an inconsistent season. Rice, surprisingly won Conference USA and showed a lot of potential all year. This would be a major win for the program if they can knock off an SEC team.
Chick-fil-A Bowl
Atlanta, Ga. – 8 p.m. ET, Dec. 31
Texas A&M vs. Duke
Winner: Texas A&M
Analysis: Duke has been an amazing story and had a great season and deserve a top bowl game like this. But they aren't near Texas A&M's level. A&M isn't even on Florida State's level, and the Seminoles just beat Duke 45-7 in the ACC title game. Also, keep in mind this is likely Johnny Manziel's final collegiate game. So expect him to do something amazing.
Gator Bowl
Jacksonville, Fla. – 12 p.m. ET, Jan. 1
Georgia vs. Nebraska
Winner: Georgia
Analysis: New year, new bowl, same result. Last year Georgia beat Nebraska is the Capital One bowl. This year they play in a rematch in the Gator Bowl. Georgia was destroyed by injuries this season and will look to end this year on a high note. Nebraska coach Bo Pelini desperately needs a win and strong showing in this game to help rebuild his rep in Lincoln.
Heart of Dallas Bowl
Dallas, Texas – 12 p.m. ET, Jan. 1
UNLV vs. North Texas
Winner: UNLV
Analysis: People talk about New Year's day bowls as something special and prestigious. Well, next time someone talks about how special they are, remind them that UNLV vs. North Texas happened on January 1, 2014. And than forget it ever happened.
Capital One Bowl
Orlando, Fla. – 1 p.m. ET, Jan. 1
South Carolina vs. Wisconsin
Winner: South Carolina
Analysis: Gamecocks fans hope Jadaveon Clowney shows up motivated in his final game in a USC uniform. Wisconsin has an excellent run game, but USC's run defense is also strong. South Carolina needs strong play out of QB Connor Shaw to be able to win. USC gets the edge simply because of coaching.
Outback Bowl
Tampa, Fla. – 1 p.m. ET, Jan. 1
LSU vs. Iowa
Winner: LSU
Analysis: Kudos to Iowa coach Kirk Ferentz on a bounce back season and leading the Hawkeyes to a New Year's Day bowl game. LSU has too much offensively to be held back. After a disappointing 3-loss regular season, LSU will end the season strong with a statement win over a good Big Ten team.
Cotton Bowl
Arlington, Texas – 7:30 p.m. ET, Jan. 3
Missouri vs. Oklahoma State
Winner: Missouri
Analysis: This should be a great game between former Big 12 rivals. Both teams lost de-facto conference championship games that cost them BCS appearances. Both teams will be hungry and focused so it comes down to execution. Missouri QB James Franklin has been more consistent throughout the year than OK St QB Clint Chelf. The Cowboys defense has shown cracks in the past month while Missouri's defense was doing great, before being over-exposed against Auburn.
BBVA Compass Bowl
Birmingham, Ala. – 1 p.m. ET, Jan. 4
Houston vs. Vannderbilt
Winner: Vanderbilt
Analysis: Houston quietly won 8 games and has a very good offense with a lot of weapons. WR Deontay Greenberry has plenty of time to get healthy and the extended practices will only benefit freshman QB John O'Korn in the long run. But never bet against Vandy head coach James Franklin. He will have his team ready to play. Vandy's SEC experience and Houston's record against winning teams (1-4 vs. teams over .500) gives the Commodores the edge.
GoDaddy Bowl
Mobile, Ala. – 9 p.m. ET, Jan. 5
Ball State vs. Arkansas State
Winner: Ball State
Ball State was fortunate enough to keep head coach Pete Lembo around, at least for one more year. Arkansas State, however, will begin 2014 with their 5th head coach in five years. Coaching turmoil and bowl fatigue (three straight years in Mobile for ASU) gives edge to Ball State.
BCS bowls
Rose Bowl
Pasadena, Calif. – 5 p.m. ET, Jan. 1
Michigan State vs. Stanford
Fiesta Bowl
Glendale, Ariz. – 8:30 p.m. ET, Jan. 1
Baylor vs. Central Florida
Sugar Bowl
New Orleans, La. – 8:30 p.m. ET, Jan. 2
Alabama vs. Oklahoma
Orange Bowl
Miami, Fla. – 8:30 p.m. ET, Jan. 3
Clemson vs. Ohio State
BCS title game
Pasadena, Calif. – 8:30 p.m. ET, Jan. 6
Florida State vs. Auburn
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