2024 Southern Football Guide Postseason

EDITOR’S LETTER

CHARLIE MILLER

College Football fans everywhere are excited about bowl season once again!

For years, we had the polls. AP and UPI, which morphed into the Coaches’ Poll. Fans cried foul when top teams didn’t square off in bowls and champions were decided by voting sportswriters. Then came the BCS Era with “non-subjective” computer polls. Yet, fans still believed in the “eye test.” So, here we are, in the Committee Era. We’ve gone from five major conferences with four playoff spots, to four major conferences with 12 playoff spots.

Alabama, Miami, BYU and Ole Miss fans may be unhappy they were left out, but once a team loses two games, its fate is in the hands of the Committee. Tennessee fans may believe they deserve to host a game in Knoxville.

Yet, there are few sport seasons in America like Bowl Season. Even for schools not competing for the national championship, winning a bowl game adds a bit of panache that lasts through recruiting season, portal season, preseason right up until the first game in 2025. Bowl Season has a way of making Ohio vs. Jacksonville State seem like a big, big deal.

Save this to keep track of who plays whom, when, and maybe just a touch of useful knowledge for your entertainment purposes.

Are You Ready for Some Bowl Games?

Charlie Miller - Editor SOUTHERN FOOTBALL GUIDE

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First Round South Bend, IN Dec. 20 8:00 ET - ESPN

INDIANA

QB Kurtis Rourke

Completed 70% of his passes for 2,827 yards.

RB Justice Ellison

Has 811 yards rushing with 10 TDs.

CB D’Angelo Ponds

He plays the run and pass equally well; has 35 solo stops and two picks.

LB Aiden Fisher

His 44 solo stops leads the team and he has four behind the line.

NOTRE DAME

QB Riley Leonard

Completes 66% of his passes and has 2,092 yards and 16 TDs, plus 771 rushing yards with 14 TDs.

RB Jeremiyah Love

Produced 949 yards, 15 TDs and 7.1 yards per carry.

FS Xavier Watts

Excellent athlete has five picks, one touchdown.

LB Jack Wiser

Leads the team with 37 solo stops.

THE MATCHUP

INDIANA

The Playoff Committee raised a few eyebrows when awarding the Fighting Irish a home game in the first round due to their lack of big wins. However, the Irish defeated seven bowl teams and lost just once, albeit to Northern Illinois. The Hoosiers have lost just once as well, but it wasn’t a competitive loss to Ohio State. Indiana has some eye-popping numbers, but have beaten just one FBS team with a winning record: Michigan. Quarterback Kurtis Rourke has 27 touchdown passes and just four picks. Elijah Sarratt is an effective weapon with 49 catches. The defense has been remarkable placing three players on the All-Big Ten team. Linebacker Aiden Fisher, defensive end Mikail Kamara and cornerback D’Angelo Ponds were all honored as the best in the Big Ten. Kamara has 15 tackles for loss. The Irish are clearly a run-first team and grind out games with running back Jeremiyah Love and designed runs by quarterback Riley Leonard. When Leonard puts the ball in the air, it’s usually in the direction of Beaux Collins, who has just 34 catches for 427 yards. The Irish defense has allowed opponents just 4.5 yards per play. Free safety Xavier Watts is the best player on defense. Jack Kiser patrols the middle and is the leading tackler. Big Rylie Mills is a load upfront with 7.5 stops behind the line.

Key Stats: Indiana’s 11 FBS opponents averaged 26.7 points allowed this season. In their 11 games, Indiana put up 40.3 per game against those defenses. Notre Dame’s 12 FBS foes averaged 364 yards of offense. The Irish limited them to 297.

Prediction: Notre Dame 30, Indiana 21

QB Kevin Jennings

Has 3,050 passing yards and 379 rushing.

RB Brashard Smith

Had 113 yards rushing and six catches for 34 yards in the ACC title game.

S Isaiah Nwokobia

One of the Mustangs’ leading tacklers, the All-ACC safety has three picks.

LB Kobe Wilson

Leading tackler has six TFLs and two interceptions.

PENN STATE

QB Drew Allar

The 69% passer has 2,894 yards and 279 rushing.

TE Tyler Warren

With 88 catches and 1,062 yards, he’s a handful for defenses.

DE Abdul Carter

One of the best defenders in the nation with 19.5 TFLs.

S Jaylen Reed

Leader with 43 solo stops also has three picks.

THE MATCHUP

It took a few quarters against Clemson in the ACC title game for the SMU offense to find a rhythm, but the Mustangs exploded for 24 second-half points. Typically, SMU throws the ball fewer than 30 times a game. Kevin Jennings threw it 50 times to rally the Mustangs against Clemson. Jennings has seven talented receivers with more than 300 yards this season. All-ACC running back Brashard Smith is the most potent weapon with 1,270 yards rushing. The Mustangs’ defense can really get after the quarterback. Edge Jahfari Harvery and end Elijah Roberts have combined for 21 TFLs and 19 QB Hurries coming from opposite sides. All-ACC tackle Jared Harrison-Hunte has eight TFLs. Penn State has been living off of its defense for a few seasons now, but didn’t have an explosive offense to get the Nittany Lions over the championship hump (or the Ohio State hump). But Penn State unleashed Drew Allar in the Big Ten title game, and he threw 39 passes in the loss to Oregon. It marked only the second time this season he’s thrown more than 28 times. The run-first Nittany Lions split carries between Nicholas Single-on and Kaytron Allen. They have 1,660 yards rushing and Singleton has another 335 receiving on 37 catches. Middle linebacker Kobe King and safety Zakee Wheatley are all over the field on defense, but defensive end Abdul Carter is a man among boys. Key Stats: SMU has 40 sacks on the season and allowed just 15. Penn State has 33 sacks and allowed only 12. Prediction: Penn State 27, SMU 17

PENN STATE

First Round Austin, TX

Dec. 21 4:00 ET - TNT

CLEMSON

QB Cade Klubnik

The 64% passer also has 458 yards on the ground.

RB Phil Mafah

Averages 5.2 yards a carry.

WR Antonio Williamsl

Has 71 catches for 838 yards and 10 TDs.

LB Barrett Carter

Plays on the edge and has 10.5 TFLs, seven pass breakups and eight QB Hurries.

TEXAS

QB Quinn Ewers

The 66% passer has 2,665 yards and 25 TDs.

MLB Anthony Hill Jr.

Leads Texas with 47 solo tackles and 16 TFLs, and has four forced fumbles.

S Andrew Mukuba

Has 33 solo stops, four behind the line, four picks and another five pass breakups.

CB Jahdae Barron

Has 32 solo tackles and five picks and nine pass breakups.

THE MATCHUP

Quarterback Quinn Ewers has a strong group of receivers, but individually, they have undera-chieved this season. Matthew Golden and tight end Gunnar Helm are the two most consistent producers. Quintrevion Wisner and Jaydon Blue share the backfield and combined have more than 1,400 yards. Ewers is not mobile, so keeping a clean pocket is critical. It’s on the defensive side where the Longhorns really shine. Middle linebacker Anthony Hill Jr. is the best player, but he has complementary company all around him. The secondary is a group of tough run stoppers who are also terrific in coverage. Safeties Michael Taaffe and Andrew Mukuba are playmakers. Jahdae Barron is the best in coverage. Clemson has been improving throughout the season, especially defensively and their quarter-back play. Cede Klubnik is a 3,000-yard passer with just five picks. Phil Mafah is a 1,000-yard runner, and there is a talented stable of receivers. Defensively, Barrett Carter is the main man from his outside linebacker position. He makes plays all over the field, against the run, rushing the passer and in coverage. Defensive end T.J. Parker must be accounted for on every snap. He is the only effective pass rusher for the Tigers, but he is outstanding with 19 TFLs, 11 of them sacks. He’s forced six fumbles as well. Corner Avieon Terrell is the best in coverage with two picks and 10 pass breakups..

Key Stats: Texas has 96 tackles for loss, but has allowed 89. Clemson has a +16 turnover margin.

Prediction: Clemson 24, Texas 22

First Round

Columbus, OH

Dec. 21 8:00 ET - ESPN

TENNESSEE

QB Nico Iamaleava

The 65% passer has 2,512 yards and 317 rushing.

RB Dylan Sampson

Has 1,485 yards and 22 TDs, averaging 5.8 yards a carry.

OLB James Peare Jr.

Has 11 tackles for loss and 10 QB Hurries.

OLB Arion Carter

Leading tackler has 6.5 stops behind the line.

OHIO STATE

QB Will Howard

The transfer was acclimated quickly and threw for 2,860 yards.

WR Jeremiah Smith

Leads the Buckeyes with 57 catches for 934 yards and 10 TDs.

DL JT Tuimoloau

His 11.5 TFLs lead the teams.

FS Caleb Downs

The All-Big Ten safety has 6.5 tackles behind the line.

THE MATCHUP

Most Tennessee fans feel the 10-2 Volunteers are deserving of a home game, but the Big Orange is traveling to Columbus to keep their season alive. Tennessee will ride SEC POY Dylan Sampson as far as he can carry the Vols in Columbus. Tennessee runs the ball 61 percent of the time and that might be higher until the Buckeyes lock down the Tennessee running game. Quarterback Nico Iamaleava has good overall numbers but he has struggled against good defenses. And Ohio State is really good. Tennessee will try to hit big plays down field to test the Ohio State secondary and capitalize on the speed of Tennessee’s quartet of talented receivers. Defensively, Arion Carter and James Pearce are outstanding on the edges for the Vols. Ohio State is extremely talented all over the field. Quarterback Will Howard is efficient and takes care of the ball. Quinshon Judkins and TreVeyon Henderson form a formidable twosome in the running game. Judkins has 805 yards with a 5.5 yards per game average. Henderson has 751 and 7.0. Receivers Jeremiah Smith and Emeka Egbuka are exciting playmakers. Center Seth McLaughlin and guard Donovan Jackson are both All-Bit Ten performers. The defense includes three All-Big Ten players in defensive backs Caleb Downs and Lathan Ransom, as well as lineman JT Tuimoloau. Key Stats: Tennessee has 93 TFLs and allowed just 56. Ohio State’s 12 opponents averaged 347.5 yards of offense and 25.5 points a game. Against Ohio State, they averaged 241 and 11. Prediction: Ohio State 29, Tennessee 21

OHIO STATE

Salute to Veterans Bowl

Montgomery, AL

Dec. 14 8:00 ET - ESPN

SOUTH ALABAMA

SOUTH ALABAMA

QB Gio Lopez

A 66% passer with 2,557 yards and only five picks.

WR Jamaal Pritchett

Averaged eight catches for 110 yards in his 11 FBS gamess.

LB Blayne Myrick

Returned his only career interception 33 yards for a score in regular season finale.

S Jaden Voisin

The All-SBC selection has 11 career interceptions.

WESTERN MICHIGAN

QB Hayden Wolfe

Completes 67% and threw for 2,212 yards and 17 TDs.

RB Jaden Nixon

With 876 yards, he averaged 6.6 yards a carry; Earned All-MAC honors.

RB Jalen Buckley

Averaged 5.5 yards a carry with 657 yards after missing three games.

SS Tate Hallock

Grabbed four interceptions.

THE MATCHUP

South Alabama closed with four wins in the Jaguars’ last six games to earn bowl eligibility. One of those wins was a 24-22 decision over Louisiana, giving the Ragin’ Cajuns their only conference loss. The Jaguars’ success is built on stopping the run and creating turnovers. South Alabama intercepted 15 passes, and held opponents to 144 yards a game on the ground. Big 300-pound Wy’Kevious Thomas provided the anchor upfront to thwart running attacks. Linebacker Blayne Myrick is the leading tackler and safety Jaden Voisin picked off five passes. Receiver Jamaal Pritchett is the best receiver in the Sun Belt. His 91 catches are 25 more than any other receiver in the conference and his 1,126 yards led the SBC. Kentrell Bullock gets most of the carries in the backfield and has 702 yards. But Fluff Bothwell is a big-play threat with 834 yards, averaging 7.4 yards a carry and has 13 TDs. The Western Michigan Broncos have an effective running game and an experienced quarterback. Hayden Wolfe has more than 9,000 career passing yards and the tandem of Jaden Nixon and Jalen Buckley keep defenses on their heels. The Broncos have a couple of All-MAC linemen in center Jacob Gideon and guard Addison West. Western Michigan received a blow when veteran tight end Blake Bosma, a third-team All-MAC selection, entered the transfer portal. Linebacker Donald Willis is the team’s leading tackler, and strong safety Tate Hallock made second-team All-MAC.

Key Stats: All six Jaguars’ losses were to bowl teams. With 13 fumble recoveries, the Broncos ended the season with a +8 turnover ratio.

Prediction: South Alabama 27, Western Michigan 17

South Alabama Jaguars

Coach: Major Applewhite 6-6 (5-3 Sun Belt)

Western Michigan Broncos

Coach: Lance Taylor 6-6 (5-3 MAC)

Frisco Bowl

Frisco, TX

Dec. 17 9:00 ET - ESPN

West Virginia Mountaineers

Interim Coach: Chad Scott 6-6 (5-4 Big 12)

Memphis Tigers Coach: Ryan Silverfield 10-2 (6-2 AAC)

WEST VIRGINIA

QB Garrett Greene

Threw for 10 TDs and 11 picks against FBS competition.

LT Wyatt Milum

Named Offensive Lineman of the Year in the Big 12.

DL TJ Jackson II

Leads the defense with 13.5 TFLs.

S Anthony Wilson Jr.

Has 48 solo stops.

MEMPHIS

QB Seth Henigan

With 3,208 yards this season, he now has 13,972 for his career.

RB Marion Anderson

Averages 5.9 yards a carry to produce 1,292 rushing ya.

WR Roc Taylor

Has 61 catches for 834 yards.

LB Chandler Martin

The leader of the defense has 52 solo stops and 15 behind the line.

THE MATCHUP

Six wins wasn’t enough for West Virginia coach Neal Brown to keep his job. During the coaching search, Chad Scott will be the interim coach for the bowl game. The Mountaineers couldn’t compete with the upper echelon of the Big 12 and West Virginia is hitting the reset button. Quarterback Garrett Greene was too careless at times, but has had a very good season. In 10 games he’s thrown for 1,972 yards. Jahiem White and CJ Donaldson Jr. share duties in the backfield and combined for 1,468 yards and 16 scores. The Mountaineers run it 60 percent of the time, so receivers have few opportunities to stand out. Defensive lineman TJ Jackson II was named All-Big 12 for his work upfront. Linebacker Josiah Trotter, Big 12 Defensive Freshman of the Year, has entered the portal and will be missed. Memphis was in and out of the top 25 a few times this season and never really conquered that final hump. The Tigers ended the regular season in fine fashion with a 34-24 win at Tulane. With back-to-back 10-win seasons for the first time in program history, the Tigers are among the elite in the Group of 5. The Tigers placed seven players on the All-AAC team. Running back Mario Anderson is a force with 1,582 yards from scrimmage. Receiver Roc Taylor and tight end Anthony Landphere join Anderson and tackle Xavier Hill on the All-AAC team. Defensive lineman William Whitlow Jr., linebacker Chandler Martin and corner Davion Ross were honored as well.

WEST VIRGINIA MEMPHIS

Key Stats: West Virginia was 0-6 vs. bowl teams; 6-0 vs. non-bowl teams. Only James Madison has a better turnover margin than the Tigers’ +16.

Prediction: Memphis 35, West Virginia 14

Boca Raton Bowl

Boca Raton, FL Dec. 18 5:30 ET - ESPN

WKU

Hilltoppers

Interim Coach:

Tyson Helton 8-4 (6-2 CUSA)

James Madison

Dukes

Coach: Bob Chesney 8-4 (4-4 SBC)

WKU

QB Caden Veltkamp

Has 2,806 passing yards and 23 touchdowns.

RB Elijah Young

Has 846 yards rushing averaging 4.5 yards a carry.

WR Kisean Johnson

Has 66 catches for 855 yards.

WR Easton Messer

Has 52 catches for 725 yards.

JAMES MADISON

QB Alonza Barnett III

Completed 60% for 2,598 yards with 26 TDs and just four picks.

DE Eric O’Neill

The All-SBC performer led the team with 12 sacks.

RB George Pettaway

Has 880 yards, averaging 5.9 yards a pop.

CB Terrence Spence

In addition to his five picks, he broke up seven other passes and blocked a couple of kicks.

THE MATCHUP

WKU defeated Jacksonville State in the regular season finale with a field goal as time expired. JSU avenged that loss and then some a week later in the CUSA title game. The Hilltoppers have a balanced attack led by quarterback Caden Veltkamp. He’s a 2,800-yard passer and added 162 yards and seven touchdowns in the running game. Elijah Young is the primary running back. The Hilltoppers have a deep receiving corps with five players totaling more than 330 receiving yards. Kisean Johnson and Easton Messer lead the group. Devonté Mathews is the best defender. James Madison has 26 takeaways this season for a +17 turnover ratio (17 interceptions, nine fumbles). JMU gave up 50 points to North Carolina—a game the Dukes won, 70-50—and more than 30 in each of their last three games, yet still managed to give up an average of only 22.1 points in their FBS games. Foes converted just 32.4 percent on third down. Defensive end Eric O’Neill became well acquainted with SBC quarterbacks with 17.5 TFLs and another 15 pressures. Terrence Spence led the team with five picks and Jacob Thomas added three. Quarterback Alonza Barnett III has four excellent receivers, causing matchup issues for opponents. Yamir Knight, Omarion Dollison, Cam Ross and Taylor Thompson all had at least 30 catches and 425 yards.

Key Stats: The Hilltoppers averaged 25.5 points this season. When they score 26 or more, they are 7-0. JMU opponents averaged just 4.8 yards a play.

Prediction: James Madison 24, WKU 17

MADISON

LA Bowl

Inglewood, CA

Dec. 18 9:00 ET - ESPN

CAL

QB Fernando Mendoza

The 69% passer has thrown for 3,004 yards this season, but only 16 touchdowns.

TE Jack Endries

Hauled in 49 passes for 562 yards.

LB Teddye Buchanan

His 43 solo stops lead the Bears and he’s added 11 TFLs.

CB Nohl Williams

In addition to his nation-leading seven picks, he broke up another eight passes.

UNLV

RB Jai’Den Thomas

Added 91 receiving yards to his rushing total of 846.

WR Ricky White III

Has 79 catches for 1,041 yards and 11 scores.

MLB Jackson Woodard

Leads in tackles and has 17 TFLs (13.5 on running plays), four interceptions and nine other pass breakups.

FS Jalen Catalon

Has five picks and five stops behind the line with 56 solo tackles.

THE MATCHUP

Fans who love defense probably enjoy watching Cal play. The Bears average just 25.6 points a game against FBS competition and give up only 23 points a game. Cal has two All-ACC players from the defense: Linebacker Teddye Buchanan and corner Nohl Williams, who leads the nation with seven interceptions. Defensive end Xavier Carlton added 11 TFLs and safety Craig Woodson is second on the team with 42 solo stops. The Bears would love to run the ball more, but injuries to running backs have forced Cal to lean on quarterback Fernando Mendoza, a 3,000-yard passer. Tight end Jack Endries and receiver Nyziah Hunter are his favorite targets. Barry Odom, who had two years of success at the helm at UNLV, has left for Purdue, leaving the bowl coaching to Del Alexander, the receivers coach. UNLV is one of the best Group of 5 teams and went 2-1 against Power 4 teams this season. The Rebels’ offense, particularly the running game, is among the best in the nation. Running back Jai’Den Thomas leads the attack with 846 yards. Quarterback Hajj-Malik Williams added 824 yards and nine touchdowns behind a couple of studs upfront in tackles Tiger Shanks and Jalen St. John. Ricky White III is an All-MWC receiver. The UNLV defense picked off 17 passes, which led to a +13 turnover ratio. Free safety Jalen Catalon is the team’s leader in interceptions.

Middle Linebacker Jackson Woodard is the leading tackler.

CALIFORNIA UNLV

Key Stats: Cal’s 17 picks involved nine players. UNLV’s 11 FBS foes averaged 28.6 points allowed. The Rebels averaged 35.6 against them.

Prediction: UNLV 21, Cal 10

Cal Bears Coach: Justin Wilcox 6-6 (2-6 ACC)

UNLV Rebels Interim Coach: Del Alexander 10-3 (6-1 MWC)

New Orleans Bowl

New Orleans, LA

Dec. 19 7:00 ET - ESPN

Georgia Southern Eagles

Coach: Clay Helton 8-4 (6-2 SBC)

Sam Houston Bearkats

Coach: K.C. Keeler 9-3 (6-2 CUSA)

GEORGIA SOUTHERN

LB Marques Watson-Trent

The All-SBC linebacker has 7.5 TFLs.

RB Jalen White

Has 654 yards and 12 touchdowns averaging 4.4 yards per carry.

DB Chance Gamble

Six pass breakups to go with his three picks.

DB Marc Stampley II

Tied Gamble with three picks but had seven breakups.

SAM HOUSTON

QB Hunter Watson

The 60 percent passer has thrown for 1,598 yards.

RB DJ McKinney

Averages 5.0 yards a carry to total 479.

DE Chris Murray

Leads the squad with 11.5 TFL.

LB Kavian Gaither

Has 7.5 TFLs, all on running plays.

THE MATCHUP

The Georgia Southern Eagles threw the ball 411 times and ran 405 times. It doesn’t get much closer to 50-50 than that. The Eagles had more success when they put in the air. Quarterback JC French has three productive targets in Derwin Burgess Jr., Josh Dallas and Dalen Cobb. The three combined for 144 catches, 1,728 yards and 12 touchdowns. French threw for 2,619 yards. Jalen White is the main running back with three 100-yard games this season. The Eagles’ Marques Watson-Trent, SBC Defensive Player of the Year, led the team with 44 solo stops and forced four fumbles. Chance Gamble and Marc Stampley II each had three picks to lead the team. Sam Houston defeated Rice, Texas State and UTEP to finish 3-0 vs. Texas teams. But the Bearkats enter the bowl with two key starters in the portal. Running back Jay Ducker and safety Caleb Weaver will not be with the team. The Bearkats run the ball more than 60 percent of the time. Quarterback Hunter Watson has 623 yards rushing and seven touchdowns. DJ McKinney will lead the running backs without Ducker. When Watson throws the ball, he has solid receivers in Simeon Evans, Qua’Vez Humphreys and Noah Smith. Caleb Weaver was the team’s best defender. Now the Bearkats will rely even more on getting pressure on the quarterback. Chris Murray coming off the edge and Kavian Gaither must turn up the pressure.

Key Stats: The Eagles were outgained by almost 80 yards a game, but Georgia Southern outscored foes 338-328. Sam Houston’s opponents average just 3.9 yards per carry and convert just 37 percent on third down.

GEORGIA SOUTHERN SAM HOUSTON

Prediction: Georgia Southern 27, Sam Houston 17

Cure Bowl

Orlando, FL

Dec. 20 Noon ET - ESPN

Ohio Bobcats

Interim Coach: Brian Smith 10-3 (7-1 MAC)

Jacksonville State Gamecocks

Coach: Rich Rodriguez 9-4 (7-1 CUSA)

OHIO

QB Parker Navarro

Was 20-27 (74%) for 235 yards and two TDs; 67 rushing yards with two TDs, in MAC title game.

RB Anthony Tyus III

Ran for 151 yards in championship game.

LB Blake Leake

Has 31 solo stops and three behind the line.

DE Bradley Weaver

The All-MAC performer has 14 TFLs and another 10 QB Hurries.

JACKSONVILLE STATE

QB Tyler Huff

Amassed 2,179 passing yards ad 1,343 on the ground.

RB Tre Stewart

Owns three 200-yard games this season including 201 in CUSA Championship Game.

SS Antonio Carter II

Leads team with 53 solo stops.

DE J-Rock Swain

Has 10 TFLs coming off the edge.

THE MATCHUP

Ohio won the MAC championship is grand fashion with a 38-3 trouncing of Miami (Ohio). The Bobcats have a quarterback who can run and throw, a 1,000-yard running back, a 1,000-yard receiver and big-time players on defense. Parker Navarro has thrown for 2,169 yards this season and has 943 rushing yards with 15 touchdowns. Anthony Tyus III averages 5.3 yards a carry to get his 1,111 yards, and Coleman Owen is a big-play receiver with 67 catches for 1,105 yards. Defensive end Bradley Weaver is the most celebrated defender with his pass rushing skills. Shay Taylor and Blake Leake are excellent linebackers, and Tank Pearson leads with four interceptions. CUSA champion Jacksonville State made an emphatic statement in the 52-12 championship game win over Western Kentucky. It was vintage JSU with a relentless power running game (386 yards) and a smothering defense. Quarterback Tyler Huff is a capable passer, but his running ability (1,343 yards) makes the offense tick. Tre Stewart has more than 1,600 yards and scored 23 times. The Gamecocks don’t throw often. The defensive front makes plays in the backfield, and the secondary is terrific. End J-Rock Swain leads the charge upfront. Strong safety Antonio Carter II is the leading tackler. Corners Jabari Mack and Geimere Latimore are outstanding in coverage. Free safety Zechariah Poyser is a ball hawk. Key Stats: Ohio averages 200+ yards rushing and receiving against FBS teams, achieving 200-200 in the same game five times, including the championship game. Five Gamecocks have eight or more TFLs.

Prediction: Jacksonville State 35, Ohio 30

Gasparilla Bowl

Tampa, FL

Dec. 20 3:30 ET - ESPN

FLORIDA

QB DJ Lagway

Averaged 180 yards a game with five TDs and two picks over last three games.

RB Jaden Baugh

Averages 5.1 yards a carry for 603 yards on the season.

SS Trikweze Bridges

Leads team with 37 solo stops and has an interception.

DE Tyreak Sapp

Leads team with 13 TFLs.

TULANE

QB Ty Thompson

Primarily used as a runner in special packages; now must run entire playbook.

RB Makhi Hughes

One of the best in the AAC, 1,372 yards and 15 TDs.

WR Mario Williams

Has 54 catches for 940 yards.

LB Patrick Jenkins

Run stuffer inside has 6.5 TFLs.

THE MATCHUP

Florida rallied with wins over LSU, Ole Miss and Florida State, which ended talk of Billy Napier’s job being in jeopardy. The injury to quarterback Graham Mertz thrust DJ Lagway into the starting lineup for good. The freshman had been in and out, but knowing the job was all his seemed to spark his confidence. Fellow true freshman Jaden Baugh filled in for Montrell Johnson Jr. at running as well for much of the season. Over the last four games, receivers Elijhah Badger and Chimere Dike each caught 13 passes for 229 and 239 yards, respectively. Safety Trikweze Bridges and defensive end Tyreak Sapp are key defenders. Tulane held out some hope for a berth in the national playoff, even after early losses to Kansas State and Oklahoma, but a late season setback to Memphis squashed that. The Green Wave received some tough news when quarterback Darian Mensah entered the portal. Ty Thompson is six for 11 passing this season but none of those throws came with a game on the line. Tulane is one of nine schools (six bowl teams) to average more than 200 yards rushing and passing, making the Green Wave difficult to defend, but that was with Mensah in the lineup. Thompson is a threat to run, however, and has 243 yards rushing and six touchdowns this season. The opportunistic defense leads the nation with six touchdowns. Defensive tackle Patrick Jenkins is an All-AAC performer upfront.

Key Stats: Florida’s five losses are to three playoff teams and two on the cusp. Tulane converts 52.5 percent on third down, second in the nation. Prediction: Florida 19, Tulane 12

Myrtle Beach Bowl

Myrtle Beach, SC

Dec. 23 11:00a ET - ESPN

Coastal Carolina Chanticleers

Coach: Tim Beck

6-6 (3-5 Sun Belt)

UTSA Roadrunners

Coach: Jeff Traylor 6-6 (4-4 AAC)

COASTAL CAROLINA

RB Bennett Brayden

Has four games with 100+ yards from scrimmage this season.

RB Christian Washington

Ended the season with 124 yards vs. Georgia State.

LB Clev Lubin

Has 12 TFLs and forced three fumbles.

CB Matthew McDoom

Broke up 10 passes in addition to his three picks.

UTSA

QB Owen McCown

Completes 62% and has 24 TD passes.

RB Robert Henry

Has 706 yards and seven TDs.

LB Jimmori Robinson

Can dominate a game, plays sideline to sideline.

LB Zah Frazier

All-AAC corner is best coverage guy in conference.

THE MATCHUP

The Chanticleers averaged 29.8 points this season, but those points came in bunches. When scoring 25 or more points, Coastal Carolina is 6-0; 0-6 when they only reach 24. Quarterback Ethan Vasko was inconsistent most of the season, completing just 54.6 percent of his throws. He threw for 367 against Old Dominion, but had just four 200-yard games in conference play. Jameson Tucker is his favorite target with 31 catches for 540 yards. Coastal Carolina runs it about 57 percent of the time and Bennett Brayden and Christian Washington share the load. Brayden totaled 727 yards while Washington added 537. Linebacker Clev Lubin is a beast off the edge with 9.5 sacks. He and corner Matthew McDoom, with three picks, earned All-SBC honors. The UTSA defense has held opponents to just 3.1 yards per rush and 31 percent on third down. Getting off the field quickly gives the up tempo offense time to wear down defenses. Linebacker Jimmori Robinson, The American DPOY, leads the conference with 17 TFLs and 10.5 sacks. Teams have learned not to throw in the direction of cornerback Zah Frazier. The All-AAC player has six picks and has knocked down nine other passes. Owen McCuin is a 3,000-yard passer and Robert Henry is a capable running back. Willie McCoy averages 19.1 yards per catch. Chris Carpenter, Houston Thomas and Devin McCuin are all solid receivers.

Key Stats: The Chanticleers had 331 pass attempts and allowed only 11 sacks. The Roadrunners have run 935 plays this season, only four teams (Syracuse, Texas Tech and Clemson) have run more.

COASTAL CAROLINA UTSA

Prediction: UTSA 31, Coastal Carolina 27

Famous Idaho Potato Bowl

Boise, ID

Dec. 23 2:30 ET - ESPN

NORTHERN ILLINOIS

RB Gavin Williams

Has been a workhorse with 741 yards averaging 5.5 yards a carry.

RB Telly Johnson Jr

Has two 100-yard outings in his five games.

DT Devonte O’Malley

Leads the Huskies with 11.5 TFLs.

FS Nate Valcarcel

Has 29 solo stops, two sacks and a pair of interceptions.

FRESNO STATE

LB Tuasivi Nomura

The Bulldogs’ leading tackler with 57 solo stops had six TFLs.

WR Mac Dalena

An All-MWC receiver has 58 catches for 947 yards.

WR Jalen Moss

Has 48 catches for 563 yards.

WR Raylen Sharpe

Typically the third option, has 51 catches for 523 yardss.

THE MATCHUP

This Northern Illinois team is as old-school as any team in the nation that’s not a military academy. The Huskies play tough, physical defense and run the ball, run the ball, run the ball. The Huskies run the ball 60 percent of the time and average 207 yards a game on the ground. Gavin Williams has been the primary runner all season, but Telly Johnson Jr. is finally healthy, and has 424 yards and four scores in the last five games. The offensive line is the best in the MAC with All-MAC J.J. Lippe leading the way. John Champe and Logan Zschernitz are both second-team All-MAC. Devonte O’Malley is an All-MAC defensive lineman and safety Nate Valcarcel is a versatile defender. After Tim Skipper led Fresno State to a 6-6 record as Interim Head Coach, the Bulldogs hired former USC defensive coordinator Matt Entz as head coach. Quarterback Mikey Keene, who threw 393 of the 402 Fresno State passes this season, has entered the portal. That leaves Joshua Wood and Jayden Mandal as the only quarterbacks on campus. At least they have a strong trio of receivers. Linebacker Tuasivi Nomura is the leading tackler and was named All-MWC. Joining him is star cornerback Cam Lockridge, who hasn’t played since early November, and likely won’t be available. Defensive lineman Devo Bridges and linebacker Malachi Langley were named to the second team.

Key Stats: Opponents manage just 281 yards a game against the Huskies, which is sixth-best mark in the nation. The Bulldogs average just over 340 yards a game, and only a handful of bowl teams average fewer.

Prediction: Northern Illinois 24, Fresno State 3

Hawai’i Bowl

Honolulu, HI

Dec. 24 9:00 ET - ESPN

SAN JOSE STATE

WR Nick Nash

Leads nation with 104 catches, 1,382 yards and 16 touchdowns.

QB Walker Eget

After taking over for Emmett Brown, Eget has 2,224 yards passing.

LB Jordan Pollard Leader of the defense.

DE Soane Toia

The All-MWC selection has 7.5 TFLs and is regularly double-teamed.

SOUTH FLORIDA

RB Kelly Joiner

Leads team with 766 yards, 11 TDs and seven yards a carry.

RB Nay’Quan Wright

Averages 4.8 yards a carry for 494 yards.

WR Sean Atkins

Has 68 catches for 677 yards.

MLB Mac Harris

Leads the team with 50 solo tackles and 10 behind the line.

THE MATCHUP

San Jose State has not defeated a team with a winning record this season, going 0-5. The Spartans have one of the most exciting players in the nation in receiver Nick Nash. The former quarterback leads the nation in receptions, receiving yards and receiving touchdowns. Quarterback Walker Eget enjoys throwing to Nash and Justin Lockhart, who has 52 catches for 973 yards, to complement the standout receiver. Defensively, linebacker Jordan Pollard is an All-MWC selection and the team leader with 57 solo stops and has 10 stops behind the line on running plays. Free safety Rocket Rahimi and corner DJ Harvey combined for nine interceptions this season. With three of the four top teams in the AAC on the schedule as well as Alabama and Miami, a 6-6 record doesn’t seem so bad for South Florida. However, the Bulls didn’t beat any team with a winning record either. The Bulls’ offense averaged just eight points a game in the five losses to winning teams. Expect to see both Bryce Archie and Byrum Brown at quarterback. Both have been banged up this season. The running game is in good hands with Kelly Joiner and Nay’Quan Wright. Sean Atkins is the most effective weapon in the passing game. The Bulls are aggressive on defense and get into opponents’ backfields often. Linebacker Mac Harris in the leading tackler, linemen Decarius Hawthorne and Bernard Gooden combined for 18.5 TFLs.

Key Stats: Only Notre Dame, with 28, had more takeaways than San Jose State’s 27; only two teams (East Carolina 28, So. Miss 29) lost more turnovers than the Spartans’ 27. South Florida has 96 TFLs.

SAN JOSE STATE SOUTH FLORIDA

Prediction: South Florida 31, San Jose State 24

San Jose State Spartans Coach: Ken Niumatalolo 7-5 (3-4 MWC)

South Florida Bulls Coach: Alex Golesh 6-6 (4-4 AAC)

GameAbove Sports Bowl

Detroit, MI

Dec. 26 2:00 ET - ESPN

PITTSBURGH

RB Desmond Reid

Has six games with 100+ yards from scrimmage this season.

LB Kyle Louis

TOLEDO

QB Tucker Gleason

Has thrown for 2,457 yards and run for 330.

WR Jerjuan Newton

The All-ACC player has four interceptions (one returned for a TD), 15.5 TFLs and nine QB Hurries.

S Donovan McMillon

Second-team All-ACC safety leads team with 51 solo stops.

K Ben Sauls

Sauls has made 10 field goals of 47 yards or longer; only three misses from 45, 47 and 59 yards.

Has 64 catches and leads the team with 949 yards and 1 TDs.

WR Junior Vandeross III

The All-MAC safety leads the Rockets with 61 solo stops and has a pair of picks. Pittsburgh

Has a team-leading 73 receptions for 763 yards.

SS Maxen Hook

THE MATCHUP

On Halloween, Pittsburgh was undefeated at 7-0, but the Panthers must have stumbled into some sort of curse because they haven’t won a game since Oct. 24. For the Panthers to right the ship, Desmond Reid, who did not play in the season finale due to injury, must be involved. The running back does everything on offense. The All-ACC performer has 797 yards rushing and 47 catches for 564 yards. Quarterback Nate Yarnell has taken over for the injured Eli Holstein. He will enjoy throwing to Reid as well as Kenota Mumpfield (52 catches, 813 yards) and Kenny Johnson (44, 520). Linebacker Kyle Louis is one of the best defenders in the ACC. The Panthers use him in coverage, and to rush the passer. Toledo is content to grind out games and win ugly with defense. The Rockets average just 366 yards a game and allow 362. Interestingly enough, the Rockets throw the ball as often as they run it. Tucker Gleason completes 62 percent of his passes, and usually looks for Jerjuan Newton and Junior Vandeross, both All-MAC receivers. Maxen Hook is a stud on defense at strong safety. He’s excellent against the run and in coverage. Avery Smith is the best corner and defensive tackle Darius Alexander is tough against the run upfront. Toledo’s return game is exceptional. Kick returner Jacquez Stuart has a touchdown return and Bryson Hammer is excellent taking back punts.

Key Stats: Pittsburgh has outscored opponents 124-54 in the fourth quarter. Toledo quarterback Tucker Gleason has seven TDs and one pick in his last four games.

Prediction: Toledo 13, Pittsburgh 11

Guaranteed Rate Bowl

Phoenix, AZ

Dec. 26 5:30 ET - ESPN

RUTGERS

RB Kyle Monangai

Has 1,279 yards, a 5.0 per carry average and 13 TDs.

QB Athan Kaliakmanis

Completed only 54.8% of his throws, but has 17 TDs and just six picks.

LB Dariel Djabome

Leads the team with 47 solo stops, seven TFLs and has two forced fumbles.

CB Robert Longerbeam

Has broken up 11 passes and intercepted one.

KANSAS STATE

QB Avery Johnson

Engineers the running game well, but has thrown for 2,517 yards.

RB DJ Giddens

Has 1,343 yards and seven touchdowns on the season.

MLB Austin Romaine Leads team with 50 solo stops; has 6.5 TFLs.

DE Brendan Mott

Leads the Wildcats with 11.5 TFLs.

THE MATCHUP

The Rutgers Scarlet Knights finished a game under .500 in the Big Ten, but secured a bowl berth with non-conference wins over Howard, Akron and Virginia Tech. Rutgers believes in the running game and the Knights run the ball 57 percent of the time. They have a stud in Kyle Monangai who is an All-Big Ten running back. Tackle Hollin Pierce leads a strong offensive line that paves the way for Monangai. Athan Kaliakmanis can be erratic, but has 2,459 yards passing and another 233 rushing. Dymere Miller and Ian Strong are the go-to receivers. Linebacker Dariel Djabome is the best playmaker on defense and corner Robert Longerbeam is tough to beat in coverage. Kansas State emphasizes the running game as well, and stopping the run is an emphasis on defense. They do both well. Kansas State is just shy of averaging 200 yards a game both running and passing against FBS competition, averaging 197 yards on the ground. DJ Giddens is a tremendous runner, averaging 6.6 yards a carry. Quarterback Avery Johnson brings his A Game running the ball as well with 548 yards. The Wildcats have thrown the ball 353 times this season, and often the ball is thrown Jayce Brown’s way. He caught 42 for 763 yards. Defensive linemen Easton Kitty and Sam Hecht are both second team All-Big 12 selections. Defensive end Brendan Mott was named Big 12 Defensive Lineman of the Year. Key Stats: Rutgers was outgained by opponents by four yards (4,5784,574), but it took foes 83 fewer plays to reach that total. Kansas State allowed just 11 sacks this season.

KANSAS STATE RUTGERS

Prediction: Kansas State 33, Rutgers 28

68 Ventures

Mobile, AL

Dec. 26 9:00 ET - ESPN

7-5 (5-3 SBC)

ARKANSAS STATE

QB Jaylen Raynor

Has 2,562 yards passing and 392 rushing.

WR Corey Rucker

Has 176 catches for 2,930 yards and 21 TDs for his career.

DE Bryan Whitehead

Led team with 10 TFLs and added 14 QB Hurries.

S Trevian Thomas

Had 41 solo stops to go with his five picks.

BOWLING GREEN

QB Connor Bazelak

The 67% passer has 2,654 yards and 15 touchdowns.

TE Harold Fannin Jr.

The league MVP has 100 catches for 1,342 yards and nine TDs.

LB Joseph Sipp Jr.

An All-MAC selection, Sipp had 10.5 TFLs.

DB Jordan Oladokun

The All-MAC defensive back has four picks and seven other breakups.

THE MATCHUP

ARKANSAS STATE

The Arkansas State defense boasts some tremendous playmakers, but the unit gave up too many big plays. The Red Wolves’ eight SBC opponents had their way offensively with Arkansas State, gaining 93 yards a game better than their season averages. Safety Trevian Thomas is an All-SBC selection with five interceptions. Defensive end Bryan Whitehead is an outstanding pass rusher. Offensively, Zak Wallace and Ja’Quez Cross each had more than 600 yards rushing, averaging five yards a carry. They get most of their yards inside running behind center Jacob Bayer and guard Mehki Butler. Receiver Corey Rucker is the best weapon. He enjoyed three 100-yard receiving games in conference play, and finished with 65 catches for 946 yards. The Bowling Green Falcons didn’t shy away from big games early in the season traveling to both Texas A&M and Penn State. The Falcons lost both by a touchdown, but it prepared the team for the MAC season ahead. A fivegame win streak late in the season secured a bowl bid for Bowling Green. Quarterback Connor Bazelak is a veteran from both Missouri and Indiana and has found an effective connection with tight end Harold Fannin Jr., who was named MVP of the MAC. Running back Terion Stewart, an All-MAC selection, has 890 rushing yards, but All-MAC lineman Alex Wollschlaeger has entered the portal. Linebacker Joseph Sipp Jr. is the Falcons’ leading tackler and Jordan Oladokun has four picks.

Key Stats: Arkansas State opponents converted 47 percent on third down. Harold Fannin Jr. has seven games with 125+ yards receiving.

Prediction: Bowling Green 27, Arkansas State 17

BOWLING GREEN

Arkansas State Red Wolves

Coach: Butch Jones

Bowling Green Falcons

Coach: Scott Loeffler 7-5 (6-2 MAC)

Birmingham Bowl

Birmingham, AL

Dec. 27 3:30 ET - ABC

VANDERBILT

QB Diego Pavia

Threw for 2,133 yards, 17 TDs and four picks.

WR Junior Sherrill

Returned opening kickoff for touchdown against Tennessee.

LB Randon Fontenette

Led the Commodores with eight TFLs and eight pass breakups.

TE Eli Stowers

Converted QB led the team with 45 catches for 593 yards.

GEORGIA TECH

QB Haynes King

Has 1,910 passing yards and 578 rushing; completes 72%.

RB Jamal Haynes

Added 134 receiving yards to complement his 808 rushing yards.

WR Malik Rutherford

Has 59 catches for 670 yards.

WR Eric Singleton Jr. Has 56 catches for 754 yards.

THE MATCHUP

VANDERBILT

Vanderbilt doesn’t have an explosive offense, but quarterback Diego Pavia is a warrior. He took a beating on 176 tough carries to lead the team with 716 yards rushing. Sedrick Alexander will get the majority of the carries among running backs. Eli Stowers is Pavia’s go-to guy in the passing game. He led the team in receiving and was particularly effective on third down. Vanderbilt is effective shortening the game, regularly snapping the ball late in the play clock. Linebackers Bryan Longwell, Miles Capers and Randon Fontenette combined for 22.5 TFLs. Safeties CJ Taylor and DeRickey Wright are quality players. Georgia Tech was involved in two notable games this season. The first ended well for the Yellow Jackets with a win over previously unbeaten Miami. The second ended in heartbreak after losing to Georgia in eight overtimes. Georgia Tech plays solid defense and has been incredibly stingy with turnovers. The Jackets have committed just eight turnovers and five of those came from interceptions by backup quarterbacks while Haynes King was out injured. King has 11 touchdown passes and just one pick. Jamal Haynes is the main man in the running game with 808 yards. Malik Rutherford and Eric Singleton Jr. are big-time playmakers in the passing game. Ahmari Harvey is the team’s leading tackler and lineman Jordan van den Berg earned second team All-ACC honors. Key Stats: Vanderbilt scored 40 points to defeat Alabama, the most points scored against the Crimson Tide all season. The Jackets played nine bowl teams, defeating four.

Prediction: Georgia Tech 17, Vanderbilt 16

Armed Forces Bowl

Ft. Worth, TX

Dec. 27 11:00a ET - ESPN

NAVY

QB Blake Horvath

Averages 6.7 yards a carry with 13 TDs.

RB Alex Tecza

Averages 5.0 yards a carry.

RB Eli Heidenreich Has 402 yards rushing and 597 receiving on 36 catches.

LB Colin Ramos

Defensive leader has 46 solo stops and eight behind the line.

OKLAHOMA

QB Michael Hawkins Jr. Has completed 62% of his 77 passes this season.

WR Jacob Jordan

Thrust up the depth chart, Jordan has 22 catches for 207 yards and a score.

S Billy Bowman Jr. Now has 10 career interceptions.

LB Danny Stutsman

Has been a tackling machine since arrival on campus in 2021.

THE MATCHUP

Navy contended for the AAC title most of the season, but late losses to Rice and Tulane dashed those hopes. Quarterback Blake Horvath makes the offense go, and he left the Tulane game early and didn’t play against East Carolina. He should be ready for the bowl game and his presence makes a huge difference. He has 895 yards rushing to lead the team. Alex Tecza has 501 and Eli Heidenreich has 999 yards from scrimmage. Navy placed three players on the All-AAC team, all defenders. Lineman Landon Robinson, linebacker Colin Ramos and safety Rayuan Lane III were honored. Oklahoma’s first foray into the SEC did not go well. Yet, here the Sooners are, preparing for a bowl game. Certainly, the win over Alabama in November is a highlight of an otherwise disappointing season. The disappointment has carried over to portal season as the portal has taken quarterback Jackson Arnold, tight end (leading receiver) Bauer Sharp and receivers Nic Anderson and JJ Hester among others. So, expect the Oklahoma offense to feature Michael Hawkins Jr. at quarterback and Xavier Robinson and Sam Franklin in the backfield and Jacob Jordan getting some targets at receiver. Oklahoma plays low-scoring games, so the defense is accustomed to that. Fans hope to see linebacker Danny Stutsman and safety Billy Bowman Jr. suit up one more time.

Key Stats: Navy ran just 663 plays, the fewest in the nation. Seven of Oklahoma’s eight SEC foes are among the nine teams with winning SEC records.

Prediction: Navy 17, Oklahoma 13

ARKANSAS

Liberty Bowl

Memphis, TN

Dec. 27 7:00 ET - ESPN

ARKANSAS

QB Taylen Green

Completed 60.8% of his throws for 2,813 yards and added 521 yards on the ground.

RB Ja’Quinden Jackson

Ended the season with 87 yards and three TDs at Missouri.

DL Xavian Storey Jr. Finished with nine TFLs.

DB Doneiko Slaughter

Has three TFLs and a pick to go with 40 solo stops.

TEXAS

TECH

RB Tahj Brooks

Added 164 receiving yards to his 1,364 rushing.

QB Behren Morton

The 63% passer has 25 TDs and just seven picks.

WR Josh Kelly

Four 100-yard games in his nine Big 12 games this season.

LB Jacob Rodriguez

Leads the team with 68 solo tackles, 8.5 TFLs and four sacks.

THE MATCHUP

Arkansas’ Taylen Green has had a good season at quarterback and Ja’Quinden Jackson ran for 790 yards, but averaged just 3.9 yards a carry in his six SEC games. Top receiver Andrew Armstrong and key defensive linemen Landon Jackson and Eric Gregory have chosen not to play in the bowl game. In addition to Armstrong opting out, tight end Luke Hasz and receiver Isaiah Sategna have entered the portal. So, the three top receivers will not be available for Green. Isaac TeSlaa, who had 25 catches for 439 yards must become Green’s main man now. Xavian Storey Jr. will pick up some slack left by the departure of Jackson, but that may mean he will see more double-teams. Doneiko Slaughter is the leading tackler and TJ Metcalf picked off three passes. Texas Tech defeated both Arizona State and Iowa State, the two participants in the Big 12 title game. But losses to Baylor, TCU and Colorado halted the dreams of a title. Texas Tech wins with offense, averaging 37 points a game and allowing 36. Tahj Brooks is a remarkable runner with 1,364 yards and 14 touchdowns averaging five yards a carry. No other Red Raider has more than 26 carries. Behren Morton is 24 yards shy of 3,000 passing. His favorite target is Josh Kelly, who has 80 catches for 873 yards. Caleb Douglas has 52 receptions for 712 yards. Linebacker Jacob Rodriguez led the porous defense in just about every category. Key Stats: Arkansas’ foes converted all five two-point conversion attempts. Texas Tech’s nine Big 12 opponents averaged 400 yards of total offense. The group averaged 450 when playing Tech.

Prediction: Texas Tech 41, Arkansas 28

TEXAS TECH

Holiday Bowl

WASHINGTON STATE

QB John Mateer

The future Heisman candidate has thrown for 3,139 yards, 29 TDs and run for 826 yards and 15 TDs.

WR Kyle Williams

Has 60 catches for 1,026 yards and 13 touchdowns.

WR Kris Hutson

Has 54 catches for 683 yards and two scores.

MLB Taariq Al-uqdah

Leads team with 51 solo stops and has five TFLs and an interception.

SYRACUSE

QB Kyle McCord

The 66% passer has 4,326 yards and 29 touchdowns.

RB Lequint Allen

Has 901 yards rushing and 476 in the passing game and 17 total touchdowns.

TE Oronde Gadsden II

The veteran has 69 catches for 860 yards.

DE Fadil Diggs

Produced 14 stops behind the line, seven of them sacks.

THE MATCHUP

WASHINGTON STATE

Washington State crashed and burned over the final few weeks of the season but have had some time to regroup. Unexpected losses to New Mexico, Oregon State and Wyoming left a bitter taste the Cougars would like to expunge. The portal hasn’t been kind to the Cougars with the leading rusher among running backs and interceptions leader both transferring. But quarterback John Mateer is still on board and the prolific offense is in his hands. Mateer is the leading rusher with 826 yards and has more than 3,000 yards passing. His top receivers are Kyle Williams and Kris Hutson, who both can stretch the field. Taariq Al-uqdah is the best defender. Last offseason, when Kyle McCord decided to leave Ohio State and come to Syracuse, life changed for the Syracuse football program. The Orange now throw the ball all over the field with aplomb. McCord is surrounded by weapons and he spreads the ball effectively. All-ACC tight end Oronde Gadsden II is a potent weapon and creates matchup problems for defenses. Receivers Trebor Pena and Jackson Meeks combined for 152 catches for 1,782 yards and 14 touchdowns to complement Gadsden. Lequint Allen averages 4.3 yards per carry and is a weapon in the passing game with 61 catches. Defensively, Fadil Diggs is the best upfront at getting in opponents’ backfields. Linebacker Justin Barron is the leading tackler and free safety Duce Chestnut is a defensive leader. Key Stats: The Cougars are 4-1 vs. bowl teams. Syracuse has run 940 plays while opponents have been limited to 720. Prediction: Syracuse 37, Washington State 24

Las Vegas Bowl

Las Vegas, NV

Dec. 27 10:30 ET - ESPN

TEXAS A&M

TEXAS A&M

QB Marcel Reed

Has 501 rushing yards ad six TDs to go with his 1,572 passing yards.

RB Amari Daniels

Has 661 yards primarily as a backup.

LB Taurean York

Has 33 solo stops and 8.5 TFLs with an interception.

DE Nic Scourton

Leads the team with 14 TFLs.

USC

QB Jayden Maiava

Threw for 259 yards in his first start against Nebraska, added 360 in finale against Notre Dame.

RB Woody Marks

Ran for 1,133 yards averaging 5.7 yards per carry.

WR Makai Lemon

Leads team with 46 catches and 665 yards.

LB Easton Mascarenas-Arnold

Leads Trojans with 50 solo stops and five for loss.

THE MATCHUP

Texas A&M was the last undefeated SEC team standing (in conference play), yet finished tied among six teams with three losses behind Texas, Tennessee and Georgia. Quarterback Marcel Reed took over early in the season and quickly showed how his elusiveness could be a weapon. He improved steadily throughout the season as a passer. In November, he completed 65 percent averaging 229 yards a game with six touchdowns and four picks. With Le’Veon Moss out with a knee injury, Amari Daniels will be the feature back. Linebacker Taurean York and strong safety Marcus Ratcliffe are active tacklers for the Aggies. Ends Nic Scourton and Shemar Stewart are outstanding. USC’s first season through the Big Ten didn’t exactly go as planned. A thrilling win at LSU to open the season offered hope, but three straight losses to Minnesota, Penn State and Maryland derailed the season. Five of their six losses were by one score, so there is some consolation. Quarterback Jayden Maiava started the last three games in place of Miller Moss, who has since hit the portal. Maiava is a 61 percent passer who matured as a leader in those starts. Running back Woody Meeks is the primary weapon, and Maiava has six receivers with more than 320 yards this season, led by Makai Lemon. Leading tackler Easton Mascarenas-Arnold is a mouthful for announcders and a handful for offenses. Key Stats: Texas A&M gave up more than 24 points in regulation just once, the 44-20 loss to South Carolina. The USC defense held opponents to just 32 percent on third down.

Prediction: Texas A&M 23, USC 19

Fenway Bowl

Boston, MA

Dec. 28 11:00a ET - ESPN

UCONN

MLB Jayden McDonald

Leads Huskies with 47 solo tackles and nine TFLs.

LB Tui Faumuina-Brown

Leads team with 10.5 TFLs and has six pass breakups.

FS Malik Dixon-Williams Has 31 solo stops and three interceptions.

QB Joe Fagnano

Has thrown more than 40 passes in two games this season.

NORTH CAROLINA

RB Omarion Hampton

Has 1,660 yards on the ground and 373 receiving; averages 5.9 yards a carry.

QB Jacolby Criswell

Completes only 58% but has 2,452 yards passing.

G Willie Lampkin

Has not allowed a sack in 473 pass blocking situations this season.

LB Antavious Lane

Active defender has 59 solo stops.

THE MATCHUP

The Huskies average 5.1 yards a carry and opponents get only 3.8. That approach resulted in UConn out-scoring foes 32-24, roughly. Quarterback Nick Evers hasn’t played since Nov. 9 due to head injuries, but he may be available for this game. Joe Fagnano has thrown for almost 1,500 in Evers’ absence. The running attack features a three-headed monster of Cam Edwards, Durell Robinson and Mel Brown. They have combined for 2,000 yards. Skyler Bell and TJ Sheffield are the leading receivers. They have 96 catches for 1,257 yards. Linebackers Jayden McDonald and Tui Fau-muina-Brown are defensive leaders. North Carolina’s Noah Burnette kicked a field goal in the final minutes of the season opener to defeat Minnesota 19-17. That proved to be the only bowl team the Tar Heels would defeat, losing to six other teams. Mack Brown was fired before the season ended and players (like MLB Amare Campbell) are hitting the portal. There remains some talented players and there are few better running backs in the nation than Omarion Hampton. The offense goes through him, both the passing attack and running game. He finds running room much easier to find behind guard Willie Lampkin, an All-ACC selection. Quarterback Jacolby Criswell spreads the ball around to receivers JJ Jones and deep threat Kobe Paysour, as well as tight end John Copenhaver. Defensive ends Beau Atkinson and Desmond Evans combined for 21 TFLs.

Key Stats: UConn has 372 pass attempts and allowed just 12 sacks. Omarion Hampton has 2,033 yards from scrimmage this season.

Prediction: North Carolina 20, UConn 13

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Pinstripe Bowl

Bronx, NY

Dec. 28 Noon ET - ABC

Boston College Eagles

Coach: Bill O’Brien

7-5 (4-4 ACC)

Nebraska Cornhuskers

Coach: Matt Rhule 6-6 (3-6 Big Ten)

BOSTON COLLEGE

QB Grayson James

James has 901 passing yards on the season.

RB Kye Robichaux

Has 725 yards averaging 4.4 yards a carry.

WR Lewis Bond

Has 60 catches for 590 yards.

DE Donovan Ezeiruaku

Second in the nation with 20.5 TFLs, 16.5 sacks and another 15 QB Hurries.

NEBRASKA

QB Dylan Raiola

Has 2,595 passing yards, but only 12 TDs and he’s been intercepted 10 times; true freshman has started every game.

RB Danet Dowdell

Leads the team with 614 yards, 12 TDs and 4.3 yards a carry.

S DeShon Singleton

Has 43 solo tackles and an interception.

CB Malcolm Hartzog Jr.

The cover corner has four interceptions.

THE MATCHUP

BOSTON COLLEGE

Junior quarterback Grayson James took over the reins of the Boston College offense late in the season and led the Eagles to a comeback win over Syracuse and closed the season with wins over North Caro-ina and Pittsburgh. Over the last three games, James completed 64 percent of his passes for an average of 227 yards, with four TDs and one pick. But the Eagles run it 63 percent of the time and that will continue in the bowl game. James gives the Eagles a threat in the passing game that opens running room for Kye Robichaux. The Eagles have two of the best offensive linemen in the ACC in Ozzy Trapilo and center Drew Kendall. Donovan Ezeiruaku is the best defender in the ACC. The Nebraska Cornhuskers have returned to the bowl scene for the first time since playing in the 2016 Music City Bowl. It’s been quite a drought for this proud, historic program. Dylan Raiola earned the quarterback job as a true freshman and has started every game. He spreads the ball around with five players grabbing more than 30 receptions (only four of them are available for the bowl game). Jacorey Barney Jr. has the most receptions with 52, Jahmal Banks has the most yards with 508 and Isaiah Neyor has the most touchdowns with five. Dante Dowdell shared carries with Emmett Johnson. Defensively, Ty Robinson is a playmaker off the edge with 11 TFLs. Safety DeShon Singleton is the leading tackler and Malcolm Hartzog Jr. is the best in coverage. Key Stats: Boston College has 12 different players with at least one interception. Nebraska has run 117 more plays than their opponents. Prediction: Boston College 17, Nebraska 13

New Mexico Bowl

Albuquerque, NM

Dec. 28 2:15 ET - ESPN

QB Josh Hoover

The 66.7% passer has 3,697 yards and 23 TDs.

WR Jack Bech

Leads the team with 62 catches; has four games of 130+ yards.

MLB Johnny Hodges

Leads the team with 47 solo stops and has 4.5 behind the line.

FS Bud Clark

The ballhawk in the secondary earned second team All-Big 12 honors.

LOUISIANA

QB Daniel Beale

Was 9-24 for 95 and an interception in title game.

TE Terrance Carter

Has 48 catches for 689 yards.

MLB K.C. Ossai

Leads team with 56 solo stops and has an interception.

DE Jordan Lawson

Has 9.5 TFLs to lead the team.

THE MATCHUP

TCU loves to throw the ball all around the field. Josh Hoover is the triggerman and has a nice quartet of receivers that move the sticks to the tune of 317 passing yards a game. All-Big 12 receiver Jack Bech leads the group with 1,034 yards. Savion Williams has 60 catches for 611 yards, JP Richardson has 52 and 680, followed by deep threat Eric McAlister with 31 and 675, averaging 21.8 per catch. Middle linebacker Johnny Hodges leads the team in tackles. Upfront, NaNa Osafo-Mensah and Devean Deal combined for 15 TFLs. Corner LaMareon James broke up 11 passes and free safety Bud Clark has three picks. Louisiana went from red hot to ice cold as two quarterbacks fell victim to injury. Sun Belt OPOY Ben Wooldridge was out for the SBC Championship Game with a broken collarbone. Midway through the game, Chandler Fields was carted off with a leg injury. That left Daniel Beale to carry the torch. Beale had thrown two passes this season prior to entering the title game and now has thrown 26, completing just 10. Louisiana will lean heavily on the running game with Bill Davis and Zylon Perry, who have combined for 1,421 yards. The defense must shine for the Ragin’ Cajuns to be successful in this game. K.C. Ossai is the leading tackler. Defensive lineman Jordan Lawson is the best pass rusher. Key Stats: TCU faced just three bowl teams this season, defeating Texas Tech and losing to SMU and Baylor. Only once in the regular season did Louisiana have fewer than 410 total yards (364 vs. App State), but without QB1 and QB2 in the SBC title game, they managed only 255. Prediction: TCU 40, Louisiana 20

Pop-Tarts Bowl

Orlando, FL

Dec. 28 3:30 ET - ESPN

MIAMI

QB Cam Ward

Has 4,123 yards and 36 TDs with just seven picks.

WR Xavier Restrepo

IOWA STATE

QB Rocco Becht

The 59% passer has 3,235 yards and 22 TDs.

WR Jayden Higgins

Active defender leads the team with 44 solo stops and also has two picks. Miami

Ward’s favorite target has 69 catches for 1,127 yards and 11 TDs.

WR Jacolby George

Has 51 receptions for 728 yards and seven TDs.

WR Isaiah Horton

Has 56 catches for 616 yards and five scores.

Explosive receiveer has 87 catches for 1,183 yards.

WR Jaylin Noel

Part B of the receiver combon has 72 catches for 1,077 yards.

S Beau Freyler

THE MATCHUP

This game has the potential to be one of the best games of bowl season. Arguably, two of the best teams left out of the playoff square off in Orlando. It will be interesting to see how the teams respond to their omission from the college playoff, especially Miami after spending most of the season ranked in the top 10. Miami quarterback Cam Ward has four tremendous receivers in Xavier Restrepo, Jacolby George, Isaiah Horton and tight end Elijah Arroyo. Damien Martinez is an excellent runner, averaging 5.7 yards per carry. The defense features stars at all three levels. Simeon Barrow Jr. is an AllACC performer who clogs the middle. Linebacker Francisco Mauigoa is the leading tackler and safety Mishael Powell picked off five passes.Iowa State provides an intriguing matchup for the Hurricanes because the Cyclones actually defend the pass better than the run. The Cyclones have two running backs who split carries. Carson Hansen and Abu Sama III combined for 1,244 yards and 13 touchdowns. But the potent weapons are receivers

Jayden Higgins and Jaylin Noel, who combined for 159 catches for 2,260 yards and 16 touchdowns. The battle bewteen the terrific Miami receiving corps and the Iowa State secondary will be fun to watch. Safeties Beau Freyler and Malik Verdon and corner Jontez Williams are elite.

Key Stats: Miami averages 518.3 yards a game, 218 more than their opponents’ 319.8 average. Iowa State has 14 interceptionsm but only 14 sacks.

Prediction: Iowa State 41, Miami 33

IOWA STATE

Arizona Bowl

Tucson, AZ

Dec. 28 4:30 ET - CW

Colorado State Rams

Coach: Jay Norvell 8-4 (6-1 MWC)

COLORADO STATE

Miami (Ohio) RedHawks

Coach: Chuck Martin 8-5 (7-1 MAC)

COLORADO STATE

QB Brayden Fowler-Nicolosi

The 62% passer has 2,475 passing yards and 13 TDs.

RB Avery Morrow

Just 44 yards shy of 1,000, he averages 5.8 yards a carry.

RB Justin Marshall

Shares carries with Morrow and has 662 yards.

LB Buom Jock

Leads Rams in tackles and has an interception.

MIAMI (OHIO)

QB Brett Gabbert

All-MAC QB completes 57% and has 21 TD passes.

WR Cade McDonald

Has 49 catches for 606 yards; now thrust into the WR1 spot.

LB Matt Salopek

All-MAC selection leads team with 53 solo stops; has three interceptions and 7.5 TFLs; was 2023 MAC DPOY.

DE Brian Ugwu

All-MAC DE leads team with 14 TFLs.

THE MATCHUP

One of the best teams in the Mountain West, Colorado State is a sixpoint loss to Fresno State in late November from playing in the MWC Championship Game. The Rams’ offense is more explosive than their scoring would suggest. CSU has had trouble finishing drives. Quarterback Brayden Fowler-Nicolosi is an efficient passer with a deep receiving corps. Caleb Goodie is the most productive deep threat, and Armani Winfield is a clutch possession weapon. Jamari Person and Tory Horton are threats as well. Avery Morrow and Justin Marshall form a potent tandem in the running game. Most of their success is the fruit of the labor of center Jacob Gardner and guard Drew Moss. Linebackers Buom Jock and Chase Wilson carry the defense as the two leading tacklers. Miami will be without its top two receivers (Javon Tracy and Reggie Virgil) and a starting cornerback (Raion Strader) as they have entered the portal in search of greener pastures. Brett Gabbert, who has 2,737 yards, will have to find other receivers a bit farther down the depth chart. Cade McDonald has a golden opportunity to step up. The Red Hawks will lean on Keyon Mozee out of the backfield. Miami held opponents to 19 points a game this season, so there are numerous standouts on the defensive side. Linebackers Ty Wise and Matt Salopek, safeties Eli Blakey and Silas Walters and end Brian Ugwu are the players to watch.

Key Stats: Colorado State has given up only 10 sacks. Miami opponents don’t score much but they convert third downs at a 42 percent clip.

Prediction: Colorado State 28, Miami (Ohio) 6

Military Bowl

Annapolis, MD

Dec. 28 5:45 ET - ESPN

NC STATE

QB CJ Baileyt

The 64 % passer has 2,183 yards, 14 TDs and nine picks.

TE Justin Joly

Hauled in 40 catches for 620 yards.

DE Devin Vann

Had 14 tackles for loss and caused six fumbles.

LB Sean Brown

Leading tackler with 45 solo stops.

EAST CAROLINA

QB Katin Houser

Has 1,859 yards in eight games and 18 TDs.

RB Rahjai Harris

Has 946 yards on the season.

WR Anthony Smith

Has 38 catches for 767 yards.

WR Winston Wright Jr.

Hauled in 54 receptions for 556 yards.

THE MATCHUP

NC State may be the ultimate definition of mediocre. The offense is average, the defense is nothing special, there are three average running backs with a little more than 400 yards each, no Wolfpack player made the first or second All-ACC team. They beat teams they were supposed to beat and lost against competitive teams. Now, KC Concepcion, the most exciting weapon on offense has transferred out. Quarterback CJ Bailey took over after a few games into the season and improved significantly midseason, but his five picks in the final three games is a bit concerning. Justin Joly will be his go-to receiver in the bowl game. Defensive end Davin Vann can be tough for offensive linemen to handle. Linebacker Sean Brown is the leading tackler. The Pirates’ season of upheaval will end on a good note at the Military Bowl. After Mike Houston was dismissed seven games into the season, Blake Harrell led the team to four wins and righted the Pirates’ ship. Quarterback Katin Houser missed four games in September but has been effective since then. He’ll miss his favorite target, Chase Sowell, who has been out the last three games with a leg injury, and has since decided to transfer. Anthony Smith and Winston Wright Jr. have picked up the slack after Sowell’s injury. Rahjai Harris is one of the best running backs in the American Conference. Linebacker Zakye Barker has 12 stops behind the line and safety Omar Rogers is a sure tackler with five TFLs.

NC STATE EAST CAROLINA

Key Stats: NC State’s defense produced 81 tackles for loss; the offense allowed 86. East Carolina has 88 tackles for loss and allowed only 57. Prediction: East Carolina 21, NC State 14

Alamo Bowl

San Antonio, TX

Dec. 28 7:30 ET - ABC

COLORADO

QB Shedeur Sanders

2024 Unitas Golden Arm Award recipient.

WR/DB Travis Hunter

The nation’s most dynamic player is elite on both sides of the ball.

DL BJ Green II

Has 12 TFLs and another 12 QB Hurries.

WR Lajohntay Westor

Has 77+ yards in five games this season, as second option.

BYU

QB Jake Retzlaff

Passed for 20 TDs with 10 picks; added 388 yards on the ground.

RB LJ Martin

The sophomore averaged 5.2 yards a carry.

DE Tyler Batty

The active end fills the stats sheet with seven TFLs, two picks and eight QB Hurries.

DB Jakob Robinson

The second-team All-Big 12 selection has three picks and five pass breakups.

THE MATCHUP

COLORADO

The Colorado Buffaloes have two of the most exciting players in college football in quarterback Shedeur Sanders and receiver/cornerback Travis Hunter. Sanders completes 74 percent of his throws for 3,926 yards and 35 touchdowns. Hunter, a Heisman Trophy favorite, has played more snaps than anyone else in college football in each of the past two seasons. He has 92 catches for 1,152 yards and 14 TDs with four interceptions. Lajohntay Westor is a terrific second option with 70 catches for 880 yards and 10 scores. Clearly, the Buffs put the game in Sanders’ hands who looks to Hunter frequently. Colorado averages just 70 yards on the ground. Defensively, lineman BJ Green II is All-Big 12 and linebackers Nikhai Hill-Green (54 solo tackles) and Cam’ron Silmon-craig (63) are the leading tacklers. The Cougars held opponents to 4.9 yards per play, which helped BYU outscore foes 30-20 on average. Tyler Batty is the anchor of the defense and was All-Big 12. Isaiah Glasker is a dynamic playmaker with 13.5 TFLs and a team-leading 38 solo stops. Jakob Robinson is a ballhawk and supports the run well with five TFLs, all on running plays. Jake Retzlaff is a 58 percent passer with 2,796 yards. Retzlaff’s primary targets are Chase Roberts and Darius Lassiter, who combined for 94 catches and 1,522 yards. LJ Martin is the primary runner with 630 yards in just nine games. Key Stats: Colorado 87 TFLs rank 12th in the nation and tops in the Big 12. BYU’s 20 interceptions came from 12 players. Prediction: Colorado 31, BYU 27

Independence Bowl

Shreveport, LA

Dec. 28 9:15 ET - ESPN

ARMY

QB Bryson Daily

Averages 5.6 yards per carry with 29 touchdowns.

RB Kanye Udoh

Averages 6.4 yards per carry with 10 touchdowns.

S Max DiDomenico

All-AAC safety has 34 solo tackles and two picks.

LS Andon Thomas

Leader tackler has 3.5 TFLs and two interceptions.

MARSHALL

DL Mike Green

Eye-popping 22.5 TFLs and 15

QB Hurries, three forced fumbles.

QB Colin Parachek

Made two starts (four games) for Morehead State in 2022 when he threw for 223 yards and two TDs.

FS J.J. Roberts

Has 50 solo tackles and 14 pass breakups with no picks—yet.

RB Jordan Houston

Has 592 yards rushing, averaging 5.3 yards per carry. Army

THE MATCHUP

The troops from Army have had quite a season on the gridiron. Prior to the Navy game, Army’s lone loss is to Notre Dame and the Black Knights claimed The American championship in their first year in the league. There’s no secret that Army runs the ball. They do it better than anyone to the tune of 314 yards a game. Quarterback Bryson Daily, the American Offensive Player of the Year, has 1,480 yards rushing and Kanye Udoh has 1,064. The real stars are the big fellas upfront. Center Brady Small and guard Bill Katsigiannis are All-AAC. Tackles Lucas Scott and Connor Finucane and guard Paolo Gennarelli earned second team honors. Safety Max DiDomenico and Kyle Lewis upfront are the leaders on defense. Immediately after Marshall won the Sun Belt Championship Game, coach Charles Huff took the Southern Miss job. Tony Gibson was hired quickly as the new coach and Associate Head Coach Telly Lockette is tasked with coaching the bowl game. As expected, the transfer portal got crowded. Marshall fans hope they will get to see Mike Green in green one more time this season. He led the nation with 22.5 tackles for loss and 17 sacks. Safety J.J. Roberts joined Green on the All-SBC team. The three quarterbacks who took snaps this season are in the portal. Colin Parachek and JacQai Long are the next men up. It helps to have All-SBC center Logan Osborn in front of the new guys. Jordan Houston will likely get most of the carries in the new backfield. Key Stats: Army has converted 25 of 33 on fourth down (76%). Marshall runs the ball on 60 percent of its plays.

Prediction: Army 41, Marshall 18

Music City Bowl

Nashville, TN

Dec. 30 2:30 ET - ESPN

MISSOURI

QB Brady Cook

Completes 63% for 2,248 yards.

WR Luther Burden III

Has 61 catches for 676 yards and six TDs.

WR Theo Wease

Has 55 catches for 809 yards and three TDs.

Edge Johnny Walker

Has 10.5 TFLs and forced three fumbles.

IOWA

RB Kaleb Johnson

Averages 6.4 yards a carry with 1,537 yards and 21 touchdowns.

QB Jackson Stratton

Has thrown just 35 passes this season for 219 yards.

MLB Jay Higgins

Leads with 46 solo tackles and has an interception.

DE Ethan Hurkett

Has 11.5 TFLs and three forced fumbles coming off the edge.

THE MATCHUP

Missouri began the season in hopes of competing for an SEC title and consequently being included in the playoff. But three SEC losses kept the Tigers outside looking in. Quarterback Brady Cook is a special player. The dropoff was obvious when he was out with injuries. He has just nine touchdown passes, and with weapons like Luther Burden III and Theo Wease, why not more than nine? Running back Nate Noel missed a couple of games and still produced 804 yards. Middle linebacker Corey Flagg Jr. leads the team with 34 solo stops. Edge Johnny Walker is the best pass rusher and linebacker Triston Newson is productive. As much as the Iowa Hawkeyes talked about opening up the offense during the offseason, this Hawkeyes team is a grind-it-out, plowing offensive line dominated team. They run the ball 66 percent of the time and rely on Kaleb Johnson, a 1,500-yard runner. Center Connor Colby, guard Logan Jones and tackle Gennings Dunker are as good as any linemen. After injuries and subsesquent transfers, Jackson Stratton is the only experienced quarterback on the roster (if you count 52 collegiate passes experienced). He will be making his third career start in the bowl game. The Hawkeyes allowed just 18 points a game in their 11 FBS contests. Middle linebacker Jay Higgins is an All-Big Ten player and team leader Ethan Hurkett is a playmaker off the edge.

Key Stats: Missouri holds opponents to just 28.4 percent on third down. Iowa attempted 242 passes this season. Only Army, Navy and Air Force put it in the air less often.

Prediction: Missouri 13, Iowa 0

Reliaquest Bowl

Tampa, FL

Dec. 31 Noon ET - ESPN

MICHIGAN

QB Davis Warren

The 63% passer has nine picks and just six TDs, but improving.

RB Kalel Mullings

Has 948 yards and 12 TDs averaging 5.1 yards a carry.

TE Colston Loveland

The second-team All-Big Ten tight end has 56 catches for 582 yards.

DL Kenneth Grant

Second team All-Big Ten lineman crowds the middle and attracts several blockers.

ALABAMA

QB Jalen Milroe

Has 719 yards rushing and 20 TDs, 15 passing TDs.

WR Ryan Williams

Has 45 catches for 857 yards and eight TDs.

MLB Jihaad Campbell

Leading tackler also leads with 11.5 TFLs.

SS Malachi Moore

Has 40 solo stops, three behind the line and two picks.

THE MATCHUP

The Wolverines are as good defensively as they’ve been in recent years. And they still run the ball well, but pass? Michigan is the only bowl team averaging fewer than 300 total yards a game. Davis Warren was thrown into the fray at quarterback and he improved during the season. In his first three games, he threw for two touchdowns and had six picks. Over his last five games, he had four touchdowns and just three picks. The Wolverines found another productive running back in Kalel Mullings to team with Donovan Edwards, who can be inconsistent. The defensive tandem upfront of Kenneth Grant and Josiah Stewart is as good as any in the nation. It’s likely they will follow the lead of their comrade Mason Graham and opt out. Just like this time last season, fans were arguing over whether Alabama deserved a shot in the playoffs as the Tide were preparing to face Michigan. However, this time the Alabama-Michigan matchup is meaningless, compared to last year. Alabama still has the horses, but will all the horses show up? The Alabama offense is potent and Jalen Milroe is an awesome talent. Receiver Ryan Williams is already a star at age 17. Running back Justice Haynes and receiver Germie Bernard round out a talented group. Middle linebacker Jihaad Campbell is the leading tackler and strong safety Malachi Moore is asked to do everything on defense and he does it well. Key Stats: Michigan’s opponents generated an average of 377 yards of offense a game. Michigan held them to 311. The last time Alabama failed to win 10 games was in 2007, Nick Saban’s first season as coach. Prediction: Alabama 17, Michigan 16

LOUISVILLE

RB Isaac Brown

Ran for 1,108 yards and added 152 in the passing game.

S Ja’Corey Brooks

The All-ACC receiver had 61 catches for 1,013 yards and nine TDs.

DL Ashton Gillotte

The big fella had 10 TFLs and 10 QB Hurries.

CB Quincy Riley Broke up 13 passes in addition to his two picks.

WASHINGTON

QB Will Rogers

Completes 71% of his throws for 2,458 yards.

RB Jonah Coleman

Has 1,011 yards and 10 TDs and a 5.5 average.

MLB Carson Bruener

Leading tackler has 51 solo stops and three interceptions.

CB Thaddeus Dixon

Has an interception and 10 pass breakups.

THE MATCHUP

Tyler Shough has opted out of the bowl game, so Louisville will play Harrison Bailey and Pierce Clarkson at quarterback. Bailey completed all eight of his passes this season, for what that’s worth. True Freshmen Isaac Brown and Duke Watson bolstered the running game. Louisville finished 5-3 vs. bowl teams with seven-point losses to Notre Dame, SMU and Miami. The late season loss at Stanford was painful. Louisville won at Clemson for the first time and demolished Kentucky in their annual rivalry tilt. Shough, Brown and JaCorey Brooks are quite the offensive trio. Defensively, Ashton Gillotte is a load upfront, but the secondary has been taxed with having to make too many tackles. Cornerback Quincy Riley joined Gillotte on the second All-ACC team. The Washington Huskies were good enough to earn a bowl berth, but were just 2-6 vs. bowl teams. Quarterback Will Rogers transferred in from Mississippi State and produced. He is efficient and quickly developed a rapport with his receivers. Giles Jackson and Denzel Boston provide excellent targets for Rogers in the passing game. The Huskies prefer to run it and Jonah Coleman is one of the best runners in the Big Ten. The Huskies’ defense has trouble getting penetration and making plays behind the line. But there are leaders at all three levels. Carson Bruener is the main man in the middle and leading tackler. Isaiah Ward can be disruptive coming off the edge. Thaddeus Dixon is the leader of the secondary. Key Stats: In 389 pass attempts, Tyler Shough was sacked just 14 times, only 10 in ACC games. Washington has just 43 TFLs and have allowed 70. Prediction: Washington 27, Louisville 21

Citrus Bowl

Orlando,

SOUTH CAROLINA

QB LaNorris Sellers

Has 2,274 passing yards and 655 rushing yards with 24 total TDs.

RB Rocket Sanders

The veteran produced 881 rushing yards and 316 receiving on 27 catches.

FS Nick Emmanwori

Has 54 solo stops and four picks.

DE Kyle Kennard

Leads the team with 15.5 TFLs and 10 QB Hurries.

ILLINOIS

QB Luke Altmyre

The 61% passer has 2,543 yards and added 219 on the ground.

WR Pat Bryant

The second-team All-Big Ten receiver has 54 catches for 984 yards and 10 touchdowns.

CB Xavier Scott

Has 39 solo stops to go with his four picks.

LB Gabe Jacas

The active linebacker has 10 TFLs and another 10 QB Hurries and three forced fumbles.

THE MATCHUP

SOUTH CAROLINA

South Carolina battled all season and was, oh, so close to making the playoff field of 12. The Gamecocks run an efficient offense with quarterback LaNorris Sellers improving as a passer and Rocket Sanders in the backfield. The 13 lost fumbles will haunt the Gamecocks this offseason, but the unit averaged more than 400 yards a game without an explosive passing attack. The aggressive, big-play defense kept the Gamecocks in most games. Free safety Nick Emmanwori is the rock of the defense, but ends Kyle Kennard and Dylan Stewart combined for 25 TFLs. Jalon Kilgore is a ballhawk in the secondary with four interceptions. Illinois finished tied with Iowa for fifth in the Big Ten, which was a positive step for the Illini this season. Luke Altmyre proved to be a good fit at quarterback. He found throwing to Pat Bryant to be productive, and Zakhari Franklin is an effective second option (51 catches for 613 yards) in the passing game. Aidan Laughery and Josh McCray share duties out of the back-ield. Laughery averages 6.4 yards a carry, McCray 4.8. Linebacker Gabe Jacas is the team’s best pass rusher and frequents opponents’ backfields. Illinois managed only 50 stops behind the line, but the defense produced 12 interceptions. Cornerback Xavier Scott is the best cover man with four interceptions and six pass breakups. Strong safety Matthew Bailey is among the leading tacklers.

Key Stats: South Carolina’s defense produced 84 TFLs, but they allowed 91. Illinois made 50 stops behind the line and allowed 79. Prediction: South Carolina 23, Illinois 9

Houston, TX

Dec. 31 3:30 ET - ESPN

LSU

QB Garrett Nussmeier

The 64% passer has 3,739 yards and 26 TDs.

WR Kyren Lacy

Leads the receiving corps with 58 catches for 866 yards.

LB Whit Weeks

Has 10 TFLs and six QB Hurries.

DE Bradyn Swinson

Leads the team with 13 TFLs and another 12 QB Hurries.

BAYLOR

QB Sawyer Robertson

Has 2,626 passing yards and 227 rushing.

RB Bryson Washington Has 1,004 yards rushing and 22 catches for 217 yards; 13 total TDs.

LB Matt Jones

Has 61 solo stops and 9.5 behind the line.

LB Keaton Thomas Has 55 solo stops and seven for loss.

THE MATCHUP

LSU, along with Texas A&M, were the last two undefeated teams in SEC play. After LSU lost to Texas A&M, both seasons went south, and both finished among the six teams tied with three losses. The LSU passing game was excellent for most of the year, but quarterback Garrett Nussmeier was plagued by interceptions when under pressure. Kyren Lacy, Aaron Anderson and Mason Taylor all had more than 50 catches and combined for close to 2,200 yards. Nussmeier was adept at avoiding sacks, but his 11 interceptions were too many. Caden Durham is the leading rusher with 693 yards as well as 27 catches for 257 yards. Outside linebacker Whit Weeks is a beast on defense against the run and pass. Defensive end Bradyn Swinson is a tremendous pass rusher. Baylor struggled out of the gate, but turned a corner in mid-October and reeled off six wins in a row to finish in the upper echelon of the Big 12. The Baylor offense has been a juggernaut to close the season. Over the last six games, Baylor averaged 242 rushing, 263 passing for 505 yards of total offense and 41 points a game. Quarterback Sawyer Robertson and running back Bryson Washington are the primary reasons for the surge. Josh Cameron and Ashtyn Hawkins are the primary receivers in a deep and talented corps. Matt Jones and Keaton Thomas are both All-Big 12 linebackers and lead the defense.

LSU BAYLOR

Key Stats: No other bowl team has as few as LSU’s five interceptions. Baylor’s last six opponents gave up 412 yards a game on the season; Baylor averaged 505 against them.

Prediction: Baylor 48, LSU 30

Gator Bowl

Jacksonville, FL

Jan. 2 7:30 ET - ESPN

OLE MISS

OLE MISS

QB Jaxson Dart

Has 3.614 yards passing and 430 rushing.

LB Chris Paul Jr.

Leading tackler has 10 TFLs and nine QB Hurries.

NT JJ Pegues

Has 13 stops behind the line, one of five Rebels with double-digit TFLs; also has seven rushing TDs.

DT Walter Nolen

Tied with Pegues with 13 TFLs.

DUKE

QB Henry Belin IV

Completed the only pass he threw this season, for seven yards back in September.

CB Chandler Rivers

The All-ACC corner leads the team with three picks and eight pass breakups.

FS Terry Moore

Leads Duke with 45 solo stops, three picks; also has seven TFLs.

MLB Ozzie Nicholas

Has 89 total tackles, two forced fumbles and an interception.

THE MATCHUP

Ole Miss has 116 tackles for loss this season, best in the nation. Duke is second with 110. So there might be a few runners thrown for a loss in this game. Ole Miss would like to be throwing runners for losses in the playoffs, but losses to Kentucky, LSU and Florida are tough to overcome. The Ole Miss offense, and passing game in particular, is off-the-charts special. While there was some costly confusion in the last few minutes of the Florida game, Jaxson Dart has had a terrific season. Dart has four productive receivers and an effective tight end. The defense has been outstanding as well holding SEC opponents to just 18 points a game. In addition to the tackles behind the line number, Duke held opponents to 344 yards a game, allowed opponents to convert just 32.6 percent on third down and forced 26 turnovers. Opponents averaged just 22 points a game. Chandler Rivers is the best cover corner, linebackers Alex Howard and Wesley Williams are beasts off the edge with a total of 26.5 TFLs and Kendry Charles plugs the middle. Quarterback Maalik Murphy has entered the portal, so the only quarterback with any experience is Henry Belin IV. He’s thrown one pass this season, 33 in his career. Belin will lean on receivers Eli Pancol and Jordan Moore who have combined for 105 catches for 1,539 yards. Star Thomas has 871 yards rushing, and the talented Jaquez Moore has returned after missing most of the season. Key Stats: Ole Miss leads the nation with 10.4 yards per pass attempt. Eight Duke players have seven or more tackles for loss this season. Prediction: Ole Miss 24, Duke 16

DUKE

Ole Miss Rebels Coach: Lane Kiffin 9-3 (5-3 ACC)

Duke Blue Devils Coach: Manny Diaz 9-3 (5-3 ACC)

First Responder Bowl

Dallas, TX

Jan. 3 4:00 ET - ESPN

TEXAS STATE

QB Jordan McCloud

Has 9,556 career passing yards after a stellar career at JMU.

RB Ismail Mahdi

All-SBC running back averages 5.4 yards a carry.

WR Joey Hobert

Second-team All-SBC has 66 catches for 661 yards in only 11 games; has 34-game reception streak.

DE Steven Parker

Has 8.5 TFLs in only eight FBS games.

NORTH TEXAS

QB Chandler Morris

Has 3,774 passing yards with 31 TDs.

WR DT Sheffield Has 66 catches for 822 yards.

RB Shane Porter

Gets the lion’s share of carries and has 642 yards, 6.8 yards a pop.

LB Jaylen Smith

Leads team with 7.5 TFLs.

THE MATCHUP

The Bobcats have an explosive offense. Texas State ranks among the top 30 nationally in most offensive categories, including both rushing and passing offense. Consider this: Old Dominion’s defense allowed 410.4 yards a game and held Texas State to 359. However, for the season, the Bobcats were 78.1 yards better than what their FBS opponents allowed on average. Reducing the team’s 21 turnovers would have produced more impressive numbers. Jordan McCloud triggers the offense and threw for 2,920 yards. His 12 picks are a bit high. Ismail Mahdi has 991 yards on the ground. Three receivers, Jaden Williams, Kole Wilson and Joey Hobert, all have more than 40 catches and 630 yards apiece. Defensively, Steven Parker, who has been injured, and Kalil Alexander are the playmakers. North Texas opponents can expect about 150 more yards of offense than their typical games. The Mean Green love to move the ball and don’t seem to mind their opponents moving it either. North Texas averages 487 yards a game and gives up 475 against FBS teams. Chandler Morris is a 63 percent passer and DT Sheffield has 11 touchdowns. Shane Porter and Makenzie McGill have combined for more than 1,000 yards rushing and 14 touchdowns. Linebacker Jaylen Smith and free safety Jayden Hill are the best defenders.

TEXAS STATE NORTH TEXAS

Key Stats: The offensive line of Dorion Strawn, Nash Jones, Chayse Todd, Tellek Lockette and Alex Harkey started all 12 games for Texas State. Teams combined for 1,000 yards or more in six of North Texas’ 11 games. Prediction: Texas State 54, North Texas 52

Duke’s Mayo Bowl

Charlotte, NC

Jan. 3 7:30 ET - ESPN

VIRGINIA TECH

RB Bhayshul Tuten

Averages 6.3 yards a carry and has 23 catches.

DE Antwaun Powell-Ryland

Has 16 sacks and three other TFLs with nine QB Hurries.

DT Aeneas Peebles

Joins Powell-Ryland on All-ACC team.

CB Mansoor Delane

Has four picks and seven other pass breakups.

MINNESOTA

QB Max Brosmer

The 67% passer has 2,426 yards and 15 touchdowns.

WR Daniel Jackson

Leads the team with 69 catches and 802 yards receiving.

RB Darius Taylor

Recorded four 120-yard rushing games this season.

S Koi Perich

Patrols the secondary that garnered 16 picks this season.

THE MATCHUP

Virginia Tech defeated rival Virginia in the season finale with third-string quarterback Pop Watson to gain bowl eligibility. Whether starter Kyron Drones will be available for the bowl game is unclear. He is nursing a foot injury and missed the final two games of the season. Running back Bhayshul Tuten will be available and has 1,159 yards and 15 touchdowns. Whoever plays quarterback will rely on Tuten and spread the ball to five receivers (Jaylin Lane, Da’Quan Felton, Ali Jennings, Benji Gosnell and Stephen Gosnell). Defensive end Antwaun Powell-Ryland is the best player on the field for the Hokies. He is a beast in opponents’ backfields, complemented by defensive tackle Aeneas Peebles. Corner Mansoor Delane is a ballhawk in coverage. Fans don’t see much offense when Minnesota takes the field. In the 11 games against FBS teams, Minnesota allowed just 305 yards and produced just 324. The Gophers are balanced on both offense and defense; they struggle to run and throw, as do their opponents. Quartrback Max Brosmer makes few mistakes. His top receiver is Daniel Jackson, and Elijah Spencer chipped in with 41 catches for 528 yards. Darius Taylor, who had 143 yards in the finale against Wisconsin, is a talented runner. Linebacker Cody Lindenberg is the leading tackler. Fellow All-Big Ten defender Koi Perich has five interceptions. Key Stats: Six Hokies have either 23+ catches or 330 yards receiving. Minnesota’s opponents generated an average of 369 yards of offense a game. Minnesota held them to 305.

Prediction: Virginia Tech 14, Minnesota 9

Bahamas Bowl

Nassau, Bahamas

Jan. 4 11:00a ET - ESPN

BUFFALO

QB C.J. Ogbonna

The 57% passer has 2,244 yards and added 311 on the ground.

RB Al-Jay Henderson

Has 959 yards, averaging 5.2 yards per carry.

LB Shaun Dolac

Leads the Bulls with 76 solo tackles plus five picks and 16.5 stops behind the line.

LB Red Murdock

Second to Dolac with 64 solo stops and 14 behind the line.

LIBERTY

QB Ryan Berger

Has completed four of seven for 48 yards.

RB Quinton Cooley

Has averaged 6.1 yards a carry on his way to 1,254 yards.

WR Elijah Canion

Has just 25 catches but was targeted more late in the season.

MLB Joseph Carter

Leads team with 41 solo stops.

THE MATCHUP

Buffalo is a better than average MAC team, bowl eligible with eight wins and an opportunity to build on this success. Quarterback C.J. Ogbonna is solid and takes care of the ball well. Ogbonna’s top targets are Victor Snow and JJ Jenkins. Snow has 51 catches for 610 yards, Jenkins added 36 for 536 yards. Al-Jay Henderson is a capable running back, who is just 41 yards shy of 1,000 for the season. The Bulls have two beasts at linebacker in Shaun Dolac and Red Murdock. The two All-MAC players lead the defense and make plays all over the field. They rarely leave the field. Of Murdock’s 14 tackles for loss, 12 of them were on running plays. Defensive lineman Kobe Stewart was named second team All-MAC. The Liberty Flames outgained opponents by 85 yards a game, but will travel to the Bahamas Bowl without their quarterback Kaion Salter, who has entered the portal. Liberty typically runs the ball 65 percent of the time, so expect that number to be even larger without Salter. Ryan Berger, who played sparingly for App State for two seasons, has thrown just seven passes this season, none with the game on the line. Burger will rely on Quinton Cooley and the running game. Treon Sibley (26 catches, 499 yards) and Elijah Canion 25, 354) are capable receivers with few opportunities. Joseph Carter is the best player on defense.

Key Stats: The Bulls allowed 50 yards a game more than they gained, but yet outscored opponents by 13 total points. The Flames average 6.2 yards a play and convert 45 percent on third down.

Prediction: Buffalo 27, Liberty 17

THE SIDELINES