Texas A&M vs. Kansas State prediction, Texas Bowl, odds, line, watch live stream
How to watch the Texas bowl: Game storylines, spread, time, date, TV channel
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2 min read
It's amazing how two teams can enter a bowl game with identical records, yet have two separate vibes around the program rooted from differing expectations. Kansas State's 8-4 is yet another reminder to never underestimate coach Bill Snyder and the magician label he's earned. Texas A&M's 8-4 was the result of another disappointing stretch in which the Aggies lost four of their final six games.
Those two seasons come to an intersection in this year's Texas Bowl. One of the Big 12's top defenses -- yes, those exist -- clashes against an offense that, when its components are healthy, can score in bunches. It's an old Big 12 matchup that projects from Vegas as one of the tightest games of the postseason.
Viewing information
Date: Wednesday, Dec. 28
Time: 9 p.m. ET
Location: NRG Stadium, Houston
TV: ESPN
Live streams: WatchESPN / WatchESPN apps
Storylines
Kansas State: The Wildcats were an under-the-radar team that were closer to 10 or 11 wins than five or six. Only Oklahoma outclassed the Snydercats. While the offense was difficult to watch many times, the defense proved to be frustrating for opposing offenses. There are so many studs in the defensive front seven coupled with physical secondary players like defensive back Dante Barnett. It won't always look pretty with K-State, but this team will almost always have a chance to win.
Texas A&M: Another season, another second-half letdown by Kevin Sumlin's team. An enormous buyout has prolonged any serious talk of moving on from Sumlin, but there's no doubt he enters the 2017 with a lot to prove given the money he's making. Not much changes there regardless of a win or loss in the bowl game, but Sumlin could use a reason to smile heading into the new year. With an athletic defensive line and a list of playmakers on the offense, the fast track of the Texas Bowl could be good for the almost-hometown Aggies.
Players to watch
Jordan Willis, DE, Kansas State: There are three or four guys off of Kansas State's defense alone who would make good selections. However, Willis was the Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year and led the conference with 11.5 sacks. He's also part of a defensive line that has helped K-State to a No. 1 ranking in run defense in the Big 12.
Myles Garrett, DE, Texas A&M: Garrett hasn't said for sure yet what his decision will be, but don't be surprised if this is his last college game. The freakishly athletic edge rusher is projected by many outlets to be either a No. 1 overall pick or damn-near close. His numbers have always been good -- he has 8.5 sacks this season -- but he's a physical rarity. That alone is worth watching. Plus he'll be going against a group of offensive tackles that is still building up experience.
Prediction
Even though Kansas State hasn't always fared well in recent years in fast-track bowl games, doubting Snyder feels like a mistake. A&M's offense has potential to score with a healthy Trevor Knight at quarterback, but K-State leads the Big 12 in picks (15). The Wildcats have also been excellent against the spread as underdogs, especially in close games. This feels like it's right in K-State's wheelhouse. Pick: Kansas State +2.5
