New Mexico Bowl -- Wyoming (6-6) vs. Fresno State (8-4)
For the second straight season, New Mexico will not be part of the New Mexico Bowl, but it's not such a bad thing since the Lobos wouldn't put on a very good show after going 1-11 this season. Fresno State is heading back to Albuquerque, New Mexico, for a second straight year. Last year, they were on the cusp of New Mexico Bowl glory before Colorado State scored 20 fourth-quarter points to steal at 40-35 victory from the Bulldogs. Running back Ryan Mathews, who leads the nation in rushing (151.3 ypg), and Fresno State hope to be victorious this time around. Standing in their way is Wyoming, which is going to its first bowl game since the 2004 Las Vegas Bowl. First-year coach Dave Christensen led Wyoming to a 6-6 record while playing the eighth toughest schedule in the country. Wyoming is 5-6 all-time in bowl games dating back to 1951.
Hurc's prediction: Fresno State 38, Wyoming 20
St. Petersburg Bowl -- Rutgers (8-4) vs. UCF (8-4)
The inaugural St. Petersburg Bowl in 2008 featured the hometown South Florida Bulls stomping out the Memphis Tigers, 41-14. Conference USA hopes for a better representation against the Big East this time around. UCF only has to hop on I-4 and head West to St. Pete to play in their third bowl game in five years and first ever bowl game in Florida. The Knights made it this far behind the nation's fourth best rushing defense (82.5 ypg) and on the legs of running back Brynn Harvey, who has rushed for 398 yards and seven touchdowns in his last three games -- all UCF wins. Rutgers is no stranger to running the football as it ranks 20th in rushing offense (108.9 ypg). But going up against a stout run defense, the Scarlet Knights might have to air it out behind true freshman signal caller Tom Savage. A key storyline leading up to the Dec. 19 bowl is the health of Rutgers leading receiver Tim Brown, who is questionable with a sprained left ankle. Rutgers is playing in its fifth straight bowl and have won the last three.
Hurc's prediction: UCF 21, Rutgers 17
New Orleans Bowl -- Middle Tennessee State (9-3) vs. Southern Miss (7-5)
The last time Southern Miss was in New Orleans, it squeaked out a bowl victory (30-27) in 2008 over Troy. Unfortunately, star receiver DeAndre Brown broke his leg, an injury that plagued him in 2009. The Golden Eagles will have to overcome the injury bug again as starting quarterback Austin Davis, who missed the last seven games with a foot injury, is expected to be replaced again by Martevious Young, who threw 13 touchdowns to one interception in Davis' absence. The game is also the last hurrah for star running back Damion Fletcher, who has rushed for 5,224 yards and 44 touchdowns in his career. MTSU is headed to just its second bowl game of the FBS era. They got here thanks to a nine-win season and behind an offense averaging 31.2 points per game (29th). What offensive coordinator Tony Franklin failed to do during his brief stint at Auburn last season he has managed to accomplish in a short time at MTSU, thanks to quarterback Dwight Dasher, who is ninth in total offense (298.3 ypg).
Hurc's prediction: MTSU 30, Southern Miss 24
Maaco Bowl Las Vegas -- Oregon State (8-4) vs. BYU (10-2)
Oregon State was a win over Oregon in the Civil War away from being BCS bowl bound. Unfortunately, the Beavers lost a close battle with their in-state rivals and now settle for the Maaco Bowl Las Vegas against a worthy opponent in BYU. This is the first time in the bowl's history two ranked opponents will meet. BYU is back in the Maaco Bowl for a fifth straight year. They are 2-2 in their previous four trips, including a 31-21 loss to Arizona last season. Quarterback Max Hall is the driving force behind the offense, but he has a great supporting cast in running back Harvey Unga and tight end Dennis Pitta. The BYU defense is also a top 40 unit. The Cougars better be ready for the Beavers and star tailback Jacquizz Rodgers. Better known as "Mr. Touchdown," Rodgers has already amassed 3,386 total yards and 33 touchdowns in his first two seasons. His big brother James Rodgers is also a threat. He totaled 1,293 yards and 10 touchdowns in 2009. OSU is 6-1 in bowl games this decade, winning the last five. The Beavers have also won their last five meetings against BYU.
Hurc's prediction: Oregon State 34, BYU 24
Poinsettia Bowl -- Utah (9-3) vs. California (8-4)
This time last season, the Utes were preparing for a BCS showdown (Sugar Bowl) with Alabama. This year, they have a pre-New Year bowl, but should be happy they reeled off nine wins after taking major losses on both sides of the football. They still get a tough opponent in Cal. This game has lost a little luster since both teams could be without their star running backs -- Utah's Matt Asiata (knee) and Cal's Jahvid Best (concussion). However, the Utes' Eddie Wide and the Golden Bears' Shane Vereen can still put on quite a show. Utah, which has a top 20 total and scoring defense, won the Poinsettia Bowl back in 2007 over Navy. They also hold the nation's longest active bowl win streak at eight games. Cal holds a 4-2 edge over Utah in a series that dates back to 1920 and boasts a school-record four-bowl win streak going. The Bears have also won five of six bowls under head coach Jeff Tedford.
Hurc's prediction: Utah 28, Cal 23
Hawaii Bowl -- Nevada (8-4) vs. SMU (7-5)
This game might not look like much on paper, but if you are a fan of offense, then you might not want to miss this Christmas Eve showdown. Two of today's breakthrough offensive schemes -- the Pistol and Run and Shoot -- will be on display. Behind quarterback Colin Kaepernick and the running back tandem of Vai Taua and Luke Lippincott, Nevada became the first FBS school to produce three 1,000-yard rushers in the same season. Nevada leads the nation in rushing offense (362.3 ypg) thanks to head coach Chris Ault's revolutionary Pistol formation. While SMU's June Jones didn't come up with the Run and Shoot, he has been one of the few coaches to perfect it. Jones has operated a pass-heavy offense back to his days at Hawaii and almost played for the Conference USA championship in his second season at SMU despite losing quarterback Bo Levi Mitchell (shoulder). SMU received an unexpected boost from Miami (Fla.) transfer Shawnbrey McNeal, who is 34th in the nation in rushing (93.8 ypg). Nevada is playing in its fifth straight bowl, while SMU snaps a 25-year bowl drought.
Hurc's prediction: Nevada 49, SMU 31
Little Caesars Pizza Bowl -- Ohio (9-4) vs. Marshall (6-6)
Formerly known as the Motor City Bowl, the Little Caesars Bowl will pit two former rivals against each other, as Ohio and Marshall will play for the first time since 2004. Marshall holds a 29-17-6 advantage in the series and has won eight of the last nine meetings. However, the Thundering Herd enter the game licking their wounds. They have lost four of their last six games and it cost head coach Mark Snyder his job. Interim coach Rick Minter will lead the Herd, who could be down two of their biggest stars in tight end Cody Slate (right knee) and running back Darius Marshall (left ankle). Ohio won the MAC East crown before losing to Central Michigan in the conference title game. The Bobcats have won seven of their last nine games behind quarterback Theo Scott, who replaced an injured Boo Jackson early in the season. Ohio also has a trio of receivers to watch in Taylor Price, LaVon Brazill and Terrence McCrae, who combined for 135 catches, 1,958 yards and 19 touchdowns.
Hurc's prediction: Ohio 26, Marshall 20
Meineke Car Care Bowl -- North Carolina (8-4) vs. Pittsburgh (9-3)
If you like defensive battles, then make sure to turn on your television the day after Christmas to watch North Carolina and Pittsburgh duke it out. Both teams rank in the top 30 for both total and scoring defense. North Carolina makes the return trip to Charlotte after being the first ACC team to lose in this bowl game, 31-30, to West Virginia in 2008, since its inception in 2002. North Carolina beat five bowl-eligible teams in 2009 largely in part to a defense that ranked sixth in the country (267.8 ypg) and held opponents to less than 17 points per game. Pitt collapsed down the stretch and played themselves right out of a BCS bowl by losing its last two games, including a 45-44 thriller to Cincinnati in the de facto Big East championship. Pitt is led by star true freshman running back Dion Lewis, who finished third in rushing (136.7 ypg) and made Panthers fans forget about losing LeSean McCoy to the NFL.
Hurc's prediction: North Carolina 17, Pittsburgh 14
Emerald Bowl -- Boston College (8-4) vs. Southern Cal (8-4)
It's weird seeing USC play in a pre-New Year's Bowl since the Trojans haven't failed to qualify for a BCS tilt since 2001, the first season under Pete Carroll. But four losses and no Pac-10 title means USC will face Boston College in the Emerald Bowl. USC tried to keep it together in 2009 despite losing its quarterback and a trio of star linebackers to the NFL. True freshman gunslinger Matt Barkley had his moments, but he also had only 13 touchdowns to 12 interceptions. Running back Joe McKnight broke 1,000 yards for the first time in his career pacing the offense and safety Taylor Mays only strengthened his case as a first-round pick with 91 tackles. Boston College won six of its first seven games under first-year coach Frank Spaziani before faltering down the stretch. The Eagles took a while to settle on a quarterback in former minor league baseball player Dave Shinskie. But the real stars were running back Montel Harris, who rushed for 1,355 yards and 13 touchdowns, and true freshman linebacker Luke Kuechly, who totaled 142 tackles.
Hurc's prediction: USC 24, Boston College 17
Music City Bowl -- Kentucky (7-5) vs. Clemson (8-5)
Who would have thought the 2009 Music City Bowl would be a revenge contest, but that is exactly what Clemson has on its mind after losing to Kentucky, 28-20, in the 2006 installment. Only a handful of players are still around to remember that game, including ACC Player of the Year C.J. Spiller. Spiller did it all for Clemson in 2009, totaling 1,145 rushing yards, 445 receiving yards, 210 punt return yards, 708 kick return yards and 20 touchdowns. While Spiller was dazzling on offense, Dabo Swinney's defense wasn't half bad either, finishing 26th in scoring defense (21.0 ppg). They were led by cornerback DeAndre McDaniel and his eight interceptions. Kentucky rebounded from a 2-3 start to win five of its last seven games. They were led by Randall Cobb and Derrick Locke. Cobb, who plays five positions, was second in the SEC in touchdowns (15) and third in all-purpose yards. Locke, who tore his ACL last season, totaled 1,097 yards (843 rushing). Kentucky has won its last two trips to the Music City Bowl.
Hurc's prediction: Clemson 31, Kentucky 20
Independence Bowl -- Texas A&M (6-6) vs. Georgia (7-5)
Texas A&M and Georgia will meet in the Independence Bowl on Dec. 27, but both programs are in different places then they were last year. The Aggies finished at .500 in Mike Sherman's second season after a four-win campaign in 2008. A big difference was moving A&M from a pro-style offense to the trendy spread formation that allowed quarterback Jerrod Johnson, who is sixth in the nation in total offense (306.0 ypg), to become one of the nation's most improved players. Unfortunately, the Achilles' heel is a defense that played 14 freshmen and finished 107th in total defense (433.3 ypg). Georgia was contending for the SEC crown last season (9-3) behind Matthew Stafford and Knowshon Moreno. This season, the Bulldogs sorely missed both players as fifth-year senior quarterback Joe Cox had a rocky campaign and true freshman Washaun Ealey emerged late as a backfield threat. The Georgia defense also scuffled and it cost coordinator Willie Martinez his job. Georgia hopes to salvage its season with a bowl win, but could be without star receiver A.J. Green (shoulder). UGA is 5-2 in bowl games under Mark Richt.
Hurc's prediction: Georgia 41, Texas A&M 31
EagleBank Bowl -- UCLA (6-6) vs. Temple (9-3)
UCLA should send Navy a thank you card because the Middies' late season victory over rival Army kept the Black Knights (5-7) from being bowl eligible and qualifying for the EagleBank Bowl. UCLA was on standby and now will take on Temple. The Bruins began the season with a three-game winning streak, but after quarterback Kevin Prince broke his jaw against Tennessee, UCLA lost five straight before Prince regained his form late in the season. The Bruins are 10-13 in their first two seasons under Rick Neuheisel, but are back in a bowl for the first time since 2007. They got here mostly on the back of their defense, led by Pac-10 Defensive Player of the Year Brian Price. Temple had a spectacular season under coach Al Golden and are in their first bowl game in 30 years. Defense was also a big part of the equation for the Owls, who were a top 40 unit in both total and scoring defense. But the emergence of freshman running back Bernard Pierce was also something. He finished 11th in rushing (118.9 ypg) before missing the final two games with a shoulder injury. He is expected to play against UCLA.
Hurc's prediction: Temple 27, UCLA 20
Champs Sports Bowl -- Miami (Fla.) (9-3) vs. Wisconsin (9-3)
The last time Wisconsin came down to the Sunshine State, Florida State sent the Badgers home with their tails between their legs thanks to a 42-13 whooping in the 2008 Champs Sports Bowl. FSU won't be the opponent this season, but another Florida team will -- the Miami Hurricanes. Both teams have quietly put together solid 9-3 campaigns. Miami started the season with key wins over FSU, Georgia Tech and Oklahoma but then faded out of the national spotlight. "The U" definitely showed signs of getting their swagger back thanks to a punishing defense and their charismatic quarterback -- Jacory Harris. Wisconsin got to nine wins thanks to workhorse football -- play great defense and run the football. Wisconsin sure did run the ball behind the lumbering John Clay, who totaled 1,396 yards and 16 touchdowns on the ground. O'Brien Schofield, who led the team with 10 sacks, will be a force for Miami to worry about off the edge.
Hurc's prediction: Miami (Fla.) 35, Wisconsin 21
Humanitarian Bowl -- Idaho (7-5) vs. Bowling Green (7-5)
The theme behind the 2009 Humanitarian Bowl will be passing, and lots of it. Two of the nation's best passing offenses will be on display as Idaho and Bowling Green meet on the blue turf of Bronco Stadium. Vandals coach Robb Akey deserves consideration as coach of the year after transforming Idaho from a 2-10 squad into a 7-5 team and bowl bound for the first time since 1998. Quarterback Nathan Enderle, who was a turnover machine the last two seasons, kept the interceptions to a minimum in 2009 while leading the nation's 11th best passing offense (290.6 ypg). Max Komar (1,036 yards, 10 TDs) was Enderle's favorite target, but the passing game was supplemented by senior running back DeMaundray Woolridge, who rushed for 16 touchdowns. Bowling Green had no rushing attack and threw the ball often in coach Dave Clawson's first year. Quarterback Tyler Sheehan was seventh in total offense (302.6 ypg) and wide receiver Freddie Barnes was first in receptions per game (11.5). He is five receptions short of setting a new FBS single-season record with 143 and should reach that benchmark in the bowl game.
Hurc's prediction: Bowling Green 42, Idaho 28
Holiday Bowl -- Nebraska (9-4) vs. Arizona (8-4)
Nebraska was one second away in the Big 12 championship game from pulling the biggest upset of the season and making a BCS bowl appearance. But Hunter Lawrence's 46-year field goal as time expired sunk the Cornhuskers' hopes of a Fiesta Bowl bash and sent Nebraska tumbling to the Holiday Bowl to face Arizona, who were in contention for the Pac-10 crown before a late-season loss to Oregon. Give Arizona credit for reeling off eight wins after losing the school's most decorated quarterback in Willie Tuitama and not having star running back Nic Grigsby or tight end Rob Gronkowski for most of the season due to injuries. Once Nick Foles supplanted Matt Scott at quarterback, the Wildcats offense was as productive as their top 30 defense. Nebraska had their own issues under center with an inconsistent Zac Lee, who was replacing Joe Ganz. But they made it to nine wins behind running back Roy Helu Jr., who rushed for 1,139 yards and 10 touchdowns, and an intimidating defense, led by All-American tackle Ndamukong Suh.
Hurc's prediction: Nebraska 20, Arizona 13
Armed Forces Bowl -- Air Force (7-5) vs. Houston (10-3)
The 2009 Armed Forces Bowl is going to feature two contrasting styles of offense. Houston has the nation's top passing offense (450.0 ypg) behind quarterback Case Keenum, and Air Force is fourth in rushing (273.6 ypg) thanks to their option attack. Houston plowed their way into the top 25 this season thanks to early-season wins against Oklahoma State and Texas Tech. They played for the Conference USA crown but lost to East Carolina. Keenum was a star all season passing for 5,449 yards and 43 touchdowns. His favorite receivers were James Cleveland, Tyron Carrier and Patrick Edwards, who all eclipsed 900 yards. Air Force will counter the nation's top passing offense with the top passing defense (148.7 ypg). They will be wise to use their rushing game to chew up the clock and keep Houston's quick-strike offense off the field. That might not be such a problem since Houston is 112th against the run (213.1 ypg). This is a rematch of the 2008 Armed Forces Bowl which saw Houston edged out Air Force, 34-28. The Falcons have lost both times in this bowl game and by six points in each appearance.
Hurc's prediction: Houston 38, Air Force 32
Sun Bowl -- Stanford (8-4) vs. Oklahoma (7-5)
Oklahoma came into the season as national title contenders as it returned 2008 Heisman winner Sam Bradford and All-American tight end Jermaine Gresham. Unfortunately, Oklahoma lost both players early in the season to injury and its fortunes led them to a New Year's Eve showdown with Stanford in the Sun Bowl. On paper, Oklahoma still had a potent offense (31.1 ppg) and stellar defense (273.5 ypg), but those numbers are inflated thanks to blowouts. However, they lost four of their games by a total of 12 points. Freshman quarterback Landry Jones took over for Bradford, and he still got plenty of help from the running back tandem of DeMarco Murray and Chris Brown. Stanford finished tied for second in the Pac-10 and popped up on everyone's radar thanks to running back Toby Gerhart, who steamrolled his way to 1,736 rushing yards and 26 touchdowns. Quarterback Andrew Luck was also instrumental in helping Stanford rank as the nation's 13th best total offense (441.4 ypg). At least we expect more scoring in this year's Sun Bowl after Oregon State and Pittsburgh treated us to 3-0 snoozefest last season.
Hurc's prediction: Oklahoma 34, Stanford 17
Texas Bowl -- Missouri (8-4) vs. Navy (9-4)
Much like the Armed Forces Bowl, we are going to see a pair of contrasting offenses in the Texas Bowl. Missouri continues to air it out on offense despite losing All-American quarterback Chase Daniel. Sophomore Blaine Gabbert stepped up in a big way in 2009 and guided the nation's 13th best passing offense (285.0 ypg). Gabbert began his career as a starter with four straight wins before an ankle injury slowed him in the middle of the season. Mizzou is riding a three-game win streak and owes a lot to wide receiver Danario Alexander, who leads the nation in receiving yards per game (137.0 ypg). Navy, like most of the academies, runs an option offense because of lack of high-end athletes. But that hasn't stopped Navy from being a leader in rushing yards for most of the decade and it has led them to a seventh straight bowl game. However, Navy is 2-4 in that span and has lost its last three bowl appearances. Quarterback Ricky Dobbs and fullback Vince Murray will look to help end the losing trend.
Hurc's prediction: Missouri 37, Navy 17
Insight Bowl -- Minnesota (6-6) vs. Iowa State (6-6)
Minnesota is no stranger to the Insight Bowl. The Gophers will be making a third appearance in the last four years in this game. However, they have lost their previous two trips, including to Kansas (42-21) last season. The Golden Gophers are 13-11 in their last two seasons under Tim Brewster, who has done a nice overhaul at Minnesota. The Gophers hope to have star receiver Eric Decker available after he missed the last four games with a foot injury. Iowa State made a bowl despite losing three of its last four games. It is Cyclones' first appearance in postseason play since 2005. Not a bad feat for first-year coach Paul Rhoads, who replaced Gene Chizik. Iowa State has managed to survive despite two of its best players, quarterback Austen Arnaud and Alexander Robinson, being banged up this season. A lot of the success came as they kept the opposition out of the end zone, finishing 43rd in scoring defense (22.6 ppg).
Hurc's prediction: Minnesota 27, Iowa State 16
Chick-fil-A Bowl -- Virginia Tech (9-3) vs. Tennessee (7-5)
It should be a good ol' fashion smash mouth affair when Virginia Tech and Tennessee meet in Atlanta on New Year's Eve. The Hokies are making a 23rd bowl appearance and 13th straight playing Beamer Ball. Coach Frank Beamer once again has a top 20 defense and a sound special teams unit. Also, rushing the football has been a staple of Beamer Ball and standout freshman Ryan Williams, who is fifth in the nation in rushing (128.2 ypg), stepped up in a big way after Darren Evans went down in the preseason with a torn ACL. Volunteers first-year coach Lane Kiffin has done a lot of yapping since arriving in Knoxville, Tenn., but he has recruited well, including getting poppa Monte to run a defense that is also a top 20 unit. Tennessee came on late, winning four of its last five games, and surviving the 25th toughest schedule in FBS. Quarterback Jonathan Crompton progressed as the season went on, running back Montario Hardesty averaged 108.3 rushing yards (19th) and safety Eric Berry was still a game-changing player in the secondary.
Hurc's prediction: Virginia Tech 23, Tennessee 16
Outback Bowl -- Northwestern (8-4) vs. Auburn (7-5)
Northwestern is making its first appearance in the Outback Bowl and eighth postseason berth. Auburn will be playing in its third Outback Bowl, but first since the 1996 season. Northwestern is riding a three-game winning streak, including a pair of top-25 upsets over Iowa and Wisconsin. Northwestern got to eight wins behind the play of quarterback Mike Kafka, who totaled 3,163 yards. Also, NU was a top 50 scoring and total defense behind the play of senior lineman Corey Wootton, who has 13 sacks the last two seasons. Auburn is going to its first bowl game under first-year coach Gene Chizik. Auburn started with a five-game winning streak before faltering in the second half. They are riding a two-game losing streak heading into the New Year's Day bowl. Auburn has one of the nation's most potent rushing attacks behind senior Ben Tate, who rushed for 1,254 yards. Freshman running back Onterio McCalebb was also a force early on before an ankle injury limited him in the second half of the season. Auburn is averaging 32.9 points per game (20th).
Hurc's prediction: Northwestern 28, Auburn 24
Capital One Bowl -- Penn State (10-2) vs. LSU (9-3)
Penn State and LSU will ring in the New Year meeting on the gridiron in Orlando, Fla., for the Capital One Bowl. This is only the second time these two storied programs will meet. Penn State won the first matchup, 16-9, in the 1974 Orange Bowl. Joe Paterno was on the sidelines for that matchup as well. The 2009 Nittany Lions lost their two most important matchups of the season -- Iowa and Ohio State -- and finished third in the Big Ten. Penn State finished in the top 10 for scoring and total defense. Quarterback Daryll Clark and running back Evan Royster remained key figures on offense. LSU was much like PSU and lost key matchups to Florida, Alabama and Ole Miss. They are now two seasons removed from their national championship season and still looking to get back to that level. LSU got to nine wins behind a defense that allowed only 16 points per game (12th) under first-year coordinator John Chavis. The offense was another story, finishing 108th in total offense (309.7 ypg). The Tigers are 4-0 under Les Miles in bowl games.
Hurc's prediction: LSU 23, Penn State 10
Gator Bowl -- West Virginia (9-3) vs. Florida State (6-6)
The 2010 Gator Bowl might be the most-watched non-BCS game this bowl season as legendary coach Bobby Bowden has his final moment in the spotlight after coaching at Florida State for more than three decades. His final game comes against the team he first coached in Division I -- West Virginia. Bowden's latest FSU team barely became bowl eligible with six wins and many feel shouldn't be playing in a New Year's Day bowl. Quarterback Christian Ponder, who is third in total offense (321.8 ypg), is not expected to return from a shoulder injury, so freshman E.J. Manuel will lead FSU in Bowden's final game. West Virginia is looking to spoil Bowden's swan song moment by taking advantage of the nation's 110th ranked defense (443.5 ypg). West Virginia has the running game to do it behind the electrifying Noel Devine, who is averaging 108.1 rushing yards per game (20th). However, the Mountaineers will have to contend with what is expected to be a pro-FSU crowd in Jacksonville, Fla.
Hurc's prediction: West Virginia 27, Florida State 17
Rose Bowl -- Oregon (10-2) vs. Ohio State (10-2)
The 96th Rose Bowl is going to have a little different feel after the last six were won by either USC or Texas. Big Ten champion Ohio State will be making its 14th trip to the Rose Bowl, but have only won six times in its first 13 trips. Still, not much has changed. Ohio State is still a run-first team under Jim Tressel, who is 3-3 in BCS games. OSU is 19th in rushing offense (198.9 ypg), which includes swift-footed quarterback Terrelle Pryor. OSU also had a top five scoring and total defense despite taking major losses from last year's team. Oregon, which is 1-3 in the Rose Bowl, rebounded from an opening game loss to Boise State to win 10 of its last 11 games and unseat USC as Pac-10 champs. Dual-threat quarterback Jeremiah Masoli operated an offense that finished seventh in scoring (37.7 ppg). They also were picked up by the play of running back LaMichael James, who finished eighth in rushing (123.0 ypg) after replacing a suspended LeGarrette Blount. Blount has been reinstated and should give OU a heck of a rushing attack to counteract OSU's ground game and try to wear down a top five rushing defense.
Hurc's prediction: Oregon 34, OSU 27
Sugar Bowl -- Cincinnati (12-0) vs. Florida (12-1)
The 76th Sugar Bowl will feature a pair of 12-win teams in SEC runner-up Florida and Big East champion Cincinnati. This is the first time since 1977 that two top five teams will meet in a non-championship Sugar Bowl. The defending national champion Gators were one win away from returning to the title game before Alabama embarrassed them in the SEC Championship Game. Florida remained in the national spotlight thanks to a swarming defense and the play of former Heisman winner Tim Tebow. This will be Tebow's final college game, so it will be an emotional night for the senior leader. He will have to face a team coming from the other side of the emotional spectrum. The Bearcats are a little down after coach Brian Kelly abandoned them before the biggest game in school history to take the head coaching job at Notre Dame. Offensive coordinator Jeff Quinn will step in as interim coach. The Bearcats are familiar with the game plan after having the sixth best total and scoring offense behind senior gunslinger Tony Pike. Senior wide receiver Mardy Gilyard is also a player to watch coming off consecutive 1,000-yard, 11-touchdown seasons.
Hurc's prediction: Florida 41, Cincinnati 30
International Bowl -- South Florida (7-5) vs. Northern Illinois (7-5)
We head north of the border to Toronto for a little post-New Year's action in the International Bowl. South Florida and Northern Illinois have identical records (7-5) and both lost its last two games. The Bulls won their first five games despite losing star quarterback Matt Grothe (torn ACL) in the third game of the season. However, they struggled in the second half behind freshman dual-threat quarterback B.J. Daniels. The Bulls defense is a strength of the team behind rush end and NFL prospect George Selvie. Northern Illinois led the MAC in rushing (202.4 ypg) thanks to running back Chad Spann, who totaled 19 rushing scores. The Huskies also played solid D and finished 27th in total defense (324.0 ypg). Both schools are 2-2 in their bowl history, but South Florida won its bowl game in 2008 while NIU lost.
Hurc's prediction: South Florida 35, Northern Illinois 23
Papajohns.com Bowl -- Connecticut (7-5) vs. South Carolina (7-5)
The fourth annual Papajohns.com Bowl will feature two teams going in opposite directions. Connecticut has won its last three games, while South Carolina limps into the bowl game losing four of its last six games. Hats off to UConn head coach Randy Edsall for rallying the troops after the tragic death of cornerback Jasper Howard. UConn might be in a better bowl game had it won some of its close losses. The Huskies lost all five games by four or fewer points. The Huskies rely heavily on the running back tandem of Jordan Todman and Andre Dixon, who combined for 2,119 yards and 27 touchdowns on the ground. South Carolina head coach Steve Spurrier returns to Legion Field where he had some epic SEC championship battles as coach of Florida. The ol' ball coach hasn't gotten SC to the level he got UF, but he is building momentum. He seems to have a confident quarterback in Stephen Garcia, a rising star in freshman receiver Alshon Jeffery and a top 15 defense.
Hurc's prediction: South Carolina 30, Connecticut 27
Cotton Bowl -- Oklahoma State (9-3) vs. Mississippi (8-4)
The 2010 Cotton Bowl features a pair of teams that underachieved in some regard this season. Ole Miss came into the year as the "it" team and potential contender for the national title. But the Rebels had some shocking losses to South Carolina and Auburn and couldn't contend with Alabama. Also, preseason Heisman contender Jevan Snead struggled all season, as evidenced by his 17 interceptions, and the talented Dexter McCluster didn't hit his stride until late. Ole Miss had another strong defensive showing despite losing Greg Hardy (wrist) and will look to defend its Cotton Bowl title after taking down Texas Tech in a high-scoring affair last season. Oklahoma State challenged Texas for the Big 12 South crown, but couldn't upset the Longhorns and then missed out on the BCS party after losing to Oklahoma in the season finale. Dual-threat quarterback Zac Robinson is recovered from a late-season concussion and running back Kendall Hunter is also playing after missing most of the year with an ankle injury. However, star receiver Dez Bryant remains suspended for this game.
Hurc's prediction: Ole Miss 27, Oklahoma State 23
Liberty Bowl -- East Carolina (9-4) vs. Arkansas (7-5)
The Liberty Bowl will be the first time East Carolina and Arkansas meet on the gridiron. However, East Carolina isn't afraid of a team from a big-time conference because it has won two of its last three games against SEC foes. The Pirates did lose to Kentucky, however, in last year's Liberty Bowl, so vengeance is on their mind. East Carolina won the C-USA crown for a second straight season after knocking off Houston in the conference title game. The Pirates are led by senior quarterback Patrick Pinkney, who has run the offense the last three seasons, and running back Dominique Lindsay, who broke 1,000 yards despite missing two games. They also have a defense allowing 22.1 points per game (39th). Arkansas has won four of its last five games and almost upset LSU in the season finale. Michigan transfer Ryan Mallett did very well in his first season under center for Arkansas and helped pass-happy Bobby Petrino finish with the 10th best passing offense (303.3 ypg). However, Arkansas is headed into the bowl game without running back Michael Smith (hamstring) and a defense allowing 401.8 yards per game (90th).
Hurc's prediction: East Carolina 37, Arkansas 34
Alamo Bowl -- Texas Tech (8-4) vs. Michigan State (6-6)
Fans were treated to an overtime thriller in the 2008 Alamo Bowl as Missouri squeaked past Northwestern, 30-23. Now, it is up to Texas Tech and Michigan State to deliver some dramatics. The Red Raiders, who contended for the Big 12 crown last season, sorely missed quarterback Graham Harrell and wide receiver Michael Crabtree. The problems started at quarterback where coach Mike Leach used the trio of Taylor Potts, Steven Sheffield and Seth Doege. Leach has settled on Potts to start against Michigan State after winning the last two games. Despite the QB carousel, Texas Tech finished with the second-best passing offense (380.7 ypg). Michigan State used the quarterback tandem of Kirk Cousins and Keith Nicol to replace the graduated Brian Hoyer, but the issues came at running back. The Spartans finished 79th in rushing (135.9 ypg) and struggled all season to replace the graduated Javon Ringer. The defense was also an issue, especially in the secondary, where they allowed 251.6 yards per game (103rd). The last four Alamo Bowls have been decided by seven points or less.
Hurc's prediction: Texas Tech 35, Michigan State 30
Fiesta Bowl -- TCU (12-0) vs. Boise State (13-0)
The Fiesta Bowl had an exciting conclusion last year as Texas quarterback Colt McCoy hit Quan Cosby for a 26-yard touchdown with 16 seconds left, and the Longhorns escaped with a 24-21 win against Ohio State. We could see similar fireworks in the 2010 Fiesta Bowl as it is a rematch of last season's Poinsettia Bowl, which featured TCU sweating out a 17-16 victory. Both teams were in contention to play in the national championship game, but the dominos didn't fall their way. Now, both of their undefeated records are on the line. TCU has the No. 1 ranked defense (233.3 ypg) and feature one of the nation's most exciting defenders in Jerry Hughes. They also have a veteran quarterback in Andy Dalton and a very exciting kick returner in Jeremy Kerley. The Broncos are once again WAC champions and a lot has to do with the top pass efficiency quarterback in the country, Kellen Moore. The lefty gunslinger threw 39 touchdowns to three interceptions. Helping him achieve those stats is a pair of talented receivers in Titus Young and Austin Pettis, who totaled 24 touchdowns. Boise State also has a stout defense, allowing less than 18 points per game.
Hurc's prediction: TCU 20, Boise State 13
Orange Bowl -- Georgia Tech (11-2) vs. Iowa (10-2)
Not a lot of hoopla is surrounding the 2010 Orange Bowl because many folks don't think Georgia Tech or Iowa play an exciting brand of football, but it's always these types of games that turn out to be the real thrillers. Analysts scoffed at the notion that Paul Johnson could bring his option offense to big-time college football and have success, but that's exactly what he has done in his first two seasons with the Yellow Jackets. Georgia Tech won its first outright ACC title since 1990. Josh Nesbitt has perfected running the option the last two seasons and Jonathan Dwyer is about as good a running back you are going to find. The key could be how Iowa plays standout receiver Demaryius Thomas, who is averaging 88.8 yards per game in a run-heavy scheme. The Hawkeyes could have been working toward an undefeated season had quarterback Ricky Stanzi not gone down with an ankle sprain, but the good news is that Stanzi will be back for the Orange Bowl. Iowa did miss the presence of Shonn Greene in its backfield, but got by with freshmen Adam Robinson and Brandon Wegher. Also, coordinator Norm Parker once again pieced together a top 10 defensive unit.
Hurc's prediction: Iowa 21, Georgia Tech 20
GMAC Bowl -- Central Michigan (11-2) vs. Troy (9-3)
The last bowl game before the national title is decided on Jan. 7 will feature the MAC champion, Central Michigan, and the Sun Belt champion, Troy. Not exactly a marquee matchup, but don't be fooled by the names. Both teams have very good offenses and this could be a shootout. Central Michigan quarterback Dan LeFevour is the NCAA career leader for touchdowns and one of the most exciting dual-threat quarterbacks in the country. But it wasn't entirely the LeFevour show in 2009. The Chippewas defense put on quite a show as well. They finished 14th in scoring defense (17.2 ppg). Troy isn't as good defensively (417.9 ypg), but they have a passing offense to keep pace with Central Michigan. Quarterback Levi Brown is one of the most decorated passers in school history and is second in the country in total offense (323.9 ypg). Troy went undefeated in conference play and only lost to Bowling Green, Florida and Arkansas.
Hurc's prediction: Central Michigan 42, Troy 28
BCS Title -- Alabama (13-0) vs. Texas (13-0)
This is the game we have waited for all season. The national championship is on the line as SEC champion Alabama squares off against Big 12 champ Texas. The SEC has won three straight national championships with the last non-SEC team being Texas in 2005. Longhorns quarterback Colt McCoy didn't win a Heisman in his illustrious career and is still looking to get out of the shadow of Vince Young, despite being the winningest quarterback in NCAA history. Across the field will be 2009 Heisman winner Mark Ingram. He became the first player in Crimson Tide history to take home the prestigious award. This is a pretty evenly matched game. Both teams are well-rounded on offense, defense and special teams. While Alabama's Javier Arenas and Texas' Jordan Shipley are great at what they do, neither player really gets enough credit for being a game changer as a punt returner. A big return from either of those two players could be the difference in what seems to be an evenly-matched affair.
Hurc's prediction: Texas 21, Alabama 17
1 p.m. ET
