For this interview I was able to contact Kent Brown.
Kent Brown is the Associate Athletic Director/Media Relations for the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. Below are the questions asked and his responses:
1. What are your responsibilities and how do these responsibilities integrate with marketing and business objectives for your organization and/or clients?
KB –“I direct the Athletics Communication office at the University of Illinois, coordinating all media-related activities for the UI Division of Intercollegiate Athletics. My office is the liaison between media and the Illinois teams, student-athletes, coaches and administrators. We also provide a vast majority of content for FIghtingIllini.com. Although we provide and work for “free” media, our staff works closely with our marketing and promotions staff in communicating messages to our fans and constituents. It is important that all of us who work in external groups are working together in helping drive revenue. The Athletics Communication office does not drive revenue, but we certainly help spread the word and help our fans stay engaged through various media outlets.”
2. What methods of communications does your organization use to reach their publics and how are they effective?
KB – “At Illinois, we use many different methods to communicate to our fans and constituents, including our website (FightingIllini.com), our social media accounts for the department and each sport, and traditional media outlets. Each is effective in its own way. Our website is visited by nearly 500,000 unique visitors each month, our social accounts are followed by nearly a quarter million people and fans, and the traditional media outlets (newspaper, radio, television outlets) can literally reach millions.”
3. What are some examples of communications strategies you have used to achieve success and what were the results?
KB – “A great example of social media use was the announcement that Lovie Smith would be the new Illinois football coach. Director of Athletics used a photo of himself with Lovie taken at the University of Illinois Memorial Stadium and sent it out via Twitter prior to the official press release. Word spread extremely fast as the posting was re-tweeted and shared hundreds, if not thousands, of times that morning.”
4. How has your public relations practice affected the reputation of your organization and/or clients?
KB – “I would like to think that my staff and department greatly enhances the reputation of the University of Illinois. We identify the positive stories of our student-athletes and programs, and distribute them to as many people as possible using all our different channels, including traditional and social media. We have developed positive relationships with media locally, regionally and nationally, to help get our story out. We all know that victories by our teams lead to more positive stories, but, as an elite institution of higher learning, we have tremendous stories to tell outside of the results on the field or court.”
Sunday, January 22, 2017
Saturday, December 17, 2016
Prediction for Every Bowl Game!
Oh yeah.. Here we go! No time to talk for this one! I did take the liberty of removing the naming rights from each bowl game when applicable because they are awful.
*Note for some reason, some teams color codes aren't sticking.. I apologize. Trust me, it bugs me more than it bugs you.
Dec. 17
Celebration Bowl
#16 (FCS) Grambling State (11-1) vs #20 (FCS) North Carolina Central (9-2)
Atlanta, GA
Line: N/A
I'd be lying if I told you I knew anything about either of these teams. Both are coming into the bowl game on hot streaks. Grambling State has only lost one game all year and that was to a FBS Power 5 Conference opponent. Tigers win 35-27.
New Mexico Bowl
New Mexico (8-4) vs UTSA (6-6)
Albuquerque, NM
Line: New Mexico -8
New Mexico wins 42-20.
Las Vegas Bowl
Houston (9-3) vs San Diego State (10-3)
Las Vegas, NV
Line: Houston -4
Houston was the G5 preseason darling which they backed up with the win over Oklahoma early on. But they crumbled down the stretch and now who knows what Houston team we will see in this bowl game they probably aren't too fond to be at given their early season expectations. The line of -4 is a sucker bet for all those people voting on the Houston they saw in September but this aint September. San Diego State wins 38-24.
Camellia Bowl
Appalachian State (9-3) vs Toledo (9-3)
Montgomery, AL
Line: EVEN
I really like Toledo. I don't really have any other reasoning for this one. I saw a few Toledo games and liked what I saw. Rockets win 31-28.
Cure Bowl
UCF (6-6) vs Arkansas State (7-5)
Orlando, FL
Line: UCF -7
Arkansas State has won 7 of their last 8 to get here while UCF has well, not. But UCF has too much talent for a Sun Belt team.. I think. Knights win 41-17.
New Orleans Bowl
Southern Mississippi (6-6) vs Louisiana Lafayette (6-6)
New Orleans, LA
Line: Southern Miss -6
I'd rather not. When in doubt I'll take the team closer to home. The Ragin' Cajuns pick up the win 24-21.
Dec. 19
Miami Beach Bowl
Central Michigan (6-6) vs Tulsa (9-3)
Miami, FL
Line: Tulsa -13
Tulsa wins 34-13.
Dec. 20
Boca Raton Bowl
Memphis (8-4) vs Western Kentucky (10-3)
Boca Raton, FL
Line: WKU -5
I believe this game will be one of the better ones this bowl season. Two great offenses clash here. I think Western Kentucky pulls it out in a close one. Hilltoppers win 48-45.
Dec. 21
Poinsettia Bowl
BYU (8-4) vs Wyoming (8-5)
San Diego, CA
Line: BYU -9
I think this game is a pretty nice match up that will be closer than some think. While the line indicates an easy BYU win I wouldn't be surprised to see this one come down to the final drive. Ultimately I see BYU pulling it out. Cougars win 31-28.
Dec. 22
Idaho Potato Bowl
Idaho (8-4) vs Colorado State (7-5)
Boise, ID
Line: Colorado State -14
Idaho started the year by unprecedentedly announcing their decision to drop to the FCS in the near future. They then followed it up with their first winning season in over 5 years and their 2nd in 16. They are now on to their 3rd ever bowl game and are 2-0 in bowl games currently.. Perhaps they are regretting that FCS decision.. But Colorado State reminds them maybe it's not a bad idea after all. Rams win 52-14.
Dec. 23
Bahamas Bowl
Eastern Michigan (7-5) vs Old Dominion (9-3)
Eastern Michigan makes their first bowl game in over 20 years with their first winning season in that same time span. They play ODU who are appearing in their first bowl game since joining the FBS a couple years ago. These teams have met in both 2014 and 2015 with ODU winning both but I think EMU pulls through to finish off their Cinderella season in style. Eagles win 35-31.
Armed Forces Bowl
Louisiana Tech (8-5) vs #25 Navy (9-4)
Fort Worth, TX
Line: LA Tech -6
Louisiana Tech takes advantage of a beat up Navy team who can't believe they lost to Army for the first time in 15 years. Bulldogs win 27-10.
Dollar General Bowl
Ohio (8-5) vs Troy (9-3)
Mobile, AL
Line: Troy -4
Ohio had a pretty solid season and were last seen giving Western Michigan their toughest challenge of the year, yet. Meanwhile Troy simmered off rather quickly to end the year a tad bit disappointingly dropping 2 of their last 3. This game should be pretty good but it is played right in Troy's backyard. Trojans win 17-13.
Dec. 24
Hawai'i Bowl
Hawai'i (6-7) vs Middle Tennessee State (8-4)
Honolulu, HI
Line: N/A
Hawaii sneaks into a bowl game with a win in their extra regular season game to end the year. Everything on paper points to MTSU winning this pretty easily but perhaps the week in Hawaii and the traveling allows Hawaii to give MTSU and everyone at home on what should be a cozy Christmas Eve night a great shot. MTSU should pull it off, however. Blue Raiders win 48-42.
Dec. 26
St. Petersburg Bowl
Miami (OH) (6-6) vs Mississippi State (5-7)
Saint Petersburg, FL
Line: Miss St. -13.5
Bulldogs win 42-28.
Quick Lane Bowl
Maryland (6-6) vs Boston College (6-6)
Detroit, MI
Line: Maryland -1
This one could go either way. I think the Terrapins win it 28-24.
Independence Bowl
North Carolina State (6-6) vs Vanderbilt (6-6)
Shreveport, LA
Line: NC State -4
This is a pretty good match-up. Wolf Pack win 26-23.
Dec. 27
Heart of Dallas Bowl
Army (7-5) vs North Texas (5-7)
Dallas, TX
Line: Army -10
I always forget North Texas exists. Army wins 24-10.
Military Bowl
#24 Temple (10-3) vs Wake Forest (6-6)
Annapolis, MD
Line: Temple -11.5
Temple would win this game with or without receiving game plans from Wake Forest. Temple wins 38-20.
Holiday Bowl
Minnesota (8-4), Northern Illinois (5-7) or University of San Diego (10-2) FCS vs Washington State (8-4)
San Diego, CA
Line: WSU -7.5
Washington State probably takes care of any of their 3 opponents. Cougars win 41-24.
Cactus Bowl
Boise State (10-2) vs Baylor (6-6)
Phoenix, AZ
Line: Boise State -7.5
Baylor wins 45-42.
Dec. 28
Pinstripe Bowl
#23 Pittsburgh(8-4) vs Northwestern (6-6)
New York, NY
Line: Pittsburgh -5.5
This is an interesting match-up that could have either team win and it wouldn't surprise me. It also wouldn't surprise me to see Pitt win big. I think Northwestern hangs around, though. Panthers win 34-28.
Russell Athletic Bowl
#16 West Virginia (10-2) vs Miami (8-4)
Orlando, FL
Line: Miami -3
Miami will do what they always do against WVU. Hurricanes win 31-24.
Foster Farms Bowl
Indiana (6-6) vs #19 Utah (8-4)
Santa Clara, CA
Line:Utah -7.5
Not a big fan of this match-up. Perhaps Indiana catches Utah at a game they're not too interested in playing in or perhaps the Utes win 34-7.
Texas Bowl
Texas A&M (8-4) vs Kansas State (8-4)
Houston, TX
Line: Texas A&M -2
Former conference foes meet up and I think KSU gives the Aggies all they can handle and then some. Wildcats win 35-34.
Dec. 29
Birmingham Bowl
South Florida (10-2) vs South Carolina (6-6)
Birmingham, AL
Line: USF -10.5
USF are substantial favorites over an SEC team which may seem wrong.. But it's so right. Bulls win 31-20
Belk Bowl
Arkansas (7-5) vs #22 Virginia Tech (9-4)
Charlotte, NC
Line: VT -7
This game seems like a decent matchup that may be a bit closer than the line indicates. Hokies win 24-20.
Alamo Bowl
#12 Oklahoma Sate (9-3) vs #10 Colorado (10-3)
San Antonio, TX
Line: Colorado -3
The first top 25 meeting of the Bowl season should be a great one. Former conference foes meet and Colorado pulls it out. Buffs win 38-34.
Dec. 30
Liberty Bowl
Georgia (7-5) vs TCU (6-6)
Memphis, TN
Line: Georgia -1
Georgia/TCU does not appear to be a great match-up at face value but these teams stack up well as represented in the spread. I like UGA's chances and they pull away late.. Bulldogs win 49-35.
Sun Bowl
#18 Stanford (9-3) vs North Carolina (8-4)
El Paso, TX
Line: Stanford -3.5
Stanford seemed to come on late after a disappointing start and I think they finish the season on a winning note against a tough UNC team. Cardinal wins 20-16.
Music City Bowl
Nebraska (9-3) vs #21 Tennessee (8-4)
Nashville, TN
Line: Tennessee -3
This game seems like a toss-up. Nebraska beat up nobody's and were outclassed by every good team they played. Tennessee played down to just about everyone and seemingly needed a second half comeback to win all 8 games that they won regardless of opponent. This game is also IN Tennnessee.. Cornhuskers win 34-27.
Arizona Bowl
South Alabama (6-6) vs Air Force (9-3)
Tuscon, AZ
Line: Air Force -13
If anyone is playing a 6-6 Sun Belt team, I like "anyone"'s chances. Falcons win 34-26.
Orange Bowl
#6 Michigan (10-2) vs #11 Florida State (9-3)
Miami, FL
Line: Michigan -7
I think this is the best non-playoff game there is. Michigan's DC Don Brown was Boston College's DC the last few years and he shut down the Seminoles with a much much less talented defense. Michigan shut down OSU on defense. (Allowed only 2 drives of over 50yds which resulted in a total of 3 points). Also, Michigan's strength (the DLine) goes directly against FSU's biggest weakness (OLine). Oh, FSU sucks at kick coverage as well and have to try and contain Peppers in that aspect. FSU also gave up more points to Louisville alone than Michigan did in their first 7 conference games combined. FSU has allowed opponents to score 30+ points 5 different times while Michigan did it once and that was an even 30 in double OT against Ohio State where turnovers spotted OSU 14 points. You can counter that by saying "BUT FSU HAS SCORED 40+ 5 TIMES!" Well, Michigan has done that 7 times this year. FSU has trailed at halftime 6 times.. Michigan has once and that was to Indiana without their starting QB and they came back to win, anyway. Factor in Michigan's anger and "something to prove" mentality with how their regular season ended, being loaded with draft picks and seniors?? The game is in FL though.. Where Michigan sold out it's 15,000 ticket allotment in hours and in the heart of Canes and Gator country.. Wolverines win 49-17.
Dec. 31
Citrus Bowl
#20 LSU (7-4) vs #13 Louisville (9-3)
Orlando, FL
Line: LSU -3.5
This one is interesting. Louisville is without their offensive coordinator and LSU is without Leonard Fournette. LSU came on strong after firing Les Miles and kept Alabama's offense in check. Meanwhile Louisville has dropped some games late in the season. Louisville arguably has a more explosive offense than Alabama (in terms of point scoring anyway) with the latest Heisman winner QB Lamar Jackson in hand.. I think LSU plays inspired ball and leaves with the win. Tigers win 34-30.
Taxslayer Bowl
Georgia Tech (8-4) vs Kentucky (8-5)
Jacksonville, FL
Line: GT -3.5
If for some reason you watch this over the Citrus Bowl, you'll see the Wildcats win 27-21.
Peach Bowl
#4 Washington (12-1) vs #1 Alabama (13-0)
Atlanta, GA
Line: Alabama -14.5
Now.. This one is supposed to get ugly. All the experts agree. Look at the spread! For a 1 vs 4? When everyone is calling for a rout, usually the complete opposite happens. The Huskies are probably the best offense Alabama has played (USC perhaps but they were awful to start the season). Washington on the other hand is pretty much over matched at most positions. I don't think the Huskies win but I do think they put up a better fight than Michigan State did in this position last year although the game will never really be in doubt for Alabama. The Tide roll 45-33.
Fiesta Bowl
#3 Ohio State (11-1) vs #2 Clemson (12-1)
Glendale, AZ
Line: Ohio State -3.5
Now this should be a good one. Clemson has played down to multiple opponents at home where they should have blown the doors off those teams. Ohio State has also played down to teams like Michigan State and Northwestern while losing to Penn State. I don't think Ohio State is as big of a machine as they're portrayed to be this season especially with the number of young talent on the roster. Michigan's defense is better than Clemson's but not by too much and J.T. Barrett and the Buckeyes offense could do next to nothing against them in regulation. Clemson also has an experiences and healthy QB that can also run. Something Michigan did not. Clemson also has a better offense than Michigan which had Michigan not turned the ball over 3 times and been able to pick up a few first downs in the 4th quarter, they would be the team playing Clemson right now. I think the experience and great offense of Clemson comes through. Tigers win 31-24.
Jan. 2
Outback Bowl
#17 Florida (8-4) vs Iowa (8-4)
Tampa, FL
Line: Florida -2.5
Iowa has finished the season strong while Florida always seems to putz around in bowl games.. Florida is also not as good as the polls would like you to believe. Neither is Iowa but at least they're playing like it currently. Florida has lost their last 2 and both in convincing fashion. Hawkeyes win 17-14.
Cotton Bowl
#15 Western Michigan (13-0) vs #8 Wisconsin (10-3)
Arlington, TX
Line: Wisconsin -7.5
The ultimate trap game. You never want to be the team playing the G5 team in the New Years Six bowl game. You win and it's what you're supposed to do, you lose and you never live it down. Western Michigan has been rowing the boat dating back to last year and they are primed to capture a major bowl win. Wisconsin looks to recover from their bitter loss to Penn State in the Big Ten Championship but may be slow out of the gates. Corey Davis and the Broncos give the Badgers all they want and more.. But I got to go with talent in the end. Badgers pull it out, 24-23.
Rose Bowl
#9 USC (9-3) vs #5 Penn State (11-2)
Pasadena, CA
Line: USC -6.5
This line isn't big enough. USC is arguably a top 4 team given how they've played to close the season. The same could be said about Penn State after their win over Ohio State but the best opponent they played since then was Wisconsin who has lost to every decent team they played in conference (Nebraska the only exception). Even on a neutral field I hate Penn State's chances and this is going to be a pro USC crowd. Penn State has lost at Pittsburgh and were destroyed at Michigan. The road wins they can hang their hat on are at Indiana, at Purdue and at Rutgers. Not really quality. Two teams no one expected here even a month into the season somehow find themselves here. Trojans win 45-20.
Sugar Bowl
#14 Auburn (8-4) vs #7 Oklahoma (10-2)
New Orleans, LA
Line: Oklahoma -3
I'm sorry but this game has snoozer written all over it for me. I hope I am wrong but this just seems like a very uninteresting NY6 bowl. At least the Cotton Bowl has the underdog aspect to it. Sooners win I guess, 42-38.
Jan. 9
National Championship Game
#2 Clemson (13-1) vs #1 Alabama (14-0)
Tampa, FL
Line: N/A
This is my predicted championship game. A rematch from last year. I won't get too much into a game that may not even happen but I think Bama does it yet again. -yawn-. Crimson Tide are Champions again after winning 31-28.
*Note for some reason, some teams color codes aren't sticking.. I apologize. Trust me, it bugs me more than it bugs you.
Dec. 17
Celebration Bowl
#16 (FCS) Grambling State (11-1) vs #20 (FCS) North Carolina Central (9-2)
Time: 12:00pm EST
TV: ABCAtlanta, GA
Line: N/A
I'd be lying if I told you I knew anything about either of these teams. Both are coming into the bowl game on hot streaks. Grambling State has only lost one game all year and that was to a FBS Power 5 Conference opponent. Tigers win 35-27.
New Mexico Bowl
New Mexico (8-4) vs UTSA (6-6)
Time: 2:00pm EST
TV: ESPNAlbuquerque, NM
Line: New Mexico -8
New Mexico wins 42-20.
Las Vegas Bowl
Houston (9-3) vs San Diego State (10-3)
Time: 3:30pm EST
TV: ABCLas Vegas, NV
Line: Houston -4
Houston was the G5 preseason darling which they backed up with the win over Oklahoma early on. But they crumbled down the stretch and now who knows what Houston team we will see in this bowl game they probably aren't too fond to be at given their early season expectations. The line of -4 is a sucker bet for all those people voting on the Houston they saw in September but this aint September. San Diego State wins 38-24.
Camellia Bowl
Appalachian State (9-3) vs Toledo (9-3)
Time: 5:30pm EST
TV: ESPNMontgomery, AL
Line: EVEN
I really like Toledo. I don't really have any other reasoning for this one. I saw a few Toledo games and liked what I saw. Rockets win 31-28.
Cure Bowl
UCF (6-6) vs Arkansas State (7-5)
Time: 5:30pm EST
TV: CBSSNOrlando, FL
Line: UCF -7
Arkansas State has won 7 of their last 8 to get here while UCF has well, not. But UCF has too much talent for a Sun Belt team.. I think. Knights win 41-17.
New Orleans Bowl
Southern Mississippi (6-6) vs Louisiana Lafayette (6-6)
Time: 9:00pm EST
TV: ESPNNew Orleans, LA
Line: Southern Miss -6
I'd rather not. When in doubt I'll take the team closer to home. The Ragin' Cajuns pick up the win 24-21.
Dec. 19
Miami Beach Bowl
Central Michigan (6-6) vs Tulsa (9-3)
Time: 2:30pm EST
TV: ESPNMiami, FL
Line: Tulsa -13
Tulsa wins 34-13.
Dec. 20
Boca Raton Bowl
Memphis (8-4) vs Western Kentucky (10-3)
Time: 7:00pm EST
TV: ESPNBoca Raton, FL
Line: WKU -5
I believe this game will be one of the better ones this bowl season. Two great offenses clash here. I think Western Kentucky pulls it out in a close one. Hilltoppers win 48-45.
Dec. 21
Poinsettia Bowl
BYU (8-4) vs Wyoming (8-5)
Time: 9:00pm EST
TV: ESPNSan Diego, CA
Line: BYU -9
I think this game is a pretty nice match up that will be closer than some think. While the line indicates an easy BYU win I wouldn't be surprised to see this one come down to the final drive. Ultimately I see BYU pulling it out. Cougars win 31-28.
Dec. 22
Idaho Potato Bowl
Idaho (8-4) vs Colorado State (7-5)
Time: 7:00pm EST
TV: ESPNBoise, ID
Line: Colorado State -14
Idaho started the year by unprecedentedly announcing their decision to drop to the FCS in the near future. They then followed it up with their first winning season in over 5 years and their 2nd in 16. They are now on to their 3rd ever bowl game and are 2-0 in bowl games currently.. Perhaps they are regretting that FCS decision.. But Colorado State reminds them maybe it's not a bad idea after all. Rams win 52-14.
Dec. 23
Bahamas Bowl
Eastern Michigan (7-5) vs Old Dominion (9-3)
Time: 1:00pm EST
TV: ESPN
Nassau, Bahamas
Line: Old Dominion -4Eastern Michigan makes their first bowl game in over 20 years with their first winning season in that same time span. They play ODU who are appearing in their first bowl game since joining the FBS a couple years ago. These teams have met in both 2014 and 2015 with ODU winning both but I think EMU pulls through to finish off their Cinderella season in style. Eagles win 35-31.
Armed Forces Bowl
Louisiana Tech (8-5) vs #25 Navy (9-4)
Time: 4:30pm EST
TV: ESPNFort Worth, TX
Line: LA Tech -6
Louisiana Tech takes advantage of a beat up Navy team who can't believe they lost to Army for the first time in 15 years. Bulldogs win 27-10.
Dollar General Bowl
Ohio (8-5) vs Troy (9-3)
Time: 8:00pm EST
TV: ESPNMobile, AL
Line: Troy -4
Ohio had a pretty solid season and were last seen giving Western Michigan their toughest challenge of the year, yet. Meanwhile Troy simmered off rather quickly to end the year a tad bit disappointingly dropping 2 of their last 3. This game should be pretty good but it is played right in Troy's backyard. Trojans win 17-13.
Dec. 24
Hawai'i Bowl
Hawai'i (6-7) vs Middle Tennessee State (8-4)
Time: 8:00pm EST
TV: ESPNHonolulu, HI
Line: N/A
Hawaii sneaks into a bowl game with a win in their extra regular season game to end the year. Everything on paper points to MTSU winning this pretty easily but perhaps the week in Hawaii and the traveling allows Hawaii to give MTSU and everyone at home on what should be a cozy Christmas Eve night a great shot. MTSU should pull it off, however. Blue Raiders win 48-42.
Dec. 26
St. Petersburg Bowl
Miami (OH) (6-6) vs Mississippi State (5-7)
Time: 11:00am EST
TV: ESPNSaint Petersburg, FL
Line: Miss St. -13.5
Bulldogs win 42-28.
Quick Lane Bowl
Maryland (6-6) vs Boston College (6-6)
Time: 2:30pm EST
TV: ESPNDetroit, MI
Line: Maryland -1
This one could go either way. I think the Terrapins win it 28-24.
Independence Bowl
North Carolina State (6-6) vs Vanderbilt (6-6)
Time: 5:00pm EST
TV: ESPN2Shreveport, LA
Line: NC State -4
This is a pretty good match-up. Wolf Pack win 26-23.
Dec. 27
Heart of Dallas Bowl
Army (7-5) vs North Texas (5-7)
Time: 12:00pm EST
TV: ESPNDallas, TX
Line: Army -10
I always forget North Texas exists. Army wins 24-10.
Military Bowl
#24 Temple (10-3) vs Wake Forest (6-6)
Time: 3:30pm EST
TV: ESPNAnnapolis, MD
Line: Temple -11.5
Temple would win this game with or without receiving game plans from Wake Forest. Temple wins 38-20.
Holiday Bowl
Minnesota (8-4), Northern Illinois (5-7) or University of San Diego (10-2) FCS vs Washington State (8-4)
Time: 7:00pm EST
TV: ESPNSan Diego, CA
Line: WSU -7.5
Washington State probably takes care of any of their 3 opponents. Cougars win 41-24.
Cactus Bowl
Boise State (10-2) vs Baylor (6-6)
Time: 10:15pm EST
TV: ESPNPhoenix, AZ
Line: Boise State -7.5
Baylor wins 45-42.
Dec. 28
Pinstripe Bowl
#23 Pittsburgh(8-4) vs Northwestern (6-6)
Time: 2:00pm EST
TV: ESPNNew York, NY
Line: Pittsburgh -5.5
This is an interesting match-up that could have either team win and it wouldn't surprise me. It also wouldn't surprise me to see Pitt win big. I think Northwestern hangs around, though. Panthers win 34-28.
Russell Athletic Bowl
#16 West Virginia (10-2) vs Miami (8-4)
Time: 5:30pm EST
TV: ESPNOrlando, FL
Line: Miami -3
Miami will do what they always do against WVU. Hurricanes win 31-24.
Foster Farms Bowl
Indiana (6-6) vs #19 Utah (8-4)
Time: 8:30pm EST
TV: FOXSanta Clara, CA
Line:Utah -7.5
Not a big fan of this match-up. Perhaps Indiana catches Utah at a game they're not too interested in playing in or perhaps the Utes win 34-7.
Texas Bowl
Texas A&M (8-4) vs Kansas State (8-4)
Time: 9:00pm EST
TV: ESPNHouston, TX
Line: Texas A&M -2
Former conference foes meet up and I think KSU gives the Aggies all they can handle and then some. Wildcats win 35-34.
Dec. 29
Birmingham Bowl
South Florida (10-2) vs South Carolina (6-6)
Time: 2:00pm EST
TV: ESPNBirmingham, AL
Line: USF -10.5
USF are substantial favorites over an SEC team which may seem wrong.. But it's so right. Bulls win 31-20
Belk Bowl
Arkansas (7-5) vs #22 Virginia Tech (9-4)
Time: 5:30pm EST
TV: ESPNCharlotte, NC
Line: VT -7
This game seems like a decent matchup that may be a bit closer than the line indicates. Hokies win 24-20.
Alamo Bowl
#12 Oklahoma Sate (9-3) vs #10 Colorado (10-3)
Time: 9:00pm EST
TV: ESPNSan Antonio, TX
Line: Colorado -3
The first top 25 meeting of the Bowl season should be a great one. Former conference foes meet and Colorado pulls it out. Buffs win 38-34.
Dec. 30
Liberty Bowl
Georgia (7-5) vs TCU (6-6)
Time: 12:00pm EST
TV: ESPNMemphis, TN
Line: Georgia -1
Georgia/TCU does not appear to be a great match-up at face value but these teams stack up well as represented in the spread. I like UGA's chances and they pull away late.. Bulldogs win 49-35.
Sun Bowl
#18 Stanford (9-3) vs North Carolina (8-4)
Time: 2:00pm EST
TV: CBSEl Paso, TX
Line: Stanford -3.5
Stanford seemed to come on late after a disappointing start and I think they finish the season on a winning note against a tough UNC team. Cardinal wins 20-16.
Music City Bowl
Nebraska (9-3) vs #21 Tennessee (8-4)
Time: 3:30pm EST
TV: ESPNNashville, TN
Line: Tennessee -3
This game seems like a toss-up. Nebraska beat up nobody's and were outclassed by every good team they played. Tennessee played down to just about everyone and seemingly needed a second half comeback to win all 8 games that they won regardless of opponent. This game is also IN Tennnessee.. Cornhuskers win 34-27.
Arizona Bowl
South Alabama (6-6) vs Air Force (9-3)
Time: 5:30pm EST
TV: ASNTuscon, AZ
Line: Air Force -13
If anyone is playing a 6-6 Sun Belt team, I like "anyone"'s chances. Falcons win 34-26.
Orange Bowl
#6 Michigan (10-2) vs #11 Florida State (9-3)
Time: 8:00pm EST
TV: ESPNMiami, FL
Line: Michigan -7
I think this is the best non-playoff game there is. Michigan's DC Don Brown was Boston College's DC the last few years and he shut down the Seminoles with a much much less talented defense. Michigan shut down OSU on defense. (Allowed only 2 drives of over 50yds which resulted in a total of 3 points). Also, Michigan's strength (the DLine) goes directly against FSU's biggest weakness (OLine). Oh, FSU sucks at kick coverage as well and have to try and contain Peppers in that aspect. FSU also gave up more points to Louisville alone than Michigan did in their first 7 conference games combined. FSU has allowed opponents to score 30+ points 5 different times while Michigan did it once and that was an even 30 in double OT against Ohio State where turnovers spotted OSU 14 points. You can counter that by saying "BUT FSU HAS SCORED 40+ 5 TIMES!" Well, Michigan has done that 7 times this year. FSU has trailed at halftime 6 times.. Michigan has once and that was to Indiana without their starting QB and they came back to win, anyway. Factor in Michigan's anger and "something to prove" mentality with how their regular season ended, being loaded with draft picks and seniors?? The game is in FL though.. Where Michigan sold out it's 15,000 ticket allotment in hours and in the heart of Canes and Gator country.. Wolverines win 49-17.
Dec. 31
Citrus Bowl
#20 LSU (7-4) vs #13 Louisville (9-3)
Time: 11:00am EST
TV: ABCOrlando, FL
Line: LSU -3.5
This one is interesting. Louisville is without their offensive coordinator and LSU is without Leonard Fournette. LSU came on strong after firing Les Miles and kept Alabama's offense in check. Meanwhile Louisville has dropped some games late in the season. Louisville arguably has a more explosive offense than Alabama (in terms of point scoring anyway) with the latest Heisman winner QB Lamar Jackson in hand.. I think LSU plays inspired ball and leaves with the win. Tigers win 34-30.
Taxslayer Bowl
Georgia Tech (8-4) vs Kentucky (8-5)
Time: 11:00am EST
TV: ESPNJacksonville, FL
Line: GT -3.5
If for some reason you watch this over the Citrus Bowl, you'll see the Wildcats win 27-21.
Peach Bowl
#4 Washington (12-1) vs #1 Alabama (13-0)
Time: 3:00pm EST
TV: ESPNAtlanta, GA
Line: Alabama -14.5
Now.. This one is supposed to get ugly. All the experts agree. Look at the spread! For a 1 vs 4? When everyone is calling for a rout, usually the complete opposite happens. The Huskies are probably the best offense Alabama has played (USC perhaps but they were awful to start the season). Washington on the other hand is pretty much over matched at most positions. I don't think the Huskies win but I do think they put up a better fight than Michigan State did in this position last year although the game will never really be in doubt for Alabama. The Tide roll 45-33.
Fiesta Bowl
#3 Ohio State (11-1) vs #2 Clemson (12-1)
Time: 7:00pm EST
TV: ESPNGlendale, AZ
Line: Ohio State -3.5
Now this should be a good one. Clemson has played down to multiple opponents at home where they should have blown the doors off those teams. Ohio State has also played down to teams like Michigan State and Northwestern while losing to Penn State. I don't think Ohio State is as big of a machine as they're portrayed to be this season especially with the number of young talent on the roster. Michigan's defense is better than Clemson's but not by too much and J.T. Barrett and the Buckeyes offense could do next to nothing against them in regulation. Clemson also has an experiences and healthy QB that can also run. Something Michigan did not. Clemson also has a better offense than Michigan which had Michigan not turned the ball over 3 times and been able to pick up a few first downs in the 4th quarter, they would be the team playing Clemson right now. I think the experience and great offense of Clemson comes through. Tigers win 31-24.
Jan. 2
Outback Bowl
#17 Florida (8-4) vs Iowa (8-4)
Time: 1:00pm EST
TV: ABCTampa, FL
Line: Florida -2.5
Iowa has finished the season strong while Florida always seems to putz around in bowl games.. Florida is also not as good as the polls would like you to believe. Neither is Iowa but at least they're playing like it currently. Florida has lost their last 2 and both in convincing fashion. Hawkeyes win 17-14.
Cotton Bowl
#15 Western Michigan (13-0) vs #8 Wisconsin (10-3)
Time: 1:00pm EST
TV: ESPNArlington, TX
Line: Wisconsin -7.5
The ultimate trap game. You never want to be the team playing the G5 team in the New Years Six bowl game. You win and it's what you're supposed to do, you lose and you never live it down. Western Michigan has been rowing the boat dating back to last year and they are primed to capture a major bowl win. Wisconsin looks to recover from their bitter loss to Penn State in the Big Ten Championship but may be slow out of the gates. Corey Davis and the Broncos give the Badgers all they want and more.. But I got to go with talent in the end. Badgers pull it out, 24-23.
Rose Bowl
#9 USC (9-3) vs #5 Penn State (11-2)
Time: 5:00pm EST
TV: ESPNPasadena, CA
Line: USC -6.5
This line isn't big enough. USC is arguably a top 4 team given how they've played to close the season. The same could be said about Penn State after their win over Ohio State but the best opponent they played since then was Wisconsin who has lost to every decent team they played in conference (Nebraska the only exception). Even on a neutral field I hate Penn State's chances and this is going to be a pro USC crowd. Penn State has lost at Pittsburgh and were destroyed at Michigan. The road wins they can hang their hat on are at Indiana, at Purdue and at Rutgers. Not really quality. Two teams no one expected here even a month into the season somehow find themselves here. Trojans win 45-20.
Sugar Bowl
#14 Auburn (8-4) vs #7 Oklahoma (10-2)
Time: 8:30pm EST
TV: ESPNNew Orleans, LA
Line: Oklahoma -3
I'm sorry but this game has snoozer written all over it for me. I hope I am wrong but this just seems like a very uninteresting NY6 bowl. At least the Cotton Bowl has the underdog aspect to it. Sooners win I guess, 42-38.
Jan. 9
National Championship Game
#2 Clemson (13-1) vs #1 Alabama (14-0)
Time: 8:00pm EST
TV: ESPNTampa, FL
Line: N/A
This is my predicted championship game. A rematch from last year. I won't get too much into a game that may not even happen but I think Bama does it yet again. -yawn-. Crimson Tide are Champions again after winning 31-28.
Saturday, November 19, 2016
College Football Top 25 Predictions - Week 12
If you haven't already please enter into our contest where you simply guess the Sunday Night Football score and could win a $5 Amazon Gift Card. It's simple! Click here for complete details: http://fourthand5.blogspot.com/2016/11/guess-sunday-night-football-score.html
#2 Ohio State (9-1) at Michigan State (3-7)
Time: 12:00pm EST
TV: ESPN
Line: Ohio State -21.5
Michigan State seemingly always rises to the occasion against Ohio State beating them 3 out of their last 5 meetings and all in big time games. Yet oddly enough haven't actually beaten Ohio State at home since 1999. Despite MSU finally showing life that drought of home losses to OSU continues. Ohio State wins 38-13 due to the subpar conditions keeping this game on the ground for the most part.
#7 Wisconsin (8-2) at Purdue (3-7)
Time: 12:00pm EST
TV: ABC
Line: Wisconsin -28
I think it's safe to say Wisconsin wins and keeps their playoff hopes alive. 34-6.
#11 Oklahoma State (8-2) at TCU (5-4)
Time: 12:00pm EST
TV: FS1
Line: TCU -6.5
Meh. TCU wins 58-55.
Maryland (5-5) at #18 Nebraska (8-2)
Time: 12:00pm EST
TV: ESPNN
Line: Nebraska -13
If Nebraska wins a game but no one is around to watch it, does it make a noise? Not really. 34-13 Big Red.
UTSA (5-5) at #25 Texas A&M (7-3)
Time: 12:00pm EST
TV: ESPNU
Line: Texas A&M -27.5
It's SEC showcase week! Tune in to see all the SEC v FCS or borderline FBS games. There's always one that actually goes down to the wire.. A&M has lost 3/4 since being hillariously ranked #4 in the first College Football Playoff ranking. Their free fall continues. University of Texas - San Antonio Roadrunners 28, Aggies 26.
#23 Florida (7-2) at #16 LSU (6-3)
Time: 1:00pm EST
TV: SECN
Line: LSU -14
SEC is a crapshoot This is the rescheduled game from earlier in the year that was supposed to be in Gainesville. LSU should win but Florida pulls it off,
24-20.
Oregon (3-7) at #12 Utah (8-2)
Time: 2:00pm EST
TV: Nope
Line: Utah -14.5
Oregon is bad. Utah wins 52-24.
Indiana (5-5) at #3 Michigan (9-1)
Time: 3:30pm EST
TV: ESPN
Line: Michigan -24.5
Michigan is without starting QB Wilton Speight, coming off of a loss and in cold, windy and wet conditions.. Michigan wins 28-10.
#22 Washington State (8-2) at #10 Colorado (8-2)
Time: 3:30pm EST
TV: FOX
Line: Colorado -5.5
One of 3 top 25 matchups this weekend. Colorado plays its first meaningful home game in years.. But it will be the Cougars who win it. 31-27 Washington State.
#17 Florida State (7-3) at Syracuse (4-6)
Time: 3:30pm EST
TV: ABC
Line: Florida State -21.5
The Orange will come to play today.. and they'll lose. Florida State 58-17.
Missouri (3-7) at #19 Tennessee (7-3)
Time: 3:30pm EST
TV: CBS
Line: Tennessee -17
Tennessee has played down to everyone it has played. Tennessee wins 34-28.
Buffalo (2-8) at #21 Western Michigan (10-0)
Time: 3:30pm EST
TV: ESPNU
Line: Western Michigan -34.5
Western Michigan doesn't get enough respect. Broncos roll 45-3.
#24 Stanford (7-3) at California (4-6)
Time: 5:30pm EST
TV: Pac-12 Network
Line: Stanford -11
Stanford crawled its way into the top 25. It won't last long. California wins 41-34.
Chattanooga (8-2 FCS) at #1 Alabama (10-0)
Time: 7:00pm EST
TV: ESPN2
Line: Alabama -100
Good luck in the FCS playoffs, Mocs. Bama sits its starters after 1 quarter and coast to a 71-10 win.
#4 Clemson (9-1) at Wake Forest (6-4)
Time: 7:00pm EST
TV: ESPN
Line: Clemson -23.5
Clemson has it all wrapped up. Tigers win 41-17.
Arizona State (5-5) at #6 Washington (9-1)
Time: 7:30pm EST
TV: FOX
Line: Washington -27.5
Washington has a chance to right their wrongs from last week. They will. Washington wins 55-20.
Alabama A&M (4-6 FCS) at #15 Auburn (7-3)
Time: 7:30pm EST
TV: SECN
Line:N/A
Auburn wins and the crowd goes mild. 56-6.
#8 Penn State (8-2) at Rutgers (2-9)
Time: 8:00pm EST
TV: BTN
Line: Penn State -27
Rutgers really hates Penn State while Penn State doesn't really care about Rutgers. A lot of people don't really think Penn State is legit either while Rutgers would love nothing more than to eliminate them from playoff contention (assuming Michigan and Ohio State win earlier in the day)... That said it will all be for not. Penn State wins 58-14.
#9 Oklahoma (8-2) at #14 West Virginia (8-1)
Time: 8:00pm EST
TV: ABC
Line: Oklahoma -3.5
This game will go a long way in determining the Big 12 champion.. And no one cares because the entire conference is crap and can't play defense. Brutal games to watch. West Virginia wins 55-49.
#13 USC (7-3) at UCLA (4-6)
Time: 10:30pm EST
TV: ESPN
Line: USC -13.5
This is the perfect night cap as it will put you to sleep. USC wins 34-13.
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