THE GOLDSHEET: 4-9
*Nebraska 22 - Arizona 16—This is a rematch of the 1998 Holiday Bowl, won
23-20 by Dick Tomey and Arizona over Frank Solich’s first Nebraska team.
The 2009 versions of the Wildcats and Cornhuskers have played 2009 with
eerily similar results. Both teams have lost four games, three of the defeats in
unusual fashion. Nebraska did everything but beat host Virginia Tech, losing 16-
15 in the waning minutes due to a blown deep coverage and a “miracle”
scrambling TD pass by QB Tyrod Taylor. NU lost 9-7 to Iowa State on eight
Cornhusker giveaways. And Nebraska lost 13-12 to Texas in the Big XII title
game in a way that will not soon be forgotten in Lincoln.
Arizona’s four losses included a 36-33 defeat at Washington on an apparent
incomplete pass kicked into the air for the winning UW interception TD! Then at
Cal, while already in FG range, a Wildcat pass was batted back to QB Nick
Foles, who threw it again (illegal forward pass), penalizing the Wildcats out of
FG range. Then, a 44-41 loss vs. Oregon in double OT after the Ducks tied the
game with :06 left in regulation.
The top RBs for both teams—Roy Helu for NU & Nic Grigsby for U of A—
battled painful shoulder injuries and missed time. Both teams had first-year
starting QBs who were benched. Nebraska jr. Zac Lee (59%, 13 TDs, 10 ints.)
regained his spot. Arizona’s Matt Scott gave up his starting job to 6-5 soph
passer Nick Foles (66%, 19 TDs, 8 ints.). And both teams boosted their ground
games as the season progressed, the Wildcats turning to QB Scott as valuable
runner (305 YR, 7.6 ypc), and the Huskers turning to former HC and current AD
Tom Osborne for hints on deception & misdirection.
DE Ricky Elmore had 10½ sacks and DT Earl Mitchell 6½ for U of A. A-A DT
Ndamukong Suh had 12 sacks and DT Jared Crick 9½ for NU. PK Alex Henery
hit 20 of 24 FGs for the Huskers; PK Alex Zendejas 17 of 22 for the Cats.
Arizona coach Mike Stoops will get a report on Nebraska from brother Bob at
Oklahoma. But Mike probably won’t like what he hears. As the nation witnessed
vs. Texas, Bo Pelini has developed one of the best spread-attack defenses in
the nation—pressuring mightily with the much-decorated, unstoppable Suh and
the front four, employing sticky man coverage on the WRs. No surprise that Suh
& Co. were 10-3 “under” TY.
(DNP...SR: Arizona 1-0-1)
IDAHO 43 - Bowling Green 38—Ah, where else but in bowl season can we
be treated to a matchup between Bowling Green and Idaho, playing on a blue
field in a game sponsored by a truck stop? Not to mention providing a litmus test
for college football fans, whose loyalty to ESPN and its Bowl Week will be
severely tested by this Wednesday afternoon kickoff between WAC and MAC
also-rans.
Those who do tune in might watch a pretty good show, however, as prospects
for this one have us considering gridiron analogies to the George Foreman-Ron
Lyle heavyweight slug-out in 1976. In other words, don’t expect much defense.
Idaho wasn’t stopping the wind down the stretch, yielding a staggering 50 ppg its
last five games, and its prospects of coping with the Falcons’ record-threatening
WR Freddie Barnes (138 catches TY; needs just five to break NCAA season
mark) are a bit frightening, especially since first-year BGSU HC Dave Clawson
has promised to “make sure Freddie would get his touches.” Duly warned,
expect the Vandals to counter with their best defense, which happens to be their
offense, better balanced than the Falcs’ version and capable of playing some
real smashmouth with a stable of RBs led by slamming Washington State sr.
transfer DeMaundray Woolridge and darting soph Princeton McCarthy, both
gaining a healthy 5.7 ypc while rambling behind an OL that starts 4 srs.,
including 340-lb G Mike Iupati, a likely NFL first-round pick. That’s bad news for
a Falcon “D” that was hardly robust vs. the run (ranking 103rd). And though
BGSU is familiar with this venue (played here LY), the regional advantage in
Boise should be worth something to Idaho.
(DNP...SR: FIRST MEETING)
*Nebraska 22 - Arizona 16—This is a rematch of the 1998 Holiday Bowl, won
23-20 by Dick Tomey and Arizona over Frank Solich’s first Nebraska team.
The 2009 versions of the Wildcats and Cornhuskers have played 2009 with
eerily similar results. Both teams have lost four games, three of the defeats in
unusual fashion. Nebraska did everything but beat host Virginia Tech, losing 16-
15 in the waning minutes due to a blown deep coverage and a “miracle”
scrambling TD pass by QB Tyrod Taylor. NU lost 9-7 to Iowa State on eight
Cornhusker giveaways. And Nebraska lost 13-12 to Texas in the Big XII title
game in a way that will not soon be forgotten in Lincoln.
Arizona’s four losses included a 36-33 defeat at Washington on an apparent
incomplete pass kicked into the air for the winning UW interception TD! Then at
Cal, while already in FG range, a Wildcat pass was batted back to QB Nick
Foles, who threw it again (illegal forward pass), penalizing the Wildcats out of
FG range. Then, a 44-41 loss vs. Oregon in double OT after the Ducks tied the
game with :06 left in regulation.
The top RBs for both teams—Roy Helu for NU & Nic Grigsby for U of A—
battled painful shoulder injuries and missed time. Both teams had first-year
starting QBs who were benched. Nebraska jr. Zac Lee (59%, 13 TDs, 10 ints.)
regained his spot. Arizona’s Matt Scott gave up his starting job to 6-5 soph
passer Nick Foles (66%, 19 TDs, 8 ints.). And both teams boosted their ground
games as the season progressed, the Wildcats turning to QB Scott as valuable
runner (305 YR, 7.6 ypc), and the Huskers turning to former HC and current AD
Tom Osborne for hints on deception & misdirection.
DE Ricky Elmore had 10½ sacks and DT Earl Mitchell 6½ for U of A. A-A DT
Ndamukong Suh had 12 sacks and DT Jared Crick 9½ for NU. PK Alex Henery
hit 20 of 24 FGs for the Huskers; PK Alex Zendejas 17 of 22 for the Cats.
Arizona coach Mike Stoops will get a report on Nebraska from brother Bob at
Oklahoma. But Mike probably won’t like what he hears. As the nation witnessed
vs. Texas, Bo Pelini has developed one of the best spread-attack defenses in
the nation—pressuring mightily with the much-decorated, unstoppable Suh and
the front four, employing sticky man coverage on the WRs. No surprise that Suh
& Co. were 10-3 “under” TY.
(DNP...SR: Arizona 1-0-1)
IDAHO 43 - Bowling Green 38—Ah, where else but in bowl season can we
be treated to a matchup between Bowling Green and Idaho, playing on a blue
field in a game sponsored by a truck stop? Not to mention providing a litmus test
for college football fans, whose loyalty to ESPN and its Bowl Week will be
severely tested by this Wednesday afternoon kickoff between WAC and MAC
also-rans.
Those who do tune in might watch a pretty good show, however, as prospects
for this one have us considering gridiron analogies to the George Foreman-Ron
Lyle heavyweight slug-out in 1976. In other words, don’t expect much defense.
Idaho wasn’t stopping the wind down the stretch, yielding a staggering 50 ppg its
last five games, and its prospects of coping with the Falcons’ record-threatening
WR Freddie Barnes (138 catches TY; needs just five to break NCAA season
mark) are a bit frightening, especially since first-year BGSU HC Dave Clawson
has promised to “make sure Freddie would get his touches.” Duly warned,
expect the Vandals to counter with their best defense, which happens to be their
offense, better balanced than the Falcs’ version and capable of playing some
real smashmouth with a stable of RBs led by slamming Washington State sr.
transfer DeMaundray Woolridge and darting soph Princeton McCarthy, both
gaining a healthy 5.7 ypc while rambling behind an OL that starts 4 srs.,
including 340-lb G Mike Iupati, a likely NFL first-round pick. That’s bad news for
a Falcon “D” that was hardly robust vs. the run (ranking 103rd). And though
BGSU is familiar with this venue (played here LY), the regional advantage in
Boise should be worth something to Idaho.
(DNP...SR: FIRST MEETING)
GOLD SHEET EXTRA: 2-5
BOWLING GREEN vs. IDAHO (Roady’s Humanitarian, December
30)...Ugh! First Idaho bowl since this game in ‘98 when it upset Southern Miss.
Akey faded at end TY when dropping last 5 vs. number, but Vandals had
covered first 7 TY and 10 of previous 11. Idaho covered all 4 vs. non-WAC
foes TY. Akey also 9-4 last 13 as dog. Falcs won and covered their last 4 TY and
have played on this field before, losing but covering LY vs. Boise, 20-7. Falcs
also 11-2 vs. line away from home since LY (2-2 as road chalk TY). Note MAC 0-
5 vs. line in bowls LY. Tech edge-slight to Idaho, based on team trends.
NEBRASKA vs. ARIZONA (Holiday, December 30)...Huskers “under” 10-
3 TY, Arizona “under” 5 of last 6 in ‘09. Cats only dropped 1 of last 7 vs.
number TY (5-1-1), and Stoops 18-9-1 vs. number since late ‘07. Very short
price, but Bo Pelini was 3-0 as dog TY. Tech edge-“Under” and slight to
Arizona, based on “totals” and team trends.
BOWLING GREEN vs. IDAHO (Roady’s Humanitarian, December
30)...Ugh! First Idaho bowl since this game in ‘98 when it upset Southern Miss.
Akey faded at end TY when dropping last 5 vs. number, but Vandals had
covered first 7 TY and 10 of previous 11. Idaho covered all 4 vs. non-WAC
foes TY. Akey also 9-4 last 13 as dog. Falcs won and covered their last 4 TY and
have played on this field before, losing but covering LY vs. Boise, 20-7. Falcs
also 11-2 vs. line away from home since LY (2-2 as road chalk TY). Note MAC 0-
5 vs. line in bowls LY. Tech edge-slight to Idaho, based on team trends.
NEBRASKA vs. ARIZONA (Holiday, December 30)...Huskers “under” 10-
3 TY, Arizona “under” 5 of last 6 in ‘09. Cats only dropped 1 of last 7 vs.
number TY (5-1-1), and Stoops 18-9-1 vs. number since late ‘07. Very short
price, but Bo Pelini was 3-0 as dog TY. Tech edge-“Under” and slight to
Arizona, based on “totals” and team trends.
CKO : 1-3
9* UNDER (40) in the Nebraska-Arizona Game (Holiday Bowl, Dec. 30 in San Diego)——Suh & Company “under” 10 of 13
games TY; Arizona’s Mike Stoops says this is his best defensive 11
IDAHO (+1½) vs. Bowling Green ( Humanitarian Bowl, Dec. 30 in Boise)——Who
the heck wants to go to a bowl game in Boise in late-December anyway?; Ans: The Idaho Vandals and their fans!
9* UNDER (40) in the Nebraska-Arizona Game (Holiday Bowl, Dec. 30 in San Diego)——Suh & Company “under” 10 of 13
games TY; Arizona’s Mike Stoops says this is his best defensive 11
IDAHO (+1½) vs. Bowling Green ( Humanitarian Bowl, Dec. 30 in Boise)——Who
the heck wants to go to a bowl game in Boise in late-December anyway?; Ans: The Idaho Vandals and their fans!
POINTWISE:
OVERALL: 5-10
1*: 1-1
2* :0-1
3*: 0-1
4*; 2-2
5*: 0-3
6*: 2-2
What a story the Vandals of Idaho were, through the first 7 games of this year.
Six wins, including five outright upsets, while covering all seven. However,
their spectacular run came to a screeching halt with a 70-45 loss to Nevada,
while allowing 484 RYs to that peerless Wolf Pack overland unit. Led by QB
Enderle, who finished the season ranked 7th in the land in passing efficiency
(2,666 yds, 62.3%, 18/9), RBs Woolridge & McCarty (1,459 yds &19 TDs), &
WR Komar (1,026 yds, 10 TDs), they own the 10th spot in the nation in total
"O". Defensively, it is another matter, as they allowed an improbable 50 ppg
in their final 5 contests, with a 35-34 win over LaTech preventing an 0-5 SU
slide. They lost all 5 ATS, but by just 5 ppg. Thus, through the whole of this
turbulent season, they more than played to the level of their competition. So
a bowl reward for the 1st time since '98 (42-35 upset of SoMiss, as 17½ pt
dogs), for a squad which had a combined 18-76 record the previous 8 years.
For the Falcons of Bowling Green, this marks their 4th bowl appearance in
the last 7 years, with just one losing season since 2000. Led by QB Sheehan,
their season is just about the exact opposite of Idaho, as they opened at 1-4,
before winning 6 of their final 7, while going 4-0 ATS down the stretch. And
they scored 30+ pts in 7 of their final 8. Sheehan ranks 7th in the nation in
total "O" (3,665 PYs, 64%, 23/6), with scores in 21 straight tilts. WR Barnes
leads the nation with 138 catches & 16 TDs, & is 3rd in receiving yds (1,551).
Thus, the month interim had to be a huge plus for the Vandals, as is the site
for this game. The last team with the ball wins it, in a true scoreboard lighter.
PROPHECY: IDAHO 45 - Bowling Green 40 RATING: 6
These 2 meet for just the 3rd time, with their last matchup coming in this exact
bowl eleven years ago. The Wildcats of Arizona prevailed in that one, 23-20,
as FG dogs. That win secured the 'Cats' finest record in school-history (12-1)
& a #4 ranking in the final polls. The key to that win was holding the 'Huskers'
storied option attack to just 87 RYs (NU entered at 254 RYpg). But following
that win, 'Zona was not to taste the rewards of a bowl campaign until LY's spot
in the Las Vegas Bowl (31-21 win over BYU). The progress under 6-yr head
coach, Mike Stoops, has been steady, with this year's 8 regular season wins
the most since that '98 campaign. Led by soph QB Foles (66%, 2,438 yds, &
19/8), & RB Grigsby (7.5 ypr), the 'Cats have scored at a 34.7 ppg clip in 21 of
their last 23 games. Defensively, however, they've been stung for >31 pts 4
times. But note that 3 of those 4 came vs the 7th, 10th, & 22nd scoring units
in the land. Their 4 losses have come by a combined 24 pts. Ditto their foes
here, as the Cornhuskers of Nebraska enter with a similar 4 losses, & by a
total of 25 pts. However, 3 of those 4 came by 2 pts or less, including their
heartstopping 13-12 loss to #2 Texas in the Big12 title game, when they were
just 1 second from the upset. The nation got a ringside seat in observing the
awesome ability of the most dominant defensive lineman in the country, in the
person of Ndamukong Suh. This season: 82 tackles, 12 sacks, 23 tackles for
loss, 27 QB hurries, 10 pass breakups, 3 blocked kicks. Obviously, Nebraska
lives on its 11 ppg "D" (#1), as QB Lee is just 13/10, altho RB Helu is at 1,139
yds. The psyche edge owned by the 'Cats. Call another Holiday Bowl thriller.
PROPHECY: NEBRASKA 19 - Arizona 17 RATING: 6
OVERALL: 5-10
1*: 1-1
2* :0-1
3*: 0-1
4*; 2-2
5*: 0-3
6*: 2-2
What a story the Vandals of Idaho were, through the first 7 games of this year.
Six wins, including five outright upsets, while covering all seven. However,
their spectacular run came to a screeching halt with a 70-45 loss to Nevada,
while allowing 484 RYs to that peerless Wolf Pack overland unit. Led by QB
Enderle, who finished the season ranked 7th in the land in passing efficiency
(2,666 yds, 62.3%, 18/9), RBs Woolridge & McCarty (1,459 yds &19 TDs), &
WR Komar (1,026 yds, 10 TDs), they own the 10th spot in the nation in total
"O". Defensively, it is another matter, as they allowed an improbable 50 ppg
in their final 5 contests, with a 35-34 win over LaTech preventing an 0-5 SU
slide. They lost all 5 ATS, but by just 5 ppg. Thus, through the whole of this
turbulent season, they more than played to the level of their competition. So
a bowl reward for the 1st time since '98 (42-35 upset of SoMiss, as 17½ pt
dogs), for a squad which had a combined 18-76 record the previous 8 years.
For the Falcons of Bowling Green, this marks their 4th bowl appearance in
the last 7 years, with just one losing season since 2000. Led by QB Sheehan,
their season is just about the exact opposite of Idaho, as they opened at 1-4,
before winning 6 of their final 7, while going 4-0 ATS down the stretch. And
they scored 30+ pts in 7 of their final 8. Sheehan ranks 7th in the nation in
total "O" (3,665 PYs, 64%, 23/6), with scores in 21 straight tilts. WR Barnes
leads the nation with 138 catches & 16 TDs, & is 3rd in receiving yds (1,551).
Thus, the month interim had to be a huge plus for the Vandals, as is the site
for this game. The last team with the ball wins it, in a true scoreboard lighter.
PROPHECY: IDAHO 45 - Bowling Green 40 RATING: 6
These 2 meet for just the 3rd time, with their last matchup coming in this exact
bowl eleven years ago. The Wildcats of Arizona prevailed in that one, 23-20,
as FG dogs. That win secured the 'Cats' finest record in school-history (12-1)
& a #4 ranking in the final polls. The key to that win was holding the 'Huskers'
storied option attack to just 87 RYs (NU entered at 254 RYpg). But following
that win, 'Zona was not to taste the rewards of a bowl campaign until LY's spot
in the Las Vegas Bowl (31-21 win over BYU). The progress under 6-yr head
coach, Mike Stoops, has been steady, with this year's 8 regular season wins
the most since that '98 campaign. Led by soph QB Foles (66%, 2,438 yds, &
19/8), & RB Grigsby (7.5 ypr), the 'Cats have scored at a 34.7 ppg clip in 21 of
their last 23 games. Defensively, however, they've been stung for >31 pts 4
times. But note that 3 of those 4 came vs the 7th, 10th, & 22nd scoring units
in the land. Their 4 losses have come by a combined 24 pts. Ditto their foes
here, as the Cornhuskers of Nebraska enter with a similar 4 losses, & by a
total of 25 pts. However, 3 of those 4 came by 2 pts or less, including their
heartstopping 13-12 loss to #2 Texas in the Big12 title game, when they were
just 1 second from the upset. The nation got a ringside seat in observing the
awesome ability of the most dominant defensive lineman in the country, in the
person of Ndamukong Suh. This season: 82 tackles, 12 sacks, 23 tackles for
loss, 27 QB hurries, 10 pass breakups, 3 blocked kicks. Obviously, Nebraska
lives on its 11 ppg "D" (#1), as QB Lee is just 13/10, altho RB Helu is at 1,139
yds. The psyche edge owned by the 'Cats. Call another Holiday Bowl thriller.
PROPHECY: NEBRASKA 19 - Arizona 17 RATING: 6
NELLYS GREENSHEET
OVERALL: 10-9
1*: 4-3
2*: 5-3
3*: 1-1
4*: 0-2
HUMANITARIAN BOWL @Boise, ID 3:30 PM
Bowling Green (-2) Idaho (68)
It was a breakthrough season for Idaho with the first bowl appearance since 1998 for the
Vandals. That year Idaho played in this same bowl game and unlike most teams the Vandals
are thrilled to stay in its home state playing in Boise. That year Idaho won 42-35 as a 17-point
underdog against Southern Mississippi. Bowling Green looked like a rebuilding team but the
Falcons won six of the final seven games to find the postseason. Both teams only defeated
one bowl team all season but Idaho’s win was an impressive win on the road against Northern
Illinois of the MAC. Both teams feature impressive passing attacks with Bowling Green nearly
exclusively putting the ball in the air. QB Tyler Sheehan is capable of posting big numbers but
the Falcons can be a bit too aggressive through the air at times. Idaho was without QB Nathan
Enderle in a few of the losses and he should be at full health for this game. Enderle is an
excellent QB that is likely the difference-maker in this game. The Idaho defense has poor
numbers but if you take away losses against Boise State and Nevada the numbers are much
more respectable. Idaho actually out-gained undefeated Boise State so the Vandals should
not be underestimated, particularly in a favorable venue. The only quality win for Bowling
Green came surprising Troy to open the season and Idaho has a quality veteran offensive line
that should make moving the ball much more effective for the Vandals through the air or on
the ground. Look for Idaho to be an underdog with a rushing edge, playing a de facto home
game with some buzz for the first bowl appearance in over a decade. Bowling Green’s last
bowl appearance was a 63-7 loss and although Coach Clawson did a great job in his first year
this looks like a tough position to get a great performance from a team that got here through a
very favorable conference schedule in a weak MAC East. IDAHO BY 10
RATING 4: Idaho (+2) over Bowling Green
HOLIDAY BOWL @San Diego, CA 7:00 PM
Arizona (-1½) Nebraska (40)
No team gained more attention championship weekend than Nebraska despite the Huskers
losing the game and featuring a pathetic offensive performance. With a BCS spot on the line
Nebraska posted a grand total of 106 yards of offense. Nebraska’s defense is outstanding but
Arizona brings an excellent offensive resume, averaging nearly 30 points per game through a
very tough schedule. Arizona lost four games but none by more than ten points and although
Nebraska was able to slow down the Texas pass offense, the worst game of the season came
against the Texas Tech air attack. Nebraska is a tough team to run against but the Huskers
struggled against the pass in several games despite finding ways to win, notably against
Oklahoma and Colorado, games they probably deserved to lose. Arizona appeared to be
lining up for a Rose Bowl spot before Oregon made a miraculous comeback to spoil those
plans. Even after a very disheartening loss like that Arizona rebounded to win the final two
games on the road at Arizona State and at USC, showing a lot about this team. While
Nebraska’s defense will get a lot more attention, Arizona allowed just 316 yards per game on
the year while facing a much tougher slate of offensive opponents. Nebraska will likely keep
the ball on the ground and run a conservative offense but Arizona is one of the best teams in
the Pac-10 against the run, averaging only 112 yards per game. Nebraska will have no
chance to keep up if Arizona can turn this game into a shootout. Arizona sophomore QB Nick
Foles made a name for himself with several big games and he can carry the team. Last year
was the breakthrough bowl appearance for Arizona in the Stoops era and the Wildcats played
well to beat a highly regarded BYU team. Bo Pelini led the Huskers to a bowl win last season
but Nebraska is a team that was very fortunate to win in several games and actually was outgained
in five of the final six games of the year, despite only one loss in that stretch. Arizona
faced eight teams that are playing in bowl games enduring one of the toughest schedules in
the nation and this is a program ready to make a national statement. ARIZONA BY 10
RATING 3: Arizona (-1½) over Nebraska
OVERALL: 10-9
1*: 4-3
2*: 5-3
3*: 1-1
4*: 0-2
HUMANITARIAN BOWL @Boise, ID 3:30 PM
Bowling Green (-2) Idaho (68)
It was a breakthrough season for Idaho with the first bowl appearance since 1998 for the
Vandals. That year Idaho played in this same bowl game and unlike most teams the Vandals
are thrilled to stay in its home state playing in Boise. That year Idaho won 42-35 as a 17-point
underdog against Southern Mississippi. Bowling Green looked like a rebuilding team but the
Falcons won six of the final seven games to find the postseason. Both teams only defeated
one bowl team all season but Idaho’s win was an impressive win on the road against Northern
Illinois of the MAC. Both teams feature impressive passing attacks with Bowling Green nearly
exclusively putting the ball in the air. QB Tyler Sheehan is capable of posting big numbers but
the Falcons can be a bit too aggressive through the air at times. Idaho was without QB Nathan
Enderle in a few of the losses and he should be at full health for this game. Enderle is an
excellent QB that is likely the difference-maker in this game. The Idaho defense has poor
numbers but if you take away losses against Boise State and Nevada the numbers are much
more respectable. Idaho actually out-gained undefeated Boise State so the Vandals should
not be underestimated, particularly in a favorable venue. The only quality win for Bowling
Green came surprising Troy to open the season and Idaho has a quality veteran offensive line
that should make moving the ball much more effective for the Vandals through the air or on
the ground. Look for Idaho to be an underdog with a rushing edge, playing a de facto home
game with some buzz for the first bowl appearance in over a decade. Bowling Green’s last
bowl appearance was a 63-7 loss and although Coach Clawson did a great job in his first year
this looks like a tough position to get a great performance from a team that got here through a
very favorable conference schedule in a weak MAC East. IDAHO BY 10
RATING 4: Idaho (+2) over Bowling Green
HOLIDAY BOWL @San Diego, CA 7:00 PM
Arizona (-1½) Nebraska (40)
No team gained more attention championship weekend than Nebraska despite the Huskers
losing the game and featuring a pathetic offensive performance. With a BCS spot on the line
Nebraska posted a grand total of 106 yards of offense. Nebraska’s defense is outstanding but
Arizona brings an excellent offensive resume, averaging nearly 30 points per game through a
very tough schedule. Arizona lost four games but none by more than ten points and although
Nebraska was able to slow down the Texas pass offense, the worst game of the season came
against the Texas Tech air attack. Nebraska is a tough team to run against but the Huskers
struggled against the pass in several games despite finding ways to win, notably against
Oklahoma and Colorado, games they probably deserved to lose. Arizona appeared to be
lining up for a Rose Bowl spot before Oregon made a miraculous comeback to spoil those
plans. Even after a very disheartening loss like that Arizona rebounded to win the final two
games on the road at Arizona State and at USC, showing a lot about this team. While
Nebraska’s defense will get a lot more attention, Arizona allowed just 316 yards per game on
the year while facing a much tougher slate of offensive opponents. Nebraska will likely keep
the ball on the ground and run a conservative offense but Arizona is one of the best teams in
the Pac-10 against the run, averaging only 112 yards per game. Nebraska will have no
chance to keep up if Arizona can turn this game into a shootout. Arizona sophomore QB Nick
Foles made a name for himself with several big games and he can carry the team. Last year
was the breakthrough bowl appearance for Arizona in the Stoops era and the Wildcats played
well to beat a highly regarded BYU team. Bo Pelini led the Huskers to a bowl win last season
but Nebraska is a team that was very fortunate to win in several games and actually was outgained
in five of the final six games of the year, despite only one loss in that stretch. Arizona
faced eight teams that are playing in bowl games enduring one of the toughest schedules in
the nation and this is a program ready to make a national statement. ARIZONA BY 10
RATING 3: Arizona (-1½) over Nebraska
NORTHCOAST POWERSWEEP:
OVERALL: 7-5
1*: 1-0
2*: 2-3
3*: 2-1
4*: 2-1
First meeting. BG HC Clawson is in his 1st ssn as the Falcons’ HC and they are 7-5 SU/ATS in his inaugural campaign. UI HC Akey is in his 3rd ssn at UI and the Vandals are 10-26 SU and 14-20 ATS under his guidance. BG is 4-4 SU and 3-1 ATS all-time in bowls and is making its 4th bowl trip in the L/7Y but would like to erase the memory of its last bowl outing when they lost 63-7 (+5) to Tulsa in ‘07 in the most lopsided bowl gm history. UI is making just its 2nd bowl appearance ever and its 1st S/‘98 when it topped SMiss 42-35 (+17) in this bowl. Despite sporting identical SU/ATS records (7-5), these two have been headed in opposite directions since midssn. BG won its opener but began the year 1-4 SU (2-3 ATS) by facing 5 consec ‘09 bowl tms (3 of 4 losses were by 7 pts). However, the Falcons turned their season around by winning 6 of their L/7 gms (5-2 ATS). The Vandals benefited from a fast start as they won 6 of their first 7 gms (incl 3 by 4 pts or less), before dropping 4 of their L/5 gms (incl the L/3). To say the Vandals were a streaky ATS tm TY would be an understatement. UI started off 7-0 ATS before closing out the year going 0-5 ATS, while BG opened 2-4 ATS before closing 5-1 ATS (covered L/4 gms). BG is 1-5 SU and 2-4 ATS while UI is 1-3 SU and ATS vs bowl-eligible tms TY. While this is a neutral site, both tms will have some familiarity with the stadium and “The Blue” as they’ve both played here in the L/3 yrs vs Boise (BG in ‘08, UI in ‘07 and ‘09). UI will clearly have the fan edge as Moscow is only 300 miles away (BG is making a 2,000-mile trek) and there’s a large Vandal alumni base in Boise. The Humanitarian Bowl crowds always support the WAC tms.
BG’s off is avg 27 ppg and 391 ypg and is paced by QB Sheehan who led the MAC in passing and ttl offense. Clawson wanted to utilize the running game more TY but with 7 Sr starters recruited for the spread, he went with what he had. The Falcons avg just 81 ypg rushing led by RB Geter, who was also the #4 receiver. The WR corps is led by Biletnikoff finalist Barnes who leads the NCAA with 138 rec (129 ypg), which is more than the next 3 BG rec’s comb. Barnes needs just 4 rec to tie and 5 to set the NCAA record for most rec in a ssn. The OL (6’5” 295 avg) combined for 55 starts and is led by 3 Sr’s. The D struggled TY giving up 26 ppg and 394 ypg despite 7 Sr starters. Much of those troubles can be traced to a DL (6’2” 256) short on depth that had trouble stopping the run (193 ypg, 5.3 ypc). The depth appears to have taken yet another hit with the suspension of DT Alvarado who was the only DL to start every gm TY. The LB corps of 3 Sr’s were the Falcons’ top 3 tklrs and had 7.5 of BG’s 20 sks. The secondary has 3 Sr starters and allowed a 14-9 ratio and 201 ypg passing, but some of that was due to tms having such success rushing. P Iovinelli avg 37.2 ypp (33.8 net) but did place 23 of his 60 P inside the 20. The K has been shaky with starter Phillips (8-13) being replaced by Norsic (4-7) near midssn but both combined to go just 10-18 from inside 40.
UI’s offense is avg 451 ypg and 32 ppg which is 130 ypg and 12 ppg more than LY. The key reasons for the enhanced production stems from a veteran OL, an improved passing game and a versatile running game. The OL (6’4” 308 avg) features 4 Sr’s and all 5 starters started all 12 gms TY, led by Outland finalist Iupati (6’6” 325). QB Enderle has watched his comp % jump nearly 10% each of the L/3 yrs (44% in ‘07, 54% in ‘08, 62% TY). WR Komar developed into UI’s go-to receiver and his 62 rec nearly equals what he had his first 3 seasons combined (73). The running game (160 ypg, 4.6 ypc) also got an ample boost despite a decrease in production from its star RB Jackson. UI incorporated a 3-man approach TY instead of featuring Jackson and it proved to be very effective as Woolridge (power) and McCarty (speed) complement Jackson’s all-around skill. UI’s D had some holes to fill entering ‘09 with the unexpected losses of two starting LB’s (Faraimo and Allen) in the offseason and starting FS Larkins left the team prior to the reg ssn also. While S Keo, DE Lavarias and DT Sataraka have stepped up their play TY, the Vandals have struggled slowing tms down all’g 425 ypg incl 269 ypg through the air (66%) with a 30-6 ratio. UI’s ST have been solid with K Farquhar hitting 13-19 FG’s and P Cowan avg 43.6 (34.0 net).
If you take a look at the last 4 games, you might automatically like BG with 4 straight covers vs 4 straight UI ATS losses, but check out the system on the back page. Idaho started the season on a 7-0 SU/ATS run and did struggle but that was vs the conference elite. BG started the season slow and finished strong, but with misleading scores needing come-from-behind wins several times while also being the beneficiary in several major TO discrepancies. Look for Idaho to be very creative with their multiple and deeper offensive weapons.
FORECAST: IDAHO by 7 RATING: 3* IDAho
Nebraska was :01 away from a BCS berth so this bowl is somewhat of a letdown (usually is for any B12 tm). Despite the heartbreaking loss to UT, NU is bowling for the 2nd straight yr under HC Pelini (only 2nd time over the L/7Y after a bowl every ssn from 1962-’03). This is, however, Pelini’s 3rd bowl as he was the interim HC with Neb in ‘03 (2-0 SU/ATS). In the Huskers 4 losses TY they have allowed just 245 ypg and 17 ppg, outgaining 3 of the foes but were -12 in TO’s. The Wildcats have had their share of close losses TY and much like the Huskers, this may be somewhat of a letdown as they could easily have been in Pasadena had they not blown a late lead vs Oregon and lost in 2OT. After a 10 yr hiatus, UA returned to the postssn LY and knocked off BYU in the Las Vegas Bowl. Ironically, their last bowl prior to LY was the ‘98 Holiday Bowl against Nebraska (23-20 UA win). NU has 6 Sr starters with 15 upperclassmen while the Cats have 11 Sr’s and 17 upperclassmen. The Huskers went 4-2 SU/ATS away from home TY while UA split their AG’s going 3-3 SU (2-3-1 ATS). NU played 7 bowl caliber squads in ‘09 going 3-4 SU (4-3 ATS) with a slim 14-12 avg point edge while being almost even in yds. The Cats went 5-3 SU/ATS vs bowl caliber tms outscoring them 28-25 with a 391-353 yd edge.
Arizona has our #25 off avg 30 ppg and 407 ypg. While they were pass-happy the L2Y, the Cats actually rushed for 86 more ypg in their 1st 3 gms of the ssn with QB Scott starting under center. Scott struggled in his 1st road start at Iowa, opening the door for the more pass-oriented Foles for the remainder of the ssn. The Cats passed for 113 ypg more over their final 9 gms returning to their familiar schemes. Inj’s played a major role in the UA run gm in ‘09 as starting RB Grigsby was banged up all ssn (shldr) and missed 3 full gms and parts of several others. With Grigsby’s absence, bkups Antolin, Nwoko and Booth stepped up and filled in admirably. UA OC Dykes had to adjust his passing gm TY with the unexpected loss of TE Rob Gronkowski (back surg). With his loss, WR’s Turner, Criner and Roberts became the key figures in the air as TE Simmons contributed minimally. The OL avg 6’5” 316 (3 Sr) paving the way for 5.0 ypc while allowing just 9 sks (2.0%). The UA def has our #20 ranking all’g 23 ppg and 316 ypg. The UA DL avg 6’3” 269 (2 Sr) and accounted for 25 of the team’s 34 sks (9.6%). The LB corps is the most underrated in the conf as they constantly make plays. Ariz has our #31 pass eff D as the secondary all’d 204 ypg (57%) with an 18-12 ratio. All-P10 CB’s Ross and Wade combined for 6 int (20 pbu). UA has our #16 ST which featured PR Wright (19.2 ypr, 1 TD) but struggled in PR coverage all’g opp to avg 12.8.
The NU off has sputtered as they have been held to 285 ypg or less 7x and have avg just 197 ypg the L/3. The Huskers committed 8 TO’s vs ISU and QB Lee was benched in favor of true Fr Green (PS#21), but Lee came off the bench to guide NU over OU 2W later. Lee was again benched for a series in the B12 title gm (tm had 106 yds). Lee didn’t top 200+ yds in the final 5 reg ssn gms and was held below that mark 8x. OC Watson used the QB TY as a gm manager while RB’s Helu (2nd Tm B12) and true Fr Burkhead (PS#39) controlled the tempo. The OL avg 6’5” 302 (1 Sr starter) paving the way for 141 ypg (4.0) all’g 19 sks (5.6%). As ineffective as the offense was, the defense was the opposite and clearly is the backbone of the squad. They held opp’s to 300 yds or less 9x and 20 pts or less 12x (92%)! The def allowed just 285 ypg which was its best mark S/’99 when former HC Solich went 12-1 (Fiesta Bowl win). The DL avg 6’5” 279 (2 Sr) all’g 96 ypg rush (2.8) while accounting for 31.5 of the tms 42 sks. They are led by AA/1st Tm B12 DL Suh (4th in Heisman voting) who is the most dominating defender in the NCAA and 1st Tm DL Crick. LB Dillard picked up 2nd Tm honors. NU is ranked #1 in our pass eff def allowing 189 ypg (49%) with a 7-19 ratio. 1st Tm B12 S Asante leads the secondary. The ST unit is ranked #21. K/P Henery earned 2nd Tm B12 honors and PR Paul has a TD return. Overall, NU finished +5 in blocked kicks.
When thinking of the Holiday Bowl, you think of high scoring gms, but we’ll call for a buck in that trend with 2 tms that have excellent defenses. Nebraska’s defense has allowed over 17 pts just twice this year and have held opponents to 10 or less six times. The Huskers offense is also struggling as QB Lee has a 6-9 ratio vs non-Sun Belt teams as he feasted on them early. Arizona uses a dink-and-dunk offense and it’ll be difficult to establish long drives against this fierce and hungry Nebraska front 7.
FORECAST: Arizona/Nebraska UNDER 40 RATING: 1*
OVERALL: 7-5
1*: 1-0
2*: 2-3
3*: 2-1
4*: 2-1
First meeting. BG HC Clawson is in his 1st ssn as the Falcons’ HC and they are 7-5 SU/ATS in his inaugural campaign. UI HC Akey is in his 3rd ssn at UI and the Vandals are 10-26 SU and 14-20 ATS under his guidance. BG is 4-4 SU and 3-1 ATS all-time in bowls and is making its 4th bowl trip in the L/7Y but would like to erase the memory of its last bowl outing when they lost 63-7 (+5) to Tulsa in ‘07 in the most lopsided bowl gm history. UI is making just its 2nd bowl appearance ever and its 1st S/‘98 when it topped SMiss 42-35 (+17) in this bowl. Despite sporting identical SU/ATS records (7-5), these two have been headed in opposite directions since midssn. BG won its opener but began the year 1-4 SU (2-3 ATS) by facing 5 consec ‘09 bowl tms (3 of 4 losses were by 7 pts). However, the Falcons turned their season around by winning 6 of their L/7 gms (5-2 ATS). The Vandals benefited from a fast start as they won 6 of their first 7 gms (incl 3 by 4 pts or less), before dropping 4 of their L/5 gms (incl the L/3). To say the Vandals were a streaky ATS tm TY would be an understatement. UI started off 7-0 ATS before closing out the year going 0-5 ATS, while BG opened 2-4 ATS before closing 5-1 ATS (covered L/4 gms). BG is 1-5 SU and 2-4 ATS while UI is 1-3 SU and ATS vs bowl-eligible tms TY. While this is a neutral site, both tms will have some familiarity with the stadium and “The Blue” as they’ve both played here in the L/3 yrs vs Boise (BG in ‘08, UI in ‘07 and ‘09). UI will clearly have the fan edge as Moscow is only 300 miles away (BG is making a 2,000-mile trek) and there’s a large Vandal alumni base in Boise. The Humanitarian Bowl crowds always support the WAC tms.
BG’s off is avg 27 ppg and 391 ypg and is paced by QB Sheehan who led the MAC in passing and ttl offense. Clawson wanted to utilize the running game more TY but with 7 Sr starters recruited for the spread, he went with what he had. The Falcons avg just 81 ypg rushing led by RB Geter, who was also the #4 receiver. The WR corps is led by Biletnikoff finalist Barnes who leads the NCAA with 138 rec (129 ypg), which is more than the next 3 BG rec’s comb. Barnes needs just 4 rec to tie and 5 to set the NCAA record for most rec in a ssn. The OL (6’5” 295 avg) combined for 55 starts and is led by 3 Sr’s. The D struggled TY giving up 26 ppg and 394 ypg despite 7 Sr starters. Much of those troubles can be traced to a DL (6’2” 256) short on depth that had trouble stopping the run (193 ypg, 5.3 ypc). The depth appears to have taken yet another hit with the suspension of DT Alvarado who was the only DL to start every gm TY. The LB corps of 3 Sr’s were the Falcons’ top 3 tklrs and had 7.5 of BG’s 20 sks. The secondary has 3 Sr starters and allowed a 14-9 ratio and 201 ypg passing, but some of that was due to tms having such success rushing. P Iovinelli avg 37.2 ypp (33.8 net) but did place 23 of his 60 P inside the 20. The K has been shaky with starter Phillips (8-13) being replaced by Norsic (4-7) near midssn but both combined to go just 10-18 from inside 40.
UI’s offense is avg 451 ypg and 32 ppg which is 130 ypg and 12 ppg more than LY. The key reasons for the enhanced production stems from a veteran OL, an improved passing game and a versatile running game. The OL (6’4” 308 avg) features 4 Sr’s and all 5 starters started all 12 gms TY, led by Outland finalist Iupati (6’6” 325). QB Enderle has watched his comp % jump nearly 10% each of the L/3 yrs (44% in ‘07, 54% in ‘08, 62% TY). WR Komar developed into UI’s go-to receiver and his 62 rec nearly equals what he had his first 3 seasons combined (73). The running game (160 ypg, 4.6 ypc) also got an ample boost despite a decrease in production from its star RB Jackson. UI incorporated a 3-man approach TY instead of featuring Jackson and it proved to be very effective as Woolridge (power) and McCarty (speed) complement Jackson’s all-around skill. UI’s D had some holes to fill entering ‘09 with the unexpected losses of two starting LB’s (Faraimo and Allen) in the offseason and starting FS Larkins left the team prior to the reg ssn also. While S Keo, DE Lavarias and DT Sataraka have stepped up their play TY, the Vandals have struggled slowing tms down all’g 425 ypg incl 269 ypg through the air (66%) with a 30-6 ratio. UI’s ST have been solid with K Farquhar hitting 13-19 FG’s and P Cowan avg 43.6 (34.0 net).
If you take a look at the last 4 games, you might automatically like BG with 4 straight covers vs 4 straight UI ATS losses, but check out the system on the back page. Idaho started the season on a 7-0 SU/ATS run and did struggle but that was vs the conference elite. BG started the season slow and finished strong, but with misleading scores needing come-from-behind wins several times while also being the beneficiary in several major TO discrepancies. Look for Idaho to be very creative with their multiple and deeper offensive weapons.
FORECAST: IDAHO by 7 RATING: 3* IDAho
Nebraska was :01 away from a BCS berth so this bowl is somewhat of a letdown (usually is for any B12 tm). Despite the heartbreaking loss to UT, NU is bowling for the 2nd straight yr under HC Pelini (only 2nd time over the L/7Y after a bowl every ssn from 1962-’03). This is, however, Pelini’s 3rd bowl as he was the interim HC with Neb in ‘03 (2-0 SU/ATS). In the Huskers 4 losses TY they have allowed just 245 ypg and 17 ppg, outgaining 3 of the foes but were -12 in TO’s. The Wildcats have had their share of close losses TY and much like the Huskers, this may be somewhat of a letdown as they could easily have been in Pasadena had they not blown a late lead vs Oregon and lost in 2OT. After a 10 yr hiatus, UA returned to the postssn LY and knocked off BYU in the Las Vegas Bowl. Ironically, their last bowl prior to LY was the ‘98 Holiday Bowl against Nebraska (23-20 UA win). NU has 6 Sr starters with 15 upperclassmen while the Cats have 11 Sr’s and 17 upperclassmen. The Huskers went 4-2 SU/ATS away from home TY while UA split their AG’s going 3-3 SU (2-3-1 ATS). NU played 7 bowl caliber squads in ‘09 going 3-4 SU (4-3 ATS) with a slim 14-12 avg point edge while being almost even in yds. The Cats went 5-3 SU/ATS vs bowl caliber tms outscoring them 28-25 with a 391-353 yd edge.
Arizona has our #25 off avg 30 ppg and 407 ypg. While they were pass-happy the L2Y, the Cats actually rushed for 86 more ypg in their 1st 3 gms of the ssn with QB Scott starting under center. Scott struggled in his 1st road start at Iowa, opening the door for the more pass-oriented Foles for the remainder of the ssn. The Cats passed for 113 ypg more over their final 9 gms returning to their familiar schemes. Inj’s played a major role in the UA run gm in ‘09 as starting RB Grigsby was banged up all ssn (shldr) and missed 3 full gms and parts of several others. With Grigsby’s absence, bkups Antolin, Nwoko and Booth stepped up and filled in admirably. UA OC Dykes had to adjust his passing gm TY with the unexpected loss of TE Rob Gronkowski (back surg). With his loss, WR’s Turner, Criner and Roberts became the key figures in the air as TE Simmons contributed minimally. The OL avg 6’5” 316 (3 Sr) paving the way for 5.0 ypc while allowing just 9 sks (2.0%). The UA def has our #20 ranking all’g 23 ppg and 316 ypg. The UA DL avg 6’3” 269 (2 Sr) and accounted for 25 of the team’s 34 sks (9.6%). The LB corps is the most underrated in the conf as they constantly make plays. Ariz has our #31 pass eff D as the secondary all’d 204 ypg (57%) with an 18-12 ratio. All-P10 CB’s Ross and Wade combined for 6 int (20 pbu). UA has our #16 ST which featured PR Wright (19.2 ypr, 1 TD) but struggled in PR coverage all’g opp to avg 12.8.
The NU off has sputtered as they have been held to 285 ypg or less 7x and have avg just 197 ypg the L/3. The Huskers committed 8 TO’s vs ISU and QB Lee was benched in favor of true Fr Green (PS#21), but Lee came off the bench to guide NU over OU 2W later. Lee was again benched for a series in the B12 title gm (tm had 106 yds). Lee didn’t top 200+ yds in the final 5 reg ssn gms and was held below that mark 8x. OC Watson used the QB TY as a gm manager while RB’s Helu (2nd Tm B12) and true Fr Burkhead (PS#39) controlled the tempo. The OL avg 6’5” 302 (1 Sr starter) paving the way for 141 ypg (4.0) all’g 19 sks (5.6%). As ineffective as the offense was, the defense was the opposite and clearly is the backbone of the squad. They held opp’s to 300 yds or less 9x and 20 pts or less 12x (92%)! The def allowed just 285 ypg which was its best mark S/’99 when former HC Solich went 12-1 (Fiesta Bowl win). The DL avg 6’5” 279 (2 Sr) all’g 96 ypg rush (2.8) while accounting for 31.5 of the tms 42 sks. They are led by AA/1st Tm B12 DL Suh (4th in Heisman voting) who is the most dominating defender in the NCAA and 1st Tm DL Crick. LB Dillard picked up 2nd Tm honors. NU is ranked #1 in our pass eff def allowing 189 ypg (49%) with a 7-19 ratio. 1st Tm B12 S Asante leads the secondary. The ST unit is ranked #21. K/P Henery earned 2nd Tm B12 honors and PR Paul has a TD return. Overall, NU finished +5 in blocked kicks.
When thinking of the Holiday Bowl, you think of high scoring gms, but we’ll call for a buck in that trend with 2 tms that have excellent defenses. Nebraska’s defense has allowed over 17 pts just twice this year and have held opponents to 10 or less six times. The Huskers offense is also struggling as QB Lee has a 6-9 ratio vs non-Sun Belt teams as he feasted on them early. Arizona uses a dink-and-dunk offense and it’ll be difficult to establish long drives against this fierce and hungry Nebraska front 7.
FORECAST: Arizona/Nebraska UNDER 40 RATING: 1*
NC POWERPLAYS:
6-7 OVERALL
NON RATED :3-5
4*: 3-2
If you like offense both teams are forecasted to top 400 yds here. While PP is calling for a 3 pt
BG win we disagree as the Vandals are playing in their fi rst bowl s/ ‘98 in front of their home state
fans.
NO PLAY: BOWLING GREEN 34 IDAHO 31
This forecast is why you buy PP. What happens when an excellent defense matches up with an
excellent offense? In this case the Huskers defense holds Arizona to 15 points and wins by a TD.
4★ NEBRASKA 22 ARIZONA 15
6-7 OVERALL
NON RATED :3-5
4*: 3-2
If you like offense both teams are forecasted to top 400 yds here. While PP is calling for a 3 pt
BG win we disagree as the Vandals are playing in their fi rst bowl s/ ‘98 in front of their home state
fans.
NO PLAY: BOWLING GREEN 34 IDAHO 31
This forecast is why you buy PP. What happens when an excellent defense matches up with an
excellent offense? In this case the Huskers defense holds Arizona to 15 points and wins by a TD.
4★ NEBRASKA 22 ARIZONA 15
ADDING TO LIST FROM POST # 8
ATS LOCK CLUB
W Over Fresno State 3*
L Central Florida 3*
L Southern Mississippi 4*
L Under Southern Mississippi 3*
L Oregon State 4*
L Under Oregon State 3*
L California 3*
L Under California 3*
W SMU 3*
L Over SMU 3*
L North Carolina 10*
W USC 3*
L Kentucky 6*
W Georgia 6*
W Under Georgia 3*
W Wisconsin 3*
EXECUTIVE BOWLS
W Wyoming (250)
W BYU (250)
L California (400)
L Over SMU (250)
W Marshall (250)
W Pittsburgh (400)
W Clemson (250)
L Texas A&M (250)
W UCLA (250)
L Miami-Fla. (250)
PREFERRED PICKS (Marc Lawrence)
W Wyoming 3*
W BYU 3*
L Kentucky 3*
W Wisconsin 3*
He is 3-1 and will have Nebraska in Holiday Bowl tonight
NICK "The Bookie Killer" PARSONS
L Fresno State 9*
W Rutgers 9*
L Under BYU 7*
W Under SMU 9*
W Under USC 9*
W Under Georgia 9*
W Under Wisconsin 9*
Larry Ness
L 20* Bowl Opener (St Pete Bowl) is on Central Florida
L Central Florida 20*
L Southern Mississippi 15*
L Nevada 10*
L Miami (Fla.) 9*
PPP
W Utah
4% miami (L)
5% ucla (W)
Street Rosenthal bowl record
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
W Wyoming (200)
L Southern Mississippi (200)
L Oregon State (200)
W Utah (200)
W SMU (200)
L Ohio University (300)
L North Carolina (200)
L Boston College (200)
L Kentucky (500)
L Temple (200)
W Wisconsin (200)
500 (0-1)
300 (0-1)
200 (4-5)
JOHN RYAN bowl record
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
He was 13-1 in 2008 and is off to 8-2 start for a combined 21-3 record.
W Wyoming 7*
W Middle Tennessee State 10*
W BYU 10*
L Under Utah 7*
W SMU 7*
W Marshall 7*
L North Carolina 7*
W Under Georgia 7*
W UCLA 7*
W Wisconsin 10*
ATS LOCK CLUB
W Over Fresno State 3*
L Central Florida 3*
L Southern Mississippi 4*
L Under Southern Mississippi 3*
L Oregon State 4*
L Under Oregon State 3*
L California 3*
L Under California 3*
W SMU 3*
L Over SMU 3*
L North Carolina 10*
W USC 3*
L Kentucky 6*
W Georgia 6*
W Under Georgia 3*
W Wisconsin 3*
EXECUTIVE BOWLS
W Wyoming (250)
W BYU (250)
L California (400)
L Over SMU (250)
W Marshall (250)
W Pittsburgh (400)
W Clemson (250)
L Texas A&M (250)
W UCLA (250)
L Miami-Fla. (250)
PREFERRED PICKS (Marc Lawrence)
W Wyoming 3*
W BYU 3*
L Kentucky 3*
W Wisconsin 3*
He is 3-1 and will have Nebraska in Holiday Bowl tonight
NICK "The Bookie Killer" PARSONS
L Fresno State 9*
W Rutgers 9*
L Under BYU 7*
W Under SMU 9*
W Under USC 9*
W Under Georgia 9*
W Under Wisconsin 9*
Larry Ness
L 20* Bowl Opener (St Pete Bowl) is on Central Florida
L Central Florida 20*
L Southern Mississippi 15*
L Nevada 10*
L Miami (Fla.) 9*
PPP
W Utah
4% miami (L)
5% ucla (W)
Street Rosenthal bowl record
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
W Wyoming (200)
L Southern Mississippi (200)
L Oregon State (200)
W Utah (200)
W SMU (200)
L Ohio University (300)
L North Carolina (200)
L Boston College (200)
L Kentucky (500)
L Temple (200)
W Wisconsin (200)
500 (0-1)
300 (0-1)
200 (4-5)
JOHN RYAN bowl record
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
He was 13-1 in 2008 and is off to 8-2 start for a combined 21-3 record.
W Wyoming 7*
W Middle Tennessee State 10*
W BYU 10*
L Under Utah 7*
W SMU 7*
W Marshall 7*
L North Carolina 7*
W Under Georgia 7*
W UCLA 7*
W Wisconsin 10*
Last edited:
charlie
nba. boston @ phoenix over 206, ncaaf. bolwing green vs idaho over 68 & nebraska vs arizona under 41 . (500* triple play 2 of 3 must win or next day is free).
ncaaf. nebraska-3 (30*)
ncaaf. idaho-1 (20*)
nba. minnesota+7' (20*)
ncaab. illinois-7 (10*)
nba. cleveland-6 (10*) Bonus Play
nba. boston @ phoenix over 206, ncaaf. bolwing green vs idaho over 68 & nebraska vs arizona under 41 . (500* triple play 2 of 3 must win or next day is free).
ncaaf. nebraska-3 (30*)
ncaaf. idaho-1 (20*)
nba. minnesota+7' (20*)
ncaab. illinois-7 (10*)
nba. cleveland-6 (10*) Bonus Play
TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN:
There is 3-4 inches of snow on the ground here that fell overnight...
It has stopped snowing, and im guessing they will shovel the field if they haven't already...
but my guess is that the famous blue turf will be slick all day today...
Good luck if you play the total or side in the H bowl today... BB
There is 3-4 inches of snow on the ground here that fell overnight...
It has stopped snowing, and im guessing they will shovel the field if they haven't already...
but my guess is that the famous blue turf will be slick all day today...
Good luck if you play the total or side in the H bowl today... BB
Bettorsworld
Nebraska vs Arizona
Nebraska was one second away from pulling a shocking upset over the BCS Title Bound Texas Longhorns. While they are not playing in a BCS Bowl Game because of that one second, they still have had a solid year under Head Coach Bo Pelini, and the future looks bright for the Cornhuskers. Nebraska finished the year 9-4 with wins over Oklahoma and Missouri. It has been their defense that has carried them for most of the year led by All American DT Ndamukong Suh, and that defense is going to have to at their best against Arizona because their high powered offense can put up points in a hurry. The Wildcats finished the year up 8-4 including a win over USC to close out the year. Coach Mike Stoops has this program going in the right direction, and a win over a very good Big 12 team would help build so me momentum.
PRIMETIME MATCHUP
It is no surprise what the PRIMETIME MATCHUP will be in this ballgame. This game will be decided by who has the most success between the Arizona offense and the Nebraska defense. This Wildcat offense has been putting up some impressive stats this season. They are 4th in both scoring and total offense with 30 points and 408 yards per game. Their offense is led by QB Nick Foles who has almost thrown for 2500 yards this season and 19 TD’s. While Foles is the leader this offense is much more then just a passing attack. They run a very balanced attack. They average 167 rushing yards to go along with their 240 passing yard per game. DT Ndamukong Suh and the Nebraska defense will have their hands full with the Wildcats balanced attack, but Nebraska has been up to the challenge all year.
The Cornhuskers are ranked 1st in the Big 12 in scoring defense allowing just 11 points per game and are ranked 3rd in total defense allowing 285 yards a game. The Nebraska defense is solid in every aspect defensively, but if you are going to attack them you have to do it through the air, and stay as far away from SUH as possible. The Husker’s are only allowing 88 yards per game on the ground, but are giving up 189 yards through the air. This is a case of picking the lesser of two evils, but in reality this Nebraska defense has no glaring holes.
THE FINAL VERDICT
This Nebraska defense showed the country what they could do in the Big 12 Title Game against Texas. They held QB Colt McCoy and the Longhorns to just 13 points and just 202 total yards in that game, and if it wasn’t for a review that put one second on the clock Nebraska would be the Big 12 champs and would be heading to a BCS bowl game.
Nebraska has put up some very nice numbers on both sides of the ball. Their yards per point offensive number is 13, 12 in road games. Their defensive numbers are among the best in the entire country with a whopping 25 overall! Now that's a defense. Arizona's numbers are almost 14 offensively and 13 defensively. Very poor defensively and believe it or not, not as good as Nebraska's offensive numbers, although close.
Now, those numbers are meaningless if the schedule strength of the two teams is not similar. But when we compare the schedule strength of these two, we notice that they have played scheduled very close in strength. In fact, the numbers we use show Nebraska as having played a schedule a couple of points stronger than Arizona's.
This is no doubt the best matchup so far this year in the Bowl games. It should be a good game, but at the end of the day, Nebraska is the better football team and should win this game. We have lost some value here over the last day or two as this game moves from pk all the way up to -3. We pay the price here for not getting this play out to you sooner, but we still like it.
We're going to break our wager up, playing some at Nebraska -1 with high juice and playing some more at -3 +106.
3* Nebraska (half at -1 and half at -3)
Nebraska vs Arizona
Nebraska was one second away from pulling a shocking upset over the BCS Title Bound Texas Longhorns. While they are not playing in a BCS Bowl Game because of that one second, they still have had a solid year under Head Coach Bo Pelini, and the future looks bright for the Cornhuskers. Nebraska finished the year 9-4 with wins over Oklahoma and Missouri. It has been their defense that has carried them for most of the year led by All American DT Ndamukong Suh, and that defense is going to have to at their best against Arizona because their high powered offense can put up points in a hurry. The Wildcats finished the year up 8-4 including a win over USC to close out the year. Coach Mike Stoops has this program going in the right direction, and a win over a very good Big 12 team would help build so me momentum.
PRIMETIME MATCHUP
It is no surprise what the PRIMETIME MATCHUP will be in this ballgame. This game will be decided by who has the most success between the Arizona offense and the Nebraska defense. This Wildcat offense has been putting up some impressive stats this season. They are 4th in both scoring and total offense with 30 points and 408 yards per game. Their offense is led by QB Nick Foles who has almost thrown for 2500 yards this season and 19 TD’s. While Foles is the leader this offense is much more then just a passing attack. They run a very balanced attack. They average 167 rushing yards to go along with their 240 passing yard per game. DT Ndamukong Suh and the Nebraska defense will have their hands full with the Wildcats balanced attack, but Nebraska has been up to the challenge all year.
The Cornhuskers are ranked 1st in the Big 12 in scoring defense allowing just 11 points per game and are ranked 3rd in total defense allowing 285 yards a game. The Nebraska defense is solid in every aspect defensively, but if you are going to attack them you have to do it through the air, and stay as far away from SUH as possible. The Husker’s are only allowing 88 yards per game on the ground, but are giving up 189 yards through the air. This is a case of picking the lesser of two evils, but in reality this Nebraska defense has no glaring holes.
THE FINAL VERDICT
This Nebraska defense showed the country what they could do in the Big 12 Title Game against Texas. They held QB Colt McCoy and the Longhorns to just 13 points and just 202 total yards in that game, and if it wasn’t for a review that put one second on the clock Nebraska would be the Big 12 champs and would be heading to a BCS bowl game.
Nebraska has put up some very nice numbers on both sides of the ball. Their yards per point offensive number is 13, 12 in road games. Their defensive numbers are among the best in the entire country with a whopping 25 overall! Now that's a defense. Arizona's numbers are almost 14 offensively and 13 defensively. Very poor defensively and believe it or not, not as good as Nebraska's offensive numbers, although close.
Now, those numbers are meaningless if the schedule strength of the two teams is not similar. But when we compare the schedule strength of these two, we notice that they have played scheduled very close in strength. In fact, the numbers we use show Nebraska as having played a schedule a couple of points stronger than Arizona's.
This is no doubt the best matchup so far this year in the Bowl games. It should be a good game, but at the end of the day, Nebraska is the better football team and should win this game. We have lost some value here over the last day or two as this game moves from pk all the way up to -3. We pay the price here for not getting this play out to you sooner, but we still like it.
We're going to break our wager up, playing some at Nebraska -1 with high juice and playing some more at -3 +106.
3* Nebraska (half at -1 and half at -3)
PURESPORTSBETTING PREDICTIONS
Record YTD 172-137
Game 701-702: Milwaukee at Orlando
Pick: Milwaukee (+10.5)
Game 703-704: Memphis at Indiana
Pick: Memphis (-2)
Game 705-706: Charlotte at Toronto
Pick: Toronto (-6)
Game 707-708: Atlanta at Cleveland
Pick: Atlanta (+6)
Game 709-710: New York at New Jersey
Pick: New York (-2)
Game 711-712: Miami at New Orleans
Pick: Miami (+1)
Game 713-714: Utah at Minnesota
Pick: Minnesota (+7.5)
Game 715-716: Boston at Phoenix
Pick: Phoenix (-2)
Game 717-718: Philadelphia at Sacramento
Pick: Sacramento (-2)
Game 719-720: LA Clippers at Portland
Pick: LA Clippers (+7.5)
Record YTD 172-137
Game 701-702: Milwaukee at Orlando
Pick: Milwaukee (+10.5)
Game 703-704: Memphis at Indiana
Pick: Memphis (-2)
Game 705-706: Charlotte at Toronto
Pick: Toronto (-6)
Game 707-708: Atlanta at Cleveland
Pick: Atlanta (+6)
Game 709-710: New York at New Jersey
Pick: New York (-2)
Game 711-712: Miami at New Orleans
Pick: Miami (+1)
Game 713-714: Utah at Minnesota
Pick: Minnesota (+7.5)
Game 715-716: Boston at Phoenix
Pick: Phoenix (-2)
Game 717-718: Philadelphia at Sacramento
Pick: Sacramento (-2)
Game 719-720: LA Clippers at Portland
Pick: LA Clippers (+7.5)
