Neither Boise State, nor Utah figured to end their season playing in a lower tier bowl and it was only a handful of weeks ago that both teams were sitting atop the BCS standings with hopes of playing for a national title.However, Boise State didn't count on Nevada's tenacity—or a kicking game gone south—and Utah could not have imagined the epic meltdown they suffered at the hands of TCU—at home.
Now both are playing in the MAACO Las Vegas Bowl—far from the spotlight of the BCS—with much less on the line.
Kudos to the Vegas Bowl for sealing up such a terrific match-up this early in the bowl season, but this game certainly could not have been in the travel plans of either team's fanbase.
That said, the bigger question now is which team will be best prepared to win the game?
Boise State has two potential NFL stars in Austin Pettis and Titus Young, but the two will face one of their greatest challenges this season playing against the talented tandem of Brandon Burton and Lamar Chapman who—despite their sub-par performances against TCU and San Diego State—are potential NFL stars in their own right.
Utah's defense is often overlooked due to the aforementioned games against TCU and SDSU, where they were lit up for more than 700+ passing yards combined. However, that means little in a game where both teams should be well-rested, well-focused, and minus much fanfare.
This is a football game that should be great to watch—who will win could be anyone's guess.
The 'Lady' walked away with a 2-1 record after the weeks first slate of games. Let's see what happens this week—all lines courtesy of VegasInsider.com—as I cover games to be played 12/21-12/26.
December 21st:
Southern Mississippi vs. Louisville, Beef O'Brady's Bowl: Louisville (-2.5)
You have to love what Charlie Strong has been able to do in his first year as the Cardinal's head coach. Last season the Cards were 4-8 and sporting the 65th ranked defense in the nation. This year, they ended their campaign bowl eligible with the 15th ranked scoring defense in the country—what a difference a year makes.
The Golden Eagles sport a talented and potent offense, but the Cardinals defense can be tough to move on. This game could be very tight, but you have to love the Cards' chances to eek out a big win.
The Lady's Pick: Louisville to cover
December 22nd:
Utah Utes at Boise State, MAACO Las Vegas Bowl: Boise State (-17)
This game is tough to pick for one reason: you just don't know which version of either team will show up. Boise is always stout, but even before the loss to Nevada, they suffered through some mistake-laden football games. The same can be said of a Utah team that came up very short against both TCU and San Diego State.
That said, with Jordan Wynn out and Boise State sporting a Top 10 run defense, this is easily a game that should be won by the Broncos.
The Lady's Pick: Boise State to cover
December 23rd:
Navy vs. San Diego State, San Diego County Poinsettia Bowl: San Diego State (-5)
This is a home game for the Aztecs and the Midshipmen aren't as impressive on the road this year. While the Aztecs aren't nearly as tough against the run as they may need to be to stop Navy from executing their gameplan, they have had several weeks to prepare—that could be the difference here.
Also worth considering, Navy will have a tough time keeping up with the Aztecs passing attack and, if San Diego can get on the board early, they may be able to sustain the advantage and walk away with a win in this one.
The Lady's Pick: San Diego State to cover
December 24th:
Hawaii vs. Tulsa, Honolulu Bowl: Hawaii (-8)
Hawaii is a tough play in their home state and this game won't provide many breaks for the Golden Hurricane's.
The Lady's Pick: Hawaii
December 26th:
Florida International vs. Toledo, Little Caesars Bowl: Toledo (-1.5)
Don't underestimate the Golden Panthers. If they can control the clock with their better than average rushing attack and keep the ball off the ground, they can win this game. Toledo relies on good line play—on both sides—to control and win but, if the Panthers can keep it close, they have an opportunity to pull the minor upset.
If this were an outdoor game, the edge would decidedly be in the favor of Toledo. The dome of Ford Field will be the ultimate equalizer here.
The Lady's Pick: Florida International to cover
