Here are this week’s bowl projections from the Leftoverhotdog.com staff with some explanation:
BCS National Championship Game: Auburn v Oregon
It doesn’t look like either of these teams are going to lose again. If that’s the case, then no one can jump them, and they will play for it all.
Sugar Bowl: LSU v Boise State
Assuming Auburn goes to the BCS Championship game, the Sugar Bowl would get their pick of the conference. A one loss LSU team would be very attractive, but if Arkansas can win next week, they might be here. The Sugar Bowl could garner higher ratings if they are able to pull Boise State or TCU for a David versus Goliath match-up.
Capital One Bowl: Alabama v Ohio State
Alabama will be a no-brainer for the Capital One Bowl: they look good on tv, and their fans travel in droves. The Bowl will get to choose between Ohio State and Michigan State. The Buckeyes provide a better big name draw, so look for them to get the nod.
Cotton Bowl: Arkansas v Oklahoma
The Razorbacks will be the best remaining West team. There really isn’t an East team that could supplant the Hogs. There are many choices for the Cotton Bowl from the Big 12. Oklahoma would be a great draw for them.
Outback Bowl: Florida v Michigan State
The Outback bowl took a chance on South Carolina a few years ago and got burned. They will probably go with the safe bet and take Florida. Michigan State could finish 11-1, and would be a great pickup for the Outback Bowl.
Chick Fil-A Bowl: South Carolina v Florida State
The Chick Fil-A Bowl will likely be choosing between Mississippi State and the Gamecocks. There will be league pressure to take the SEC East champions. Florida State is about as big a name as you can get from the ACC.
Gator Bowl: Mississippi State v Iowa
The Bulldogs are a no brainer for the Gator Bowl. The other options just won’t be palatable. Iowa will probably finish had of Penn State for this berth.
Music City Bowl: Georgia v Maryland
The folks in Nashville don’t really want Kentcuky again, so they will be pulling against Georgia Tech the last week of the season. The Terps may be the best of what’s left in the ACC
Liberty Bowl: Kentucky v Central Florida
The Wildcats will be happy to go somewhere new. The Knights are the presumptive CUSA champs, so the Liberty Bowl’s choice will be made for them.
BBVA Compass Bowl: Tennessee v South Florida
The Volunteers should be happy to go anywhere. That’s the kind of attitude you need to be happy with this Birmingham Bowl. Ditto for the Bulls.
