(3109,2,'2010-12-10 16:48:44','2010-12-11 00:48:44','<a href=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/jim-plunkett.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-3097\" title=\"jim-plunkett\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/jim-plunkett.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"599\" height=\"282\" /></a>\r\n\r\nThe <a href=\"http://www.heisman.com/\" target=\"_blank\">Heisman Trophy</a> will be awarded this weekend to the best player in college football, and I had a chance to speak to a former recipient of college football’s top honors, <a href=\"http://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/P/PlunJi00.htm\" target=\"_blank\">Jim Plunkett</a>. Plunkett had quite an interesting football career. He was super-hyped coming out of Stanford, he won the Heisman in 1970, and he was selected by the New England Patriots with the first overall pick in 1971.\r\n\r\nPlunkett started 14 games for the Pats in 1971 and completed just 48 percent of his passes while compiling a record of 6-8. The following year, Plunkett threw eight touchdowns and 25 interceptions, and lost 11 out of the 14 games he started. Plunkett struggled with injuries over the next few seasons, and in 1975, the year the Patriots drafted Steve Grogan, Plunkett was traded to the 49ers. Plunkett’s tenure in San Francisco started well (he led the team to a 6-1 record), but the Niners tailed off and Plunkett was released by the team during the 1978 season.\r\n\r\nWith his career teetering on journeyman status, Plunkett was picked up by the Raiders in 1978. He served as a backup that year and barely saw the field the following season. When QB Dan Pastorini broke his leg a few weeks into the 1980 season, Plunkett stepped in, led the Raiders to nine wins in 11 games, helped the team earn a wild card berth in the playoffs. He went on to lead the Raiders to a 27-10 victory over Dick Vermiel’s Eagles in Super Bowl XV. Plunkett was 33 years old. He was the first QB to lead a wild card team to Super Bowl victory, and he became the first (and only) player of Latin-American origin to win the Super Bowl MVP.\r\n\r\nPlunkett would return to a backup role before an injury to Marc Wilson forced him into the top spot on the depth chart again in 1983. Plunkett responded by leading the Raiders 10 wins in 13 games. The Raiders made the playoffs again and served up a blowout victory over the Redskins in Super Bowl XVIII.  Plunkett’s the only NFL QB with two Super Bowl victories to not be enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame. He currently does post-game radio shows and tons of TV work for the Raiders.\r\n\r\nDuring our interview with Plunkett, we chatted about this year’s Heisman trophy ceremony, Stanford QB Andrew Luck, Raiders’ owner Al Davis, today’s pass-happy NFL offenses, his pick for who will take home the Heisman this year, and whether he thinks college football needs a playoff system.\r\n\r\n<strong>CS</strong>: So you won the Heisman Trophy back in 1970.\r\n\r\n<strong>JP</strong>: Back in the Dark Ages, yes.\r\n\r\n<strong>CS</strong>: Can you tell us what it’s like to belong to such an elite fraternity of college football greats?\r\n\r\n<strong>JP</strong>: Well, obviously it’s a great feeling to be chosen among so very few. It’s started in 1935, the first Heisman award, and now they’re up to 76 that are coming up this year. It’s a great feeling, you know. You were selected among so many other certainly very viable athletes back when, for me 1970. Any number of people could have won that, but you were chosen because of what you did on the football field and how you carried yourself off the field. It really means a lot to me as it does to all the other recipients over the years.\r\n\r\n<strong>CS</strong>: Now people are calling Stanford QB Andrew Luck one of the best NFL QB prospects to come out in years, and some coaches said the same thing about you back in the day.\r\n\r\n<strong>JP</strong>: Right.\r\n\r\n<strong>CS</strong>: Do you think Luck is ready to make a big splash in the NFL and what’s it like dealing with those high expectations going in to your pro career?\r\n\r\n<strong>JP:</strong> Well you know number one, yes I do really, truly believe that Andrew Luck is probably the best passing quarterback in college today. I don’t think there’s any doubt about it. I see him almost every week. I was at the Oregon State game. I go to most of the home games, sometimes a road game or two, and he’s head and shoulders above everybody. As far as just passing the football ,there are other quarterbacks who could probably run better obviously, but he runs pretty well as well. He’s got a great feel for the game, a great feel for what’s happening around him and he reads the defense extremely quickly and more often than not goes to the right receiver. He’s got a great arm. He can throw off balances almost as well as he can when he’s stepping into the throw because he’s got that great arm strength. He anticipates well. He’s got some innate abilities. He can sense pressure, get out of trouble, take off and either run or give himself more time by shuffling around. He’s just a great kid and he’s a great football player and it’s just fun to watch the way he executes out there. That being said, whenever you go somewhere, expectations are always high when you’re a front pick if that’s what Andrew will be – and I’m sure he will be, he might even be the very first pick. So when somebody steps into that kind of situation, they’re always scrutinized very heavily, especially if you start off right away. You get paid a lot of money and professional fans in particular expect results right away. That doesn’t always happen but he’s a lot like… there’s a kid over at Saint Louis, I just can’t remember his name right now, out of Oklahoma – San Bradford – who won the Heisman a couple of years ago. He’s in that mold. He’s in the Manning mold, Eli and Peyton. He’s just ahead of his time so to speak. But yeah, I mean you get in the NFL, you usually go to a team that has not had a great season, so they’re not probably as good as some other team you might go to. Sometimes it’s a learning curve, it’s a process. You get beat up a little bit. You take your lumps, and hopefully when all the dust settles, you’ll have made progress. Sooner or later you’ll be the quarterback they’ve drafted you to be.\r\n\r\n<!--more-->\r\n\r\n<strong>CS</strong>: How can fans participate in this year’s Heisman trophy ceremony process?\r\n\r\n<strong><a href=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Heisman_Trophy.gif\"><img class=\"alignright size-full wp-image-3100\" title=\"Heisman_Trophy\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Heisman_Trophy.gif\" alt=\"\" width=\"150\" height=\"160\" /></a>JP</strong>: Well I think the best way is to go to Heisman.com. It will give you the information whether you want to come as an individual, buy a table, be a sponsor, there are different levels. It’s a great event to attend. You get to see some of the greatest football players arguably of all time, some great former Heisman winners. I know a lot of the guys go. I’ve gone to the last three. I go in streaks. I can’t make them all as I do work for the Raiders during the season. But it’s a fabulous event to watch, especially if you have kids, take grandchildren. It is just a lot of fun to be there, to see them, to talk to them, to hear them talk, get autographs at times, it’s just a wonderful experience. I’ve sent some people here from California where I live – I live over by Stanford – out to the Heisman. Sometimes through some of the raffles we’ve had out here, to make them part of the thing. One of my best friends has gone back twice. They’ve enjoyed the experience so much. So I highly recommend it. Come out and see some of these great former athletes and have a great time.\r\n\r\n<strong>CS</strong>: Now you did a lot of great things for the Raiders; I just wanted to ask you is Al Davis misunderstood?\r\n\r\n<strong>JP</strong>: Oh yeah, he’s … I think he is at times. He’s done a lot for the game. He’s done a lot for the Raiders obviously but for the game in general. He believes in the integrity of the game, he’s fought a lot of the changes that have occurred, but unfortunately he’s been on the losing battle on some of those. He has not had much success as of late unfortunately. Part of it I think is his health. I used to enjoy him coming on the field and talking with the guys and talking with me and really getting into people’s psyches so to speak. Go to the All Star games and watch these athletes up close and personal. He can’t do that anymore. Now he’s got to learn about how good these kids are either from film or from his scouts, and I don’t think you get the same feel from film as he would if he could interact with them personally. So I think he’s lost that edge there. The Raiders have bounced back a little bit. We’re a little bit better than in the past. Still not where the Raiders want to be, but hopefully we’re taking steps in the right direction.\r\n\r\n<strong>CS</strong>: Do you or other retired players you know ever check out ProFootballTalk.com to stay up to date with league news and what not?\r\n\r\n<strong>JP</strong>: You know I check a lot of different websites. I certainly read the paper. I’m an old fashioned guy. I love to read the paper and have my coffee in the morning. I go on the Internet. I go to NFL.com. I see some of the blogs. I’m more interested in what the Raiders are doing, but I try to keep my finger on the pulse of what’s going on in the NFL.\r\n\r\n<strong>CS</strong>: Do you think you belong in the NFL hall of fame?\r\n\r\n<strong><img class=\"alignright size-full wp-image-3107\" title=\"plunkett1\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/plunkett1.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"132\" height=\"170\" />JP</strong>: You know, that’s not for me to decide. I did what I could, I played as hard as I could and did the best job I possibly could. I started at New England when New England wasn’t the team they are today. So it was a struggle, my career didn’t go exactly as I had hoped – in a spiral upwards, it was more of an up and down. But you know, I finally got there thanks to the Raiders and Mr. Davis as a matter of fact and the players that he had on the football team. Fortunately for me I got the ring off the merry go round, not once but twice, and a lot of people never get there.\r\n\r\n<strong>CS</strong>: How do you think your skill set would fit into the pass-heavy, spread offenses that you see in today’s NFL?\r\n\r\n<strong>JP</strong>: Me personally, I would love it. The number of passes they throw, the quickness with which they release the ball, a lot of the bubble screens by the tight end and wide receivers, I just a love of the short passes. Probably my career would have maybe even lasted a little longer. I wouldn’t be as beat up as I am today. They get rid of the ball quicker, a lot of crossing routes. But I’ve always loved to throw the ball and this pass happy stuff – plus the rules have all been in favor of the offence – defense suffers a little bit. I would love to be playing today and I think I would fit in quite well.\r\n\r\n<strong>CS</strong>: Who do you think is going to win the Heisman trophy this year?\r\n\r\n<strong>JP</strong>: Well, you know Cam Newton is certainly the front runner at this point. And that the game he had against Alabama, especially the second half, didn’t hurt his chances one bit. There are still a lot of other performances out there that have been pretty good, and Andrew Luck is certainly one of those kids. Part of the thing is you know you vote for a person for different reasons. Number one, you look at the stats and see what kind of year he had, but how much did he help his team win the footballs games? Would they have won anyway without this guy’s performance? And that’s another thing I look at. He’s got a little cloud hanging over him right now – Cam Newton – and that’s another thing you have to take into consideration, but hopefully that will all clear up. We have to have our votes in by December 6<sup>th</sup> and we’ll see where everybody stands then.\r\n\r\n<strong>CS</strong>: Do you think college football needs a playoff system? And if so how many teams should go to the postseason?\r\n\r\n<strong>JP</strong>: You know what, I’m not a big believer in the playoff system for college football. They already play what, maybe 12 games in the regular season? Maybe 13 or 14 before it’s all said and done. Maybe even 15, I’m not even sure anymore. A mythical champion is okay with me. They’ve still got to go to school and get an education, because all of these guys aren’t going on to the NFL. So a mythical champion is okay with me. You win your conference, you go to a bowl game. Another thing I have – this is a little pet peeve of mine – too many Bowl games. If you win six games you’re eligible for a Bowl. It’s something that I think you have to earn. In six games, 50 percent winning doesn’t really cut it for me. But I’m not in a real big favor of a playoff system. There’s still going to be controversy in that as well.','Interview with Former Heisman Trophy Winner and Super Bowl MVP Jim Plunkett','','inherit','open','open','','3096-revision-9','','','2010-12-10 16:48:44','2010-12-11 00:48:44','',3096,'http://manjr.com/2010/uncategorized/3096-revision-9/',0,'revision','',0),(3110,2,'2010-12-10 16:49:13','2010-12-11 00:49:13','<a href=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/jim-plunkett.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-3097\" title=\"jim-plunkett\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/jim-plunkett.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"599\" height=\"282\" /></a>\r\n\r\nThe <a href=\"http://www.heisman.com/\" target=\"_blank\">Heisman Trophy</a> will be awarded this weekend to the best player in college football, and I had a chance to speak to a former recipient of college football’s top honors, <a href=\"http://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/P/PlunJi00.htm\" target=\"_blank\">Jim Plunkett</a>. Plunkett had quite an interesting football career. He was super-hyped coming out of Stanford, he won the Heisman in 1970, and he was selected by the New England Patriots with the first overall pick in 1971.\r\n\r\nPlunkett started 14 games for the Pats in 1971 and completed just 48 percent of his passes while compiling a record of 6-8. The following year, Plunkett threw eight touchdowns and 25 interceptions, and lost 11 out of the 14 games he started. Plunkett struggled with injuries over the next few seasons, and in 1975, the year the Patriots drafted Steve Grogan, Plunkett was traded to the 49ers. Plunkett’s tenure in San Francisco started well (he led the team to a 6-1 record), but the Niners tailed off and Plunkett was released by the team during the 1978 season.\r\n\r\nWith his career teetering on journeyman status, Plunkett was picked up by the Raiders in 1978. He served as a backup that year and barely saw the field the following season. When QB Dan Pastorini broke his leg a few weeks into the 1980 season, Plunkett stepped in, led the Raiders to nine wins in 11 games, helped the team earn a wild card berth in the playoffs. He went on to lead the Raiders to a 27-10 victory over Dick Vermiel’s Eagles in Super Bowl XV. Plunkett was 33 years old. He was the first QB to lead a wild card team to Super Bowl victory, and he became the first (and only) player of Latin-American origin to win the Super Bowl MVP.\r\n\r\nPlunkett would return to a backup role before an injury to Marc Wilson forced him into the top spot on the depth chart again in 1983. Plunkett responded by leading the Raiders 10 wins in 13 games. The Raiders made the playoffs again and served up a blowout victory over the Redskins in Super Bowl XVIII.  Plunkett’s the only NFL QB with two Super Bowl victories to not be enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame. He currently does post-game radio shows and tons of TV work for the Raiders.\r\n\r\nDuring our interview with Plunkett, we chatted about this year’s Heisman trophy ceremony, Stanford QB Andrew Luck, Raiders’ owner Al Davis, today’s pass-happy NFL offenses, his pick for who will take home the Heisman this year, and whether he thinks college football needs a playoff system.\r\n\r\n<strong>CS</strong>: So you won the Heisman Trophy back in 1970.\r\n\r\n<strong>JP</strong>: Back in the Dark Ages, yes.\r\n\r\n<strong>CS</strong>: Can you tell us what it’s like to belong to such an elite fraternity of college football greats?\r\n\r\n<strong>JP</strong>: Well, obviously it’s a great feeling to be chosen among so very few. It’s started in 1935, the first Heisman award, and now they’re up to 76 that are coming up this year. It’s a great feeling, you know. You were selected among so many other certainly very viable athletes back when, for me 1970. Any number of people could have won that, but you were chosen because of what you did on the football field and how you carried yourself off the field. It really means a lot to me as it does to all the other recipients over the years.\r\n\r\n<strong>CS</strong>: Now people are calling Stanford QB Andrew Luck one of the best NFL QB prospects to come out in years, and some coaches said the same thing about you back in the day.\r\n\r\n<strong>JP</strong>: Right.\r\n\r\n<strong>CS</strong>: Do you think Luck is ready to make a big splash in the NFL and what’s it like dealing with those high expectations going in to your pro career?\r\n\r\n<strong>JP:</strong> Well you know number one, yes I do really, truly believe that Andrew Luck is probably the best passing quarterback in college today. I don’t think there’s any doubt about it. I see him almost every week. I was at the Oregon State game. I go to most of the home games, sometimes a road game or two, and he’s head and shoulders above everybody. As far as just passing the football ,there are other quarterbacks who could probably run better obviously, but he runs pretty well as well. He’s got a great feel for the game, a great feel for what’s happening around him and he reads the defense extremely quickly and more often than not goes to the right receiver. He’s got a great arm. He can throw off balances almost as well as he can when he’s stepping into the throw because he’s got that great arm strength. He anticipates well. He’s got some innate abilities. He can sense pressure, get out of trouble, take off and either run or give himself more time by shuffling around. He’s just a great kid and he’s a great football player and it’s just fun to watch the way he executes out there. That being said, whenever you go somewhere, expectations are always high when you’re a front pick if that’s what Andrew will be – and I’m sure he will be, he might even be the very first pick. So when somebody steps into that kind of situation, they’re always scrutinized very heavily, especially if you start off right away. You get paid a lot of money and professional fans in particular expect results right away. That doesn’t always happen but he’s a lot like… there’s a kid over at Saint Louis, I just can’t remember his name right now, out of Oklahoma – San Bradford – who won the Heisman a couple of years ago. He’s in that mold. He’s in the Manning mold, Eli and Peyton. He’s just ahead of his time so to speak. But yeah, I mean you get in the NFL, you usually go to a team that has not had a great season, so they’re not probably as good as some other team you might go to. Sometimes it’s a learning curve, it’s a process. You get beat up a little bit. You take your lumps, and hopefully when all the dust settles, you’ll have made progress. Sooner or later you’ll be the quarterback they’ve drafted you to be.\r\n\r\n<!--more-->\r\n\r\n<strong>CS</strong>: How can fans participate in this year’s Heisman trophy ceremony process?\r\n\r\n<strong><a href=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Heisman_Trophy.gif\"><img class=\"alignright size-full wp-image-3100\" title=\"Heisman_Trophy\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Heisman_Trophy.gif\" alt=\"\" width=\"150\" height=\"160\" /></a>JP</strong>: Well I think the best way is to go to Heisman.com. It will give you the information whether you want to come as an individual, buy a table, be a sponsor, there are different levels. It’s a great event to attend. You get to see some of the greatest football players arguably of all time, some great former Heisman winners. I know a lot of the guys go. I’ve gone to the last three. I go in streaks. I can’t make them all as I do work for the Raiders during the season. But it’s a fabulous event to watch, especially if you have kids, take grandchildren. It is just a lot of fun to be there, to see them, to talk to them, to hear them talk, get autographs at times, it’s just a wonderful experience. I’ve sent some people here from California where I live – I live over by Stanford – out to the Heisman. Sometimes through some of the raffles we’ve had out here, to make them part of the thing. One of my best friends has gone back twice. They’ve enjoyed the experience so much. So I highly recommend it. Come out and see some of these great former athletes and have a great time.\r\n\r\n<strong>CS</strong>: Now you did a lot of great things for the Raiders; I just wanted to ask you is Al Davis misunderstood?\r\n\r\n<strong>JP</strong>: Oh yeah, he’s … I think he is at times. He’s done a lot for the game. He’s done a lot for the Raiders obviously but for the game in general. He believes in the integrity of the game, he’s fought a lot of the changes that have occurred, but unfortunately he’s been on the losing battle on some of those. He has not had much success as of late unfortunately. Part of it I think is his health. I used to enjoy him coming on the field and talking with the guys and talking with me and really getting into people’s psyches so to speak. Go to the All Star games and watch these athletes up close and personal. He can’t do that anymore. Now he’s got to learn about how good these kids are either from film or from his scouts, and I don’t think you get the same feel from film as he would if he could interact with them personally. So I think he’s lost that edge there. The Raiders have bounced back a little bit. We’re a little bit better than in the past. Still not where the Raiders want to be, but hopefully we’re taking steps in the right direction.\r\n\r\n<strong>CS</strong>: Do you or other retired players you know ever check out ProFootballTalk.com to stay up to date with league news and what not?\r\n\r\n<strong>JP</strong>: You know I check a lot of different websites. I certainly read the paper. I’m an old fashioned guy. I love to read the paper and have my coffee in the morning. I go on the Internet. I go to NFL.com. I see some of the blogs. I’m more interested in what the Raiders are doing, but I try to keep my finger on the pulse of what’s going on in the NFL.\r\n\r\n<strong>CS</strong>: Do you think you belong in the NFL hall of fame?\r\n\r\n<strong><img class=\"alignright size-full wp-image-3107\" title=\"plunkett1\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/plunkett1.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"113\" height=\"145\" />JP</strong>: You know, that’s not for me to decide. I did what I could, I played as hard as I could and did the best job I possibly could. I started at New England when New England wasn’t the team they are today. So it was a struggle, my career didn’t go exactly as I had hoped – in a spiral upwards, it was more of an up and down. But you know, I finally got there thanks to the Raiders and Mr. Davis as a matter of fact and the players that he had on the football team. Fortunately for me I got the ring off the merry go round, not once but twice, and a lot of people never get there.\r\n\r\n<strong>CS</strong>: How do you think your skill set would fit into the pass-heavy, spread offenses that you see in today’s NFL?\r\n\r\n<strong>JP</strong>: Me personally, I would love it. The number of passes they throw, the quickness with which they release the ball, a lot of the bubble screens by the tight end and wide receivers, I just a love of the short passes. Probably my career would have maybe even lasted a little longer. I wouldn’t be as beat up as I am today. They get rid of the ball quicker, a lot of crossing routes. But I’ve always loved to throw the ball and this pass happy stuff – plus the rules have all been in favor of the offence – defense suffers a little bit. I would love to be playing today and I think I would fit in quite well.\r\n\r\n<strong>CS</strong>: Who do you think is going to win the Heisman trophy this year?\r\n\r\n<strong>JP</strong>: Well, you know Cam Newton is certainly the front runner at this point. And that the game he had against Alabama, especially the second half, didn’t hurt his chances one bit. There are still a lot of other performances out there that have been pretty good, and Andrew Luck is certainly one of those kids. Part of the thing is you know you vote for a person for different reasons. Number one, you look at the stats and see what kind of year he had, but how much did he help his team win the footballs games? Would they have won anyway without this guy’s performance? And that’s another thing I look at. He’s got a little cloud hanging over him right now – Cam Newton – and that’s another thing you have to take into consideration, but hopefully that will all clear up. We have to have our votes in by December 6<sup>th</sup> and we’ll see where everybody stands then.\r\n\r\n<strong>CS</strong>: Do you think college football needs a playoff system? And if so how many teams should go to the postseason?\r\n\r\n<strong>JP</strong>: You know what, I’m not a big believer in the playoff system for college football. They already play what, maybe 12 games in the regular season? Maybe 13 or 14 before it’s all said and done. Maybe even 15, I’m not even sure anymore. A mythical champion is okay with me. They’ve still got to go to school and get an education, because all of these guys aren’t going on to the NFL. So a mythical champion is okay with me. You win your conference, you go to a bowl game. Another thing I have – this is a little pet peeve of mine – too many Bowl games. If you win six games you’re eligible for a Bowl. It’s something that I think you have to earn. In six games, 50 percent winning doesn’t really cut it for me. But I’m not in a real big favor of a playoff system. There’s still going to be controversy in that as well.','Interview with Former Heisman Trophy Winner and Super Bowl MVP Jim Plunkett','','inherit','open','open','','3096-revision-10','','','2010-12-10 16:49:13','2010-12-11 00:49:13','',3096,'http://manjr.com/2010/uncategorized/3096-revision-10/',0,'revision','',0),(3111,2,'2010-12-10 16:50:07','2010-12-11 00:50:07','<a href=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/jim-plunkett.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-3097\" title=\"jim-plunkett\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/jim-plunkett.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"599\" height=\"282\" /></a>\r\n\r\nThe <a href=\"http://www.heisman.com/\" target=\"_blank\">Heisman Trophy</a> will be awarded this weekend to the best player in college football, and I had a chance to speak to a former recipient of college football’s top honors, <a href=\"http://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/P/PlunJi00.htm\" target=\"_blank\">Jim Plunkett</a>. Plunkett had quite an interesting football career. He was super-hyped coming out of Stanford, he won the Heisman in 1970, and he was selected by the New England Patriots with the first overall pick in 1971.\r\n\r\nPlunkett started 14 games for the Pats in 1971 and completed just 48 percent of his passes while compiling a record of 6-8. The following year, Plunkett threw eight touchdowns and 25 interceptions, and lost 11 out of the 14 games he started. Plunkett struggled with injuries over the next few seasons, and in 1975, the year the Patriots drafted Steve Grogan, Plunkett was traded to the 49ers. Plunkett’s tenure in San Francisco started well (he led the team to a 6-1 record), but the Niners tailed off and Plunkett was released by the team during the 1978 season.\r\n\r\nWith his career teetering on journeyman status, Plunkett was picked up by the Raiders in 1978. He served as a backup that year and barely saw the field the following season. When QB Dan Pastorini broke his leg a few weeks into the 1980 season, Plunkett stepped in, led the Raiders to nine wins in 11 games, helped the team earn a wild card berth in the playoffs. He went on to lead the Raiders to a 27-10 victory over Dick Vermiel’s Eagles in Super Bowl XV. Plunkett was 33 years old. He was the first QB to lead a wild card team to Super Bowl victory, and he became the first (and only) player of Latin-American origin to win the Super Bowl MVP.\r\n\r\nPlunkett would return to a backup role before an injury to Marc Wilson forced him into the top spot on the depth chart again in 1983. Plunkett responded by leading the Raiders 10 wins in 13 games. The Raiders made the playoffs again and served up a blowout victory over the Redskins in Super Bowl XVIII.  Plunkett’s the only NFL QB with two Super Bowl victories to not be enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame. He currently does post-game radio shows and tons of TV work for the Raiders.\r\n\r\nDuring our interview with Plunkett, we chatted about this year’s Heisman trophy ceremony, Stanford QB Andrew Luck, Raiders’ owner Al Davis, today’s pass-happy NFL offenses, his pick for who will take home the Heisman this year, and whether he thinks college football needs a playoff system.\r\n\r\n<strong>CS</strong>: So you won the Heisman Trophy back in 1970.\r\n\r\n<strong>JP</strong>: Back in the Dark Ages, yes.\r\n\r\n<strong>CS</strong>: Can you tell us what it’s like to belong to such an elite fraternity of college football greats?\r\n\r\n<strong>JP</strong>: Well, obviously it’s a great feeling to be chosen among so very few. It’s started in 1935, the first Heisman award, and now they’re up to 76 that are coming up this year. It’s a great feeling, you know. You were selected among so many other certainly very viable athletes back when, for me 1970. Any number of people could have won that, but you were chosen because of what you did on the football field and how you carried yourself off the field. It really means a lot to me as it does to all the other recipients over the years.\r\n\r\n<strong>CS</strong>: Now people are calling Stanford QB Andrew Luck one of the best NFL QB prospects to come out in years, and some coaches said the same thing about you back in the day.\r\n\r\n<strong>JP</strong>: Right.\r\n\r\n<strong>CS</strong>: Do you think Luck is ready to make a big splash in the NFL and what’s it like dealing with those high expectations going in to your pro career?\r\n\r\n<strong>JP:</strong> Well you know number one, yes I do really, truly believe that Andrew Luck is probably the best passing quarterback in college today. I don’t think there’s any doubt about it. I see him almost every week. I was at the Oregon State game. I go to most of the home games, sometimes a road game or two, and he’s head and shoulders above everybody. As far as just passing the football ,there are other quarterbacks who could probably run better obviously, but he runs pretty well as well. He’s got a great feel for the game, a great feel for what’s happening around him and he reads the defense extremely quickly and more often than not goes to the right receiver. He’s got a great arm. He can throw off balances almost as well as he can when he’s stepping into the throw because he’s got that great arm strength. He anticipates well. He’s got some innate abilities. He can sense pressure, get out of trouble, take off and either run or give himself more time by shuffling around. He’s just a great kid and he’s a great football player and it’s just fun to watch the way he executes out there. That being said, whenever you go somewhere, expectations are always high when you’re a front pick if that’s what Andrew will be – and I’m sure he will be, he might even be the very first pick. So when somebody steps into that kind of situation, they’re always scrutinized very heavily, especially if you start off right away. You get paid a lot of money and professional fans in particular expect results right away. That doesn’t always happen but he’s a lot like… there’s a kid over at Saint Louis, I just can’t remember his name right now, out of Oklahoma – San Bradford – who won the Heisman a couple of years ago. He’s in that mold. He’s in the Manning mold, Eli and Peyton. He’s just ahead of his time so to speak. But yeah, I mean you get in the NFL, you usually go to a team that has not had a great season, so they’re not probably as good as some other team you might go to. Sometimes it’s a learning curve, it’s a process. You get beat up a little bit. You take your lumps, and hopefully when all the dust settles, you’ll have made progress. Sooner or later you’ll be the quarterback they’ve drafted you to be.\r\n\r\n<!--more-->\r\n\r\n<strong>CS</strong>: How can fans participate in this year’s Heisman trophy ceremony process?\r\n\r\n<strong><a href=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Heisman_Trophy.gif\"><img class=\"alignright size-full wp-image-3100\" title=\"Heisman_Trophy\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Heisman_Trophy.gif\" alt=\"\" width=\"131\" height=\"140\" /></a>JP</strong>: Well I think the best way is to go to Heisman.com. It will give you the information whether you want to come as an individual, buy a table, be a sponsor, there are different levels. It’s a great event to attend. You get to see some of the greatest football players arguably of all time, some great former Heisman winners. I know a lot of the guys go. I’ve gone to the last three. I go in streaks. I can’t make them all as I do work for the Raiders during the season. But it’s a fabulous event to watch, especially if you have kids, take grandchildren. It is just a lot of fun to be there, to see them, to talk to them, to hear them talk, get autographs at times, it’s just a wonderful experience. I’ve sent some people here from California where I live – I live over by Stanford – out to the Heisman. Sometimes through some of the raffles we’ve had out here, to make them part of the thing. One of my best friends has gone back twice. They’ve enjoyed the experience so much. So I highly recommend it. Come out and see some of these great former athletes and have a great time.\r\n\r\n<strong>CS</strong>: Now you did a lot of great things for the Raiders; I just wanted to ask you is Al Davis misunderstood?\r\n\r\n<strong>JP</strong>: Oh yeah, he’s … I think he is at times. He’s done a lot for the game. He’s done a lot for the Raiders obviously but for the game in general. He believes in the integrity of the game, he’s fought a lot of the changes that have occurred, but unfortunately he’s been on the losing battle on some of those. He has not had much success as of late unfortunately. Part of it I think is his health. I used to enjoy him coming on the field and talking with the guys and talking with me and really getting into people’s psyches so to speak. Go to the All Star games and watch these athletes up close and personal. He can’t do that anymore. Now he’s got to learn about how good these kids are either from film or from his scouts, and I don’t think you get the same feel from film as he would if he could interact with them personally. So I think he’s lost that edge there. The Raiders have bounced back a little bit. We’re a little bit better than in the past. Still not where the Raiders want to be, but hopefully we’re taking steps in the right direction.\r\n\r\n<strong>CS</strong>: Do you or other retired players you know ever check out ProFootballTalk.com to stay up to date with league news and what not?\r\n\r\n<strong>JP</strong>: You know I check a lot of different websites. I certainly read the paper. I’m an old fashioned guy. I love to read the paper and have my coffee in the morning. I go on the Internet. I go to NFL.com. I see some of the blogs. I’m more interested in what the Raiders are doing, but I try to keep my finger on the pulse of what’s going on in the NFL.\r\n\r\n<strong>CS</strong>: Do you think you belong in the NFL hall of fame?\r\n\r\n<strong><img class=\"alignright size-full wp-image-3107\" title=\"plunkett1\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/plunkett1.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"92\" height=\"116\" />JP</strong>: You know, that’s not for me to decide. I did what I could, I played as hard as I could and did the best job I possibly could. I started at New England when New England wasn’t the team they are today. So it was a struggle, my career didn’t go exactly as I had hoped – in a spiral upwards, it was more of an up and down. But you know, I finally got there thanks to the Raiders and Mr. Davis as a matter of fact and the players that he had on the football team. Fortunately for me I got the ring off the merry go round, not once but twice, and a lot of people never get there.\r\n\r\n<strong>CS</strong>: How do you think your skill set would fit into the pass-heavy, spread offenses that you see in today’s NFL?\r\n\r\n<strong>JP</strong>: Me personally, I would love it. The number of passes they throw, the quickness with which they release the ball, a lot of the bubble screens by the tight end and wide receivers, I just a love of the short passes. Probably my career would have maybe even lasted a little longer. I wouldn’t be as beat up as I am today. They get rid of the ball quicker, a lot of crossing routes. But I’ve always loved to throw the ball and this pass happy stuff – plus the rules have all been in favor of the offence – defense suffers a little bit. I would love to be playing today and I think I would fit in quite well.\r\n\r\n<strong>CS</strong>: Who do you think is going to win the Heisman trophy this year?\r\n\r\n<strong>JP</strong>: Well, you know Cam Newton is certainly the front runner at this point. And that the game he had against Alabama, especially the second half, didn’t hurt his chances one bit. There are still a lot of other performances out there that have been pretty good, and Andrew Luck is certainly one of those kids. Part of the thing is you know you vote for a person for different reasons. Number one, you look at the stats and see what kind of year he had, but how much did he help his team win the footballs games? Would they have won anyway without this guy’s performance? And that’s another thing I look at. He’s got a little cloud hanging over him right now – Cam Newton – and that’s another thing you have to take into consideration, but hopefully that will all clear up. We have to have our votes in by December 6<sup>th</sup> and we’ll see where everybody stands then.\r\n\r\n<strong>CS</strong>: Do you think college football needs a playoff system? And if so how many teams should go to the postseason?\r\n\r\n<strong>JP</strong>: You know what, I’m not a big believer in the playoff system for college football. They already play what, maybe 12 games in the regular season? Maybe 13 or 14 before it’s all said and done. Maybe even 15, I’m not even sure anymore. A mythical champion is okay with me. They’ve still got to go to school and get an education, because all of these guys aren’t going on to the NFL. So a mythical champion is okay with me. You win your conference, you go to a bowl game. Another thing I have – this is a little pet peeve of mine – too many Bowl games. If you win six games you’re eligible for a Bowl. It’s something that I think you have to earn. In six games, 50 percent winning doesn’t really cut it for me. But I’m not in a real big favor of a playoff system. There’s still going to be controversy in that as well.','Interview with Former Heisman Trophy Winner and Super Bowl MVP Jim Plunkett','','inherit','open','open','','3096-revision-11','','','2010-12-10 16:50:07','2010-12-11 00:50:07','',3096,'http://manjr.com/2010/uncategorized/3096-revision-11/',0,'revision','',0),(3112,2,'2010-12-10 16:50:47','2010-12-11 00:50:47','<a href=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/jim-plunkett.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-3097\" title=\"jim-plunkett\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/jim-plunkett.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"599\" height=\"282\" /></a>\r\n\r\nThe <a href=\"http://www.heisman.com/\" target=\"_blank\">Heisman Trophy</a> will be awarded this weekend to the best player in college football, and I had a chance to speak to a former recipient of college football’s top honors, <a href=\"http://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/P/PlunJi00.htm\" target=\"_blank\">Jim Plunkett</a>. Plunkett had quite an interesting football career. He was super-hyped coming out of Stanford, he won the Heisman in 1970, and he was selected by the New England Patriots with the first overall pick in 1971.\r\n\r\nPlunkett started 14 games for the Pats in 1971 and completed just 48 percent of his passes while compiling a record of 6-8. The following year, Plunkett threw eight touchdowns and 25 interceptions, and lost 11 out of the 14 games he started. Plunkett struggled with injuries over the next few seasons, and in 1975, the year the Patriots drafted Steve Grogan, Plunkett was traded to the 49ers. Plunkett’s tenure in San Francisco started well (he led the team to a 6-1 record), but the Niners tailed off and Plunkett was released by the team during the 1978 season.\r\n\r\nWith his career teetering on journeyman status, Plunkett was picked up by the Raiders in 1978. He served as a backup that year and barely saw the field the following season. When QB Dan Pastorini broke his leg a few weeks into the 1980 season, Plunkett stepped in, led the Raiders to nine wins in 11 games, helped the team earn a wild card berth in the playoffs. He went on to lead the Raiders to a 27-10 victory over Dick Vermiel’s Eagles in Super Bowl XV. Plunkett was 33 years old. He was the first QB to lead a wild card team to Super Bowl victory, and he became the first (and only) player of Latin-American origin to win the Super Bowl MVP.\r\n\r\nPlunkett would return to a backup role before an injury to Marc Wilson forced him into the top spot on the depth chart again in 1983. Plunkett responded by leading the Raiders 10 wins in 13 games. The Raiders made the playoffs again and served up a blowout victory over the Redskins in Super Bowl XVIII.  Plunkett’s the only NFL QB with two Super Bowl victories to not be enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame. He currently does post-game radio shows and tons of TV work for the Raiders.\r\n\r\nDuring our interview with Plunkett, we chatted about this year’s Heisman trophy ceremony, Stanford QB Andrew Luck, Raiders’ owner Al Davis, today’s pass-happy NFL offenses, his pick for who will take home the Heisman this year, and whether he thinks college football needs a playoff system.\r\n\r\n<strong>CS</strong>: So you won the Heisman Trophy back in 1970.\r\n\r\n<strong>JP</strong>: Back in the Dark Ages, yes.\r\n\r\n<strong>CS</strong>: Can you tell us what it’s like to belong to such an elite fraternity of college football greats?\r\n\r\n<strong>JP</strong>: Well, obviously it’s a great feeling to be chosen among so very few. It’s started in 1935, the first Heisman award, and now they’re up to 76 that are coming up this year. It’s a great feeling, you know. You were selected among so many other certainly very viable athletes back when, for me 1970. Any number of people could have won that, but you were chosen because of what you did on the football field and how you carried yourself off the field. It really means a lot to me as it does to all the other recipients over the years.\r\n\r\n<strong>CS</strong>: Now people are calling Stanford QB Andrew Luck one of the best NFL QB prospects to come out in years, and some coaches said the same thing about you back in the day.\r\n\r\n<strong>JP</strong>: Right.\r\n\r\n<strong>CS</strong>: Do you think Luck is ready to make a big splash in the NFL and what’s it like dealing with those high expectations going in to your pro career?\r\n\r\n<strong>JP:</strong> Well you know number one, yes I do really, truly believe that Andrew Luck is probably the best passing quarterback in college today. I don’t think there’s any doubt about it. I see him almost every week. I was at the Oregon State game. I go to most of the home games, sometimes a road game or two, and he’s head and shoulders above everybody. As far as just passing the football ,there are other quarterbacks who could probably run better obviously, but he runs pretty well as well. He’s got a great feel for the game, a great feel for what’s happening around him and he reads the defense extremely quickly and more often than not goes to the right receiver. He’s got a great arm. He can throw off balances almost as well as he can when he’s stepping into the throw because he’s got that great arm strength. He anticipates well. He’s got some innate abilities. He can sense pressure, get out of trouble, take off and either run or give himself more time by shuffling around. He’s just a great kid and he’s a great football player and it’s just fun to watch the way he executes out there. That being said, whenever you go somewhere, expectations are always high when you’re a front pick if that’s what Andrew will be – and I’m sure he will be, he might even be the very first pick. So when somebody steps into that kind of situation, they’re always scrutinized very heavily, especially if you start off right away. You get paid a lot of money and professional fans in particular expect results right away. That doesn’t always happen but he’s a lot like… there’s a kid over at Saint Louis, I just can’t remember his name right now, out of Oklahoma – San Bradford – who won the Heisman a couple of years ago. He’s in that mold. He’s in the Manning mold, Eli and Peyton. He’s just ahead of his time so to speak. But yeah, I mean you get in the NFL, you usually go to a team that has not had a great season, so they’re not probably as good as some other team you might go to. Sometimes it’s a learning curve, it’s a process. You get beat up a little bit. You take your lumps, and hopefully when all the dust settles, you’ll have made progress. Sooner or later you’ll be the quarterback they’ve drafted you to be.\r\n\r\n<!--more-->\r\n\r\n<strong>CS</strong>: How can fans participate in this year’s Heisman trophy ceremony process?\r\n\r\n<strong><a href=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Heisman_Trophy.gif\"><img class=\"alignright size-full wp-image-3100\" title=\"Heisman_Trophy\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Heisman_Trophy.gif\" alt=\"\" width=\"131\" height=\"140\" /></a>JP</strong>: Well I think the best way is to go to <a href=\"http://www.heisman.com/\" target=\"_blank\">Heisman.com</a>. It will give you the information whether you want to come as an individual, buy a table, be a sponsor, there are different levels. It’s a great event to attend. You get to see some of the greatest football players arguably of all time, some great former Heisman winners. I know a lot of the guys go. I’ve gone to the last three. I go in streaks. I can’t make them all as I do work for the Raiders during the season. But it’s a fabulous event to watch, especially if you have kids, take grandchildren. It is just a lot of fun to be there, to see them, to talk to them, to hear them talk, get autographs at times, it’s just a wonderful experience. I’ve sent some people here from California where I live – I live over by Stanford – out to the Heisman. Sometimes through some of the raffles we’ve had out here, to make them part of the thing. One of my best friends has gone back twice. They’ve enjoyed the experience so much. So I highly recommend it. Come out and see some of these great former athletes and have a great time.\r\n\r\n<strong>CS</strong>: Now you did a lot of great things for the Raiders; I just wanted to ask you is Al Davis misunderstood?\r\n\r\n<strong>JP</strong>: Oh yeah, he’s … I think he is at times. He’s done a lot for the game. He’s done a lot for the Raiders obviously but for the game in general. He believes in the integrity of the game, he’s fought a lot of the changes that have occurred, but unfortunately he’s been on the losing battle on some of those. He has not had much success as of late unfortunately. Part of it I think is his health. I used to enjoy him coming on the field and talking with the guys and talking with me and really getting into people’s psyches so to speak. Go to the All Star games and watch these athletes up close and personal. He can’t do that anymore. Now he’s got to learn about how good these kids are either from film or from his scouts, and I don’t think you get the same feel from film as he would if he could interact with them personally. So I think he’s lost that edge there. The Raiders have bounced back a little bit. We’re a little bit better than in the past. Still not where the Raiders want to be, but hopefully we’re taking steps in the right direction.\r\n\r\n<strong>CS</strong>: Do you or other retired players you know ever check out ProFootballTalk.com to stay up to date with league news and what not?\r\n\r\n<strong>JP</strong>: You know I check a lot of different websites. I certainly read the paper. I’m an old fashioned guy. I love to read the paper and have my coffee in the morning. I go on the Internet. I go to NFL.com. I see some of the blogs. I’m more interested in what the Raiders are doing, but I try to keep my finger on the pulse of what’s going on in the NFL.\r\n\r\n<strong>CS</strong>: Do you think you belong in the NFL hall of fame?\r\n\r\n<strong><img class=\"alignright size-full wp-image-3107\" title=\"plunkett1\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/plunkett1.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"92\" height=\"116\" />JP</strong>: You know, that’s not for me to decide. I did what I could, I played as hard as I could and did the best job I possibly could. I started at New England when New England wasn’t the team they are today. So it was a struggle, my career didn’t go exactly as I had hoped – in a spiral upwards, it was more of an up and down. But you know, I finally got there thanks to the Raiders and Mr. Davis as a matter of fact and the players that he had on the football team. Fortunately for me I got the ring off the merry go round, not once but twice, and a lot of people never get there.\r\n\r\n<strong>CS</strong>: How do you think your skill set would fit into the pass-heavy, spread offenses that you see in today’s NFL?\r\n\r\n<strong>JP</strong>: Me personally, I would love it. The number of passes they throw, the quickness with which they release the ball, a lot of the bubble screens by the tight end and wide receivers, I just a love of the short passes. Probably my career would have maybe even lasted a little longer. I wouldn’t be as beat up as I am today. They get rid of the ball quicker, a lot of crossing routes. But I’ve always loved to throw the ball and this pass happy stuff – plus the rules have all been in favor of the offence – defense suffers a little bit. I would love to be playing today and I think I would fit in quite well.\r\n\r\n<strong>CS</strong>: Who do you think is going to win the Heisman trophy this year?\r\n\r\n<strong>JP</strong>: Well, you know Cam Newton is certainly the front runner at this point. And that the game he had against Alabama, especially the second half, didn’t hurt his chances one bit. There are still a lot of other performances out there that have been pretty good, and Andrew Luck is certainly one of those kids. Part of the thing is you know you vote for a person for different reasons. Number one, you look at the stats and see what kind of year he had, but how much did he help his team win the footballs games? Would they have won anyway without this guy’s performance? And that’s another thing I look at. He’s got a little cloud hanging over him right now – Cam Newton – and that’s another thing you have to take into consideration, but hopefully that will all clear up. We have to have our votes in by December 6<sup>th</sup> and we’ll see where everybody stands then.\r\n\r\n<strong>CS</strong>: Do you think college football needs a playoff system? And if so how many teams should go to the postseason?\r\n\r\n<strong>JP</strong>: You know what, I’m not a big believer in the playoff system for college football. They already play what, maybe 12 games in the regular season? Maybe 13 or 14 before it’s all said and done. Maybe even 15, I’m not even sure anymore. A mythical champion is okay with me. They’ve still got to go to school and get an education, because all of these guys aren’t going on to the NFL. So a mythical champion is okay with me. You win your conference, you go to a bowl game. Another thing I have – this is a little pet peeve of mine – too many Bowl games. If you win six games you’re eligible for a Bowl. It’s something that I think you have to earn. In six games, 50 percent winning doesn’t really cut it for me. But I’m not in a real big favor of a playoff system. There’s still going to be controversy in that as well.','Interview with Former Heisman Trophy Winner and Super Bowl MVP Jim Plunkett','','inherit','open','open','','3096-revision-12','','','2010-12-10 16:50:47','2010-12-11 00:50:47','',3096,'http://manjr.com/2010/uncategorized/3096-revision-12/',0,'revision','',0),(3113,2,'2010-12-10 16:51:18','2010-12-11 00:51:18','<a href=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/jim-plunkett.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-3097\" title=\"jim-plunkett\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/jim-plunkett.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"599\" height=\"282\" /></a>\r\n\r\nThe <a href=\"http://www.heisman.com/\" target=\"_blank\">Heisman Trophy</a> will be awarded this weekend to the best player in college football, and I had a chance to speak to a former recipient of college football’s top honors, <a href=\"http://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/P/PlunJi00.htm\" target=\"_blank\">Jim Plunkett</a>. Plunkett had quite an interesting football career. He was super-hyped coming out of Stanford, he won the Heisman in 1970, and he was selected by the New England Patriots with the first overall pick in 1971.\r\n\r\nPlunkett started 14 games for the Pats in 1971 and completed just 48 percent of his passes while compiling a record of 6-8. The following year, Plunkett threw eight touchdowns and 25 interceptions, and lost 11 out of the 14 games he started. Plunkett struggled with injuries over the next few seasons, and in 1975, the year the Patriots drafted Steve Grogan, Plunkett was traded to the 49ers. Plunkett’s tenure in San Francisco started well (he led the team to a 6-1 record), but the Niners tailed off and Plunkett was released by the team during the 1978 season.\r\n\r\nWith his career teetering on journeyman status, Plunkett was picked up by the Raiders in 1978. He served as a backup that year and barely saw the field the following season. When QB Dan Pastorini broke his leg a few weeks into the 1980 season, Plunkett stepped in, led the Raiders to nine wins in 11 games, helped the team earn a wild card berth in the playoffs. He went on to lead the Raiders to a 27-10 victory over Dick Vermiel’s Eagles in Super Bowl XV. Plunkett was 33 years old. He was the first QB to lead a wild card team to Super Bowl victory, and he became the first (and only) player of Latin-American origin to win the Super Bowl MVP.\r\n\r\nPlunkett would return to a backup role before an injury to Marc Wilson forced him into the top spot on the depth chart again in 1983. Plunkett responded by leading the Raiders 10 wins in 13 games. The Raiders made the playoffs again and served up a blowout victory over the Redskins in Super Bowl XVIII.  Plunkett’s the only NFL QB with two Super Bowl victories to not be enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame. He currently does post-game radio shows and tons of TV work for the Raiders.\r\n\r\nDuring our interview with Plunkett, we chatted about this year’s Heisman trophy ceremony, Stanford QB Andrew Luck, Raiders’ owner Al Davis, today’s pass-happy NFL offenses, his pick for who will take home the Heisman this year, and whether he thinks college football needs a playoff system.\r\n\r\n<strong>CS</strong>: So you won the Heisman Trophy back in 1970.\r\n\r\n<strong>JP</strong>: Back in the Dark Ages, yes.\r\n\r\n<strong>CS</strong>: Can you tell us what it’s like to belong to such an elite fraternity of college football greats?\r\n\r\n<strong>JP</strong>: Well, obviously it’s a great feeling to be chosen among so very few. It’s started in 1935, the first Heisman award, and now they’re up to 76 that are coming up this year. It’s a great feeling, you know. You were selected among so many other certainly very viable athletes back when, for me 1970. Any number of people could have won that, but you were chosen because of what you did on the football field and how you carried yourself off the field. It really means a lot to me as it does to all the other recipients over the years.\r\n\r\n<strong>CS</strong>: Now people are calling Stanford QB Andrew Luck one of the best NFL QB prospects to come out in years, and some coaches said the same thing about you back in the day.\r\n\r\n<strong>JP</strong>: Right.\r\n\r\n<strong>CS</strong>: Do you think Luck is ready to make a big splash in the NFL and what’s it like dealing with those high expectations going in to your pro career?\r\n\r\n<strong>JP:</strong> Well you know number one, yes I do really, truly believe that Andrew Luck is probably the best passing quarterback in college today. I don’t think there’s any doubt about it. I see him almost every week. I was at the Oregon State game. I go to most of the home games, sometimes a road game or two, and he’s head and shoulders above everybody. As far as just passing the football ,there are other quarterbacks who could probably run better obviously, but he runs pretty well as well. He’s got a great feel for the game, a great feel for what’s happening around him and he reads the defense extremely quickly and more often than not goes to the right receiver. He’s got a great arm. He can throw off balances almost as well as he can when he’s stepping into the throw because he’s got that great arm strength. He anticipates well. He’s got some innate abilities. He can sense pressure, get out of trouble, take off and either run or give himself more time by shuffling around. He’s just a great kid and he’s a great football player and it’s just fun to watch the way he executes out there. That being said, whenever you go somewhere, expectations are always high when you’re a front pick if that’s what Andrew will be – and I’m sure he will be, he might even be the very first pick. So when somebody steps into that kind of situation, they’re always scrutinized very heavily, especially if you start off right away. You get paid a lot of money and professional fans in particular expect results right away. That doesn’t always happen but he’s a lot like… there’s a kid over at Saint Louis, I just can’t remember his name right now, out of Oklahoma – San Bradford – who won the Heisman a couple of years ago. He’s in that mold. He’s in the Manning mold, Eli and Peyton. He’s just ahead of his time so to speak. But yeah, I mean you get in the NFL, you usually go to a team that has not had a great season, so they’re not probably as good as some other team you might go to. Sometimes it’s a learning curve, it’s a process. You get beat up a little bit. You take your lumps, and hopefully when all the dust settles, you’ll have made progress. Sooner or later you’ll be the quarterback they’ve drafted you to be.\r\n\r\n<strong>CS</strong>: How can fans participate in this year’s Heisman trophy ceremony process?\r\n\r\n<strong><a href=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Heisman_Trophy.gif\"><img class=\"alignright size-full wp-image-3100\" title=\"Heisman_Trophy\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Heisman_Trophy.gif\" alt=\"\" width=\"131\" height=\"140\" /></a>JP</strong>: Well I think the best way is to go to <a href=\"http://www.heisman.com/\" target=\"_blank\">Heisman.com</a>. It will give you the information whether you want to come as an individual, buy a table, be a sponsor, there are different levels. It’s a great event to attend. You get to see some of the greatest football players arguably of all time, some great former Heisman winners. I know a lot of the guys go. I’ve gone to the last three. I go in streaks. I can’t make them all as I do work for the Raiders during the season. But it’s a fabulous event to watch, especially if you have kids, take grandchildren. It is just a lot of fun to be there, to see them, to talk to them, to hear them talk, get autographs at times, it’s just a wonderful experience. I’ve sent some people here from California where I live – I live over by Stanford – out to the Heisman. Sometimes through some of the raffles we’ve had out here, to make them part of the thing. One of my best friends has gone back twice. They’ve enjoyed the experience so much. So I highly recommend it. Come out and see some of these great former athletes and have a great time.\r\n\r\n<!--more-->\r\n\r\n<strong>CS</strong>: Now you did a lot of great things for the Raiders; I just wanted to ask you is Al Davis misunderstood?\r\n\r\n<strong>JP</strong>: Oh yeah, he’s … I think he is at times. He’s done a lot for the game. He’s done a lot for the Raiders obviously but for the game in general. He believes in the integrity of the game, he’s fought a lot of the changes that have occurred, but unfortunately he’s been on the losing battle on some of those. He has not had much success as of late unfortunately. Part of it I think is his health. I used to enjoy him coming on the field and talking with the guys and talking with me and really getting into people’s psyches so to speak. Go to the All Star games and watch these athletes up close and personal. He can’t do that anymore. Now he’s got to learn about how good these kids are either from film or from his scouts, and I don’t think you get the same feel from film as he would if he could interact with them personally. So I think he’s lost that edge there. The Raiders have bounced back a little bit. We’re a little bit better than in the past. Still not where the Raiders want to be, but hopefully we’re taking steps in the right direction.\r\n\r\n<strong>CS</strong>: Do you or other retired players you know ever check out ProFootballTalk.com to stay up to date with league news and what not?\r\n\r\n<strong>JP</strong>: You know I check a lot of different websites. I certainly read the paper. I’m an old fashioned guy. I love to read the paper and have my coffee in the morning. I go on the Internet. I go to NFL.com. I see some of the blogs. I’m more interested in what the Raiders are doing, but I try to keep my finger on the pulse of what’s going on in the NFL.\r\n\r\n<strong>CS</strong>: Do you think you belong in the NFL hall of fame?\r\n\r\n<strong><img class=\"alignright size-full wp-image-3107\" title=\"plunkett1\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/plunkett1.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"92\" height=\"116\" />JP</strong>: You know, that’s not for me to decide. I did what I could, I played as hard as I could and did the best job I possibly could. I started at New England when New England wasn’t the team they are today. So it was a struggle, my career didn’t go exactly as I had hoped – in a spiral upwards, it was more of an up and down. But you know, I finally got there thanks to the Raiders and Mr. Davis as a matter of fact and the players that he had on the football team. Fortunately for me I got the ring off the merry go round, not once but twice, and a lot of people never get there.\r\n\r\n<strong>CS</strong>: How do you think your skill set would fit into the pass-heavy, spread offenses that you see in today’s NFL?\r\n\r\n<strong>JP</strong>: Me personally, I would love it. The number of passes they throw, the quickness with which they release the ball, a lot of the bubble screens by the tight end and wide receivers, I just a love of the short passes. Probably my career would have maybe even lasted a little longer. I wouldn’t be as beat up as I am today. They get rid of the ball quicker, a lot of crossing routes. But I’ve always loved to throw the ball and this pass happy stuff – plus the rules have all been in favor of the offence – defense suffers a little bit. I would love to be playing today and I think I would fit in quite well.\r\n\r\n<strong>CS</strong>: Who do you think is going to win the Heisman trophy this year?\r\n\r\n<strong>JP</strong>: Well, you know Cam Newton is certainly the front runner at this point. And that the game he had against Alabama, especially the second half, didn’t hurt his chances one bit. There are still a lot of other performances out there that have been pretty good, and Andrew Luck is certainly one of those kids. Part of the thing is you know you vote for a person for different reasons. Number one, you look at the stats and see what kind of year he had, but how much did he help his team win the footballs games? Would they have won anyway without this guy’s performance? And that’s another thing I look at. He’s got a little cloud hanging over him right now – Cam Newton – and that’s another thing you have to take into consideration, but hopefully that will all clear up. We have to have our votes in by December 6<sup>th</sup> and we’ll see where everybody stands then.\r\n\r\n<strong>CS</strong>: Do you think college football needs a playoff system? And if so how many teams should go to the postseason?\r\n\r\n<strong>JP</strong>: You know what, I’m not a big believer in the playoff system for college football. They already play what, maybe 12 games in the regular season? Maybe 13 or 14 before it’s all said and done. Maybe even 15, I’m not even sure anymore. A mythical champion is okay with me. They’ve still got to go to school and get an education, because all of these guys aren’t going on to the NFL. So a mythical champion is okay with me. You win your conference, you go to a bowl game. Another thing I have – this is a little pet peeve of mine – too many Bowl games. If you win six games you’re eligible for a Bowl. It’s something that I think you have to earn. In six games, 50 percent winning doesn’t really cut it for me. But I’m not in a real big favor of a playoff system. There’s still going to be controversy in that as well.','Interview with Former Heisman Trophy Winner and Super Bowl MVP Jim Plunkett','','inherit','open','open','','3096-revision-13','','','2010-12-10 16:51:18','2010-12-11 00:51:18','',3096,'http://manjr.com/2010/uncategorized/3096-revision-13/',0,'revision','',0),(3114,2,'2010-12-10 16:52:16','2010-12-11 00:52:16','<a href=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/jim-plunkett.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-3097\" title=\"jim-plunkett\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/jim-plunkett.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"599\" height=\"282\" /></a>\r\n\r\nThe <a href=\"http://www.heisman.com/\" target=\"_blank\">Heisman Trophy</a> will be awarded this weekend to the best player in college football, and I had a chance to speak to a former recipient of college football’s top honors, <a href=\"http://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/P/PlunJi00.htm\" target=\"_blank\">Jim Plunkett</a>. Plunkett had quite an interesting football career. He was super-hyped coming out of Stanford, he won the Heisman in 1970, and he was selected by the New England Patriots with the first overall pick in 1971.\r\n\r\nPlunkett started 14 games for the Pats in 1971 and completed just 48 percent of his passes while compiling a record of 6-8. The following year, Plunkett threw eight touchdowns and 25 interceptions, and lost 11 out of the 14 games he started. Plunkett struggled with injuries over the next few seasons, and in 1975, the year the Patriots drafted Steve Grogan, Plunkett was traded to the 49ers. Plunkett’s tenure in San Francisco started well (he led the team to a 6-1 record), but the Niners tailed off and Plunkett was released by the team during the 1978 season.\r\n\r\nWith his career teetering on journeyman status, Plunkett was picked up by the Raiders in 1978. He served as a backup that year and barely saw the field the following season. When QB Dan Pastorini broke his leg a few weeks into the 1980 season, Plunkett stepped in, led the Raiders to nine wins in 11 games, helped the team earn a wild card berth in the playoffs. He went on to lead the Raiders to a 27-10 victory over Dick Vermiel’s Eagles in Super Bowl XV. Plunkett was 33 years old. He was the first QB to lead a wild card team to Super Bowl victory, and he became the first (and only) player of Latin-American origin to win the Super Bowl MVP.\r\n\r\nPlunkett would return to a backup role before an injury to Marc Wilson forced him into the top spot on the depth chart again in 1983. Plunkett responded by leading the Raiders 10 wins in 13 games. The Raiders made the playoffs again and served up a blowout victory over the Redskins in Super Bowl XVIII.  Plunkett’s the only NFL QB with two Super Bowl victories to not be enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame. He currently does post-game radio shows and tons of TV work for the Raiders.\r\n\r\nDuring our interview with Plunkett, we chatted about this year’s Heisman trophy ceremony, Stanford QB Andrew Luck, Raiders’ owner Al Davis, today’s pass-happy NFL offenses, his pick for who will take home the Heisman this year, and whether he thinks college football needs a playoff system.\r\n\r\n<strong>CS</strong>: So you won the Heisman Trophy back in 1970.\r\n\r\n<strong>JP</strong>: Back in the Dark Ages, yes.\r\n\r\n<strong>CS</strong>: Can you tell us what it’s like to belong to such an elite fraternity of college football greats?\r\n\r\n<strong>JP</strong>: Well, obviously it’s a great feeling to be chosen among so very few. It’s started in 1935, the first Heisman award, and now they’re up to 76 that are coming up this year. It’s a great feeling, you know. You were selected among so many other certainly very viable athletes back when, for me 1970. Any number of people could have won that, but you were chosen because of what you did on the football field and how you carried yourself off the field. It really means a lot to me as it does to all the other recipients over the years.\r\n\r\n<strong>CS</strong>: Now people are calling Stanford QB Andrew Luck one of the best NFL QB prospects to come out in years, and some coaches said the same thing about you back in the day.\r\n\r\n<strong>JP</strong>: Right.\r\n\r\n<strong>CS</strong>: Do you think Luck is ready to make a big splash in the NFL and what’s it like dealing with those high expectations going in to your pro career?\r\n\r\n<strong>JP:</strong> Well you know number one, yes I do really, truly believe that Andrew Luck is probably the best passing quarterback in college today. I don’t think there’s any doubt about it. I see him almost every week. I was at the Oregon State game. I go to most of the home games, sometimes a road game or two, and he’s head and shoulders above everybody. As far as just passing the football ,there are other quarterbacks who could probably run better obviously, but he runs pretty well as well. He’s got a great feel for the game, a great feel for what’s happening around him and he reads the defense extremely quickly and more often than not goes to the right receiver. He’s got a great arm. He can throw off balances almost as well as he can when he’s stepping into the throw because he’s got that great arm strength. He anticipates well. He’s got some innate abilities. He can sense pressure, get out of trouble, take off and either run or give himself more time by shuffling around. He’s just a great kid and he’s a great football player and it’s just fun to watch the way he executes out there. That being said, whenever you go somewhere, expectations are always high when you’re a front pick if that’s what Andrew will be – and I’m sure he will be, he might even be the very first pick. So when somebody steps into that kind of situation, they’re always scrutinized very heavily, especially if you start off right away. You get paid a lot of money and professional fans in particular expect results right away. That doesn’t always happen but he’s a lot like… there’s a kid over at Saint Louis, I just can’t remember his name right now, out of Oklahoma – San Bradford – who won the Heisman a couple of years ago. He’s in that mold. He’s in the Manning mold, Eli and Peyton. He’s just ahead of his time so to speak. But yeah, I mean you get in the NFL, you usually go to a team that has not had a great season, so they’re not probably as good as some other team you might go to. Sometimes it’s a learning curve, it’s a process. You get beat up a little bit. You take your lumps, and hopefully when all the dust settles, you’ll have made progress. Sooner or later you’ll be the quarterback they’ve drafted you to be.\r\n\r\n<strong>CS</strong>: How can fans participate in this year’s Heisman trophy ceremony process?\r\n\r\n<strong><a href=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Heisman_Trophy.gif\"><img class=\"alignright size-full wp-image-3100\" title=\"Heisman_Trophy\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Heisman_Trophy.gif\" alt=\"\" width=\"131\" height=\"140\" /></a>JP</strong>: Well I think the best way is to go to <a href=\"http://www.heisman.com/\" target=\"_blank\">Heisman.com</a>. It will give you the information whether you want to come as an individual, buy a table, be a sponsor, there are different levels. It’s a great event to attend. You get to see some of the greatest football players arguably of all time, some great former Heisman winners. I know a lot of the guys go. I’ve gone to the last three. I go in streaks. I can’t make them all as I do work for the Raiders during the season. But it’s a fabulous event to watch, especially if you have kids, take grandchildren. It is just a lot of fun to be there, to see them, to talk to them, to hear them talk, get autographs at times, it’s just a wonderful experience. I’ve sent some people here from California where I live – I live over by Stanford – out to the Heisman. Sometimes through some of the raffles we’ve had out here, to make them part of the thing. One of my best friends has gone back twice. They’ve enjoyed the experience so much. So I highly recommend it. Come out and see some of these great former athletes and have a great time.\r\n\r\n<!--more-->\r\n\r\n<strong>CS</strong>: Now you did a lot of great things for the Raiders; I just wanted to ask you is Al Davis misunderstood?\r\n\r\n<strong>JP</strong>: Oh yeah, he’s … I think he is at times. He’s done a lot for the game. He’s done a lot for the Raiders obviously but for the game in general. He believes in the integrity of the game, he’s fought a lot of the changes that have occurred, but unfortunately he’s been on the losing battle on some of those. He has not had much success as of late unfortunately. Part of it I think is his health. I used to enjoy him coming on the field and talking with the guys and talking with me and really getting into people’s psyches so to speak. Go to the All Star games and watch these athletes up close and personal. He can’t do that anymore. Now he’s got to learn about how good these kids are either from film or from his scouts, and I don’t think you get the same feel from film as he would if he could interact with them personally. So I think he’s lost that edge there. The Raiders have bounced back a little bit. We’re a little bit better than in the past. Still not where the Raiders want to be, but hopefully we’re taking steps in the right direction.\r\n\r\n<strong>CS</strong>: Do you or other retired players you know ever check out ProFootballTalk.com to stay up to date with league news and what not?\r\n\r\n<strong>JP</strong>: You know I check a lot of different websites. I certainly read the paper. I’m an old fashioned guy. I love to read the paper and have my coffee in the morning. I go on the Internet. I go to NFL.com. I see some of the blogs. I’m more interested in what the Raiders are doing, but I try to keep my finger on the pulse of what’s going on in the NFL.\r\n\r\n<strong>CS</strong>: Do you think you belong in the NFL hall of fame?\r\n\r\n<strong><img class=\"alignright size-full wp-image-3107\" title=\"plunkett1\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/plunkett1.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"92\" height=\"116\" />JP</strong>: You know, that’s not for me to decide. I did what I could, I played as hard as I could and did the best job I possibly could. I started at New England when New England wasn’t the team they are today. So it was a struggle, my career didn’t go exactly as I had hoped – in a spiral upwards, it was more of an up and down. But you know, I finally got there thanks to the Raiders and Mr. Davis as a matter of fact and the players that he had on the football team. Fortunately for me I got the ring off the merry go round, not once but twice, and a lot of people never get there.\r\n\r\n<strong>CS</strong>: How do you think your skill set would fit into the pass-heavy, spread offenses that you see in today’s NFL?\r\n\r\n<strong>JP</strong>: Me personally, I would love it. The number of passes they throw, the quickness with which they release the ball, a lot of the bubble screens by the tight end and wide receivers, I just a love of the short passes. Probably my career would have maybe even lasted a little longer. I wouldn’t be as beat up as I am today. They get rid of the ball quicker, a lot of crossing routes. But I’ve always loved to throw the ball and this pass happy stuff – plus the rules have all been in favor of the offence – defense suffers a little bit. I would love to be playing today and I think I would fit in quite well.\r\n\r\n<strong>CS</strong>: Who do you think is going to win the Heisman trophy this year?\r\n\r\n<strong>JP</strong>: Well, you know Cam Newton is certainly the front runner at this point. And that the game he had against Alabama, especially the second half, didn’t hurt his chances one bit. There are still a lot of other performances out there that have been pretty good, and Andrew Luck is certainly one of those kids. Part of the thing is you know you vote for a person for different reasons. Number one, you look at the stats and see what kind of year he had, but how much did he help his team win the footballs games? Would they have won anyway without this guy’s performance? And that’s another thing I look at. He’s got a little cloud hanging over him right now – Cam Newton – and that’s another thing you have to take into consideration, but hopefully that will all clear up. We have to have our votes in by December 6<sup>th</sup> and we’ll see where everybody stands then.\r\n\r\n<strong>CS</strong>: Do you think college football needs a playoff system? And if so how many teams should go to the postseason?\r\n\r\n<strong>JP</strong>: You know what, I’m not a big believer in the playoff system for college football. They already play what, maybe 12 games in the regular season? Maybe 13 or 14 before it’s all said and done. Maybe even 15, I’m not even sure anymore. A mythical champion is okay with me. They’ve still got to go to school and get an education, because all of these guys aren’t going on to the NFL. So a mythical champion is okay with me. You win your conference, you go to a bowl game. Another thing I have – this is a little pet peeve of mine – too many Bowl games. If you win six games you’re eligible for a Bowl. It’s something that I think you have to earn. In six games, 50 percent winning doesn’t really cut it for me. But I’m not in a real big favor of a playoff system. There’s still going to be controversy in that as well.','Interview with Former Heisman Winner and Super Bowl MVP Jim Plunkett','','inherit','open','open','','3096-revision-14','','','2010-12-10 16:52:16','2010-12-11 00:52:16','',3096,'http://manjr.com/2010/uncategorized/3096-revision-14/',0,'revision','',0),(3115,9,'2010-12-10 17:23:33','2010-12-11 01:23:33','<object width=\"425\" height=\"344\"><param name=\"movie\" value=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/yMRIeazIXtQ?fs=1&amp;hl=en_US&amp;rel=0\"></param><param name=\"allowFullScreen\" value=\"true\"></param><param name=\"allowscriptaccess\" value=\"always\"></param><embed src=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/yMRIeazIXtQ?fs=1&amp;hl=en_US&amp;rel=0\" type=\"application/x-shockwave-flash\" allowscriptaccess=\"always\" allowfullscreen=\"true\" width=\"425\" height=\"344\"></embed></object>','Meanwhile, Somewhere in Eastern Europe...','','publish','open','open','','meanwhile-somewhere-in-eastern-europe','','','2010-12-10 17:24:57','2010-12-11 01:24:57','',0,'http://manjr.com/?p=3115',0,'post','',0),(3116,2,'2010-12-10 17:23:16','2010-12-11 01:23:16','<object width=\"425\" height=\"344\"><param name=\"movie\" value=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/yMRIeazIXtQ?fs=1&amp;hl=en_US&amp;rel=0\"></param><param name=\"allowFullScreen\" value=\"true\"></param><param name=\"allowscriptaccess\" value=\"always\"></param><embed src=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/yMRIeazIXtQ?fs=1&amp;hl=en_US&amp;rel=0\" type=\"application/x-shockwave-flash\" allowscriptaccess=\"always\" allowfullscreen=\"true\" width=\"425\" height=\"344\"></embed></object>','Meanwhile, Somewhere in Eastern Europe...','','inherit','open','open','','3115-revision','','','2010-12-10 17:23:16','2010-12-11 01:23:16','',3115,'http://manjr.com/2010/uncategorized/3115-revision/',0,'revision','',0),(3119,2,'2010-12-12 10:33:00','2010-12-12 18:33:00','In what has to be some sort of metaphor for the Vikings\' season, the roof caved in on the Metrodome in Minnesota today. Check out the video of the Metrodome roof collapse:\r\n\r\n<object type=\"application/x-shockwave-flash\" id=\"video\" width=\"500\" height=\"415\" data=\"http://www.myfoxtwincities.com/video/videoplayer.swf?dppversion=6512\"><param value=\"http://www.myfoxtwincities.com/video/videoplayer.swf?dppversion=6512\" name=\"movie\"/><param value=\"&skin=MP1ExternalAll-MFL.swf&embed=true&adSizeArray=300x240,,&adSrc=http%3A%2F%2Fad%2Edoubleclick%2Enet%2Fadx%2Ftsg%2Ekmsp%2Fnews%2Fdetail%3Bdcmt%3Dtext%2Fxml%3Bpos%3D%3Btile%3D2%3Bfname%3Dsnow%2Dcollapses%2Dmetrodome%252C%2Dvikings%2Dpostponed%2Ddec%2D12%2D2010%3Bloc%3Dsite%3Bsz%3D320x240%3Bord%3D674579915975702800%3Frand%3D0%2E8562385685984826&flv=http%3A%2F%2Fwww%2Emyfoxtwincities%2Ecom%2Ffeeds%2FoutboundFeed%3FobfType%3DVIDEO%5FPLAYER%5FSMIL%5FFEED%26componentId%3D133934015&img=http%3A%2F%2Fmedia2%2Emyfoxtwincities%2Ecom%2F%2Fphoto%2F2010%2F12%2F12%2FHOLYdome121210%5Ftmb0004%5F20101212111515%5F640%5F480%2EJPG&story=http%3A%2F%2Fwww%2Emyfoxtwincities%2Ecom%2Fdpp%2Fnews%2Fsnow%2Dcollapses%2Dmetrodome%2C%2Dvikings%2Dpostponed%2Ddec%2D12%2D2010%23&category=news&title=Metrodome%20Collapse%20Video&oacct=foximfoximkmsp,foximglobal&ovns=foxinteractivemedia\" name=\"FlashVars\"/><param value=\"all\" name=\"allowNetworking\"/><param value=\"always\" name=\"allowScriptAccess\"/></object>\r\n','Video of Metrodome Roof Collapse','','publish','open','open','','video-of-metrodome-roof-collapse','','','2010-12-12 10:36:06','2010-12-12 18:36:06','',0,'http://manjr.com/?p=3119',0,'post','',0),(3117,2,'2010-12-10 17:24:37','2010-12-11 01:24:37','<object classid=\"clsid:d27cdb6e-ae6d-11cf-96b8-444553540000\" width=\"425\" height=\"344\" codebase=\"http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0\"><param name=\"allowFullScreen\" value=\"true\" /><param name=\"allowscriptaccess\" value=\"always\" /><param name=\"src\" value=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/yMRIeazIXtQ?fs=1&amp;hl=en_US&amp;rel=0\" /><param name=\"allowfullscreen\" value=\"true\" /><embed type=\"application/x-shockwave-flash\" width=\"425\" height=\"344\" src=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/yMRIeazIXtQ?fs=1&amp;hl=en_US&amp;rel=0\" allowscriptaccess=\"always\" allowfullscreen=\"true\"></embed></object>','Meanwhile, Somewhere in Eastern Europe...','','inherit','open','open','','3115-autosave','','','2010-12-10 17:24:37','2010-12-11 01:24:37','',3115,'http://manjr.com/2010/uncategorized/3115-autosave/',0,'revision','',0),(3118,2,'2010-12-10 17:23:33','2010-12-11 01:23:33','<object classid=\"clsid:d27cdb6e-ae6d-11cf-96b8-444553540000\" width=\"425\" height=\"344\" codebase=\"http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0\"><param name=\"allowFullScreen\" value=\"true\" /><param name=\"allowscriptaccess\" value=\"always\" /><param name=\"src\" value=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/yMRIeazIXtQ?fs=1&amp;hl=en_US&amp;rel=0\" /><param name=\"allowfullscreen\" value=\"true\" /><embed type=\"application/x-shockwave-flash\" width=\"425\" height=\"344\" src=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/yMRIeazIXtQ?fs=1&amp;hl=en_US&amp;rel=0\" allowscriptaccess=\"always\" allowfullscreen=\"true\"></embed></object>','Meanwhile, Somewhere in Eastern Europe...','','inherit','open','open','','3115-revision-2','','','2010-12-10 17:23:33','2010-12-11 01:23:33','',3115,'http://manjr.com/2010/uncategorized/3115-revision-2/',0,'revision','',0),(3120,2,'2010-12-12 10:32:01','2010-12-12 18:32:01','In what has to be some sort of metaphor for the Vikings\' season, the roof caved in on the Metrodome in Minnesota today. Check out the footage:\n\n<object type=\"application/x-shockwave-flash\" id=\"video\" width=\"500\" height=\"415\" data=\"http://www.myfoxtwincities.com/video/videoplayer.swf?dppversion=6512\"><param value=\"http://www.myfoxtwincities.com/video/videoplayer.swf?dppversion=6512\" name=\"movie\"/><param value=\"&skin=MP1ExternalAll-MFL.swf&embed=true&adSizeArray=300x240,,&adSrc=http%3A%2F%2Fad%2Edoubleclick%2Enet%2Fadx%2Ftsg%2Ekmsp%2Fnews%2Fdetail%3Bdcmt%3Dtext%2Fxml%3Bpos%3D%3Btile%3D2%3Bfname%3Dsnow%2Dcollapses%2Dmetrodome%252C%2Dvikings%2Dpostponed%2Ddec%2D12%2D2010%3Bloc%3Dsite%3Bsz%3D320x240%3Bord%3D805850341145996700%3Frand%3D0%2E9688963174922175&flv=%2Ffeeds%2FoutboundFeed%3FobfType%3DVIDEO%5FPLAYER%5FSMIL%5FFEED%26componentId%3D133933914&img=http%3A%2F%2Fmedia2%2Emyfoxtwincities%2Ecom%2F%2Fphoto%2F2010%2F12%2F12%2Fdome121210%5F1%5Ftmb0000%5F20101212102141%5F640%5F480%2EJPG&story=http%3A%2F%2Fwww%2Emyfoxtwincities%2Ecom%2Fdpp%2Fnews%2Fsnow%2Dcollapses%2Dmetrodome%2C%2Dvikings%2Dpostponed%2Ddec%2D12%2D2010&category=news&title=Snow%20Collapses%20Metrodome&oacct=foximfoximkmsp,foximglobal&ovns=foxinteractivemedia\" name=\"FlashVars\"/><param value=\"all\" name=\"allowNetworking\"/><param value=\"always\" name=\"allowScriptAccess\"/></object>','Video of Metrodome Roof Collapse','','inherit','open','open','','3119-revision','','','2010-12-12 10:32:01','2010-12-12 18:32:01','',3119,'http://manjr.com/2010/uncategorized/3119-revision/',0,'revision','',0),(3121,2,'2010-12-12 10:34:08','2010-12-12 18:34:08','In what has to be some sort of metaphor for the Vikings\' season, the roof caved in on the Metrodome in Minnesota today. Check out the video of the Metrodome roof collapse:\n\n<object type=\"application/x-shockwave-flash\" id=\"video\" width=\"500\" height=\"415\" data=\"http://www.myfoxtwincities.com/video/videoplayer.swf?dppversion=6512\"><param value=\"http://www.myfoxtwincities.com/video/videoplayer.swf?dppversion=6512\" name=\"movie\"/><param value=\"&skin=MP1ExternalAll-MFL.swf&embed=true&adSizeArray=300x240,,&adSrc=http%3A%2F%2Fad%2Edoubleclick%2Enet%2Fadx%2Ftsg%2Ekmsp%2Fnews%2Fdetail%3Bdcmt%3Dtext%2Fxml%3Bpos%3D%3Btile%3D2%3Bfname%3Dsnow%2Dcollapses%2Dmetrodome%252C%2Dvikings%2Dpostponed%2Ddec%2D12%2D2010%3Bloc%3Dsite%3Bsz%3D320x240%3Bord%3D805850341145996700%3Frand%3D0%2E9688963174922175&flv=%2Ffeeds%2FoutboundFeed%3FobfType%3DVIDEO%5FPLAYER%5FSMIL%5FFEED%26componentId%3D133933914&img=http%3A%2F%2Fmedia2%2Emyfoxtwincities%2Ecom%2F%2Fphoto%2F2010%2F12%2F12%2Fdome121210%5F1%5Ftmb0000%5F20101212102141%5F640%5F480%2EJPG&story=http%3A%2F%2Fwww%2Emyfoxtwincities%2Ecom%2Fdpp%2Fnews%2Fsnow%2Dcollapses%2Dmetrodome%2C%2Dvikings%2Dpostponed%2Ddec%2D12%2D2010&category=news&title=Snow%20Collapses%20Metrodome&oacct=foximfoximkmsp,foximglobal&ovns=foxinteractivemedia\" name=\"FlashVars\"/><param value=\"all\" name=\"allowNetworking\"/><param value=\"always\" name=\"allowScriptAccess\"/></object>','Video of Metrodome Collapse','','inherit','open','open','','3119-autosave','','','2010-12-12 10:34:08','2010-12-12 18:34:08','',3119,'http://manjr.com/2010/uncategorized/3119-autosave/',0,'revision','',0),(3122,2,'2010-12-12 10:33:00','2010-12-12 18:33:00','In what has to be some sort of metaphor for the Vikings\' season, the roof caved in on the Metrodome in Minnesota today. Check out the video of the Metrodome roof collapse:\r\n\r\n<object type=\"application/x-shockwave-flash\" id=\"video\" width=\"500\" height=\"415\" data=\"http://www.myfoxtwincities.com/video/videoplayer.swf?dppversion=6512\"><param value=\"http://www.myfoxtwincities.com/video/videoplayer.swf?dppversion=6512\" name=\"movie\"/><param value=\"&skin=MP1ExternalAll-MFL.swf&embed=true&adSizeArray=300x240,,&adSrc=http%3A%2F%2Fad%2Edoubleclick%2Enet%2Fadx%2Ftsg%2Ekmsp%2Fnews%2Fdetail%3Bdcmt%3Dtext%2Fxml%3Bpos%3D%3Btile%3D2%3Bfname%3Dsnow%2Dcollapses%2Dmetrodome%252C%2Dvikings%2Dpostponed%2Ddec%2D12%2D2010%3Bloc%3Dsite%3Bsz%3D320x240%3Bord%3D805850341145996700%3Frand%3D0%2E9688963174922175&flv=%2Ffeeds%2FoutboundFeed%3FobfType%3DVIDEO%5FPLAYER%5FSMIL%5FFEED%26componentId%3D133933914&img=http%3A%2F%2Fmedia2%2Emyfoxtwincities%2Ecom%2F%2Fphoto%2F2010%2F12%2F12%2Fdome121210%5F1%5Ftmb0000%5F20101212102141%5F640%5F480%2EJPG&story=http%3A%2F%2Fwww%2Emyfoxtwincities%2Ecom%2Fdpp%2Fnews%2Fsnow%2Dcollapses%2Dmetrodome%2C%2Dvikings%2Dpostponed%2Ddec%2D12%2D2010&category=news&title=Snow%20Collapses%20Metrodome&oacct=foximfoximkmsp,foximglobal&ovns=foxinteractivemedia\" name=\"FlashVars\"/><param value=\"all\" name=\"allowNetworking\"/><param value=\"always\" name=\"allowScriptAccess\"/></object>','Video of Metrodome Roof Collapse','','inherit','open','open','','3119-revision-2','','','2010-12-12 10:33:00','2010-12-12 18:33:00','',3119,'http://manjr.com/2010/uncategorized/3119-revision-2/',0,'revision','',0),(3123,2,'2010-12-12 10:34:40','2010-12-12 18:34:40','In what has to be some sort of metaphor for the Vikings\' season, the roof caved in on the Metrodome in Minnesota today. Check out the video of the Metrodome roof collapse:\r\n\r\n<object type=\"application/x-shockwave-flash\" id=\"video\" width=\"500\" height=\"415\" data=\"http://www.myfoxtwincities.com/video/videoplayer.swf?dppversion=6512\"><param value=\"http://www.myfoxtwincities.com/video/videoplayer.swf?dppversion=6512\" name=\"movie\"/><param value=\"&skin=MP1ExternalAll-MFL.swf&embed=true&adSizeArray=300x240,,&adSrc=http%3A%2F%2Fad%2Edoubleclick%2Enet%2Fadx%2Ftsg%2Ekmsp%2Fnews%2Fdetail%3Bdcmt%3Dtext%2Fxml%3Bpos%3D%3Btile%3D2%3Bfname%3Dsnow%2Dcollapses%2Dmetrodome%252C%2Dvikings%2Dpostponed%2Ddec%2D12%2D2010%3Bloc%3Dsite%3Bsz%3D320x240%3Bord%3D805850341145996700%3Frand%3D0%2E9688963174922175&flv=%2Ffeeds%2FoutboundFeed%3FobfType%3DVIDEO%5FPLAYER%5FSMIL%5FFEED%26componentId%3D133933914&img=http%3A%2F%2Fmedia2%2Emyfoxtwincities%2Ecom%2F%2Fphoto%2F2010%2F12%2F12%2Fdome121210%5F1%5Ftmb0000%5F20101212102141%5F640%5F480%2EJPG&story=http%3A%2F%2Fwww%2Emyfoxtwincities%2Ecom%2Fdpp%2Fnews%2Fsnow%2Dcollapses%2Dmetrodome%2C%2Dvikings%2Dpostponed%2Ddec%2D12%2D2010&category=news&title=Snow%20Collapses%20Metrodome&oacct=foximfoximkmsp,foximglobal&ovns=foxinteractivemedia\" name=\"FlashVars\"/><param value=\"all\" name=\"allowNetworking\"/><param value=\"always\" name=\"allowScriptAccess\"/></object>','Video of Metrodome Roof Collapse','','inherit','open','open','','3119-revision-3','','','2010-12-12 10:34:40','2010-12-12 18:34:40','',3119,'http://manjr.com/2010/uncategorized/3119-revision-3/',0,'revision','',0),(3128,7,'2010-12-14 12:14:30','2010-12-14 20:14:30','<ol>\n	<li>I fancy myself a pundit. An expert. As a matter of fact, I always tend to finish high in the rankings of the Bowl Pick\'ems, and have even scored an HDTV in the past for my play. When approaching your picks, don\'t go with the \"football expert.\" Most of those fellas are NFL guys. Go with the \"college football expert,\" and understand that there will be a big upset in the mix, and it generally comes down to picking that: Boise over Oklahoma in the Fiesta; Utah over Alabama in the Sugar; Kansas over Virginia Tech in the Orange--all from recent years. And when you choose the expert to go with, go with the experts who actually played football. When all else fails, go with Vegas...but you gotta have a big upset somewhere! You pickin\' up what ManJr. is laying down?</li>\n</ol>\nIt\'s time to go bowling. Outside of the NFL playoffs, it may be the greatest time of year--in fact it is the harbinger of the professional playoffs. It surrounds the Christmas and New Year holidays, and it even spurs annual debate by crowning an NCAA Champion without a playoff. Still, I don\'t care who the bowl sponsor is, or who\'s playing in it...I\'ll watch it and enjoy it.\n\nLet\'s break \'em down in play order:\n<h2>12/18 - New Mexico Bowl: BYU vs. UTEP</h2>\n<h2>12/18 - Humanitarian Bowl: Northern Illinois vs. Fresno State</h2>\n<h2>12/18 - New Orleans Bowl: Ohio University vs. Troy</h2>\n<h2>12/21 - St. Petersburg Bowl: Southern Miss. vs. Louisville</h2>\n<h2>12/22 - Las Vegas Bowl: Utah vs. Boise State</h2>\n<h2>12/23 - Poinsettia Bowl: Navy vs. San Diego State</h2>\n<h2>12/24 - Hawai\'i Bowl: Hawaii vs. Tulsa</h2>\n<h2>12/26 - Little Caesars Bowl: Florida International vs. Toledo</h2>\n<h2>12/27 - Independence Bowl: Air Force vs. Georgia Tech</h2>\n<h2>12/28 - Champs Sports Bowl: West Virginia vs. NC State</h2>\n<h2>12/28 - Insight Bowl: Missouri vs. Iowa</h2>\n<h2>12/29 - Military Bowl: East Carolina vs. Maryland</h2>\n<h2>12/29 - Texas Bowl: Illinois vs. Baylor','College Bowl Breakdown','','inherit','open','open','','3127-revision','','','2010-12-14 12:14:30','2010-12-14 20:14:30','',3127,'http://manjr.com/2010/uncategorized/3127-revision/',0,'revision','',0),(3129,7,'2010-12-14 12:40:11','2010-12-14 20:40:11','I fancy myself a pundit. An expert. As a matter of fact, I always tend to finish high in the rankings of the Bowl Pick\'ems, and have even scored an HDTV in the past for my play. When approaching your picks, don\'t go with the \"football expert.\" Most of those fellas are NFL guys. Go with the \"college football expert,\" and understand that there will be a big upset in the mix, and it generally comes down to picking that: Boise over Oklahoma in the Fiesta; Utah over Alabama in the Sugar; Kansas over Virginia Tech in the Orange--all from recent years. And when you choose the expert to go with, go with the experts who actually played football. When all else fails, go with Vegas...but you gotta have a big upset somewhere! You pickin\' up what ManJr. is laying down?\n<ol></ol>\nIt\'s time to go bowling. Outside of the NFL playoffs, it may be the greatest time of year--in fact it is the harbinger of the professional playoffs. It surrounds the Christmas and New Year holidays, and it even spurs annual debate by crowning an NCAA Champion without a playoff. Still, I don\'t care who the bowl sponsor is, or who\'s playing in it...I\'ll watch it and enjoy it. At first glance the match-ups look pretty uninteresting, yet after careful consideration, you\'ll quickly find that in the 2010-2011 mix, there is potential for some great football games.\n\nLet\'s break \'em down in play order:\n<h2>12/18 - New Mexico Bowl: BYU vs. UTEP</h2>\n<h2>12/18 - Humanitarian Bowl: Northern Illinois vs. Fresno State</h2>\n<h2>12/18 - New Orleans Bowl: Ohio University vs. Troy</h2>\n<h2>12/21 - St. Petersburg Bowl: Southern Miss. vs. Louisville</h2>\n<h2>12/22 - Las Vegas Bowl: Utah vs. Boise State</h2>\n<h2>12/23 - Poinsettia Bowl: Navy vs. San Diego State</h2>\n<h2>12/24 - Hawai\'i Bowl: Hawaii vs. Tulsa</h2>\n<h2>12/26 - Little Caesars Bowl: FIU vs. Toledo</h2>\n<h2>12/27 - Independence Bowl: Air Force vs. Georgia Tech</h2>\n<h2>12/28 - Champs Sports Bowl: West Virginia vs. NC State</h2>\n<h2>12/28 - Insight Bowl: Missouri vs. Iowa</h2>\n<h2>12/29 - Military Bowl: East Carolina vs. Maryland</h2>\n<h2>12/29 - Texas Bowl: Illinois vs. Baylor</h2>\n<h2>12/29 - Alamo Bowl: Oklahoma State vs. Arizona</h2>\n<h2>12/30 - Armed Forces Bowl: Army vs. SMU</h2>\n<h2>12/30 - Pinstripe Bowl: Kansas St. vs. Syracuse</h2>\n<h2>12/30 - Music City Bowl: North Carolina vs. Tennessee</h2>\n<h2>12/30 - Holiday Bowl: Nebraska vs. Washington</h2>\n<h2>12/31 - Meineke Car Care Bowl: South Florida vs. Clemson</h2>\n<h2>12/31 - Sun Bowl: Notre Dame vs. Miami</h2>\n<h2>12/31 - Liberty Bowl: Georgia vs. UCF</h2>\n<h2>12/31 - Chick-Fil-A Bowl: South Carolina vs. Florida State</h2>\n<h2>1/1 - TicketCity Bowl: Northwestern vs. Texas Tech</h2>\n<h2>1/1 - Outback Bowl: Florida vs. Penn State</h2>\n<h2>1/1 - Capital One Bowl: Alabama vs. Michigan State</h2>\n<h2>1/1 - Gator Bowl: Mississippi State vs. Michigan</h2>\n<h2>1/1 - Rose Bowl: Wisconsin vs. TCU</h2>\n<h2>1/1 - Fiesta Bowl: UConn vs. Oklahoma</h2>\n<h2>1/3 - Orange Bowl: Stanford vs. Virginia Tech</h2>\n<h2>1/4 - Sugar Bowl: Ohio State vs. Arkansas</h2>\n<h2>1/6 - GoDaddy.com Bowl: Middle Tennessee vs. Miami (OH)</h2>\n<h2>1/7 - Cotton Bowl: LSU vs. Texas A&amp;M</h2>\n<h2>1/8 - BBVA Compass Bowl: Pittsburgh vs. Kentucky</h2>\n<h2>1/9 - Kraft Fight Hunger Bowl: Nevada vs. Boston College</h2>\n<h2>1/10 - BCS National Championship: Oregon vs. Auburn</h2>','College Bowl Breakdown','','inherit','open','open','','3127-revision-2','','','2010-12-14 12:40:11','2010-12-14 20:40:11','',3127,'http://manjr.com/2010/uncategorized/3127-revision-2/',0,'revision','',0),(3131,7,'2010-12-14 12:49:34','2010-12-14 20:49:34','It\'s time to go bowling. Outside of the NFL playoffs, it may be the greatest time of year--in fact it <em>is</em> the harbinger of the professional playoffs. It surrounds the Christmas and New Year holidays, and it even spurs annual debate by crowning an NCAA Champion without a playoff. Still, I don\'t care who the bowl sponsor is, or who\'s playing in it...I\'ll watch it and enjoy it. At first glance the match-ups look pretty uninteresting, yet after careful consideration, you\'ll quickly find that in the 2010-2011 bowl schedule, there lies potential for some great football games.\r\n\r\nLet\'s break \'em down in play order:\r\n<h3>12/18 - New Mexico Bowl: BYU vs. UTEP</h3>\r\n<h3>12/18 - Humanitarian Bowl: Northern Illinois vs. Fresno State</h3>\r\n<h3>12/18 - New Orleans Bowl: Ohio University vs. Troy</h3>\r\n<h3>12/21 - St. Petersburg Bowl: Southern Miss. vs. Louisville</h3>\r\n<h3>12/22 - Las Vegas Bowl: Utah vs. Boise State</h3>\r\n<h3>12/23 - Poinsettia Bowl: Navy vs. San Diego State</h3>\r\n<h3>12/24 - Hawai\'i Bowl: Hawaii vs. Tulsa</h3>\r\n<h3>12/26 - Little Caesars Bowl: FIU vs. Toledo</h3>\r\n<h3>12/27 - Independence Bowl: Air Force vs. Georgia Tech</h3>\r\n<h3>12/28 - Champs Sports Bowl: West Virginia vs. NC State</h3>\r\n<h3>12/28 - Insight Bowl: Missouri vs. Iowa</h3>\r\n<h3>12/29 - Military Bowl: East Carolina vs. Maryland</h3>\r\n<h3>12/29 - Texas Bowl: Illinois vs. Baylor</h3>\r\n<h3>12/29 - Alamo Bowl: Oklahoma State vs. Arizona</h3>\r\n<h3>12/30 - Armed Forces Bowl: Army vs. SMU</h3>\r\n<h3>12/30 - Pinstripe Bowl: Kansas St. vs. Syracuse</h3>\r\n<h3>12/30 - Music City Bowl: North Carolina vs. Tennessee</h3>\r\n<h3>12/30 - Holiday Bowl: Nebraska vs. Washington</h3>\r\n<h3>12/31 - Meineke Car Care Bowl: South Florida vs. Clemson</h3>\r\n<h3>12/31 - Sun Bowl: Notre Dame vs. Miami</h3>\r\n<h3>12/31 - Liberty Bowl: Georgia vs. UCF</h3>\r\n<h3>12/31 - Chick-Fil-A Bowl: South Carolina vs. Florida State</h3>\r\n<h3>1/1 - TicketCity Bowl: Northwestern vs. Texas Tech</h3>\r\n<h3>1/1 - Outback Bowl: Florida vs. Penn State</h3>\r\n<h3>1/1 - Capital One Bowl: Alabama vs. Michigan State</h3>\r\n<h3>1/1 - Gator Bowl: Mississippi State vs. Michigan</h3>\r\n<h3>1/1 - Rose Bowl: Wisconsin vs. TCU</h3>\r\n<h3>1/1 - Fiesta Bowl: UConn vs. Oklahoma</h3>\r\n<h3>1/3 - Orange Bowl: Stanford vs. Virginia Tech</h3>\r\n<h3>1/4 - Sugar Bowl: Ohio State vs. Arkansas</h3>\r\n<h3>1/6 - GoDaddy.com Bowl: Middle Tennessee vs. Miami (OH)</h3>\r\n<h3>1/7 - Cotton Bowl: LSU vs. Texas A&amp;M</h3>\r\n<h3>1/8 - BBVA Compass Bowl: Pittsburgh vs. Kentucky</h3>\r\n<h3>1/9 - Kraft Fight Hunger Bowl: Nevada vs. Boston College</h3>\r\n<h3>1/10 - BCS National Championship: Oregon vs. Auburn</h3>','College Bowl Breakdown','','inherit','open','open','','3127-revision-4','','','2010-12-14 12:49:34','2010-12-14 20:49:34','',3127,'http://manjr.com/2010/uncategorized/3127-revision-4/',0,'revision','',0),(3130,7,'2010-12-14 12:43:36','2010-12-14 20:43:36','I fancy myself a pundit. An expert. As a matter of fact, I always tend to finish high in the rankings of the Bowl Pick\'ems, and have even scored an HDTV in the past for my play. When approaching your picks, don\'t go with the \"football expert.\" Most of those fellas are NFL guys. Go with the \"college football expert,\" and understand that there will be a big upset in the mix, and it generally comes down to picking that: Boise over Oklahoma in the Fiesta; Utah over Alabama in the Sugar; Kansas over Virginia Tech in the Orange--all from recent years. And when you choose the expert to go with, go with the experts who actually played football. When all else fails, go with Vegas...but you gotta have a big upset somewhere! You pickin\' up what ManJr. is laying down?\r\n<ol></ol>\r\nIt\'s time to go bowling. Outside of the NFL playoffs, it may be the greatest time of year--in fact it is the harbinger of the professional playoffs. It surrounds the Christmas and New Year holidays, and it even spurs annual debate by crowning an NCAA Champion without a playoff. Still, I don\'t care who the bowl sponsor is, or who\'s playing in it...I\'ll watch it and enjoy it. At first glance the match-ups look pretty uninteresting, yet after careful consideration, you\'ll quickly find that in the 2010-2011 mix, there is potential for some great football games.\r\n\r\nLet\'s break \'em down in play order:\r\n<h2>12/18 - New Mexico Bowl: BYU vs. UTEP</h2>\r\n<h2>12/18 - Humanitarian Bowl: Northern Illinois vs. Fresno State</h2>\r\n<h2>12/18 - New Orleans Bowl: Ohio University vs. Troy</h2>\r\n<h2>12/21 - St. Petersburg Bowl: Southern Miss. vs. Louisville</h2>\r\n<h2>12/22 - Las Vegas Bowl: Utah vs. Boise State</h2>\r\n<h2>12/23 - Poinsettia Bowl: Navy vs. San Diego State</h2>\r\n<h2>12/24 - Hawai\'i Bowl: Hawaii vs. Tulsa</h2>\r\n<h2>12/26 - Little Caesars Bowl: FIU vs. Toledo</h2>\r\n<h2>12/27 - Independence Bowl: Air Force vs. Georgia Tech</h2>\r\n<h2>12/28 - Champs Sports Bowl: West Virginia vs. NC State</h2>\r\n<h2>12/28 - Insight Bowl: Missouri vs. Iowa</h2>\r\n<h2>12/29 - Military Bowl: East Carolina vs. Maryland</h2>\r\n<h2>12/29 - Texas Bowl: Illinois vs. Baylor</h2>\r\n<h2>12/29 - Alamo Bowl: Oklahoma State vs. Arizona</h2>\r\n<h2>12/30 - Armed Forces Bowl: Army vs. SMU</h2>\r\n<h2>12/30 - Pinstripe Bowl: Kansas St. vs. Syracuse</h2>\r\n<h2>12/30 - Music City Bowl: North Carolina vs. Tennessee</h2>\r\n<h2>12/30 - Holiday Bowl: Nebraska vs. Washington</h2>\r\n<h2>12/31 - Meineke Car Care Bowl: South Florida vs. Clemson</h2>\r\n<h2>12/31 - Sun Bowl: Notre Dame vs. Miami</h2>\r\n<h2>12/31 - Liberty Bowl: Georgia vs. UCF</h2>\r\n<h2>12/31 - Chick-Fil-A Bowl: South Carolina vs. Florida State</h2>\r\n<h2>1/1 - TicketCity Bowl: Northwestern vs. Texas Tech</h2>\r\n<h2>1/1 - Outback Bowl: Florida vs. Penn State</h2>\r\n<h2>1/1 - Capital One Bowl: Alabama vs. Michigan State</h2>\r\n<h2>1/1 - Gator Bowl: Mississippi State vs. Michigan</h2>\r\n<h2>1/1 - Rose Bowl: Wisconsin vs. TCU</h2>\r\n<h2>1/1 - Fiesta Bowl: UConn vs. Oklahoma</h2>\r\n<h2>1/3 - Orange Bowl: Stanford vs. Virginia Tech</h2>\r\n<h2>1/4 - Sugar Bowl: Ohio State vs. Arkansas</h2>\r\n<h2>1/6 - GoDaddy.com Bowl: Middle Tennessee vs. Miami (OH)</h2>\r\n<h2>1/7 - Cotton Bowl: LSU vs. Texas A&amp;M</h2>\r\n<h2>1/8 - BBVA Compass Bowl: Pittsburgh vs. Kentucky</h2>\r\n<h2>1/9 - Kraft Fight Hunger Bowl: Nevada vs. Boston College</h2>\r\n<h2>1/10 - BCS National Championship: Oregon vs. Auburn</h2>','College Bowl Breakdown','','inherit','open','open','','3127-revision-3','','','2010-12-14 12:43:36','2010-12-14 20:43:36','',3127,'http://manjr.com/2010/uncategorized/3127-revision-3/',0,'revision','',0),(3132,7,'2010-12-14 13:57:15','2010-12-14 21:57:15','It\'s time to go bowling. Outside of the NFL playoffs, it may be the greatest time of year--in fact it <em>is</em> the harbinger of the professional playoffs. It surrounds the Christmas and New Year holidays, and it even spurs annual debate by crowning an NCAA Champion without a playoff. Still, I don\'t care who the bowl sponsor is, or who\'s playing in it...I\'ll watch it and enjoy it. At first glance the match-ups looked pretty uninteresting a couple weeks ago, yet after careful consideration, I\'ve quickly found that in the 2010-2011 bowl schedule, there lies potential for some great football games.\n\nLet\'s break \'em down in play order:\n<h3>12/18 - New Mexico Bowl: BYU vs. UTEP</h3>\n<h3>12/18 - Humanitarian Bowl: Northern Illinois vs. Fresno State</h3>\n<h3>12/18 - New Orleans Bowl: Ohio University vs. Troy</h3>\n<h3>12/21 - St. Petersburg Bowl: Southern Miss. vs. Louisville</h3>\n<h3>12/22 - Las Vegas Bowl: Utah vs. Boise State</h3>\n<h3>12/23 - Poinsettia Bowl: Navy vs. San Diego State</h3>\n<h3>12/24 - Hawai\'i Bowl: Hawaii vs. Tulsa</h3>\n<h3>12/26 - Little Caesars Bowl: FIU vs. Toledo</h3>\n<h3>12/27 - Independence Bowl: Air Force vs. Georgia Tech</h3>\n<h3>12/28 - Champs Sports Bowl: West Virginia vs. NC State</h3>\n<h3>12/28 - Insight Bowl: Missouri vs. Iowa</h3>\n<h3>12/29 - Military Bowl: East Carolina vs. Maryland</h3>\n<h3>12/29 - Texas Bowl: Illinois vs. Baylor</h3>\n<h3>12/29 - Alamo Bowl: Oklahoma State vs. Arizona</h3>\n<h3>12/30 - Armed Forces Bowl: Army vs. SMU</h3>\n<h3>12/30 - Pinstripe Bowl: Kansas St. vs. Syracuse</h3>\n<h3>12/30 - Music City Bowl: North Carolina vs. Tennessee</h3>\n<h3>12/30 - Holiday Bowl: Nebraska vs. Washington</h3>\n<h3>12/31 - Meineke Car Care Bowl: South Florida vs. Clemson</h3>\n<h3>12/31 - Sun Bowl: Notre Dame vs. Miami</h3>\n<h3>12/31 - Liberty Bowl: Georgia vs. UCF</h3>\n<h3>12/31 - Chick-Fil-A Bowl: South Carolina vs. Florida State</h3>\n<h3>1/1 - TicketCity Bowl: Northwestern vs. Texas Tech</h3>\n<h3>1/1 - Outback Bowl: Florida vs. Penn State</h3>\n<h3>1/1 - Capital One Bowl: Alabama vs. Michigan State</h3>\n<h3>1/1 - Gator Bowl: Mississippi State vs. Michigan</h3>\n<h3>1/1 - Rose Bowl: Wisconsin vs. TCU</h3>\n<h3>1/1 - Fiesta Bowl: UConn vs. Oklahoma</h3>\n<h3>1/3 - Orange Bowl: Stanford vs. Virginia Tech</h3>\n<h3>1/4 - Sugar Bowl: Ohio State vs. Arkansas</h3>\n<h3>1/6 - GoDaddy.com Bowl: Middle Tennessee vs. Miami (OH)</h3>\n<h3>1/7 - Cotton Bowl: LSU vs. Texas A&amp;M</h3>\n<h3>1/8 - BBVA Compass Bowl: Pittsburgh vs. Kentucky</h3>\n<h3>1/9 - Kraft Fight Hunger Bowl: Nevada vs. Boston College</h3>\n<h3>1/10 - BCS National Championship: Oregon vs. Auburn</h3>','College Bowl Preview ','','inherit','open','open','','3127-revision-5','','','2010-12-14 13:57:15','2010-12-14 21:57:15','',3127,'http://manjr.com/2010/uncategorized/3127-revision-5/',0,'revision','',0),(3133,7,'2010-12-14 17:29:26','2010-12-15 01:29:26','','UTEP','','inherit','open','open','','utep','','','2010-12-14 17:29:26','2010-12-15 01:29:26','',3127,'http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/UTEP.jpg',40,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(3134,7,'2010-12-14 17:33:42','2010-12-15 01:33:42','','UTEP','','inherit','open','open','','utep-2','','','2010-12-14 17:33:42','2010-12-15 01:33:42','',3127,'http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/UTEP1.jpg',39,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(3135,7,'2010-12-14 17:46:28','2010-12-15 01:46:28','','Fresno','','inherit','open','open','','fresno','','','2010-12-14 17:46:28','2010-12-15 01:46:28','',3127,'http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Fresno.jpg',38,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(3136,7,'2010-12-14 17:54:55','2010-12-15 01:54:55','','Boo-Jackson-OhioU','','inherit','open','open','','82122395kc005_ohio_v_ohio_s','','','2010-12-14 17:54:55','2010-12-15 01:54:55','',3127,'http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Boo-Jackson-OhioU.jpg',37,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(3137,7,'2010-12-14 18:09:16','2010-12-15 02:09:16','','SouthernMiss','','inherit','open','open','','southernmiss','','','2010-12-14 18:09:16','2010-12-15 02:09:16','',3127,'http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/SouthernMiss.jpg',36,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(3138,7,'2010-12-14 18:18:21','2010-12-15 02:18:21','','KellenMooreBoise','','inherit','open','open','','kellenmooreboise','','','2010-12-14 18:18:21','2010-12-15 02:18:21','',3127,'http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/KellenMooreBoise.jpg',35,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(3139,7,'2010-12-14 18:25:44','2010-12-15 02:25:44','','Ricky-Dobbs-NAVY','','inherit','open','open','','ricky-dobbs-navy','','','2010-12-14 18:25:44','2010-12-15 02:25:44','',3127,'http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Ricky-Dobbs-NAVY.jpg',34,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(3140,7,'2010-12-14 18:32:57','2010-12-15 02:32:57','It\'s time to go bowling. Outside of the NFL playoffs, it may be the greatest time of year--in fact it <em>is</em> the harbinger of the professional playoffs. It surrounds the Christmas and New Year holidays, and it even spurs annual debate by crowning an NCAA Champion without a playoff. Still, I don\'t care who the bowl sponsor is, or who\'s playing in it...I\'ll watch it and enjoy it. At first glance the match-ups looked pretty uninteresting a couple weeks ago, yet after careful consideration, I\'ve quickly found that in the 2010-2011 bowl schedule, there lies potential for some great football games.\n\nLet\'s break \'em down in play order:\n<h3>12/18 - New Mexico Bowl: BYU vs. UTEP</h3>\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3133\" title=\"UTEP\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/UTEP-e1292376625439.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"600\" />\nBYU is a pretty easy favorite in this match-up. UTEP QB Trevor Vittatoe is a difference maker, yet his ankle is busted up, and he\'s looking at less than a week for it to get any better. If he\'s somehow able to play through the pain, the Miners could make it interesting.\n<h3>12/18 - Humanitarian Bowl: Northern Illinois vs. Fresno State</h3>\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3135\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Fresno.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"387\" />\nNorthern Illinois put up an impressive 10-3 season, but now they\'re meeting a Fresno team led by veteran coach Pat Hill after multiple weeks of preparation. This promises to be a battle, and picking either team would be a logical decision. The vast majority of the nation is going with the bulldogs, but I\'m taking the Huskies. \n<h3>12/18 - New Orleans Bowl: Ohio University vs. Troy</h3>\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Boo-Jackson-OhioU-e1292378277401.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"342\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3136\" />\nOhio QB, Franshaw \"Boo\" Jackson. He can be quite exciting when he\'s hitting on all cylinders, yet I was unimpressed with the MAC this season. I\'m going against the populous once again on this one, and sticking with the team from the south. I see another battle, and Troy coming out on top. \n<h3>12/21 - St. Petersburg Bowl: Southern Miss. vs. Louisville</h3>\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/SouthernMiss.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"368\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3137\" />\nDidn\'t ya hear? Brett Favre found a game of NCAA eligibility and is coming out of collegiate retirement. I just couldn\'t pass up the opportunity to use the image. Look at the young gun slinger... Call me insane this year, but I\'m going against the majority again with this pick. I feel like Louisville has the slight edge. I like it to be another close one. \n<h3>12/22 - Las Vegas Bowl: Utah vs. Boise State</h3>\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/KellenMooreBoise.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"312\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3138\" />\nAside from a couple missteps vs. TCU and Notre Dame, Utah put together a pretty impressive season. They won close games down the stretch and earned this match-up vs. the powerhouse known as Boise State. The Broncos BCS dreams were crushed in the NCAA game of the year vs. Nevada, yet a week later they went back to work and took care of business. I have a feeling that Kellen Moore is going to go off in Vegas like a 21 year old with their multi-millionaire father\'s credit card. ...that Kellen Moore is going to go off in Vegas like a fat dude at the Circus Circus buffet. He may opt for both options. BSU is the team that I would never bet against. You shouldn\'t either. \n<h3>12/23 - Poinsettia Bowl: Navy vs. San Diego State</h3>\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Ricky-Dobbs-NAVY.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"310\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3139\" />\nNavy is impressive... but San Diego State is possibly the best 8-4 team in the country. They have played <em>everyone</em> close. Everyone. Their 4 losses were by a combined 15 points. While I think the Navy option might give them headaches, and I\'m rolling with the Midshipmen as of now, I reserve the right to change my mind due to the factual evidence listed above. It\'s worthing noting, this is the final game for \n<h3>12/24 - Hawai\'i Bowl: Hawaii vs. Tulsa</h3>\n<h3>12/26 - Little Caesars Bowl: FIU vs. Toledo</h3>\n<h3>12/27 - Independence Bowl: Air Force vs. Georgia Tech</h3>\n<h3>12/28 - Champs Sports Bowl: West Virginia vs. NC State</h3>\n<h3>12/28 - Insight Bowl: Missouri vs. Iowa</h3>\n<h3>12/29 - Military Bowl: East Carolina vs. Maryland</h3>\n<h3>12/29 - Texas Bowl: Illinois vs. Baylor</h3>\n<h3>12/29 - Alamo Bowl: Oklahoma State vs. Arizona</h3>\n<h3>12/30 - Armed Forces Bowl: Army vs. SMU</h3>\n<h3>12/30 - Pinstripe Bowl: Kansas St. vs. Syracuse</h3>\n<h3>12/30 - Music City Bowl: North Carolina vs. Tennessee</h3>\n<h3>12/30 - Holiday Bowl: Nebraska vs. Washington</h3>\n<h3>12/31 - Meineke Car Care Bowl: South Florida vs. Clemson</h3>\n<h3>12/31 - Sun Bowl: Notre Dame vs. Miami</h3>\n<h3>12/31 - Liberty Bowl: Georgia vs. UCF</h3>\n<h3>12/31 - Chick-Fil-A Bowl: South Carolina vs. Florida State</h3>\n<h3>1/1 - TicketCity Bowl: Northwestern vs. Texas Tech</h3>\n<h3>1/1 - Outback Bowl: Florida vs. Penn State</h3>\n<h3>1/1 - Capital One Bowl: Alabama vs. Michigan State</h3>\n<h3>1/1 - Gator Bowl: Mississippi State vs. Michigan</h3>\n<h3>1/1 - Rose Bowl: Wisconsin vs. TCU</h3>\n<h3>1/1 - Fiesta Bowl: UConn vs. Oklahoma</h3>\n<h3>1/3 - Orange Bowl: Stanford vs. Virginia Tech</h3>\n<h3>1/4 - Sugar Bowl: Ohio State vs. Arkansas</h3>\n<h3>1/6 - GoDaddy.com Bowl: Middle Tennessee vs. Miami (OH)</h3>\n<h3>1/7 - Cotton Bowl: LSU vs. Texas A&amp;M</h3>\n<h3>1/8 - BBVA Compass Bowl: Pittsburgh vs. Kentucky</h3>\n<h3>1/9 - Kraft Fight Hunger Bowl: Nevada vs. Boston College</h3>\n<h3>1/10 - BCS National Championship: Oregon vs. Auburn</h3>\n<object classid=\"clsid:d27cdb6e-ae6d-11cf-96b8-444553540000\" width=\"500\" height=\"385\" codebase=\"http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0\"><param name=\"allowFullScreen\" value=\"true\" /><param name=\"allowscriptaccess\" value=\"always\" /><param name=\"src\" value=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/iOi2hj_sjyY?fs=1&amp;hl=en_US\" /><param name=\"allowfullscreen\" value=\"true\" /><embed type=\"application/x-shockwave-flash\" width=\"500\" height=\"385\" src=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/iOi2hj_sjyY?fs=1&amp;hl=en_US\" allowscriptaccess=\"always\" allowfullscreen=\"true\"></embed></object>\n\nVS.\n\n<object classid=\"clsid:d27cdb6e-ae6d-11cf-96b8-444553540000\" width=\"500\" height=\"385\" codebase=\"http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0\"><param name=\"allowFullScreen\" value=\"true\" /><param name=\"allowscriptaccess\" value=\"always\" /><param name=\"src\" value=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/QehP9o5S3Hs?fs=1&amp;hl=en_US\" /><param name=\"allowfullscreen\" value=\"true\" /><embed type=\"application/x-shockwave-flash\" width=\"500\" height=\"385\" src=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/QehP9o5S3Hs?fs=1&amp;hl=en_US\" allowscriptaccess=\"always\" allowfullscreen=\"true\"></embed></object>','College Bowl Preview ','','inherit','open','open','','3127-revision-6','','','2010-12-14 18:32:57','2010-12-15 02:32:57','',3127,'http://manjr.com/2010/uncategorized/3127-revision-6/',0,'revision','',0),(3141,7,'2010-12-14 18:34:41','2010-12-15 02:34:41','It\'s time to go bowling. Outside of the NFL playoffs, it may be the greatest sports season of year--in fact it <em>is</em> the harbinger of the playoffs for the pros. It surrounds the Christmas and New Year holidays, and it even spurs annual debate by crowning a Champion without a playoff system. \n\nNo, I don\'t care who the bowl sponsor is, or who\'s playing in it...I\'ll watch it and enjoy it. At first glance the match-ups looked pretty uninteresting a couple weeks ago, yet after careful consideration, I\'ve quickly found that in the 2010-2011 bowl schedule, there lies potential for some great football games.\n\nLet\'s break \'em down in play order:\n<h3>12/18 - New Mexico Bowl: BYU vs. UTEP</h3>\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3133\" title=\"UTEP\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/UTEP-e1292376625439.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"600\" />\nBYU is a pretty easy favorite in this match-up. UTEP QB Trevor Vittatoe is a difference maker, yet his ankle is busted up, and he\'s looking at less than a week for it to get any better. If he\'s somehow able to play through the pain, the Miners could make it interesting.\n<h3>12/18 - Humanitarian Bowl: Northern Illinois vs. Fresno State</h3>\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3135\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Fresno.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"387\" />\nNorthern Illinois put up an impressive 10-3 season, but now they\'re meeting a Fresno team led by veteran coach Pat Hill after multiple weeks of preparation. This promises to be a battle, and picking either team would be a logical decision. The vast majority of the nation is going with the bulldogs, but I\'m taking the Huskies. \n<h3>12/18 - New Orleans Bowl: Ohio University vs. Troy</h3>\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Boo-Jackson-OhioU-e1292378277401.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"342\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3136\" />\nOhio QB, Franshaw \"Boo\" Jackson. He can be quite exciting when he\'s hitting on all cylinders, yet I was unimpressed with the MAC this season. I\'m going against the populous once again on this one, and sticking with the team from the south. I see another battle, and Troy coming out on top. \n<h3>12/21 - St. Petersburg Bowl: Southern Miss. vs. Louisville</h3>\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/SouthernMiss.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"368\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3137\" />\nDidn\'t ya hear? Brett Favre found a game of NCAA eligibility and is coming out of collegiate retirement. I just couldn\'t pass up the opportunity to use the image. Look at the young gun slinger... Call me insane this year, but I\'m going against the majority again with this pick. I feel like Louisville has the slight edge. I like it to be another close one. \n<h3>12/22 - Las Vegas Bowl: Utah vs. Boise State</h3>\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/KellenMooreBoise.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"312\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3138\" />\nAside from a couple missteps vs. TCU and Notre Dame, Utah put together a pretty impressive season. They won close games down the stretch and earned this match-up vs. the powerhouse known as Boise State. The Broncos BCS dreams were crushed in the NCAA game of the year vs. Nevada, yet a week later they went back to work and took care of business. I have a feeling that Kellen Moore is going to go off in Vegas like a 21 year old with their multi-millionaire father\'s credit card. ...that Kellen Moore is going to go off in Vegas like a fat dude at the Circus Circus buffet. He may opt for both options. BSU is the team that I would never bet against. You shouldn\'t either. \n<h3>12/23 - Poinsettia Bowl: Navy vs. San Diego State</h3>\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Ricky-Dobbs-NAVY.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"310\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3139\" />\nNavy is impressive... but San Diego State is possibly the best 8-4 team in the country. They have played <em>everyone</em> close. Everyone. Their 4 losses were by a combined 15 points. While I think the Navy option might give them headaches, and I\'m rolling with the Midshipmen as of now, I reserve the right to change my mind due to the factual evidence listed above. It\'s worthing noting, this is the final game for Navy QB Ricky Dobbs, and the kid is a stud. He has played well in big games. I look for him to be the difference maker. \n<h3>12/24 - Hawai\'i Bowl: Hawaii vs. Tulsa</h3>\n<h3>12/26 - Little Caesars Bowl: FIU vs. Toledo</h3>\n<h3>12/27 - Independence Bowl: Air Force vs. Georgia Tech</h3>\n<h3>12/28 - Champs Sports Bowl: West Virginia vs. NC State</h3>\n<h3>12/28 - Insight Bowl: Missouri vs. Iowa</h3>\n<h3>12/29 - Military Bowl: East Carolina vs. Maryland</h3>\n<h3>12/29 - Texas Bowl: Illinois vs. Baylor</h3>\n<h3>12/29 - Alamo Bowl: Oklahoma State vs. Arizona</h3>\n<h3>12/30 - Armed Forces Bowl: Army vs. SMU</h3>\n<h3>12/30 - Pinstripe Bowl: Kansas St. vs. Syracuse</h3>\n<h3>12/30 - Music City Bowl: North Carolina vs. Tennessee</h3>\n<h3>12/30 - Holiday Bowl: Nebraska vs. Washington</h3>\n<h3>12/31 - Meineke Car Care Bowl: South Florida vs. Clemson</h3>\n<h3>12/31 - Sun Bowl: Notre Dame vs. Miami</h3>\n<h3>12/31 - Liberty Bowl: Georgia vs. UCF</h3>\n<h3>12/31 - Chick-Fil-A Bowl: South Carolina vs. Florida State</h3>\n<h3>1/1 - TicketCity Bowl: Northwestern vs. Texas Tech</h3>\n<h3>1/1 - Outback Bowl: Florida vs. Penn State</h3>\n<h3>1/1 - Capital One Bowl: Alabama vs. Michigan State</h3>\n<h3>1/1 - Gator Bowl: Mississippi State vs. Michigan</h3>\n<h3>1/1 - Rose Bowl: Wisconsin vs. TCU</h3>\n<h3>1/1 - Fiesta Bowl: UConn vs. Oklahoma</h3>\n<h3>1/3 - Orange Bowl: Stanford vs. Virginia Tech</h3>\n<h3>1/4 - Sugar Bowl: Ohio State vs. Arkansas</h3>\n<h3>1/6 - GoDaddy.com Bowl: Middle Tennessee vs. Miami (OH)</h3>\n<h3>1/7 - Cotton Bowl: LSU vs. Texas A&amp;M</h3>\n<h3>1/8 - BBVA Compass Bowl: Pittsburgh vs. Kentucky</h3>\n<h3>1/9 - Kraft Fight Hunger Bowl: Nevada vs. Boston College</h3>\n<h3>1/10 - BCS National Championship: Oregon vs. Auburn</h3>\n<object classid=\"clsid:d27cdb6e-ae6d-11cf-96b8-444553540000\" width=\"500\" height=\"385\" codebase=\"http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0\"><param name=\"allowFullScreen\" value=\"true\" /><param name=\"allowscriptaccess\" value=\"always\" /><param name=\"src\" value=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/iOi2hj_sjyY?fs=1&amp;hl=en_US\" /><param name=\"allowfullscreen\" value=\"true\" /><embed type=\"application/x-shockwave-flash\" width=\"500\" height=\"385\" src=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/iOi2hj_sjyY?fs=1&amp;hl=en_US\" allowscriptaccess=\"always\" allowfullscreen=\"true\"></embed></object>\n\nVS.\n\n<object classid=\"clsid:d27cdb6e-ae6d-11cf-96b8-444553540000\" width=\"500\" height=\"385\" codebase=\"http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0\"><param name=\"allowFullScreen\" value=\"true\" /><param name=\"allowscriptaccess\" value=\"always\" /><param name=\"src\" value=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/QehP9o5S3Hs?fs=1&amp;hl=en_US\" /><param name=\"allowfullscreen\" value=\"true\" /><embed type=\"application/x-shockwave-flash\" width=\"500\" height=\"385\" src=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/QehP9o5S3Hs?fs=1&amp;hl=en_US\" allowscriptaccess=\"always\" allowfullscreen=\"true\"></embed></object>','College Bowl Preview ','','inherit','open','open','','3127-revision-7','','','2010-12-14 18:34:41','2010-12-15 02:34:41','',3127,'http://manjr.com/2010/uncategorized/3127-revision-7/',0,'revision','',0),(3143,7,'2010-12-14 21:24:12','2010-12-15 05:24:12','','Hawaii','','inherit','open','open','','hawaii','','','2010-12-14 21:24:12','2010-12-15 05:24:12','',3127,'http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Hawaii.jpg',33,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(3142,7,'2010-12-14 18:35:10','2010-12-15 02:35:10','It\'s time to go bowling. Outside of the NFL playoffs, it may be the greatest sports season of year--in fact it <em>is</em> the harbinger of the playoffs for the pros. It surrounds the Christmas and New Year holidays, and it even spurs annual debate by crowning a Champion without a playoff system. \r\n\r\nUnlike many people who feel there are too many bowls, I don\'t care who the bowl sponsor is, or who\'s playing in it...I\'ll watch it and enjoy it. At first glance the match-ups looked pretty uninteresting a couple weeks ago, yet after careful consideration, I\'ve found that in the 2010-2011 bowl schedule, there lies potential for some great football games.\r\n\r\nLet\'s break \'em down in play order:\r\n<h3>12/18 - New Mexico Bowl: BYU vs. UTEP</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3133\" title=\"UTEP\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/UTEP-e1292376625439.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"600\" />\r\nBYU is a pretty easy favorite in this match-up. UTEP QB Trevor Vittatoe is a difference maker, yet his ankle is busted up, and he\'s looking at less than a week for it to get any better. If he\'s somehow able to play through the pain, the Miners could make it interesting.\r\n<h3>12/18 - Humanitarian Bowl: Northern Illinois vs. Fresno State</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3135\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Fresno.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"387\" />\r\nNorthern Illinois put up an impressive 10-3 season, but now they\'re meeting a Fresno team led by veteran coach Pat Hill after multiple weeks of preparation. This promises to be a battle, and picking either team would be a logical decision. The vast majority of the nation is going with the bulldogs, but I\'m taking the Huskies. \r\n<h3>12/18 - New Orleans Bowl: Ohio University vs. Troy</h3>\r\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Boo-Jackson-OhioU-e1292378277401.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"342\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3136\" />\r\nOhio QB, Franshaw \"Boo\" Jackson. He can be quite exciting when he\'s hitting on all cylinders, yet I was unimpressed with the MAC this season. I\'m going against the populous once again on this one, and sticking with the team from the south. I see another battle, and Troy coming out on top. \r\n<h3>12/21 - St. Petersburg Bowl: Southern Miss. vs. Louisville</h3>\r\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/SouthernMiss.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"368\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3137\" />\r\nDidn\'t ya hear? Brett Favre found a game of NCAA eligibility and is coming out of collegiate retirement. I just couldn\'t pass up the opportunity to use the image. Look at the young gun slinger... Call me insane this year, but I\'m going against the majority again with this pick. I feel like Louisville has the slight edge. I like it to be another close one. \r\n<h3>12/22 - Las Vegas Bowl: Utah vs. Boise State</h3>\r\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/KellenMooreBoise.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"312\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3138\" />\r\nAside from a couple missteps vs. TCU and Notre Dame, Utah put together a pretty impressive season. They won close games down the stretch and earned this match-up vs. the powerhouse known as Boise State. The Broncos BCS dreams were crushed in the NCAA game of the year vs. Nevada, yet a week later they went back to work and took care of business. I have a feeling that Kellen Moore is going to go off in Vegas like a 21 year old with their multi-millionaire father\'s credit card. ...that Kellen Moore is going to go off in Vegas like a fat dude at the Circus Circus buffet. He may opt for both options. BSU is the team that I would never bet against. You shouldn\'t either. \r\n<h3>12/23 - Poinsettia Bowl: Navy vs. San Diego State</h3>\r\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Ricky-Dobbs-NAVY.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"310\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3139\" />\r\nNavy is impressive... but San Diego State is possibly the best 8-4 team in the country. They have played <em>everyone</em> close. Everyone. Their 4 losses were by a combined 15 points. While I think the Navy option might give them headaches, and I\'m rolling with the Midshipmen as of now, I reserve the right to change my mind due to the factual evidence listed above. It\'s worthing noting, this is the final game for Navy QB Ricky Dobbs, and the kid is a stud. He has played well in big games. I look for him to be the difference maker. \r\n<h3>12/24 - Hawai\'i Bowl: Hawaii vs. Tulsa</h3>\r\n<h3>12/26 - Little Caesars Bowl: FIU vs. Toledo</h3>\r\n<h3>12/27 - Independence Bowl: Air Force vs. Georgia Tech</h3>\r\n<h3>12/28 - Champs Sports Bowl: West Virginia vs. NC State</h3>\r\n<h3>12/28 - Insight Bowl: Missouri vs. Iowa</h3>\r\n<h3>12/29 - Military Bowl: East Carolina vs. Maryland</h3>\r\n<h3>12/29 - Texas Bowl: Illinois vs. Baylor</h3>\r\n<h3>12/29 - Alamo Bowl: Oklahoma State vs. Arizona</h3>\r\n<h3>12/30 - Armed Forces Bowl: Army vs. SMU</h3>\r\n<h3>12/30 - Pinstripe Bowl: Kansas St. vs. Syracuse</h3>\r\n<h3>12/30 - Music City Bowl: North Carolina vs. Tennessee</h3>\r\n<h3>12/30 - Holiday Bowl: Nebraska vs. Washington</h3>\r\n<h3>12/31 - Meineke Car Care Bowl: South Florida vs. Clemson</h3>\r\n<h3>12/31 - Sun Bowl: Notre Dame vs. Miami</h3>\r\n<h3>12/31 - Liberty Bowl: Georgia vs. UCF</h3>\r\n<h3>12/31 - Chick-Fil-A Bowl: South Carolina vs. Florida State</h3>\r\n<h3>1/1 - TicketCity Bowl: Northwestern vs. Texas Tech</h3>\r\n<h3>1/1 - Outback Bowl: Florida vs. Penn State</h3>\r\n<h3>1/1 - Capital One Bowl: Alabama vs. Michigan State</h3>\r\n<h3>1/1 - Gator Bowl: Mississippi State vs. Michigan</h3>\r\n<h3>1/1 - Rose Bowl: Wisconsin vs. TCU</h3>\r\n<h3>1/1 - Fiesta Bowl: UConn vs. Oklahoma</h3>\r\n<h3>1/3 - Orange Bowl: Stanford vs. Virginia Tech</h3>\r\n<h3>1/4 - Sugar Bowl: Ohio State vs. Arkansas</h3>\r\n<h3>1/6 - GoDaddy.com Bowl: Middle Tennessee vs. Miami (OH)</h3>\r\n<h3>1/7 - Cotton Bowl: LSU vs. Texas A&amp;M</h3>\r\n<h3>1/8 - BBVA Compass Bowl: Pittsburgh vs. Kentucky</h3>\r\n<h3>1/9 - Kraft Fight Hunger Bowl: Nevada vs. Boston College</h3>\r\n<h3>1/10 - BCS National Championship: Oregon vs. Auburn</h3>\r\n<object classid=\"clsid:d27cdb6e-ae6d-11cf-96b8-444553540000\" width=\"500\" height=\"385\" codebase=\"http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0\"><param name=\"allowFullScreen\" value=\"true\" /><param name=\"allowscriptaccess\" value=\"always\" /><param name=\"src\" value=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/iOi2hj_sjyY?fs=1&amp;hl=en_US\" /><param name=\"allowfullscreen\" value=\"true\" /><embed type=\"application/x-shockwave-flash\" width=\"500\" height=\"385\" src=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/iOi2hj_sjyY?fs=1&amp;hl=en_US\" allowscriptaccess=\"always\" allowfullscreen=\"true\"></embed></object>\r\n\r\nVS.\r\n\r\n<object classid=\"clsid:d27cdb6e-ae6d-11cf-96b8-444553540000\" width=\"500\" height=\"385\" codebase=\"http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0\"><param name=\"allowFullScreen\" value=\"true\" /><param name=\"allowscriptaccess\" value=\"always\" /><param name=\"src\" value=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/QehP9o5S3Hs?fs=1&amp;hl=en_US\" /><param name=\"allowfullscreen\" value=\"true\" /><embed type=\"application/x-shockwave-flash\" width=\"500\" height=\"385\" src=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/QehP9o5S3Hs?fs=1&amp;hl=en_US\" allowscriptaccess=\"always\" allowfullscreen=\"true\"></embed></object>','College Bowl Preview ','','inherit','open','open','','3127-revision-8','','','2010-12-14 18:35:10','2010-12-15 02:35:10','',3127,'http://manjr.com/2010/uncategorized/3127-revision-8/',0,'revision','',0),(3144,7,'2010-12-14 21:26:33','2010-12-15 05:26:33','It\'s time to go bowling. Outside of the NFL playoffs, it may be the greatest sports season of year--in fact it <em>is</em> the harbinger of the playoffs for the pros. It surrounds the Christmas and New Year holidays, and it even spurs annual debate by crowning a Champion without a playoff system. \n\nUnlike many people who feel there are too many bowls, I don\'t care who the bowl sponsor is, or who\'s playing in it...I\'ll watch it and enjoy it. At first glance the match-ups looked pretty uninteresting a couple weeks ago, yet after careful consideration, I\'ve found that in the 2010-2011 bowl schedule, there lies potential for some great football games.\n\nLet\'s break \'em down in play order:\n<h3>12/18 - New Mexico Bowl: BYU vs. UTEP</h3>\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3133\" title=\"UTEP\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/UTEP-e1292376625439.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"600\" />\nBYU is a pretty easy favorite in this match-up. UTEP QB Trevor Vittatoe is a difference maker, yet his ankle is busted up, and he\'s looking at less than a week for it to get any better. If he\'s somehow able to play through the pain, the Miners could make it interesting.\n<h3>12/18 - Humanitarian Bowl: Northern Illinois vs. Fresno State</h3>\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3135\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Fresno.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"387\" />\nNorthern Illinois put up an impressive 10-3 season, but now they\'re meeting a Fresno team led by veteran coach Pat Hill after multiple weeks of preparation. This promises to be a battle, and picking either team would be a logical decision. The vast majority of the nation is going with the bulldogs, but I\'m taking the Huskies. \n<h3>12/18 - New Orleans Bowl: Ohio University vs. Troy</h3>\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Boo-Jackson-OhioU-e1292378277401.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"342\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3136\" />\nOhio QB, Franshaw \"Boo\" Jackson. He can be quite exciting when he\'s hitting on all cylinders, yet I was unimpressed with the MAC this season. I\'m going against the populous once again on this one, and sticking with the team from the south. I see another battle, and Troy coming out on top. \n<h3>12/21 - St. Petersburg Bowl: Southern Miss. vs. Louisville</h3>\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/SouthernMiss.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"368\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3137\" />\nDidn\'t ya hear? Brett Favre found a game of NCAA eligibility and is coming out of collegiate retirement. I just couldn\'t pass up the opportunity to use the image. Look at the young gun slinger... Call me insane this year, but I\'m going against the majority again with this pick. I feel like Louisville has the slight edge. I like it to be another close one. \n<h3>12/22 - Las Vegas Bowl: Utah vs. Boise State</h3>\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/KellenMooreBoise.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"312\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3138\" />\nAside from a couple missteps vs. TCU and Notre Dame, Utah put together a pretty impressive season. They won close games down the stretch and earned this match-up vs. the powerhouse known as Boise State. The Broncos BCS dreams were crushed in the NCAA game of the year vs. Nevada, yet a week later they went back to work and took care of business. I have a feeling that Kellen Moore is going to go off in Vegas like a 21 year old with their multi-millionaire father\'s credit card. ...that Kellen Moore is going to go off in Vegas like a fat dude at the Circus Circus buffet. He may opt for both options. BSU is the team that I would never bet against. You shouldn\'t either. \n<h3>12/23 - Poinsettia Bowl: Navy vs. San Diego State</h3>\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Ricky-Dobbs-NAVY.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"310\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3139\" />\nNavy is impressive... but San Diego State is possibly the best 8-4 team in the country. They have played <em>everyone</em> close. Everyone. Their 4 losses were by a combined 15 points. While I think the Navy option might give them headaches, and I\'m rolling with the Midshipmen...as of now. I reserve the right to change my mind due to the factual evidence listed above. It\'s worth noting, this is the final game for Navy QB Ricky Dobbs--the kid is a stud. He has always played big in big games. \n<h3>12/24 - Hawai\'i Bowl: Hawaii vs. Tulsa</h3>\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Hawaii-e1292390690856.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"Hawaii\" width=\"500\" height=\"331\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3143\" />\nHawaii at home? Check. Hawaii with a devastating passing attack? Check. Tulsa with a suspect secondary? Check. Tulsa with the ability to gunsling? Check. Could be a shoot out, but this one is going to the Warriors of Hawai\'i\n<h3>12/26 - Little Caesars Bowl: FIU vs. Toledo</h3>\n<h3>12/27 - Independence Bowl: Air Force vs. Georgia Tech</h3>\n<h3>12/28 - Champs Sports Bowl: West Virginia vs. NC State</h3>\n<h3>12/28 - Insight Bowl: Missouri vs. Iowa</h3>\n<h3>12/29 - Military Bowl: East Carolina vs. Maryland</h3>\n<h3>12/29 - Texas Bowl: Illinois vs. Baylor</h3>\n<h3>12/29 - Alamo Bowl: Oklahoma State vs. Arizona</h3>\n<h3>12/30 - Armed Forces Bowl: Army vs. SMU</h3>\n<h3>12/30 - Pinstripe Bowl: Kansas St. vs. Syracuse</h3>\n<h3>12/30 - Music City Bowl: North Carolina vs. Tennessee</h3>\n<h3>12/30 - Holiday Bowl: Nebraska vs. Washington</h3>\n<h3>12/31 - Meineke Car Care Bowl: South Florida vs. Clemson</h3>\n<h3>12/31 - Sun Bowl: Notre Dame vs. Miami</h3>\n<h3>12/31 - Liberty Bowl: Georgia vs. UCF</h3>\n<h3>12/31 - Chick-Fil-A Bowl: South Carolina vs. Florida State</h3>\n<h3>1/1 - TicketCity Bowl: Northwestern vs. Texas Tech</h3>\n<h3>1/1 - Outback Bowl: Florida vs. Penn State</h3>\n<h3>1/1 - Capital One Bowl: Alabama vs. Michigan State</h3>\n<h3>1/1 - Gator Bowl: Mississippi State vs. Michigan</h3>\n<h3>1/1 - Rose Bowl: Wisconsin vs. TCU</h3>\n<h3>1/1 - Fiesta Bowl: UConn vs. Oklahoma</h3>\n<h3>1/3 - Orange Bowl: Stanford vs. Virginia Tech</h3>\n<h3>1/4 - Sugar Bowl: Ohio State vs. Arkansas</h3>\n<h3>1/6 - GoDaddy.com Bowl: Middle Tennessee vs. Miami (OH)</h3>\n<h3>1/7 - Cotton Bowl: LSU vs. Texas A&amp;M</h3>\n<h3>1/8 - BBVA Compass Bowl: Pittsburgh vs. Kentucky</h3>\n<h3>1/9 - Kraft Fight Hunger Bowl: Nevada vs. Boston College</h3>\n<h3>1/10 - BCS National Championship: Oregon vs. Auburn</h3>\n<object classid=\"clsid:d27cdb6e-ae6d-11cf-96b8-444553540000\" width=\"500\" height=\"385\" codebase=\"http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0\"><param name=\"allowFullScreen\" value=\"true\" /><param name=\"allowscriptaccess\" value=\"always\" /><param name=\"src\" value=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/iOi2hj_sjyY?fs=1&amp;hl=en_US\" /><param name=\"allowfullscreen\" value=\"true\" /><embed type=\"application/x-shockwave-flash\" width=\"500\" height=\"385\" src=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/iOi2hj_sjyY?fs=1&amp;hl=en_US\" allowscriptaccess=\"always\" allowfullscreen=\"true\"></embed></object>\n\nVS.\n\n<object classid=\"clsid:d27cdb6e-ae6d-11cf-96b8-444553540000\" width=\"500\" height=\"385\" codebase=\"http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0\"><param name=\"allowFullScreen\" value=\"true\" /><param name=\"allowscriptaccess\" value=\"always\" /><param name=\"src\" value=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/QehP9o5S3Hs?fs=1&amp;hl=en_US\" /><param name=\"allowfullscreen\" value=\"true\" /><embed type=\"application/x-shockwave-flash\" width=\"500\" height=\"385\" src=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/QehP9o5S3Hs?fs=1&amp;hl=en_US\" allowscriptaccess=\"always\" allowfullscreen=\"true\"></embed></object>','College Bowl Preview ','','inherit','open','open','','3127-revision-9','','','2010-12-14 21:26:33','2010-12-15 05:26:33','',3127,'http://manjr.com/2010/uncategorized/3127-revision-9/',0,'revision','',0),(3145,7,'2010-12-14 21:28:16','2010-12-15 05:28:16','','TimBeckmanToledo','','inherit','open','open','','timbeckmantoledo','','','2010-12-14 21:28:16','2010-12-15 05:28:16','',3127,'http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/TimBeckmanToledo.jpg',32,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(3146,7,'2010-12-14 21:36:01','2010-12-15 05:36:01','','JoshNesbittGeorgiaTech','','inherit','open','open','','gatech-1018-jcarts-festival00008-jpgarts-festival00009-jpgart','','','2010-12-14 21:36:01','2010-12-15 05:36:01','',3127,'http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/JoshNesbittGeorgiaTech.jpg',31,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(3147,7,'2010-12-14 21:42:13','2010-12-15 05:42:13','','noel-devine-WV','','inherit','open','open','','noel-devine-wv','','','2010-12-14 21:42:13','2010-12-15 05:42:13','',3127,'http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/noel-devine-WV.jpg',30,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(3148,7,'2010-12-14 21:54:55','2010-12-15 05:54:55','','Blaine-Gabbert-Missouri-Tigers','','inherit','open','open','','blaine-gabbert-missouri-tigers','','','2010-12-14 21:54:55','2010-12-15 05:54:55','',3127,'http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Blaine-Gabbert-Missouri-Tigers.jpg',29,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(3149,7,'2010-12-14 22:04:06','2010-12-15 06:04:06','','EastCarolina','','inherit','open','open','','eastcarolina','','','2010-12-14 22:04:06','2010-12-15 06:04:06','',3127,'http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/EastCarolina.jpg',28,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(3150,7,'2010-12-14 22:08:47','2010-12-15 06:08:47','','robert-griffinBaylor','','inherit','open','open','','robert-griffinbaylor','','','2010-12-14 22:08:47','2010-12-15 06:08:47','',3127,'http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/robert-griffinBaylor.jpg',27,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(3151,7,'2010-12-14 22:17:13','2010-12-15 06:17:13','','JustinBlackmonOSU','','inherit','open','open','','spart-osufirst','','','2010-12-14 22:17:13','2010-12-15 06:17:13','',3127,'http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/JustinBlackmonOSU.jpg',26,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(3152,7,'2010-12-14 22:23:19','2010-12-15 06:23:19','','SMU','','inherit','open','open','','smu','','','2010-12-14 22:23:19','2010-12-15 06:23:19','',3127,'http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/SMU.jpg',25,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(3153,7,'2010-12-14 22:30:08','2010-12-15 06:30:08','','bill-snyder-KSU','','inherit','open','open','','bill-snyder-ksu','','','2010-12-14 22:30:08','2010-12-15 06:30:08','',3127,'http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/bill-snyder-KSU.jpg',24,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(3154,7,'2010-12-14 22:39:30','2010-12-15 06:39:30','','jake-locker-Washington','','inherit','open','open','','jake-locker-washington','','','2010-12-14 22:39:30','2010-12-15 06:39:30','',3127,'http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/jake-locker-Washington.jpg',23,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(3155,7,'2010-12-14 22:45:01','2010-12-15 06:45:01','','KyleParkerClemson','','inherit','open','open','','kyleparkerclemson','','','2010-12-14 22:45:01','2010-12-15 06:45:01','',3127,'http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/KyleParkerClemson.jpg',22,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(3156,7,'2010-12-14 22:48:34','2010-12-15 06:48:34','','Maryland','','inherit','open','open','','fla-international-maryland-football','','','2010-12-14 22:48:34','2010-12-15 06:48:34','',3127,'http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Maryland.jpg',21,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(3157,7,'2010-12-14 22:52:56','2010-12-15 06:52:56','','TommyReesNotreDame','','inherit','open','open','','tommyreesnotredame','','','2010-12-14 22:52:56','2010-12-15 06:52:56','',3127,'http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/TommyReesNotreDame.jpg',20,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(3158,7,'2010-12-14 23:01:45','2010-12-15 07:01:45','','AJ-GREEN-Georgia','','inherit','open','open','','uga-0913','','','2010-12-14 23:01:45','2010-12-15 07:01:45','',3127,'http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/AJ-GREEN-Georgia.jpg',19,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(3159,7,'2010-12-14 21:27:33','2010-12-15 05:27:33','It\'s time to go bowling. Outside of the NFL playoffs, it may be the greatest sports season of year--in fact it <em>is</em> the harbinger of the playoffs for the pros. It surrounds the Christmas and New Year holidays, and it even spurs annual debate by crowning a Champion without a playoff system. \n\nUnlike many people who feel there are too many bowls, I don\'t care who the bowl sponsor is, or who\'s playing in it...I\'ll watch it and enjoy it. At first glance the match-ups looked pretty uninteresting a couple weeks ago, yet after careful consideration, I\'ve found that in the 2010-2011 bowl schedule, there lies potential for some great football games.\n\nLet\'s break \'em down in play order:\n<h3>12/18 - New Mexico Bowl: BYU vs. UTEP</h3>\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3133\" title=\"UTEP\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/UTEP-e1292376625439.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"600\" />\nBYU is a pretty easy favorite in this match-up. UTEP QB Trevor Vittatoe is a difference maker, yet his ankle is busted up, and he\'s looking at less than a week for it to get any better. If he\'s somehow able to play through the pain, the Miners could make it interesting.\n<h3>12/18 - Humanitarian Bowl: Northern Illinois vs. Fresno State</h3>\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3135\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Fresno.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"387\" />\nNorthern Illinois put up an impressive 10-3 season, but now they\'re meeting a Fresno team led by veteran coach Pat Hill after multiple weeks of preparation. This promises to be a battle, and picking either team would be a logical decision. The vast majority of the nation is going with the bulldogs, but I\'m taking the Huskies. \n<h3>12/18 - New Orleans Bowl: Ohio University vs. Troy</h3>\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Boo-Jackson-OhioU-e1292378277401.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"342\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3136\" />\nOhio QB, Franshaw \"Boo\" Jackson. He can be quite exciting when he\'s hitting on all cylinders, yet I was unimpressed with the MAC this season. I\'m going against the populous once again on this one, and sticking with the team from the south. I see another battle, and Troy coming out on top. \n<h3>12/21 - St. Petersburg Bowl: Southern Miss. vs. Louisville</h3>\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/SouthernMiss.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"368\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3137\" />\nDidn\'t ya hear? Brett Favre found a game of NCAA eligibility and is coming out of collegiate retirement. I just couldn\'t pass up the opportunity to use the image. Look at the young gun slinger... Call me insane this year, but I\'m going against the majority again with this pick. I feel like Louisville has the slight edge. I like it to be another close one. \n<h3>12/22 - Las Vegas Bowl: Utah vs. Boise State</h3>\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/KellenMooreBoise.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"312\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3138\" />\nAside from a couple missteps vs. TCU and Notre Dame, Utah put together a pretty impressive season. They won close games down the stretch and earned this match-up vs. the powerhouse known as Boise State. The Broncos BCS dreams were crushed in the NCAA game of the year vs. Nevada, yet a week later they went back to work and took care of business. I have a feeling that Kellen Moore is going to go off in Vegas like a 21 year old with their multi-millionaire father\'s credit card. ...that Kellen Moore is going to go off in Vegas like a fat dude at the Circus Circus buffet. He may opt for both options. BSU is the team that I would never bet against. You shouldn\'t either. \n<h3>12/23 - Poinsettia Bowl: Navy vs. San Diego State</h3>\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Ricky-Dobbs-NAVY.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"310\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3139\" />\nNavy is impressive... but San Diego State is possibly the best 8-4 team in the country. They have played <em>everyone</em> close. Everyone. Their 4 losses were by a combined 15 points. While I think the Navy option might give them headaches, and I\'m rolling with the Midshipmen...as of now. I reserve the right to change my mind due to the factual evidence listed above. It\'s worth noting, this is the final game for Navy QB Ricky Dobbs--the kid is a stud. He has always played big in big games. \n<h3>12/24 - Hawai\'i Bowl: Hawaii vs. Tulsa</h3>\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Hawaii-e1292390690856.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"Hawaii\" width=\"500\" height=\"331\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3143\" />\nHawaii at home? Check. Hawaii with a devastating passing attack? Check. Tulsa with a suspect secondary? Check. Tulsa with the ability to gunsling? Check. Could be a shoot out, but this one is going to the Warriors of Hawai\'i. \n<h3>12/26 - Little Caesars Bowl: FIU vs. Toledo</h3>\n<h3>12/27 - Independence Bowl: Air Force vs. Georgia Tech</h3>\n<h3>12/28 - Champs Sports Bowl: West Virginia vs. NC State</h3>\n<h3>12/28 - Insight Bowl: Missouri vs. Iowa</h3>\n<h3>12/29 - Military Bowl: East Carolina vs. Maryland</h3>\n<h3>12/29 - Texas Bowl: Illinois vs. Baylor</h3>\n<h3>12/29 - Alamo Bowl: Oklahoma State vs. Arizona</h3>\n<h3>12/30 - Armed Forces Bowl: Army vs. SMU</h3>\n<h3>12/30 - Pinstripe Bowl: Kansas St. vs. Syracuse</h3>\n<h3>12/30 - Music City Bowl: North Carolina vs. Tennessee</h3>\n<h3>12/30 - Holiday Bowl: Nebraska vs. Washington</h3>\n<h3>12/31 - Meineke Car Care Bowl: South Florida vs. Clemson</h3>\n<h3>12/31 - Sun Bowl: Notre Dame vs. Miami</h3>\n<h3>12/31 - Liberty Bowl: Georgia vs. UCF</h3>\n<h3>12/31 - Chick-Fil-A Bowl: South Carolina vs. Florida State</h3>\n<h3>1/1 - TicketCity Bowl: Northwestern vs. Texas Tech</h3>\n<h3>1/1 - Outback Bowl: Florida vs. Penn State</h3>\n<h3>1/1 - Capital One Bowl: Alabama vs. Michigan State</h3>\n<h3>1/1 - Gator Bowl: Mississippi State vs. Michigan</h3>\n<h3>1/1 - Rose Bowl: Wisconsin vs. TCU</h3>\n<h3>1/1 - Fiesta Bowl: UConn vs. Oklahoma</h3>\n<h3>1/3 - Orange Bowl: Stanford vs. Virginia Tech</h3>\n<h3>1/4 - Sugar Bowl: Ohio State vs. Arkansas</h3>\n<h3>1/6 - GoDaddy.com Bowl: Middle Tennessee vs. Miami (OH)</h3>\n<h3>1/7 - Cotton Bowl: LSU vs. Texas A&amp;M</h3>\n<h3>1/8 - BBVA Compass Bowl: Pittsburgh vs. Kentucky</h3>\n<h3>1/9 - Kraft Fight Hunger Bowl: Nevada vs. Boston College</h3>\n<h3>1/10 - BCS National Championship: Oregon vs. Auburn</h3>\n<object classid=\"clsid:d27cdb6e-ae6d-11cf-96b8-444553540000\" width=\"500\" height=\"385\" codebase=\"http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0\"><param name=\"allowFullScreen\" value=\"true\" /><param name=\"allowscriptaccess\" value=\"always\" /><param name=\"src\" value=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/iOi2hj_sjyY?fs=1&amp;hl=en_US\" /><param name=\"allowfullscreen\" value=\"true\" /><embed type=\"application/x-shockwave-flash\" width=\"500\" height=\"385\" src=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/iOi2hj_sjyY?fs=1&amp;hl=en_US\" allowscriptaccess=\"always\" allowfullscreen=\"true\"></embed></object>\n\nVS.\n\n<object classid=\"clsid:d27cdb6e-ae6d-11cf-96b8-444553540000\" width=\"500\" height=\"385\" codebase=\"http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0\"><param name=\"allowFullScreen\" value=\"true\" /><param name=\"allowscriptaccess\" value=\"always\" /><param name=\"src\" value=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/QehP9o5S3Hs?fs=1&amp;hl=en_US\" /><param name=\"allowfullscreen\" value=\"true\" /><embed type=\"application/x-shockwave-flash\" width=\"500\" height=\"385\" src=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/QehP9o5S3Hs?fs=1&amp;hl=en_US\" allowscriptaccess=\"always\" allowfullscreen=\"true\"></embed></object>','College Bowl Preview ','','inherit','open','open','','3127-revision-10','','','2010-12-14 21:27:33','2010-12-15 05:27:33','',3127,'http://manjr.com/2010/uncategorized/3127-revision-10/',0,'revision','',0),(3160,7,'2010-12-14 23:06:40','2010-12-15 07:06:40','','marcus-lattimore-south-carolina','','inherit','open','open','','marcus-lattimore-south-carolina','','','2010-12-14 23:06:40','2010-12-15 07:06:40','',3127,'http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/marcus-lattimore-south-carolina.jpg',18,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(3161,7,'2010-12-14 23:13:05','2010-12-15 07:13:05','','TaylorPottsTexTech','','inherit','open','open','','taylorpottstextech','','','2010-12-14 23:13:05','2010-12-15 07:13:05','',3127,'http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/TaylorPottsTexTech.jpg',17,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(3162,7,'2010-12-14 23:18:22','2010-12-15 07:18:22','','urban-meyer','','inherit','open','open','','urban-meyer','','','2010-12-14 23:18:22','2010-12-15 07:18:22','',3127,'http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/urban-meyer.jpg',16,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(3163,7,'2010-12-14 23:31:43','2010-12-15 07:31:43','','markingramAlabma','','inherit','open','open','','markingramalabma','','','2010-12-14 23:31:43','2010-12-15 07:31:43','',3127,'http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/markingramAlabma.jpg',15,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(3164,7,'2010-12-14 23:39:11','2010-12-15 07:39:11','','Denard-Robinson-Michigan','','inherit','open','open','','denard-robinson-michigan','','','2010-12-14 23:39:11','2010-12-15 07:39:11','',3127,'http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Denard-Robinson-Michigan.jpg',14,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(3165,7,'2010-12-14 23:41:57','2010-12-15 07:41:57','It\'s time to go bowling. Outside of the NFL playoffs, it may be the greatest sports season of year--in fact it <em>is</em> the harbinger of the playoffs for the pros. It surrounds the Christmas and New Year holidays, and it even spurs annual debate by crowning a Champion without a playoff system. \n\nUnlike many people who feel there are too many bowls, I don\'t care who the bowl sponsor is, or who\'s playing in it...I\'ll watch it and enjoy it. At first glance the match-ups looked pretty uninteresting a couple weeks ago, yet after careful consideration, I\'ve found that in the 2010-2011 bowl schedule, there lies potential for some great football games.\n\nLet\'s break \'em down in play order:\n<h3>12/18 - New Mexico Bowl: BYU vs. UTEP</h3>\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3133\" title=\"UTEP\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/UTEP-e1292376625439.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"600\" />\nBYU is a pretty easy favorite in this match-up. UTEP QB Trevor Vittatoe is a difference maker, yet his ankle is busted up, and he\'s looking at less than a week for it to get any better. If he\'s somehow able to play through the pain, the Miners could make it interesting.\n<h3>12/18 - Humanitarian Bowl: Northern Illinois vs. Fresno State</h3>\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3135\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Fresno.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"387\" />\nNorthern Illinois put up an impressive 10-3 season, but now they\'re meeting a Fresno team led by veteran coach Pat Hill after multiple weeks of preparation. This promises to be a battle, and picking either team would be a logical decision. The vast majority of the nation is going with the bulldogs, but I\'m taking the Huskies. \n<h3>12/18 - New Orleans Bowl: Ohio University vs. Troy</h3>\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Boo-Jackson-OhioU-e1292378277401.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"342\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3136\" />\nOhio QB, Franshaw \"Boo\" Jackson. He can be quite exciting when he\'s hitting on all cylinders, yet I was unimpressed with the MAC this season. I\'m going against the populous once again on this one, and sticking with the team from the south. I see another battle, and Troy coming out on top. \n<h3>12/21 - St. Petersburg Bowl: Southern Miss. vs. Louisville</h3>\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/SouthernMiss.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"368\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3137\" />\nDidn\'t ya hear? Brett Favre found a game of NCAA eligibility and is coming out of collegiate retirement. I just couldn\'t pass up the opportunity to use the image. Look at the young gun slinger... Call me insane this year, but I\'m going against the majority again with this pick. I feel like Louisville has the slight edge. I like it to be another close one. \n<h3>12/22 - Las Vegas Bowl: Utah vs. Boise State</h3>\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/KellenMooreBoise.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"312\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3138\" />\nAside from a couple missteps vs. TCU and Notre Dame, Utah put together a pretty impressive season. They won close games down the stretch and earned this match-up vs. the powerhouse known as Boise State. The Broncos BCS dreams were crushed in the NCAA game of the year vs. Nevada, yet a week later they went back to work and took care of business. I have a feeling that Kellen Moore is going to go off in Vegas like a 21 year old with their multi-millionaire father\'s credit card. ...that Kellen Moore is going to go off in Vegas like a fat dude at the Circus Circus buffet. He may opt for both options. BSU is the team that I would never bet against. You shouldn\'t either. \n<h3>12/23 - Poinsettia Bowl: Navy vs. San Diego State</h3>\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Ricky-Dobbs-NAVY.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"310\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3139\" />\nNavy is impressive... but San Diego State is possibly the best 8-4 team in the country. They have played <em>everyone</em> close. Everyone. Their 4 losses were by a combined 15 points. While I think the Navy option might give them headaches, and I\'m rolling with the Midshipmen...as of now. I reserve the right to change my mind due to the factual evidence listed above. It\'s worth noting, this is the final game for Navy QB Ricky Dobbs--the kid is a stud. He has always played big in big games, and probably loves being the underdog. \n<h3>12/24 - Hawai\'i Bowl: Hawaii vs. Tulsa</h3>\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Hawaii-e1292390690856.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"Hawaii\" width=\"500\" height=\"331\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3143\" />\nHawaii at home? Check. Hawaii with a devastating passing attack? Check. Tulsa with a suspect secondary? Check. Tulsa with the ability to gunsling? Check. Could be a shoot out, but this one is going to the Warriors of Hawai\'i. \n<h3>12/26 - Little Caesars Bowl: FIU vs. Toledo</h3>\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/TimBeckmanToledo-e1292390916838.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"375\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3145\" />\nThese two teams. Geez. How many times did you see either of these teams play this year? Exactly. FIU is scary because they\'re a new program, and they just don\'t know better than to score 50 points in some games, but I\'m hitching my wagon to the Rockets of Toledo and the best coach you\'ve never heard of, Tim Beckman. Don\'t be surprised when Toledo is cracking the Top 25 in another few years...if they can keep Beckman around. \n<h3>12/27 - Independence Bowl: Air Force vs. Georgia Tech</h3>\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/JoshNesbittGeorgiaTech.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"312\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3146\" />\nThis battle has options. How\'s that for a play on words? Joshua Nesbitt is a guy with the potential to take over field. It would be awesome to see the guy have the game of his life in the Independence Bowl. Even so, I don\'t know that the Yellow Jackets have the moxie to dogfight with the Falcons. I\'m going with the Academy. \n<h3>12/28 - Champs Sports Bowl: West Virginia vs. NC State</h3>\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/noel-devine-WV.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"333\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3147\" />\nThe Champs Sports Bowl will mark the end to the collegiate career of star running back, Noel Devine, and if he can rush for 112 yards in the contest, he\'ll go over 1,000 yards for his third consecutive season. QB Geno Smith has offered a stamp of legitimacy to his sophomore season. If the Mountaineers come into the contest focused, which I believe they will, NC State will have their hands full--unfortunately, WVU has not played well in bowl games without a fella by the name of Pat White under center. \n<h3>12/28 - Insight Bowl: Missouri vs. Iowa</h3>\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Blaine-Gabbert-Missouri-Tigers-e1292392509939.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"Blaine-Gabbert-Missouri-Tigers\" width=\"500\" height=\"280\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3148\" />\nMizzou flaked on themselves this season. They sat in the drivers seat, took it to Oklahoma in a convincing fashion, but couldn\'t get themselves up for the inevitable battles vs. Nebraska and the inferior Texas Tech. After getting the wheels back on track, they finished the season strong. Iowa\'s Ricky Stanzi is a joy to watch. 25 TDs to 4 INTs--flat out, impressive! He led the Hawkeyes to compete in every game, yet they dropped their final 3 only two weeks after knocking off #5 Michigan State. This one could go either way. If both teams bring their best, it could be one of the best games of the bowl season. In this border war, I gotta go with Missouri. MIZ-ZOU. \n<h3>12/29 - Military Bowl: East Carolina vs. Maryland</h3>\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Maryland-e1292395736293.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"359\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3156\" />\nNothing like two state schools battling in the Military Bowl. ECU started the season off well at 5-2, then dropped 4 of their last 5. QB Dominique Davis will have his hands full vs. Maryland, who is disciplined and talented on both sides of the ball. I\'m going Terps all the way in this first ever meeting between the two teams. \n<h3>12/29 - Texas Bowl: Illinois vs. Baylor</h3>\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/robert-griffinBaylor-e1292393352278.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"583\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3150\" />\nDo yourself a favor and check out a bit of this game. Baylor will play with the relative home field advantage, and will look to cap the season on a positive note after dropping their final three games. Baylor QB Robert Griffin III, and Illinois RB Mikel Leshoure are two to watch in this battle. I\'m going with the Baylor Bears in their first bowl appearance since 1994. \n<h3>12/29 - Alamo Bowl: Oklahoma State vs. Arizona</h3>\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/JustinBlackmonOSU-e1292393858530.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"303\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3151\" />\nTwo words. Justin Blackmon. The Arizona defensive game plan will be to shut this guy down. If I were Mike Gundy, and I were a man...who was forty...two... I would ensure that Blackmon receive 10 touches, even if they\'re triple teaming the guy. Can you believe Dez Bryant and this dude played together? How\'d we miss that? Arizona can compete, and they can also fall flat in the second half of big games; however, you know the Stoops boys are sharing information. Regardless, I think this game belongs to the Cowboys. \n<h3>12/30 - Armed Forces Bowl: Army vs. SMU</h3>\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/SMU.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"SMU\" width=\"500\" height=\"399\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3152\" />\nCan SMU stop Army\'s option attack? I believe that they can. It\'s so nice to see SMU back in the mix after years of football obscurity. June Jones will certainly have a few wrinkles in the game plan with so much time to prepare. Army will move the ball, and will score some points, but when it comes down to it, they\'re inability to pass the ball effectively will hurt them vs. the Mustangs. \n<h3>12/30 - Pinstripe Bowl: Kansas St. vs. Syracuse</h3>\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/bill-snyder-KSU-e1292394624356.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"bill-snyder-KSU\" width=\"500\" height=\"618\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3153\" />\nBill Snyder is letting Syracuse know, \"Oh yeah, we\'re coming to New York, and we\'re gonna put it down! Meet us at Yankee Stadium!\" How can you pick against Bill Snyder? I know I can\'t. \n<h3>12/30 - Music City Bowl: North Carolina vs. Tennessee</h3>\nNorth Carolina--to many Tar Heel fans, this will be the season that could have been. Broken rules = Player suspensions. Tennessee, all things considered, had an amazing season, competing deep into games with some of the nation\'s most elite teams. I think Derek Dooley is going to do amazing things at UT! You hear that Colin Cowherd? Yeah, bro, I remember you dissing him earlier this season. Well, he took Lane Kiffin\'s scraps and mess and is going to a bowl game...which the Volunteers will win. \n<h3>12/30 - Holiday Bowl: Nebraska vs. Washington</h3>\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/jake-locker-Washington-e1292395215407.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"jake-locker-Washington\" width=\"500\" height=\"422\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3154\" />\nJake Locker maybe wishes he had declared for the draft after last season. Unfortunately, the Huskies just didn\'t offer much support to talent under center. Locker will have his hands full vs. a well prepared Bo Pelini, Nebraska defense. I\'ll honestly be surprised if Washington scores more than 13 points. If you haven\'t seen Nebraska play this year, have a look-see. Roy Helu Jr. and Taylor Martinez are an exciting offensive duo. \n<h3>12/31 - Meineke Car Care Bowl: South Florida vs. Clemson</h3>\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/KyleParkerClemson-e1292395520539.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"KyleParkerClemson\" width=\"500\" height=\"334\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3155\" />\nI really don\'t have much to say about this one. It\'s not that I don\'t care, it\'s just that I don\'t care much. Clemson put up yet another sub-par season, and the Bulls of South Florida are still trying to find their way under new leadership. Slight edge to the Tigers. \n<h3>12/31 - Sun Bowl: Notre Dame vs. Miami</h3>\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/TommyReesNotreDame-e1292395993738.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"TommyReesNotreDame\" width=\"500\" height=\"398\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3157\" />\nThe season in South Bend was riddled with tragedy. Am I about to go out on a limb? I certainly am. Yes, I believe Notre Dame will win this bowl game, but I also believe that Notre Dame has turned the corner under Brian Kelly. Regardless of how I feel, Miami is the popular favorite, and favored by 3.5 where you can pay to play. \n<h3>12/31 - Liberty Bowl: Georgia vs. UCF</h3>\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/AJ-GREEN-Georgia.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"375\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3158\" />\nA.J. Green watched the beginning of the season in street clothes. That was the difference in Georgia\'s season. This Georgia squad proved that they could compete with the best when they went to war with Auburn. They fought hard for their sixth win to enjoy this extra game. I believe they\'ll take full advantage of it vs. the UCF Golden Knights. \n<h3>12/31 - Chick-Fil-A Bowl: South Carolina vs. Florida State</h3>\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/marcus-lattimore-south-carolina-e1292396817797.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"347\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3160\" />\nWant to see the best Freshman running back in the nation? You\'ll want to tune into this one. South Carolina playing at their best takes it to Alabama. South Carolina missing the mark gets hammered by Auburn. When I say South Carolina, yes, I mean USC QB Stephen Garcia. The guy has talent, and he\'s surrounded by talent. RB Marcus Lattimore, WRs Alshon Jefferey and Tori Gurley: These three are Sunday players. I like the Gamecocks--I like Steve Spurrier over Jimbo Fisher. \n<h3>1/1 - TicketCity Bowl: Northwestern vs. Texas Tech</h3>\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/TaylorPottsTexTech-e1292397203255.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"TaylorPottsTexTech\" width=\"500\" height=\"290\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3161\" />\nNorthwestern hasn\'t won a bowl game since the 1948 Rose Bowl. I don\'t think that streak is going to end vs. this Texas Tech team. Tommy Tuberville has quietly taken a messy situation and worked a few wonders. As much as I love NW coach Pat Fitzgerald\'s mojo, I think the Red Raiders will be slingin\' their guns in this battle. \n<h3>1/1 - Outback Bowl: Florida vs. Penn State</h3>\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/urban-meyer.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"urban-meyer\" width=\"500\" height=\"333\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3162\" />\nFarewell, Urban. As an LSU fan, I\'m supposed to loathe you, but I don\'t. You\'re probably as confused as I am about your 2010 Gators squad. This Florida squad just seemed unfocused, grossly lacking that on field leadership that Tebow offered the previous four years. I foresee the squad focused for Urban\'s final game on the UF sidelines. Penn State will be no pushover, but they simply don\'t have the firepower to run with the Gators, even if both squads are firing on both cylinders. \n<h3>1/1 - Capital One Bowl: Alabama vs. Michigan State</h3>\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/markingramAlabma-e1292398330265.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"markingramAlabma\" width=\"500\" height=\"525\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3163\" />\nHow did Alabama lose three games this season? I still believe they\'re the most talented team in the country. Rarely do a I look at a coach like Nick Saban and question personnel decisions, but I felt Mark Ingram was underutilized all season, after returning from his knee issue. Now, I\'m an outsider--perhaps both he and Trent Richardson are headed to the draft, in which case, I get it. I hope to see Ingram get 20+ carries in the Capital One Bowl. I think this game is all Crimson Tide. Yeah, I\'m biased--I love the SEC, and can\'t stand the Big 10. \n<h3>1/1 - Gator Bowl: Mississippi State vs. Michigan</h3>\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Denard-Robinson-Michigan-e1292398764413.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"Denard-Robinson-Michigan\" width=\"500\" height=\"333\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3164\" />\nIt\'s another SEC vs. Big 10 match-up. Hmmmm...wonder which way I\'m going? I do love watching Denard Robinson play, but after facing Cam Newton, Mississippi State will feel like they\'re playing against Newton\'s little brother, who they\'ll handle. \n<h3>1/1 - Rose Bowl: Wisconsin vs. TCU</h3>\n<h3>1/1 - Fiesta Bowl: UConn vs. Oklahoma</h3>\n<h3>1/3 - Orange Bowl: Stanford vs. Virginia Tech</h3>\n<h3>1/4 - Sugar Bowl: Ohio State vs. Arkansas</h3>\n<h3>1/6 - GoDaddy.com Bowl: Middle Tennessee vs. Miami (OH)</h3>\n<h3>1/7 - Cotton Bowl: LSU vs. Texas A&amp;M</h3>\n<h3>1/8 - BBVA Compass Bowl: Pittsburgh vs. Kentucky</h3>\n<h3>1/9 - Kraft Fight Hunger Bowl: Nevada vs. Boston College</h3>\n<h3>1/10 - BCS National Championship: Oregon vs. Auburn</h3>\n<object classid=\"clsid:d27cdb6e-ae6d-11cf-96b8-444553540000\" width=\"500\" height=\"385\" codebase=\"http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0\"><param name=\"allowFullScreen\" value=\"true\" /><param name=\"allowscriptaccess\" value=\"always\" /><param name=\"src\" value=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/iOi2hj_sjyY?fs=1&amp;hl=en_US\" /><param name=\"allowfullscreen\" value=\"true\" /><embed type=\"application/x-shockwave-flash\" width=\"500\" height=\"385\" src=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/iOi2hj_sjyY?fs=1&amp;hl=en_US\" allowscriptaccess=\"always\" allowfullscreen=\"true\"></embed></object>\n\nVS.\n\n<object classid=\"clsid:d27cdb6e-ae6d-11cf-96b8-444553540000\" width=\"500\" height=\"385\" codebase=\"http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0\"><param name=\"allowFullScreen\" value=\"true\" /><param name=\"allowscriptaccess\" value=\"always\" /><param name=\"src\" value=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/QehP9o5S3Hs?fs=1&amp;hl=en_US\" /><param name=\"allowfullscreen\" value=\"true\" /><embed type=\"application/x-shockwave-flash\" width=\"500\" height=\"385\" src=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/QehP9o5S3Hs?fs=1&amp;hl=en_US\" allowscriptaccess=\"always\" allowfullscreen=\"true\"></embed></object>','College Bowl Preview ','','inherit','open','open','','3127-revision-11','','','2010-12-14 23:41:57','2010-12-15 07:41:57','',3127,'http://manjr.com/2010/uncategorized/3127-revision-11/',0,'revision','',0),(3166,7,'2010-12-14 23:42:00','2010-12-15 07:42:00','It\'s time to go bowling. Outside of the NFL playoffs, it may be the greatest sports season of year--in fact it <em>is</em> the harbinger of the playoffs for the pros. It surrounds the Christmas and New Year holidays, and it even spurs annual debate by crowning a Champion without a playoff system. \r\n\r\nUnlike many people who feel there are too many bowls, I don\'t care who the bowl sponsor is, or who\'s playing in it...I\'ll watch it and enjoy it. At first glance the match-ups looked pretty uninteresting a couple weeks ago, yet after careful consideration, I\'ve found that in the 2010-2011 bowl schedule, there lies potential for some great football games.\r\n\r\nLet\'s break \'em down in play order:\r\n<h3>12/18 - New Mexico Bowl: BYU vs. UTEP</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3133\" title=\"UTEP\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/UTEP-e1292376625439.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"600\" />\r\nBYU is a pretty easy favorite in this match-up. UTEP QB Trevor Vittatoe is a difference maker, yet his ankle is busted up, and he\'s looking at less than a week for it to get any better. If he\'s somehow able to play through the pain, the Miners could make it interesting.\r\n<h3>12/18 - Humanitarian Bowl: Northern Illinois vs. Fresno State</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3135\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Fresno.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"387\" />\r\nNorthern Illinois put up an impressive 10-3 season, but now they\'re meeting a Fresno team led by veteran coach Pat Hill after multiple weeks of preparation. This promises to be a battle, and picking either team would be a logical decision. The vast majority of the nation is going with the bulldogs, but I\'m taking the Huskies. \r\n<h3>12/18 - New Orleans Bowl: Ohio University vs. Troy</h3>\r\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Boo-Jackson-OhioU-e1292378277401.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"342\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3136\" />\r\nOhio QB, Franshaw \"Boo\" Jackson. He can be quite exciting when he\'s hitting on all cylinders, yet I was unimpressed with the MAC this season. I\'m going against the populous once again on this one, and sticking with the team from the south. I see another battle, and Troy coming out on top. \r\n<h3>12/21 - St. Petersburg Bowl: Southern Miss. vs. Louisville</h3>\r\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/SouthernMiss.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"368\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3137\" />\r\nDidn\'t ya hear? Brett Favre found a game of NCAA eligibility and is coming out of collegiate retirement. I just couldn\'t pass up the opportunity to use the image. Look at the young gun slinger... Call me insane this year, but I\'m going against the majority again with this pick. I feel like Louisville has the slight edge. I like it to be another close one. \r\n<h3>12/22 - Las Vegas Bowl: Utah vs. Boise State</h3>\r\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/KellenMooreBoise.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"312\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3138\" />\r\nAside from a couple missteps vs. TCU and Notre Dame, Utah put together a pretty impressive season. They won close games down the stretch and earned this match-up vs. the powerhouse known as Boise State. The Broncos BCS dreams were crushed in the NCAA game of the year vs. Nevada, yet a week later they went back to work and took care of business. I have a feeling that Kellen Moore is going to go off in Vegas like a 21 year old with their multi-millionaire father\'s credit card. ...that Kellen Moore is going to go off in Vegas like a fat dude at the Circus Circus buffet. He may opt for both options. BSU is the team that I would never bet against. You shouldn\'t either. \r\n<h3>12/23 - Poinsettia Bowl: Navy vs. San Diego State</h3>\r\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Ricky-Dobbs-NAVY.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"310\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3139\" />\r\nNavy is impressive... but San Diego State is possibly the best 8-4 team in the country. They have played <em>everyone</em> close. Everyone. Their 4 losses were by a combined 15 points. While I think the Navy option might give them headaches, and I\'m rolling with the Midshipmen...as of now. I reserve the right to change my mind due to the factual evidence listed above. It\'s worth noting, this is the final game for Navy QB Ricky Dobbs--the kid is a stud. He has always played big in big games, and probably loves being the underdog. \r\n<h3>12/24 - Hawai\'i Bowl: Hawaii vs. Tulsa</h3>\r\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Hawaii-e1292390690856.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"Hawaii\" width=\"500\" height=\"331\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3143\" />\r\nHawaii at home? Check. Hawaii with a devastating passing attack? Check. Tulsa with a suspect secondary? Check. Tulsa with the ability to gunsling? Check. Could be a shoot out, but this one is going to the Warriors of Hawai\'i. \r\n<h3>12/26 - Little Caesars Bowl: FIU vs. Toledo</h3>\r\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/TimBeckmanToledo-e1292390916838.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"375\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3145\" />\r\nThese two teams. Geez. How many times did you see either of these teams play this year? Exactly. FIU is scary because they\'re a new program, and they just don\'t know better than to score 50 points in some games, but I\'m hitching my wagon to the Rockets of Toledo and the best coach you\'ve never heard of, Tim Beckman. Don\'t be surprised when Toledo is cracking the Top 25 in another few years...if they can keep Beckman around. \r\n<h3>12/27 - Independence Bowl: Air Force vs. Georgia Tech</h3>\r\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/JoshNesbittGeorgiaTech.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"312\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3146\" />\r\nThis battle has options. How\'s that for a play on words? Joshua Nesbitt is a guy with the potential to take over field. It would be awesome to see the guy have the game of his life in the Independence Bowl. Even so, I don\'t know that the Yellow Jackets have the moxie to dogfight with the Falcons. I\'m going with the Academy. \r\n<h3>12/28 - Champs Sports Bowl: West Virginia vs. NC State</h3>\r\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/noel-devine-WV.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"333\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3147\" />\r\nThe Champs Sports Bowl will mark the end to the collegiate career of star running back, Noel Devine, and if he can rush for 112 yards in the contest, he\'ll go over 1,000 yards for his third consecutive season. QB Geno Smith has offered a stamp of legitimacy to his sophomore season. If the Mountaineers come into the contest focused, which I believe they will, NC State will have their hands full--unfortunately, WVU has not played well in bowl games without a fella by the name of Pat White under center. \r\n<h3>12/28 - Insight Bowl: Missouri vs. Iowa</h3>\r\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Blaine-Gabbert-Missouri-Tigers-e1292392509939.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"Blaine-Gabbert-Missouri-Tigers\" width=\"500\" height=\"280\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3148\" />\r\nMizzou flaked on themselves this season. They sat in the drivers seat, took it to Oklahoma in a convincing fashion, but couldn\'t get themselves up for the inevitable battles vs. Nebraska and the inferior Texas Tech. After getting the wheels back on track, they finished the season strong. Iowa\'s Ricky Stanzi is a joy to watch. 25 TDs to 4 INTs--flat out, impressive! He led the Hawkeyes to compete in every game, yet they dropped their final 3 only two weeks after knocking off #5 Michigan State. This one could go either way. If both teams bring their best, it could be one of the best games of the bowl season. In this border war, I gotta go with Missouri. MIZ-ZOU. \r\n<h3>12/29 - Military Bowl: East Carolina vs. Maryland</h3>\r\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Maryland-e1292395736293.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"359\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3156\" />\r\nNothing like two state schools battling in the Military Bowl. ECU started the season off well at 5-2, then dropped 4 of their last 5. QB Dominique Davis will have his hands full vs. Maryland, who is disciplined and talented on both sides of the ball. I\'m going Terps all the way in this first ever meeting between the two teams. \r\n<h3>12/29 - Texas Bowl: Illinois vs. Baylor</h3>\r\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/robert-griffinBaylor-e1292393352278.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"583\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3150\" />\r\nDo yourself a favor and check out a bit of this game. Baylor will play with the relative home field advantage, and will look to cap the season on a positive note after dropping their final three games. Baylor QB Robert Griffin III, and Illinois RB Mikel Leshoure are two to watch in this battle. I\'m going with the Baylor Bears in their first bowl appearance since 1994. \r\n<h3>12/29 - Alamo Bowl: Oklahoma State vs. Arizona</h3>\r\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/JustinBlackmonOSU-e1292393858530.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"303\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3151\" />\r\nTwo words. Justin Blackmon. The Arizona defensive game plan will be to shut this guy down. If I were Mike Gundy, and I were a man...who was forty...two... I would ensure that Blackmon receive 10 touches, even if they\'re triple teaming the guy. Can you believe Dez Bryant and this dude played together? How\'d we miss that? Arizona can compete, and they can also fall flat in the second half of big games; however, you know the Stoops boys are sharing information. Regardless, I think this game belongs to the Cowboys. \r\n<h3>12/30 - Armed Forces Bowl: Army vs. SMU</h3>\r\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/SMU.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"SMU\" width=\"500\" height=\"399\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3152\" />\r\nCan SMU stop Army\'s option attack? I believe that they can. It\'s so nice to see SMU back in the mix after years of football obscurity. June Jones will certainly have a few wrinkles in the game plan with so much time to prepare. Army will move the ball, and will score some points, but when it comes down to it, they\'re inability to pass the ball effectively will hurt them vs. the Mustangs. \r\n<h3>12/30 - Pinstripe Bowl: Kansas St. vs. Syracuse</h3>\r\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/bill-snyder-KSU-e1292394624356.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"bill-snyder-KSU\" width=\"500\" height=\"618\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3153\" />\r\nBill Snyder is letting Syracuse know, \"Oh yeah, we\'re coming to New York, and we\'re gonna put it down! Meet us at Yankee Stadium!\" How can you pick against Bill Snyder? I know I can\'t. \r\n<h3>12/30 - Music City Bowl: North Carolina vs. Tennessee</h3>\r\nNorth Carolina--to many Tar Heel fans, this will be the season that could have been. Broken rules = Player suspensions. Tennessee, all things considered, had an amazing season, competing deep into games with some of the nation\'s most elite teams. I think Derek Dooley is going to do amazing things at UT! You hear that Colin Cowherd? Yeah, bro, I remember you dissing him earlier this season. Well, he took Lane Kiffin\'s scraps and mess and is going to a bowl game...which the Volunteers will win. \r\n<h3>12/30 - Holiday Bowl: Nebraska vs. Washington</h3>\r\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/jake-locker-Washington-e1292395215407.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"jake-locker-Washington\" width=\"500\" height=\"422\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3154\" />\r\nJake Locker maybe wishes he had declared for the draft after last season. Unfortunately, the Huskies just didn\'t offer much support to talent under center. Locker will have his hands full vs. a well prepared Bo Pelini, Nebraska defense. I\'ll honestly be surprised if Washington scores more than 13 points. If you haven\'t seen Nebraska play this year, have a look-see. Roy Helu Jr. and Taylor Martinez are an exciting offensive duo. \r\n<h3>12/31 - Meineke Car Care Bowl: South Florida vs. Clemson</h3>\r\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/KyleParkerClemson-e1292395520539.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"KyleParkerClemson\" width=\"500\" height=\"334\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3155\" />\r\nI really don\'t have much to say about this one. It\'s not that I don\'t care, it\'s just that I don\'t care much. Clemson put up yet another sub-par season, and the Bulls of South Florida are still trying to find their way under new leadership. Slight edge to the Tigers. \r\n<h3>12/31 - Sun Bowl: Notre Dame vs. Miami</h3>\r\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/TommyReesNotreDame-e1292395993738.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"TommyReesNotreDame\" width=\"500\" height=\"398\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3157\" />\r\nThe season in South Bend was riddled with tragedy. Am I about to go out on a limb? I certainly am. Yes, I believe Notre Dame will win this bowl game, but I also believe that Notre Dame has turned the corner under Brian Kelly. Regardless of how I feel, Miami is the popular favorite, and favored by 3.5 where you can pay to play. \r\n<h3>12/31 - Liberty Bowl: Georgia vs. UCF</h3>\r\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/AJ-GREEN-Georgia.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"375\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3158\" />\r\nA.J. Green watched the beginning of the season in street clothes. That was the difference in Georgia\'s season. This Georgia squad proved that they could compete with the best when they went to war with Auburn. They fought hard for their sixth win to enjoy this extra game. I believe they\'ll take full advantage of it vs. the UCF Golden Knights. \r\n<h3>12/31 - Chick-Fil-A Bowl: South Carolina vs. Florida State</h3>\r\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/marcus-lattimore-south-carolina-e1292396817797.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"347\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3160\" />\r\nWant to see the best Freshman running back in the nation? You\'ll want to tune into this one. South Carolina playing at their best takes it to Alabama. South Carolina missing the mark gets hammered by Auburn. When I say South Carolina, yes, I mean USC QB Stephen Garcia. The guy has talent, and he\'s surrounded by talent. RB Marcus Lattimore, WRs Alshon Jefferey and Tori Gurley: These three are Sunday players. I like the Gamecocks--I like Steve Spurrier over Jimbo Fisher. \r\n<h3>1/1 - TicketCity Bowl: Northwestern vs. Texas Tech</h3>\r\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/TaylorPottsTexTech-e1292397203255.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"TaylorPottsTexTech\" width=\"500\" height=\"290\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3161\" />\r\nNorthwestern hasn\'t won a bowl game since the 1948 Rose Bowl. I don\'t think that streak is going to end vs. this Texas Tech team. Tommy Tuberville has quietly taken a messy situation and worked a few wonders. As much as I love NW coach Pat Fitzgerald\'s mojo, I think the Red Raiders will be slingin\' their guns in this battle. \r\n<h3>1/1 - Outback Bowl: Florida vs. Penn State</h3>\r\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/urban-meyer.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"urban-meyer\" width=\"500\" height=\"333\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3162\" />\r\nFarewell, Urban. As an LSU fan, I\'m supposed to loathe you, but I don\'t. You\'re probably as confused as I am about your 2010 Gators squad. This Florida squad just seemed unfocused, grossly lacking that on field leadership that Tebow offered the previous four years. I foresee the squad focused for Urban\'s final game on the UF sidelines. Penn State will be no pushover, but they simply don\'t have the firepower to run with the Gators, even if both squads are firing on both cylinders. \r\n<h3>1/1 - Capital One Bowl: Alabama vs. Michigan State</h3>\r\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/markingramAlabma-e1292398330265.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"markingramAlabma\" width=\"500\" height=\"525\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3163\" />\r\nHow did Alabama lose three games this season? I still believe they\'re the most talented team in the country. Rarely do a I look at a coach like Nick Saban and question personnel decisions, but I felt Mark Ingram was underutilized all season, after returning from his knee issue. Now, I\'m an outsider--perhaps both he and Trent Richardson are headed to the draft, in which case, I get it. I hope to see Ingram get 20+ carries in the Capital One Bowl. I think this game is all Crimson Tide. Yeah, I\'m biased--I love the SEC, and can\'t stand the Big 10. \r\n<h3>1/1 - Gator Bowl: Mississippi State vs. Michigan</h3>\r\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Denard-Robinson-Michigan-e1292398764413.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"Denard-Robinson-Michigan\" width=\"500\" height=\"333\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3164\" />\r\nIt\'s another SEC vs. Big 10 match-up. Hmmmm...wonder which way I\'m going? I do love watching Denard Robinson play, but after facing Cam Newton, Mississippi State will feel like they\'re playing against Newton\'s little brother, who they\'ll handle. \r\n<h3>1/1 - Rose Bowl: Wisconsin vs. TCU</h3>\r\n<h3>1/1 - Fiesta Bowl: UConn vs. Oklahoma</h3>\r\n<h3>1/3 - Orange Bowl: Stanford vs. Virginia Tech</h3>\r\n<h3>1/4 - Sugar Bowl: Ohio State vs. Arkansas</h3>\r\n<h3>1/6 - GoDaddy.com Bowl: Middle Tennessee vs. Miami (OH)</h3>\r\n<h3>1/7 - Cotton Bowl: LSU vs. Texas A&amp;M</h3>\r\n<h3>1/8 - BBVA Compass Bowl: Pittsburgh vs. Kentucky</h3>\r\n<h3>1/9 - Kraft Fight Hunger Bowl: Nevada vs. Boston College</h3>\r\n<h3>1/10 - BCS National Championship: Oregon vs. Auburn</h3>\r\n<object classid=\"clsid:d27cdb6e-ae6d-11cf-96b8-444553540000\" width=\"500\" height=\"385\" codebase=\"http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0\"><param name=\"allowFullScreen\" value=\"true\" /><param name=\"allowscriptaccess\" value=\"always\" /><param name=\"src\" value=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/iOi2hj_sjyY?fs=1&amp;hl=en_US\" /><param name=\"allowfullscreen\" value=\"true\" /><embed type=\"application/x-shockwave-flash\" width=\"500\" height=\"385\" src=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/iOi2hj_sjyY?fs=1&amp;hl=en_US\" allowscriptaccess=\"always\" allowfullscreen=\"true\"></embed></object>\r\n\r\nVS.\r\n\r\n<object classid=\"clsid:d27cdb6e-ae6d-11cf-96b8-444553540000\" width=\"500\" height=\"385\" codebase=\"http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0\"><param name=\"allowFullScreen\" value=\"true\" /><param name=\"allowscriptaccess\" value=\"always\" /><param name=\"src\" value=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/QehP9o5S3Hs?fs=1&amp;hl=en_US\" /><param name=\"allowfullscreen\" value=\"true\" /><embed type=\"application/x-shockwave-flash\" width=\"500\" height=\"385\" src=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/QehP9o5S3Hs?fs=1&amp;hl=en_US\" allowscriptaccess=\"always\" allowfullscreen=\"true\"></embed></object>','College Bowl Preview ','','inherit','open','open','','3127-revision-12','','','2010-12-14 23:42:00','2010-12-15 07:42:00','',3127,'http://manjr.com/2010/uncategorized/3127-revision-12/',0,'revision','',0),(3167,7,'2010-12-14 23:44:44','2010-12-15 07:44:44','','TaurenPooleTennessee','','inherit','open','open','','taurenpooletennessee','','','2010-12-14 23:44:44','2010-12-15 07:44:44','',3127,'http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/TaurenPooleTennessee.jpg',13,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(3168,7,'2010-12-14 23:46:17','2010-12-15 07:46:17','','andy-dalton-TCU','','inherit','open','open','','andy-dalton-tcu','','','2010-12-14 23:46:17','2010-12-15 07:46:17','',3127,'http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/andy-dalton-TCU.jpg',12,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(3169,7,'2010-12-14 23:54:48','2010-12-15 07:54:48','','OU-DeMarco-Murray','','inherit','open','open','','ou-vs-tulsa','','','2010-12-14 23:54:48','2010-12-15 07:54:48','',3127,'http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/OU-DeMarco-Murray.jpg',11,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(3170,7,'2010-12-15 00:14:38','2010-12-15 08:14:38','','AndrewLuckStanford','','inherit','open','open','','andrewluckstanford','','','2010-12-15 00:14:38','2010-12-15 08:14:38','',3127,'http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/AndrewLuckStanford.jpg',10,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(3171,7,'2010-12-15 00:19:10','2010-12-15 08:19:10','','PryorOSU','','inherit','open','open','','pryorosu','','','2010-12-15 00:19:10','2010-12-15 08:19:10','',3127,'http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/PryorOSU.jpg',9,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(3172,7,'2010-12-15 00:32:32','2010-12-15 08:32:32','','DwightDasherMTSU','','inherit','open','open','','dwightdashermtsu','','','2010-12-15 00:32:32','2010-12-15 08:32:32','',3127,'http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/DwightDasherMTSU.jpg',8,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(3173,7,'2010-12-15 00:38:40','2010-12-15 08:38:40','','PatrickPetersonLSU','','inherit','open','open','','patrickpetersonlsu','','','2010-12-15 00:38:40','2010-12-15 08:38:40','',3127,'http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/PatrickPetersonLSU.jpg',7,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(3174,7,'2010-12-15 00:45:57','2010-12-15 08:45:57','','randall-cobb-Kentucky','','inherit','open','open','','randall-cobb-kentucky','','','2010-12-15 00:45:57','2010-12-15 08:45:57','',3127,'http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/randall-cobb-Kentucky.jpg',6,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(3175,7,'2010-12-15 00:55:05','2010-12-15 08:55:05','','KaepernickNevada','','inherit','open','open','','kaepernicknevada','','','2010-12-15 00:55:05','2010-12-15 08:55:05','',3127,'http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/KaepernickNevada.jpg',5,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(3176,7,'2010-12-14 23:42:06','2010-12-15 07:42:06','It\'s time to go bowling. Outside of the NFL playoffs, it may be the greatest sports season of year--in fact it <em>is</em> the harbinger of the playoffs for the pros. It surrounds the Christmas and New Year holidays, and it even spurs annual debate by crowning a Champion without a playoff system. \r\n\r\nUnlike many people who feel there are too many bowls, I don\'t care who the bowl sponsor is, or who\'s playing in it...I\'ll watch it and enjoy it. At first glance the match-ups looked pretty uninteresting a couple weeks ago, yet after careful consideration, I\'ve found that in the 2010-2011 bowl schedule, there lies potential for some great football games.\r\n\r\nLet\'s break \'em down in play order:\r\n<h3>12/18 - New Mexico Bowl: BYU vs. UTEP</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3133\" title=\"UTEP\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/UTEP-e1292376625439.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"600\" />\r\nBYU is a pretty easy favorite in this match-up. UTEP QB Trevor Vittatoe is a difference maker, yet his ankle is busted up, and he\'s looking at less than a week for it to get any better. If he\'s somehow able to play through the pain, the Miners could make it interesting.\r\n<h3>12/18 - Humanitarian Bowl: Northern Illinois vs. Fresno State</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3135\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Fresno.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"387\" />\r\nNorthern Illinois put up an impressive 10-3 season, but now they\'re meeting a Fresno team led by veteran coach Pat Hill after multiple weeks of preparation. This promises to be a battle, and picking either team would be a logical decision. The vast majority of the nation is going with the bulldogs, but I\'m taking the Huskies. \r\n<h3>12/18 - New Orleans Bowl: Ohio University vs. Troy</h3>\r\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Boo-Jackson-OhioU-e1292378277401.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"342\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3136\" />\r\nOhio QB, Franshaw \"Boo\" Jackson. He can be quite exciting when he\'s hitting on all cylinders, yet I was unimpressed with the MAC this season. I\'m going against the populous once again on this one, and sticking with the team from the south. I see another battle, and Troy coming out on top. \r\n<h3>12/21 - St. Petersburg Bowl: Southern Miss. vs. Louisville</h3>\r\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/SouthernMiss.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"368\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3137\" />\r\nDidn\'t ya hear? Brett Favre found a game of NCAA eligibility and is coming out of collegiate retirement. I just couldn\'t pass up the opportunity to use the image. Look at the young gun slinger... Call me insane this year, but I\'m going against the majority again with this pick. I feel like Louisville has the slight edge. I like it to be another close one. \r\n<h3>12/22 - Las Vegas Bowl: Utah vs. Boise State</h3>\r\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/KellenMooreBoise.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"312\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3138\" />\r\nAside from a couple missteps vs. TCU and Notre Dame, Utah put together a pretty impressive season. They won close games down the stretch and earned this match-up vs. the powerhouse known as Boise State. The Broncos BCS dreams were crushed in the NCAA game of the year vs. Nevada, yet a week later they went back to work and took care of business. I have a feeling that Kellen Moore is going to go off in Vegas like a 21 year old with their multi-millionaire father\'s credit card. ...that Kellen Moore is going to go off in Vegas like a fat dude at the Circus Circus buffet. He may opt for both options. BSU is the team that I would never bet against. You shouldn\'t either. \r\n<h3>12/23 - Poinsettia Bowl: Navy vs. San Diego State</h3>\r\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Ricky-Dobbs-NAVY.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"310\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3139\" />\r\nNavy is impressive... but San Diego State is possibly the best 8-4 team in the country. They have played <em>everyone</em> close. Everyone. Their 4 losses were by a combined 15 points. While I think the Navy option might give them headaches, and I\'m rolling with the Midshipmen...as of now. I reserve the right to change my mind due to the factual evidence listed above. It\'s worth noting, this is the final game for Navy QB Ricky Dobbs--the kid is a stud. He has always played big in big games, and probably loves being the underdog. \r\n<h3>12/24 - Hawai\'i Bowl: Hawaii vs. Tulsa</h3>\r\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Hawaii-e1292390690856.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"Hawaii\" width=\"500\" height=\"331\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3143\" />\r\nHawaii at home? Check. Hawaii with a devastating passing attack? Check. Tulsa with a suspect secondary? Check. Tulsa with the ability to gunsling? Check. Could be a shoot out, but this one is going to the Warriors of Hawai\'i. \r\n<h3>12/26 - Little Caesars Bowl: FIU vs. Toledo</h3>\r\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/TimBeckmanToledo-e1292390916838.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"375\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3145\" />\r\nThese two teams. Geez. How many times did you see either of these teams play this year? Exactly. FIU is scary because they\'re a new program, and they just don\'t know better than to score 50 points in some games, but I\'m hitching my wagon to the Rockets of Toledo and the best coach you\'ve never heard of, Tim Beckman. Don\'t be surprised when Toledo is cracking the Top 25 in another few years...if they can keep Beckman around. \r\n<h3>12/27 - Independence Bowl: Air Force vs. Georgia Tech</h3>\r\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/JoshNesbittGeorgiaTech.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"312\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3146\" />\r\nThis battle has options. How\'s that for a play on words? Joshua Nesbitt is a guy with the potential to take over field. It would be awesome to see the guy have the game of his life in the Independence Bowl. Even so, I don\'t know that the Yellow Jackets have the moxie to dogfight with the Falcons. I\'m going with the Academy. \r\n<h3>12/28 - Champs Sports Bowl: West Virginia vs. NC State</h3>\r\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/noel-devine-WV.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"333\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3147\" />\r\nThe Champs Sports Bowl will mark the end to the collegiate career of star running back, Noel Devine, and if he can rush for 112 yards in the contest, he\'ll go over 1,000 yards for his third consecutive season. QB Geno Smith has offered a stamp of legitimacy to his sophomore season. If the Mountaineers come into the contest focused, which I believe they will, NC State will have their hands full--unfortunately, WVU has not played well in bowl games without a fella by the name of Pat White under center. \r\n<h3>12/28 - Insight Bowl: Missouri vs. Iowa</h3>\r\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Blaine-Gabbert-Missouri-Tigers-e1292392509939.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"Blaine-Gabbert-Missouri-Tigers\" width=\"500\" height=\"280\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3148\" />\r\nMizzou flaked on themselves this season. They sat in the drivers seat, took it to Oklahoma in a convincing fashion, but couldn\'t get themselves up for the inevitable battles vs. Nebraska and the inferior Texas Tech. After getting the wheels back on track, they finished the season strong. Iowa\'s Ricky Stanzi is a joy to watch. 25 TDs to 4 INTs--flat out, impressive! He led the Hawkeyes to compete in every game, yet they dropped their final 3 only two weeks after knocking off #5 Michigan State. This one could go either way. If both teams bring their best, it could be one of the best games of the bowl season. In this border war, I gotta go with Missouri. MIZ-ZOU. \r\n<h3>12/29 - Military Bowl: East Carolina vs. Maryland</h3>\r\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Maryland-e1292395736293.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"359\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3156\" />\r\nNothing like two state schools battling in the Military Bowl. ECU started the season off well at 5-2, then dropped 4 of their last 5. QB Dominique Davis will have his hands full vs. Maryland, who is disciplined and talented on both sides of the ball. I\'m going Terps all the way in this first ever meeting between the two teams. \r\n<h3>12/29 - Texas Bowl: Illinois vs. Baylor</h3>\r\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/robert-griffinBaylor-e1292393352278.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"583\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3150\" />\r\nDo yourself a favor and check out a bit of this game. Baylor will play with the relative home field advantage, and will look to cap the season on a positive note after dropping their final three games. Baylor QB Robert Griffin III, and Illinois RB Mikel Leshoure are two to watch in this battle. I\'m going with the Baylor Bears in their first bowl appearance since 1994. \r\n<h3>12/29 - Alamo Bowl: Oklahoma State vs. Arizona</h3>\r\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/JustinBlackmonOSU-e1292393858530.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"303\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3151\" />\r\nTwo words. Justin Blackmon. The Arizona defensive game plan will be to shut this guy down. If I were Mike Gundy, and I were a man...who was forty...two... I would ensure that Blackmon receive 10 touches, even if they\'re triple teaming the guy. Can you believe Dez Bryant and this dude played together? How\'d we miss that? Arizona can compete, and they can also fall flat in the second half of big games; however, you know the Stoops boys are sharing information. Regardless, I think this game belongs to the Cowboys. \r\n<h3>12/30 - Armed Forces Bowl: Army vs. SMU</h3>\r\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/SMU.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"SMU\" width=\"500\" height=\"399\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3152\" />\r\nCan SMU stop Army\'s option attack? I believe that they can. It\'s so nice to see SMU back in the mix after years of football obscurity. June Jones will certainly have a few wrinkles in the game plan with so much time to prepare. Army will move the ball, and will score some points, but when it comes down to it, they\'re inability to pass the ball effectively will hurt them vs. the Mustangs. \r\n<h3>12/30 - Pinstripe Bowl: Kansas St. vs. Syracuse</h3>\r\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/bill-snyder-KSU-e1292394624356.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"bill-snyder-KSU\" width=\"500\" height=\"618\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3153\" />\r\nBill Snyder is letting Syracuse know, \"Oh yeah, we\'re coming to New York, and we\'re gonna put it down! Meet us at Yankee Stadium!\" How can you pick against Bill Snyder? I know I can\'t. \r\n<h3>12/30 - Music City Bowl: North Carolina vs. Tennessee</h3>\r\nNorth Carolina--to many Tar Heel fans, this will be the season that could have been. Broken rules = Player suspensions. Tennessee, all things considered, had an amazing season, competing deep into games with some of the nation\'s most elite teams. I think Derek Dooley is going to do amazing things at UT! You hear that Colin Cowherd? Yeah, bro, I remember you dissing him earlier this season. Well, he took Lane Kiffin\'s scraps and mess and is going to a bowl game...which the Volunteers will win. \r\n<h3>12/30 - Holiday Bowl: Nebraska vs. Washington</h3>\r\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/jake-locker-Washington-e1292395215407.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"jake-locker-Washington\" width=\"500\" height=\"422\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3154\" />\r\nJake Locker maybe wishes he had declared for the draft after last season. Unfortunately, the Huskies just didn\'t offer much support to talent under center. Locker will have his hands full vs. a well prepared Bo Pelini, Nebraska defense. I\'ll honestly be surprised if Washington scores more than 13 points. If you haven\'t seen Nebraska play this year, have a look-see. Roy Helu Jr. and Taylor Martinez are an exciting offensive duo. \r\n<h3>12/31 - Meineke Car Care Bowl: South Florida vs. Clemson</h3>\r\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/KyleParkerClemson-e1292395520539.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"KyleParkerClemson\" width=\"500\" height=\"334\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3155\" />\r\nI really don\'t have much to say about this one. It\'s not that I don\'t care, it\'s just that I don\'t care much. Clemson put up yet another sub-par season, and the Bulls of South Florida are still trying to find their way under new leadership. Slight edge to the Tigers. \r\n<h3>12/31 - Sun Bowl: Notre Dame vs. Miami</h3>\r\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/TommyReesNotreDame-e1292395993738.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"TommyReesNotreDame\" width=\"500\" height=\"398\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3157\" />\r\nThe season in South Bend was riddled with tragedy. Am I about to go out on a limb? I certainly am. Yes, I believe Notre Dame will win this bowl game, but I also believe that Notre Dame has turned the corner under Brian Kelly. Regardless of how I feel, Miami is the popular favorite, and favored by 3.5 where you can pay to play. \r\n<h3>12/31 - Liberty Bowl: Georgia vs. UCF</h3>\r\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/AJ-GREEN-Georgia.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"375\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3158\" />\r\nA.J. Green watched the beginning of the season in street clothes. That was the difference in Georgia\'s season. This Georgia squad proved that they could compete with the best when they went to war with Auburn. They fought hard for their sixth win to enjoy this extra game. I believe they\'ll take full advantage of it vs. the UCF Golden Knights. \r\n<h3>12/31 - Chick-Fil-A Bowl: South Carolina vs. Florida State</h3>\r\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/marcus-lattimore-south-carolina-e1292396817797.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"347\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3160\" />\r\nWant to see the best Freshman running back in the nation? You\'ll want to tune into this one. South Carolina playing at their best takes it to Alabama. South Carolina missing the mark gets hammered by Auburn. When I say South Carolina, yes, I mean USC QB Stephen Garcia. The guy has talent, and he\'s surrounded by talent. RB Marcus Lattimore, WRs Alshon Jefferey and Tori Gurley: These three are Sunday players. I like the Gamecocks--I like Steve Spurrier over Jimbo Fisher. \r\n<h3>1/1 - TicketCity Bowl: Northwestern vs. Texas Tech</h3>\r\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/TaylorPottsTexTech-e1292397203255.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"TaylorPottsTexTech\" width=\"500\" height=\"290\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3161\" />\r\nNorthwestern hasn\'t won a bowl game since the 1948 Rose Bowl. I don\'t think that streak is going to end vs. this Texas Tech team. Tommy Tuberville has quietly taken a messy situation and worked a few wonders. As much as I love NW coach Pat Fitzgerald\'s mojo, I think the Red Raiders will be slingin\' their guns in this battle. \r\n<h3>1/1 - Outback Bowl: Florida vs. Penn State</h3>\r\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/urban-meyer.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"urban-meyer\" width=\"500\" height=\"333\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3162\" />\r\nFarewell, Urban. As an LSU fan, I\'m supposed to loathe you, but I don\'t. You\'re probably as confused as I am about your 2010 Gators squad. This Florida squad just seemed unfocused, grossly lacking that on field leadership that Tebow offered the previous four years. I foresee the squad focused for Urban\'s final game on the UF sidelines. Penn State will be no pushover, but they simply don\'t have the firepower to run with the Gators, even if both squads are firing on both cylinders. \r\n<h3>1/1 - Capital One Bowl: Alabama vs. Michigan State</h3>\r\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/markingramAlabma-e1292398330265.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"markingramAlabma\" width=\"500\" height=\"525\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3163\" />\r\nHow did Alabama lose three games this season? I still believe they\'re the most talented team in the country. Rarely do a I look at a coach like Nick Saban and question personnel decisions, but I felt Mark Ingram was underutilized all season, after returning from his knee issue. Now, I\'m an outsider--perhaps both he and Trent Richardson are headed to the draft, in which case, I get it. I hope to see Ingram get 20+ carries in the Capital One Bowl. I think this game is all Crimson Tide. Yeah, I\'m biased--I love the SEC, and can\'t stand the Big 10. \r\n<h3>1/1 - Gator Bowl: Mississippi State vs. Michigan</h3>\r\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Denard-Robinson-Michigan-e1292398764413.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"Denard-Robinson-Michigan\" width=\"500\" height=\"333\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3164\" />\r\nIt\'s another SEC vs. Big 10 match-up. Hmmmm...wonder which way I\'m going? I do love watching Denard Robinson play, but after facing Cam Newton, Mississippi State will feel like they\'re playing against Newton\'s little brother, who they\'ll handle. \r\n<h3>1/1 - Rose Bowl: Wisconsin vs. TCU</h3>\r\n<h3>1/1 - Fiesta Bowl: UConn vs. Oklahoma</h3>\r\n<h3>1/3 - Orange Bowl: Stanford vs. Virginia Tech</h3>\r\n<h3>1/4 - Sugar Bowl: Ohio State vs. Arkansas</h3>\r\n<h3>1/6 - GoDaddy.com Bowl: Middle Tennessee vs. Miami (OH)</h3>\r\n<h3>1/7 - Cotton Bowl: LSU vs. Texas A&amp;M</h3>\r\n<h3>1/8 - BBVA Compass Bowl: Pittsburgh vs. Kentucky</h3>\r\n<h3>1/9 - Kraft Fight Hunger Bowl: Nevada vs. Boston College</h3>\r\n<h3>1/10 - BCS National Championship: Oregon vs. Auburn</h3>\r\n<object classid=\"clsid:d27cdb6e-ae6d-11cf-96b8-444553540000\" width=\"500\" height=\"385\" codebase=\"http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0\"><param name=\"allowFullScreen\" value=\"true\" /><param name=\"allowscriptaccess\" value=\"always\" /><param name=\"src\" value=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/iOi2hj_sjyY?fs=1&amp;hl=en_US\" /><param name=\"allowfullscreen\" value=\"true\" /><embed type=\"application/x-shockwave-flash\" width=\"500\" height=\"385\" src=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/iOi2hj_sjyY?fs=1&amp;hl=en_US\" allowscriptaccess=\"always\" allowfullscreen=\"true\"></embed></object>\r\n\r\nVS.\r\n\r\n<object classid=\"clsid:d27cdb6e-ae6d-11cf-96b8-444553540000\" width=\"500\" height=\"385\" codebase=\"http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0\"><param name=\"allowFullScreen\" value=\"true\" /><param name=\"allowscriptaccess\" value=\"always\" /><param name=\"src\" value=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/QehP9o5S3Hs?fs=1&amp;hl=en_US\" /><param name=\"allowfullscreen\" value=\"true\" /><embed type=\"application/x-shockwave-flash\" width=\"500\" height=\"385\" src=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/QehP9o5S3Hs?fs=1&amp;hl=en_US\" allowscriptaccess=\"always\" allowfullscreen=\"true\"></embed></object>','College Bowl Preview ','','inherit','open','open','','3127-revision-13','','','2010-12-14 23:42:06','2010-12-15 07:42:06','',3127,'http://manjr.com/2010/uncategorized/3127-revision-13/',0,'revision','',0),(3177,7,'2010-12-15 01:10:50','2010-12-15 09:10:50','It\'s time to go bowling. Outside of the NFL playoffs, it may be the greatest sports season of year--in fact it <em>is</em> the harbinger of the playoffs for the pros. It surrounds the Christmas and New Year holidays, and it even spurs annual debate by crowning a Champion without a playoff system. \r\n\r\nUnlike many people who feel there are too many bowls, I don\'t care who the bowl sponsor is, or who\'s playing in it...I\'ll watch it and enjoy it. At first glance the match-ups looked pretty uninteresting a couple weeks ago, yet after careful consideration, I\'ve found that in the 2010-2011 bowl schedule, there lies potential for some great football games.\r\n\r\nLet\'s break \'em down in play order:\r\n<h3>12/18 - New Mexico Bowl: BYU vs. UTEP</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3133\" title=\"UTEP\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/UTEP-e1292376625439.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"600\" />\r\nBYU is a pretty easy favorite in this match-up. UTEP QB Trevor Vittatoe is a difference maker, yet his ankle is busted up, and he\'s looking at less than a week for it to get any better. If he\'s somehow able to play through the pain, the Miners could make it interesting.\r\n<h3>12/18 - Humanitarian Bowl: Northern Illinois vs. Fresno State</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3135\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Fresno.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"387\" />\r\nNorthern Illinois put up an impressive 10-3 season, but now they\'re meeting a Fresno team led by veteran coach Pat Hill after multiple weeks of preparation. This promises to be a battle, and picking either team would be a logical decision. The vast majority of the nation is going with the bulldogs, but I\'m taking the Huskies. \r\n<h3>12/18 - New Orleans Bowl: Ohio University vs. Troy</h3>\r\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Boo-Jackson-OhioU-e1292378277401.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"342\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3136\" />\r\nOhio QB, Franshaw \"Boo\" Jackson. He can be quite exciting when he\'s hitting on all cylinders, yet I was unimpressed with the MAC this season. I\'m going against the populous once again on this one, and sticking with the team from the south. I see another battle, and Troy coming out on top. \r\n<h3>12/21 - St. Petersburg Bowl: Southern Miss. vs. Louisville</h3>\r\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/SouthernMiss.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"368\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3137\" />\r\nDidn\'t ya hear? Brett Favre found a game of NCAA eligibility and is coming out of collegiate retirement. I just couldn\'t pass up the opportunity to use the image. Look at the young gun slinger... Call me insane this year, but I\'m going against the majority again with this pick. I feel like Louisville has the slight edge. I like it to be another close one. \r\n<h3>12/22 - Las Vegas Bowl: Utah vs. Boise State</h3>\r\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/KellenMooreBoise.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"312\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3138\" />\r\nAside from a couple missteps vs. TCU and Notre Dame, Utah put together a pretty impressive season. They won close games down the stretch and earned this match-up vs. the powerhouse known as Boise State. The Broncos BCS dreams were crushed in the NCAA game of the year vs. Nevada, yet a week later they went back to work and took care of business. I have a feeling that Kellen Moore is going to go off in Vegas like a 21 year old with their multi-millionaire father\'s credit card. ...that Kellen Moore is going to go off in Vegas like a fat dude at the Circus Circus buffet. He may opt for both options. BSU is the team that I would never bet against. You shouldn\'t either. \r\n<h3>12/23 - Poinsettia Bowl: Navy vs. San Diego State</h3>\r\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Ricky-Dobbs-NAVY.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"310\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3139\" />\r\nNavy is impressive... but San Diego State is possibly the best 8-4 team in the country. They have played <em>everyone</em> close. Everyone. Their 4 losses were by a combined 15 points. While I think the Navy option might give them headaches, and I\'m rolling with the Midshipmen...as of now. I reserve the right to change my mind due to the factual evidence listed above. It\'s worth noting, this is the final game for Navy QB Ricky Dobbs--the kid is a stud. He has always played big in big games, and probably loves being the underdog. \r\n<h3>12/24 - Hawai\'i Bowl: Hawaii vs. Tulsa</h3>\r\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Hawaii-e1292390690856.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"Hawaii\" width=\"500\" height=\"331\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3143\" />\r\nHawaii at home? Check. Hawaii with a devastating passing attack? Check. Tulsa with a suspect secondary? Check. Tulsa with the ability to gunsling? Check. Could be a shoot out, but this one is going to the Warriors of Hawai\'i. \r\n<h3>12/26 - Little Caesars Bowl: FIU vs. Toledo</h3>\r\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/TimBeckmanToledo-e1292390916838.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"375\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3145\" />\r\nThese two teams. Geez. How many times did you see either of these teams play this year? Exactly. FIU is scary because they\'re a new program, and they just don\'t know better than to score 50 points in some games, but I\'m hitching my wagon to the Rockets of Toledo and the best coach you\'ve never heard of, Tim Beckman. Don\'t be surprised when Toledo is cracking the Top 25 in another few years...if they can keep Beckman around. \r\n<h3>12/27 - Independence Bowl: Air Force vs. Georgia Tech</h3>\r\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/JoshNesbittGeorgiaTech.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"312\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3146\" />\r\nThis battle has options. How\'s that for a play on words? Joshua Nesbitt is a guy with the potential to take over field. It would be awesome to see the guy have the game of his life in the Independence Bowl. Even so, I don\'t know that the Yellow Jackets have the moxie to dogfight with the Falcons. I\'m going with the Academy. \r\n<h3>12/28 - Champs Sports Bowl: West Virginia vs. NC State</h3>\r\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/noel-devine-WV.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"333\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3147\" />\r\nThe Champs Sports Bowl will mark the end to the collegiate career of star running back, Noel Devine, and if he can rush for 112 yards in the contest, he\'ll go over 1,000 yards for his third consecutive season. QB Geno Smith has offered a stamp of legitimacy to his sophomore season. If the Mountaineers come into the contest focused, which I believe they will, NC State will have their hands full--unfortunately, WVU has not played well in bowl games without a fella by the name of Pat White under center. \r\n<h3>12/28 - Insight Bowl: Missouri vs. Iowa</h3>\r\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Blaine-Gabbert-Missouri-Tigers-e1292392509939.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"Blaine-Gabbert-Missouri-Tigers\" width=\"500\" height=\"280\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3148\" />\r\nMizzou flaked on themselves this season. They sat in the drivers seat, took it to Oklahoma in a convincing fashion, but couldn\'t get themselves up for the inevitable battles vs. Nebraska and the inferior Texas Tech. After getting the wheels back on track, they finished the season strong. Iowa\'s Ricky Stanzi is a joy to watch. 25 TDs to 4 INTs--flat out, impressive! He led the Hawkeyes to compete in every game, yet they dropped their final 3 only two weeks after knocking off #5 Michigan State. This one could go either way. If both teams bring their best, it could be one of the best games of the bowl season. In this border war, I gotta go with Missouri. MIZ-ZOU. \r\n<h3>12/29 - Military Bowl: East Carolina vs. Maryland</h3>\r\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Maryland-e1292395736293.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"359\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3156\" />\r\nNothing like two state schools battling in the Military Bowl. ECU started the season off well at 5-2, then dropped 4 of their last 5. QB Dominique Davis will have his hands full vs. Maryland, who is disciplined and talented on both sides of the ball. I\'m going Terps all the way in this first ever meeting between the two teams. \r\n<h3>12/29 - Texas Bowl: Illinois vs. Baylor</h3>\r\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/robert-griffinBaylor-e1292393352278.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"583\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3150\" />\r\nDo yourself a favor and check out a bit of this game. Baylor will play with the relative home field advantage, and will look to cap the season on a positive note after dropping their final three games. Baylor QB Robert Griffin III, and Illinois RB Mikel Leshoure are two to watch in this battle. I\'m going with the Baylor Bears in their first bowl appearance since 1994. \r\n<h3>12/29 - Alamo Bowl: Oklahoma State vs. Arizona</h3>\r\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/JustinBlackmonOSU-e1292393858530.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"303\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3151\" />\r\nTwo words. Justin Blackmon. The Arizona defensive game plan will be to shut this guy down. If I were Mike Gundy, and I were a man...who was forty...two... I would ensure that Blackmon receive 10 touches, even if they\'re triple teaming the guy. Can you believe Dez Bryant and this dude played together? How\'d we miss that? Arizona can compete, and they can also fall flat in the second half of big games; however, you know the Stoops boys are sharing information. Regardless, I think this game belongs to the Cowboys. \r\n<h3>12/30 - Armed Forces Bowl: Army vs. SMU</h3>\r\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/SMU.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"SMU\" width=\"500\" height=\"399\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3152\" />\r\nCan SMU stop Army\'s option attack? I believe that they can. It\'s so nice to see SMU back in the mix after years of football obscurity. June Jones will certainly have a few wrinkles in the game plan with so much time to prepare. Army will move the ball, and will score some points, but when it comes down to it, they\'re inability to pass the ball effectively will hurt them vs. the Mustangs. \r\n<h3>12/30 - Pinstripe Bowl: Kansas St. vs. Syracuse</h3>\r\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/bill-snyder-KSU-e1292394624356.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"bill-snyder-KSU\" width=\"500\" height=\"618\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3153\" />\r\nBill Snyder is letting Syracuse know, \"Oh yeah, we\'re coming to New York, and we\'re gonna put it down! Meet us at Yankee Stadium!\" How can you pick against Bill Snyder? I know I can\'t. \r\n<h3>12/30 - Music City Bowl: North Carolina vs. Tennessee</h3>\r\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/TaurenPooleTennessee-e1292399099390.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"TaurenPooleTennessee\" width=\"500\" height=\"336\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3167\" />\r\nTo many Tar Heel fans, this will be the season that could have been. Broken rules = Player suspensions. Tennessee, all things considered, had an amazing season, competing deep into games with some of the nation\'s most elite teams. I think Derek Dooley is going to do amazing things at UT! You hear that Colin Cowherd? Yeah, bro, I remember you dissing him earlier this season. Well, he took Lane Kiffin\'s scraps and mess and is going to a bowl game...which the Volunteers will win. \r\n<h3>12/30 - Holiday Bowl: Nebraska vs. Washington</h3>\r\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/jake-locker-Washington-e1292395215407.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"jake-locker-Washington\" width=\"500\" height=\"422\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3154\" />\r\nJake Locker maybe wishes he had declared for the draft after last season. Unfortunately, the Huskies just didn\'t offer much support to talent under center. Locker will have his hands full vs. a well prepared Bo Pelini, Nebraska defense. I\'ll honestly be surprised if Washington scores more than 13 points. If you haven\'t seen Nebraska play this year, have a look-see. Roy Helu Jr. and Taylor Martinez are an exciting offensive duo. \r\n<h3>12/31 - Meineke Car Care Bowl: South Florida vs. Clemson</h3>\r\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/KyleParkerClemson-e1292395520539.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"KyleParkerClemson\" width=\"500\" height=\"334\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3155\" />\r\nI really don\'t have much to say about this one. It\'s not that I don\'t care, it\'s just that I don\'t care much. Clemson put up yet another sub-par season, and the Bulls of South Florida are still trying to find their way under new leadership. Slight edge to the Tigers. \r\n<h3>12/31 - Sun Bowl: Notre Dame vs. Miami</h3>\r\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/TommyReesNotreDame-e1292395993738.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"TommyReesNotreDame\" width=\"500\" height=\"398\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3157\" />\r\nThe season in South Bend was riddled with tragedy. Am I about to go out on a limb? I certainly am. Yes, I believe Notre Dame will win this bowl game, but I also believe that Notre Dame has turned the corner under Brian Kelly. Regardless of how I feel, Miami is the popular favorite, and favored by 3.5 where you can pay to play. \r\n<h3>12/31 - Liberty Bowl: Georgia vs. UCF</h3>\r\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/AJ-GREEN-Georgia.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"375\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3158\" />\r\nA.J. Green watched the beginning of the season in street clothes. That was the difference in Georgia\'s season. This Georgia squad proved that they could compete with the best when they went to war with Auburn. They fought hard for their sixth win to enjoy this extra game. I believe they\'ll take full advantage of it vs. the UCF Golden Knights. \r\n<h3>12/31 - Chick-Fil-A Bowl: South Carolina vs. Florida State</h3>\r\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/marcus-lattimore-south-carolina-e1292396817797.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"347\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3160\" />\r\nWant to see the best Freshman running back in the nation? You\'ll want to tune into this one. South Carolina playing at their best takes it to Alabama. South Carolina missing the mark gets hammered by Auburn. When I say South Carolina, yes, I mean USC QB Stephen Garcia. The guy has talent, and he\'s surrounded by talent. RB Marcus Lattimore, WRs Alshon Jefferey and Tori Gurley: These three are Sunday players. I like the Gamecocks--I like Steve Spurrier over Jimbo Fisher. \r\n<h3>1/1 - TicketCity Bowl: Northwestern vs. Texas Tech</h3>\r\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/TaylorPottsTexTech-e1292397203255.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"TaylorPottsTexTech\" width=\"500\" height=\"290\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3161\" />\r\nNorthwestern hasn\'t won a bowl game since the 1948 Rose Bowl. I don\'t think that streak is going to end vs. this Texas Tech team. Tommy Tuberville has quietly taken a messy situation and worked a few wonders. As much as I love NW coach Pat Fitzgerald\'s mojo, I think the Red Raiders will be slingin\' their guns in this battle. \r\n<h3>1/1 - Outback Bowl: Florida vs. Penn State</h3>\r\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/urban-meyer.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"urban-meyer\" width=\"500\" height=\"333\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3162\" />\r\nFarewell, Urban. As an LSU fan, I\'m supposed to loathe you, but I don\'t. You\'re probably as confused as I am about your 2010 Gators squad. This Florida squad just seemed unfocused, grossly lacking that on field leadership that Tebow offered the previous four years. I foresee the squad focused for Urban\'s final game on the UF sidelines. Penn State will be no pushover, but they simply don\'t have the firepower to run with the Gators, even if both squads are firing on both cylinders. \r\n<h3>1/1 - Capital One Bowl: Alabama vs. Michigan State</h3>\r\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/markingramAlabma-e1292398330265.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"markingramAlabma\" width=\"500\" height=\"525\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3163\" />\r\nHow did Alabama lose three games this season? I still believe they\'re the most talented team in the country. Rarely do a I look at a coach like Nick Saban and question personnel decisions, but I felt Mark Ingram was underutilized all season, after returning from his knee issue. Now, I\'m an outsider--perhaps both he and Trent Richardson are headed to the draft, in which case, I get it. I hope to see Ingram get 20+ carries in the Capital One Bowl. I think this game is all Crimson Tide. Yeah, I\'m biased--I love the SEC, and can\'t stand the Big 10. \r\n<h3>1/1 - Gator Bowl: Mississippi State vs. Michigan</h3>\r\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Denard-Robinson-Michigan-e1292398764413.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"Denard-Robinson-Michigan\" width=\"500\" height=\"333\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3164\" />\r\nIt\'s another SEC vs. Big 10 match-up. Hmmmm...wonder which way I\'m going? I do love watching Denard Robinson play, but after facing Cam Newton, Mississippi State will feel like they\'re playing against Newton\'s little brother, who they\'ll handle. \r\n<h3>1/1 - Rose Bowl: Wisconsin vs. TCU</h3>\r\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/andy-dalton-TCU-e1292399196883.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"andy-dalton-TCU\" width=\"500\" height=\"343\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3168\" />\r\nIf the regular season was any indication, these two teams could merit an U/O of 100. I see a clash of the titans in the 2011 Rose Bowl game. I\'m taking the Horned Frogs over the Badgers. \r\n<h3>1/1 - Fiesta Bowl: UConn vs. Oklahoma</h3>\r\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/OU-DeMarco-Murray-e1292399981861.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"371\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3169\" />\r\nWorst bowl match-up ever? We\'ll see. This is definitive proof in the failure known as the BCS. Sure, the Fiesta Bowl has a tendency to turn Oklahoma into Choklahoma, but not with this squad, and not vs. UCONN. I pity the Huskies. I know they\'ll come to play, but I feel as if the OU Stoops crew will be looking to send a message to the BCS and their computers. \r\n<h3>1/3 - Orange Bowl: Stanford vs. Virginia Tech</h3>\r\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/AndrewLuckStanford-e1292400895341.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"333\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3170\" />\r\nThis match-up has the makings of a solid game. After their early season falter, Virginia Tech put together an impressive run--11 straight wins. Stanford\'s only loss was to Oregon, and it could easily be argued that the Cardinal weren\'t playing their best ball until later in the season. I\'d go so far as to say that they could beat Oregon if they played tomorrow. I like Jim Harbaugh\'s boys in this battle. If you tune in, be prepared for the ongoing booth dialog about Andrew Luck as an NFL prospect. I would suggest that the Jr. stick around, considering the NFL season in 2011-12 will probably be 9 games long beginning in November. \r\n<h3>1/4 - Sugar Bowl: Ohio State vs. Arkansas</h3>\r\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/PryorOSU-e1292401173619.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"388\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3171\" />\r\nAnother Big 10/SEC match-up? Terrelle Pryor is an exciting athlete. Ryan Mallett is a better QB. Sorry OSU fans. I enjoy watching TP, but I don\'t think you realize what you\'re up against in Arkansas. The Hogs played with everyone in the SEC only losing to Alabama and Auburn--Alabama by 4, and Auburn in a shoot-out with a score grossly misrepresenting how close the contest actually was. I\'ll stick with the SEC in this one. I know--shocker. \r\n<h3>1/6 - GoDaddy.com Bowl: Middle Tennessee vs. Miami (OH)</h3>\r\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/DwightDasherMTSU-e1292401966658.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"DwightDasherMTSU\" width=\"500\" height=\"333\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3172\" />\r\nPerhaps a slightly disappointing season for senior MTSU QB Dwight Dasher. The guy can make plays, but missing multiple games at the beginning of the season forced him to try and find mid-season form with no action under his belt. Things won\'t get easier for him vs. a Miami (OH) Redhawks squad that was on the verge of death a year ago. The \'hawks are flying high and should dictate all aspects of this match-up. \r\n<h3>1/7 - Cotton Bowl: LSU vs. Texas A&amp;M</h3>\r\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/PatrickPetersonLSU-e1292402334317.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"PatrickPetersonLSU\" width=\"500\" height=\"281\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3173\" />\r\nI\'ll try to keep it short and sweet. A die hard Tiger fan, I\'m thoroughly excited for this match-up vs. Texas A&M in Dallas. LSU has struggled offensively nearly all season long, simply due to inconsistent QB play. The defense, led by DT Drake Nevis and CB Patrick Peterson are as close to an NFL style defense you\'ll see at the collegiate level. A&M kicked their season up a notch by going to Frosh QB Ryan Tannehill early in the season. He saw some decent defenses in the Big 12, but he\'s never seen a defense with this speed and strength of LSU. If LSU QB Jordan Jefferson can begin to play to his potential, this could cap a nice season for the Bayou Bengals. I LOVE LSU in this one. You should love them, too. \r\n<h3>1/8 - BBVA Compass Bowl: Pittsburgh vs. Kentucky</h3>\r\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/randall-cobb-Kentucky-e1292402772920.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"randall-cobb-Kentucky\" width=\"500\" height=\"361\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3174\" />\r\nYou heard about Kentucky QB Mike Hartline getting suspended, yes? This could be beneficial for the Cats, as they\'ll more than likely go to sophomore Morgan Newton, and perhaps show more wildcat looks with the best player you\'ve probably never heard of, Randall Cobb. The smart choice here is probably the Pitt Panthers, but I\'m going with Kentucky in Randall Cobb\'s final game in UK Blue. \r\n<h3>1/9 - Kraft Fight Hunger Bowl: Nevada vs. Boston College</h3>\r\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/KaepernickNevada-e1292403317403.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"KaepernickNevada\" width=\"500\" height=\"333\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3175\" />\r\nHow can you not love Colin Kaepernick? Nevada\'s pistol attack is absolutely deadly. When they get down, they can come back in a hurry, and when they\'re up they can bury a team just as quickly. Don\'t believe me? Just ask Boise State. The Boston College defense may be one of the better defenses Nevada has faced, aside from Boise State, yet I don\'t think the Eagles can handle the Wolf Pack attack for four quarters. Sticking with Kaepernick. \r\n<h3>1/10 - BCS National Championship: Oregon vs. Auburn</h3>\r\n<object classid=\"clsid:d27cdb6e-ae6d-11cf-96b8-444553540000\" width=\"500\" height=\"385\" codebase=\"http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0\"><param name=\"allowFullScreen\" value=\"true\" /><param name=\"allowscriptaccess\" value=\"always\" /><param name=\"src\" value=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/iOi2hj_sjyY?fs=1&amp;hl=en_US\" /><param name=\"allowfullscreen\" value=\"true\" /><embed type=\"application/x-shockwave-flash\" width=\"500\" height=\"385\" src=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/iOi2hj_sjyY?fs=1&amp;hl=en_US\" allowscriptaccess=\"always\" allowfullscreen=\"true\"></embed></object>\r\n\r\nVS.\r\n\r\n<object classid=\"clsid:d27cdb6e-ae6d-11cf-96b8-444553540000\" width=\"500\" height=\"385\" codebase=\"http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0\"><param name=\"allowFullScreen\" value=\"true\" /><param name=\"allowscriptaccess\" value=\"always\" /><param name=\"src\" value=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/QehP9o5S3Hs?fs=1&amp;hl=en_US\" /><param name=\"allowfullscreen\" value=\"true\" /><embed type=\"application/x-shockwave-flash\" width=\"500\" height=\"385\" src=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/QehP9o5S3Hs?fs=1&amp;hl=en_US\" allowscriptaccess=\"always\" allowfullscreen=\"true\"></embed></object>\r\nCan Oregon possibly stop Auburn? I don\'t think so. Can Auburn slow or stop Oregon? Possibly. I don\'t see how Oregon can end up on top after 60 minutes of football. Auburn is a machine, and their secondary has improved steadily all season long. ','College Bowl Preview ','','inherit','open','open','','3127-revision-14','','','2010-12-15 01:10:50','2010-12-15 09:10:50','',3127,'http://manjr.com/2010/uncategorized/3127-revision-14/',0,'revision','',0),(3178,7,'2010-12-15 01:10:54','2010-12-15 09:10:54','It\'s time to go bowling. Outside of the NFL playoffs, it may be the greatest sports season of year--in fact it <em>is</em> the harbinger of the playoffs for the pros. It surrounds the Christmas and New Year holidays, and it even spurs annual debate by crowning a Champion without a playoff system. \r\n\r\nUnlike many people who feel there are too many bowls, I don\'t care who the bowl sponsor is, or who\'s playing in it...I\'ll watch it and enjoy it. At first glance the match-ups looked pretty uninteresting a couple weeks ago, yet after careful consideration, I\'ve found that in the 2010-2011 bowl schedule, there lies potential for some great football games.\r\n\r\nLet\'s break \'em down in play order:\r\n<h3>12/18 - New Mexico Bowl: BYU vs. UTEP</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3133\" title=\"UTEP\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/UTEP-e1292376625439.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"600\" />\r\nBYU is a pretty easy favorite in this match-up. UTEP QB Trevor Vittatoe is a difference maker, yet his ankle is busted up, and he\'s looking at less than a week for it to get any better. If he\'s somehow able to play through the pain, the Miners could make it interesting.\r\n<h3>12/18 - Humanitarian Bowl: Northern Illinois vs. Fresno State</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3135\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Fresno.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"387\" />\r\nNorthern Illinois put up an impressive 10-3 season, but now they\'re meeting a Fresno team led by veteran coach Pat Hill after multiple weeks of preparation. This promises to be a battle, and picking either team would be a logical decision. The vast majority of the nation is going with the bulldogs, but I\'m taking the Huskies. \r\n<h3>12/18 - New Orleans Bowl: Ohio University vs. Troy</h3>\r\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Boo-Jackson-OhioU-e1292378277401.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"342\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3136\" />\r\nOhio QB, Franshaw \"Boo\" Jackson. He can be quite exciting when he\'s hitting on all cylinders, yet I was unimpressed with the MAC this season. I\'m going against the populous once again on this one, and sticking with the team from the south. I see another battle, and Troy coming out on top. \r\n<h3>12/21 - St. Petersburg Bowl: Southern Miss. vs. Louisville</h3>\r\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/SouthernMiss.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"368\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3137\" />\r\nDidn\'t ya hear? Brett Favre found a game of NCAA eligibility and is coming out of collegiate retirement. I just couldn\'t pass up the opportunity to use the image. Look at the young gun slinger... Call me insane this year, but I\'m going against the majority again with this pick. I feel like Louisville has the slight edge. I like it to be another close one. \r\n<h3>12/22 - Las Vegas Bowl: Utah vs. Boise State</h3>\r\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/KellenMooreBoise.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"312\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3138\" />\r\nAside from a couple missteps vs. TCU and Notre Dame, Utah put together a pretty impressive season. They won close games down the stretch and earned this match-up vs. the powerhouse known as Boise State. The Broncos BCS dreams were crushed in the NCAA game of the year vs. Nevada, yet a week later they went back to work and took care of business. I have a feeling that Kellen Moore is going to go off in Vegas like a 21 year old with their multi-millionaire father\'s credit card. ...that Kellen Moore is going to go off in Vegas like a fat dude at the Circus Circus buffet. He may opt for both options. BSU is the team that I would never bet against. You shouldn\'t either. \r\n<h3>12/23 - Poinsettia Bowl: Navy vs. San Diego State</h3>\r\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Ricky-Dobbs-NAVY.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"310\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3139\" />\r\nNavy is impressive... but San Diego State is possibly the best 8-4 team in the country. They have played <em>everyone</em> close. Everyone. Their 4 losses were by a combined 15 points. While I think the Navy option might give them headaches, and I\'m rolling with the Midshipmen...as of now. I reserve the right to change my mind due to the factual evidence listed above. It\'s worth noting, this is the final game for Navy QB Ricky Dobbs--the kid is a stud. He has always played big in big games, and probably loves being the underdog. \r\n<h3>12/24 - Hawai\'i Bowl: Hawaii vs. Tulsa</h3>\r\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Hawaii-e1292390690856.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"Hawaii\" width=\"500\" height=\"331\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3143\" />\r\nHawaii at home? Check. Hawaii with a devastating passing attack? Check. Tulsa with a suspect secondary? Check. Tulsa with the ability to gunsling? Check. Could be a shoot out, but this one is going to the Warriors of Hawai\'i. \r\n<h3>12/26 - Little Caesars Bowl: FIU vs. Toledo</h3>\r\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/TimBeckmanToledo-e1292390916838.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"375\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3145\" />\r\nThese two teams. Geez. How many times did you see either of these teams play this year? Exactly. FIU is scary because they\'re a new program, and they just don\'t know better than to score 50 points in some games, but I\'m hitching my wagon to the Rockets of Toledo and the best coach you\'ve never heard of, Tim Beckman. Don\'t be surprised when Toledo is cracking the Top 25 in another few years...if they can keep Beckman around. \r\n<h3>12/27 - Independence Bowl: Air Force vs. Georgia Tech</h3>\r\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/JoshNesbittGeorgiaTech.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"312\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3146\" />\r\nThis battle has options. How\'s that for a play on words? Joshua Nesbitt is a guy with the potential to take over field. It would be awesome to see the guy have the game of his life in the Independence Bowl. Even so, I don\'t know that the Yellow Jackets have the moxie to dogfight with the Falcons. I\'m going with the Academy. \r\n<h3>12/28 - Champs Sports Bowl: West Virginia vs. NC State</h3>\r\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/noel-devine-WV.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"333\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3147\" />\r\nThe Champs Sports Bowl will mark the end to the collegiate career of star running back, Noel Devine, and if he can rush for 112 yards in the contest, he\'ll go over 1,000 yards for his third consecutive season. QB Geno Smith has offered a stamp of legitimacy to his sophomore season. If the Mountaineers come into the contest focused, which I believe they will, NC State will have their hands full--unfortunately, WVU has not played well in bowl games without a fella by the name of Pat White under center. \r\n<h3>12/28 - Insight Bowl: Missouri vs. Iowa</h3>\r\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Blaine-Gabbert-Missouri-Tigers-e1292392509939.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"Blaine-Gabbert-Missouri-Tigers\" width=\"500\" height=\"280\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3148\" />\r\nMizzou flaked on themselves this season. They sat in the drivers seat, took it to Oklahoma in a convincing fashion, but couldn\'t get themselves up for the inevitable battles vs. Nebraska and the inferior Texas Tech. After getting the wheels back on track, they finished the season strong. Iowa\'s Ricky Stanzi is a joy to watch. 25 TDs to 4 INTs--flat out, impressive! He led the Hawkeyes to compete in every game, yet they dropped their final 3 only two weeks after knocking off #5 Michigan State. This one could go either way. If both teams bring their best, it could be one of the best games of the bowl season. In this border war, I gotta go with Missouri. MIZ-ZOU. \r\n<h3>12/29 - Military Bowl: East Carolina vs. Maryland</h3>\r\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Maryland-e1292395736293.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"359\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3156\" />\r\nNothing like two state schools battling in the Military Bowl. ECU started the season off well at 5-2, then dropped 4 of their last 5. QB Dominique Davis will have his hands full vs. Maryland, who is disciplined and talented on both sides of the ball. I\'m going Terps all the way in this first ever meeting between the two teams. \r\n<h3>12/29 - Texas Bowl: Illinois vs. Baylor</h3>\r\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/robert-griffinBaylor-e1292393352278.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"583\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3150\" />\r\nDo yourself a favor and check out a bit of this game. Baylor will play with the relative home field advantage, and will look to cap the season on a positive note after dropping their final three games. Baylor QB Robert Griffin III, and Illinois RB Mikel Leshoure are two to watch in this battle. I\'m going with the Baylor Bears in their first bowl appearance since 1994. \r\n<h3>12/29 - Alamo Bowl: Oklahoma State vs. Arizona</h3>\r\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/JustinBlackmonOSU-e1292393858530.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"303\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3151\" />\r\nTwo words. Justin Blackmon. The Arizona defensive game plan will be to shut this guy down. If I were Mike Gundy, and I were a man...who was forty...two... I would ensure that Blackmon receive 10 touches, even if they\'re triple teaming the guy. Can you believe Dez Bryant and this dude played together? How\'d we miss that? Arizona can compete, and they can also fall flat in the second half of big games; however, you know the Stoops boys are sharing information. Regardless, I think this game belongs to the Cowboys. \r\n<h3>12/30 - Armed Forces Bowl: Army vs. SMU</h3>\r\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/SMU.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"SMU\" width=\"500\" height=\"399\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3152\" />\r\nCan SMU stop Army\'s option attack? I believe that they can. It\'s so nice to see SMU back in the mix after years of football obscurity. June Jones will certainly have a few wrinkles in the game plan with so much time to prepare. Army will move the ball, and will score some points, but when it comes down to it, they\'re inability to pass the ball effectively will hurt them vs. the Mustangs. \r\n<h3>12/30 - Pinstripe Bowl: Kansas St. vs. Syracuse</h3>\r\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/bill-snyder-KSU-e1292394624356.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"bill-snyder-KSU\" width=\"500\" height=\"618\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3153\" />\r\nBill Snyder is letting Syracuse know, \"Oh yeah, we\'re coming to New York, and we\'re gonna put it down! Meet us at Yankee Stadium!\" How can you pick against Bill Snyder? I know I can\'t. \r\n<h3>12/30 - Music City Bowl: North Carolina vs. Tennessee</h3>\r\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/TaurenPooleTennessee-e1292399099390.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"TaurenPooleTennessee\" width=\"500\" height=\"336\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3167\" />\r\nTo many Tar Heel fans, this will be the season that could have been. Broken rules = Player suspensions. Tennessee, all things considered, had an amazing season, competing deep into games with some of the nation\'s most elite teams. I think Derek Dooley is going to do amazing things at UT! You hear that Colin Cowherd? Yeah, bro, I remember you dissing him earlier this season. Well, he took Lane Kiffin\'s scraps and mess and is going to a bowl game...which the Volunteers will win. \r\n<h3>12/30 - Holiday Bowl: Nebraska vs. Washington</h3>\r\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/jake-locker-Washington-e1292395215407.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"jake-locker-Washington\" width=\"500\" height=\"422\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3154\" />\r\nJake Locker maybe wishes he had declared for the draft after last season. Unfortunately, the Huskies just didn\'t offer much support to talent under center. Locker will have his hands full vs. a well prepared Bo Pelini, Nebraska defense. I\'ll honestly be surprised if Washington scores more than 13 points. If you haven\'t seen Nebraska play this year, have a look-see. Roy Helu Jr. and Taylor Martinez are an exciting offensive duo. \r\n<h3>12/31 - Meineke Car Care Bowl: South Florida vs. Clemson</h3>\r\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/KyleParkerClemson-e1292395520539.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"KyleParkerClemson\" width=\"500\" height=\"334\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3155\" />\r\nI really don\'t have much to say about this one. It\'s not that I don\'t care, it\'s just that I don\'t care much. Clemson put up yet another sub-par season, and the Bulls of South Florida are still trying to find their way under new leadership. Slight edge to the Tigers. \r\n<h3>12/31 - Sun Bowl: Notre Dame vs. Miami</h3>\r\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/TommyReesNotreDame-e1292395993738.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"TommyReesNotreDame\" width=\"500\" height=\"398\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3157\" />\r\nThe season in South Bend was riddled with tragedy. Am I about to go out on a limb? I certainly am. Yes, I believe Notre Dame will win this bowl game, but I also believe that Notre Dame has turned the corner under Brian Kelly. Regardless of how I feel, Miami is the popular favorite, and favored by 3.5 where you can pay to play. \r\n<h3>12/31 - Liberty Bowl: Georgia vs. UCF</h3>\r\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/AJ-GREEN-Georgia.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"375\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3158\" />\r\nA.J. Green watched the beginning of the season in street clothes. That was the difference in Georgia\'s season. This Georgia squad proved that they could compete with the best when they went to war with Auburn. They fought hard for their sixth win to enjoy this extra game. I believe they\'ll take full advantage of it vs. the UCF Golden Knights. \r\n<h3>12/31 - Chick-Fil-A Bowl: South Carolina vs. Florida State</h3>\r\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/marcus-lattimore-south-carolina-e1292396817797.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"347\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3160\" />\r\nWant to see the best Freshman running back in the nation? You\'ll want to tune into this one. South Carolina playing at their best takes it to Alabama. South Carolina missing the mark gets hammered by Auburn. When I say South Carolina, yes, I mean USC QB Stephen Garcia. The guy has talent, and he\'s surrounded by talent. RB Marcus Lattimore, WRs Alshon Jefferey and Tori Gurley: These three are Sunday players. I like the Gamecocks--I like Steve Spurrier over Jimbo Fisher. \r\n<h3>1/1 - TicketCity Bowl: Northwestern vs. Texas Tech</h3>\r\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/TaylorPottsTexTech-e1292397203255.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"TaylorPottsTexTech\" width=\"500\" height=\"290\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3161\" />\r\nNorthwestern hasn\'t won a bowl game since the 1948 Rose Bowl. I don\'t think that streak is going to end vs. this Texas Tech team. Tommy Tuberville has quietly taken a messy situation and worked a few wonders. As much as I love NW coach Pat Fitzgerald\'s mojo, I think the Red Raiders will be slingin\' their guns in this battle. \r\n<h3>1/1 - Outback Bowl: Florida vs. Penn State</h3>\r\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/urban-meyer.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"urban-meyer\" width=\"500\" height=\"333\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3162\" />\r\nFarewell, Urban. As an LSU fan, I\'m supposed to loathe you, but I don\'t. You\'re probably as confused as I am about your 2010 Gators squad. This Florida squad just seemed unfocused, grossly lacking that on field leadership that Tebow offered the previous four years. I foresee the squad focused for Urban\'s final game on the UF sidelines. Penn State will be no pushover, but they simply don\'t have the firepower to run with the Gators, even if both squads are firing on both cylinders. \r\n<h3>1/1 - Capital One Bowl: Alabama vs. Michigan State</h3>\r\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/markingramAlabma-e1292398330265.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"markingramAlabma\" width=\"500\" height=\"525\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3163\" />\r\nHow did Alabama lose three games this season? I still believe they\'re the most talented team in the country. Rarely do a I look at a coach like Nick Saban and question personnel decisions, but I felt Mark Ingram was underutilized all season, after returning from his knee issue. Now, I\'m an outsider--perhaps both he and Trent Richardson are headed to the draft, in which case, I get it. I hope to see Ingram get 20+ carries in the Capital One Bowl. I think this game is all Crimson Tide. Yeah, I\'m biased--I love the SEC, and can\'t stand the Big 10. \r\n<h3>1/1 - Gator Bowl: Mississippi State vs. Michigan</h3>\r\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Denard-Robinson-Michigan-e1292398764413.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"Denard-Robinson-Michigan\" width=\"500\" height=\"333\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3164\" />\r\nIt\'s another SEC vs. Big 10 match-up. Hmmmm...wonder which way I\'m going? I do love watching Denard Robinson play, but after facing Cam Newton, Mississippi State will feel like they\'re playing against Newton\'s little brother, who they\'ll handle. \r\n<h3>1/1 - Rose Bowl: Wisconsin vs. TCU</h3>\r\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/andy-dalton-TCU-e1292399196883.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"andy-dalton-TCU\" width=\"500\" height=\"343\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3168\" />\r\nIf the regular season was any indication, these two teams could merit an U/O of 100. I see a clash of the titans in the 2011 Rose Bowl game. I\'m taking the Horned Frogs over the Badgers. \r\n<h3>1/1 - Fiesta Bowl: UConn vs. Oklahoma</h3>\r\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/OU-DeMarco-Murray-e1292399981861.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"371\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3169\" />\r\nWorst bowl match-up ever? We\'ll see. This is definitive proof in the failure known as the BCS. Sure, the Fiesta Bowl has a tendency to turn Oklahoma into Choklahoma, but not with this squad, and not vs. UCONN. I pity the Huskies. I know they\'ll come to play, but I feel as if the OU Stoops crew will be looking to send a message to the BCS and their computers. \r\n<h3>1/3 - Orange Bowl: Stanford vs. Virginia Tech</h3>\r\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/AndrewLuckStanford-e1292400895341.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"333\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3170\" />\r\nThis match-up has the makings of a solid game. After their early season falter, Virginia Tech put together an impressive run--11 straight wins. Stanford\'s only loss was to Oregon, and it could easily be argued that the Cardinal weren\'t playing their best ball until later in the season. I\'d go so far as to say that they could beat Oregon if they played tomorrow. I like Jim Harbaugh\'s boys in this battle. If you tune in, be prepared for the ongoing booth dialog about Andrew Luck as an NFL prospect. I would suggest that the Jr. stick around, considering the NFL season in 2011-12 will probably be 9 games long beginning in November. \r\n<h3>1/4 - Sugar Bowl: Ohio State vs. Arkansas</h3>\r\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/PryorOSU-e1292401173619.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"388\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3171\" />\r\nAnother Big 10/SEC match-up? Terrelle Pryor is an exciting athlete. Ryan Mallett is a better QB. Sorry OSU fans. I enjoy watching TP, but I don\'t think you realize what you\'re up against in Arkansas. The Hogs played with everyone in the SEC only losing to Alabama and Auburn--Alabama by 4, and Auburn in a shoot-out with a score grossly misrepresenting how close the contest actually was. I\'ll stick with the SEC in this one. I know--shocker. \r\n<h3>1/6 - GoDaddy.com Bowl: Middle Tennessee vs. Miami (OH)</h3>\r\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/DwightDasherMTSU-e1292401966658.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"DwightDasherMTSU\" width=\"500\" height=\"333\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3172\" />\r\nPerhaps a slightly disappointing season for senior MTSU QB Dwight Dasher. The guy can make plays, but missing multiple games at the beginning of the season forced him to try and find mid-season form with no action under his belt. Things won\'t get easier for him vs. a Miami (OH) Redhawks squad that was on the verge of death a year ago. The \'hawks are flying high and should dictate all aspects of this match-up. \r\n<h3>1/7 - Cotton Bowl: LSU vs. Texas A&amp;M</h3>\r\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/PatrickPetersonLSU-e1292402334317.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"PatrickPetersonLSU\" width=\"500\" height=\"281\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3173\" />\r\nI\'ll try to keep it short and sweet. A die hard Tiger fan, I\'m thoroughly excited for this match-up vs. Texas A&M in Dallas. LSU has struggled offensively nearly all season long, simply due to inconsistent QB play. The defense, led by DT Drake Nevis and CB Patrick Peterson are as close to an NFL style defense you\'ll see at the collegiate level. A&M kicked their season up a notch by going to Frosh QB Ryan Tannehill early in the season. He saw some decent defenses in the Big 12, but he\'s never seen a defense with this speed and strength of LSU. If LSU QB Jordan Jefferson can begin to play to his potential, this could cap a nice season for the Bayou Bengals. I LOVE LSU in this one. You should love them, too. \r\n<h3>1/8 - BBVA Compass Bowl: Pittsburgh vs. Kentucky</h3>\r\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/randall-cobb-Kentucky-e1292402772920.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"randall-cobb-Kentucky\" width=\"500\" height=\"361\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3174\" />\r\nYou heard about Kentucky QB Mike Hartline getting suspended, yes? This could be beneficial for the Cats, as they\'ll more than likely go to sophomore Morgan Newton, and perhaps show more wildcat looks with the best player you\'ve probably never heard of, Randall Cobb. The smart choice here is probably the Pitt Panthers, but I\'m going with Kentucky in Randall Cobb\'s final game in UK Blue. \r\n<h3>1/9 - Kraft Fight Hunger Bowl: Nevada vs. Boston College</h3>\r\n<img src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/KaepernickNevada-e1292403317403.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"KaepernickNevada\" width=\"500\" height=\"333\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3175\" />\r\nHow can you not love Colin Kaepernick? Nevada\'s pistol attack is absolutely deadly. When they get down, they can come back in a hurry, and when they\'re up they can bury a team just as quickly. Don\'t believe me? Just ask Boise State. The Boston College defense may be one of the better defenses Nevada has faced, aside from Boise State, yet I don\'t think the Eagles can handle the Wolf Pack attack for four quarters. Sticking with Kaepernick. \r\n<h3>1/10 - BCS National Championship: Oregon vs. Auburn</h3>\r\n<object classid=\"clsid:d27cdb6e-ae6d-11cf-96b8-444553540000\" width=\"500\" height=\"385\" codebase=\"http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0\"><param name=\"allowFullScreen\" value=\"true\" /><param name=\"allowscriptaccess\" value=\"always\" /><param name=\"src\" value=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/iOi2hj_sjyY?fs=1&amp;hl=en_US\" /><param name=\"allowfullscreen\" value=\"true\" /><embed type=\"application/x-shockwave-flash\" width=\"500\" height=\"385\" src=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/iOi2hj_sjyY?fs=1&amp;hl=en_US\" allowscriptaccess=\"always\" allowfullscreen=\"true\"></embed></object>\r\n\r\nVS.\r\n\r\n<object classid=\"clsid:d27cdb6e-ae6d-11cf-96b8-444553540000\" width=\"500\" height=\"385\" codebase=\"http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0\"><param name=\"allowFullScreen\" value=\"true\" /><param name=\"allowscriptaccess\" value=\"always\" /><param name=\"src\" value=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/QehP9o5S3Hs?fs=1&amp;hl=en_US\" /><param name=\"allowfullscreen\" value=\"true\" /><embed type=\"application/x-shockwave-flash\" width=\"500\" height=\"385\" src=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/QehP9o5S3Hs?fs=1&amp;hl=en_US\" allowscriptaccess=\"always\" allowfullscreen=\"true\"></embed></object>\r\nCan Oregon possibly stop Auburn? I don\'t think so. Can Auburn slow or stop Oregon? Possibly. I don\'t see how Oregon can end up on top after 60 minutes of football. Auburn is a machine, and their secondary has improved steadily all season long. ','College Bowl Preview ','','inherit','open','open','','3127-revision-15','','','2010-12-15 01:10:54','2010-12-15 09:10:54','',3127,'http://manjr.com/2010/uncategorized/3127-revision-15/',0,'revision','',0),(3179,7,'2010-12-15 10:48:37','2010-12-15 18:48:37','Outside the NFL playoffs, it may be the greatest multi-week sports season of the year--in fact it <em>is</em> the harbinger of the playoffs for the pros. It surrounds the Christmas and New Year holidays, and it even spurs annual debate by crowning a Champion without a playoff system. It\'s time to go bowling!\n\nUnlike many people who feel there are too many bowls, I don\'t care who the bowl sponsor is, or who\'s playing in it...I\'ll watch it and enjoy it. At first glance a couple weeks ago, the match-ups looked pretty uninteresting. After careful consideration, I\'ve found that there lies potential for some great football games.\n\nLet\'s break \'em down in play order:\n<h3>12/18 - New Mexico Bowl: BYU vs. UTEP</h3>\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3133\" title=\"UTEP\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/UTEP-e1292376625439.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"600\" />\nBYU is a pretty easy favorite in this match-up. UTEP QB Trevor Vittatoe is a difference maker, yet his ankle is busted up, and he\'s less than four days from having to put it to the test. If he\'s somehow able to play through the pain, the Miners could make it interesting.\n<h3>12/18 - Humanitarian Bowl: Northern Illinois vs. Fresno State</h3>\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3135\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Fresno.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"387\" />\nNorthern Illinois put up an impressive 10-3 season, losing a heart breaker in the MAC Championship. Now they\'re meeting a Fresno team led by veteran coach Pat Hill who has been given multiple weeks of preparation. This promises to be a battle, and picking either team would be a logical decision. The vast majority of the nation is going with the bulldogs, but I\'m taking the Huskies.\n<h3>12/18 - New Orleans Bowl: Ohio University vs. Troy</h3>\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3136\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Boo-Jackson-OhioU-e1292378277401.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"342\" />\nOhio QB, Franshaw \"Boo\" Jackson. He can be exciting when he\'s hitting on all cylinders, yet I was unimpressed with the MAC this season. I\'m going against the populous once again on this one, and sticking with the team from the south. I see another battle, and Troy coming out on top.\n<h3>12/21 - St. Petersburg Bowl: Southern Miss. vs. Louisville</h3>\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3137\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/SouthernMiss.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"368\" />\nDidn\'t ya hear? Brett Favre found a game of NCAA eligibility and is coming out of collegiate retirement. I just couldn\'t pass up the opportunity to use the image. Look at the young gun slinger... Call me insane, but I\'m going against the majority again with this pick. I feel like Louisville has the slight edge. It has the potential to be another close one.\n<h3>12/22 - Las Vegas Bowl: Utah vs. Boise State</h3>\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3138\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/KellenMooreBoise.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"312\" />\nAside from a couple missteps vs. TCU and Notre Dame, Utah put together an impressive season. They won close games down the stretch and earned this match-up vs. powerhouse, Boise State. The Broncos BCS dreams were crushed in the NCAA game of the year vs. Nevada, yet a week later they went back to work and took care of business. I have a feeling that Kellen Moore is going to go off in Vegas like a 21 year old with their multi-millionaire father\'s credit card. ...that Kellen Moore is going to go off in Vegas like a fat dude at the Circus Circus buffet. He may opt for both options. BSU is the team that I would never bet against. You shouldn\'t either.\n<h3>12/23 - Poinsettia Bowl: Navy vs. San Diego State</h3>\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3139\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Ricky-Dobbs-NAVY.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"310\" />\nNavy is impressive... but San Diego State is possibly the best 8-4 team in the country. They have played <em>everyone</em> close. Everyone. Their 4 losses were by a combined 15 points. I think the Navy option attack might give them headaches, and I\'m rolling with the Midshipmen...as of now. I reserve the right to change my mind due to the factual evidence listed above. It\'s worth noting, this is the final game for Navy QB Ricky Dobbs--the kid is a stud. He has always played well in big games, and probably loves the thought of being the underdog.\n<h3>12/24 - Hawai\'i Bowl: Hawaii vs. Tulsa</h3>\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3143\" title=\"Hawaii\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Hawaii-e1292390690856.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"331\" />\nHawaii at home? Check. Hawaii with a devastating passing attack? Check. Tulsa with a suspect secondary? Check. Tulsa with the ability to score a lot of points? Check. Could be a shoot out, but this one is going to the Warriors of Hawaii.\n<h3>12/26 - Little Caesars Bowl: FIU vs. Toledo</h3>\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3145\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/TimBeckmanToledo-e1292390916838.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"375\" />\nThese two teams. Geez. How many times did you see either of these teams play this year? Exactly. FIU is scary because they\'re a new program, and they just don\'t know better than to score 50 points in some games. Still, I\'m hitching my wagon to the Rockets of Toledo and the best coach you\'ve never heard of, Tim Beckman. Don\'t be surprised when Toledo is cracking the Top 25 in another few years...if they can keep Beckman around.\n<h3>12/27 - Independence Bowl: Air Force vs. Georgia Tech</h3>\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3146\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/JoshNesbittGeorgiaTech.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"312\" />\nThis battle has options. How\'s that for a play on words? GT QB Joshua Nesbitt is a guy with the potential to take over the field. It would be awesome to see him have the game of his life in the Independence Bowl. Even so, I don\'t know that the Yellow Jackets have the moxie to dogfight with the Falcons. I\'m going with the Academy.\n<h3>12/28 - Champs Sports Bowl: West Virginia vs. NC State</h3>\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3147\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/noel-devine-WV.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"333\" />\nThe Champs Sports Bowl will mark the end to the collegiate career of WV star running back, Noel Devine, and if he can rush for 114 yards in the contest, he\'ll go over 1,000 yards for his third consecutive season. QB Geno Smith has offered a stamp of legitimacy to his sophomore season, and I\'m excited to see him after multiple weeks of rest and preparation. If the Mountaineers come into the contest focused, which I believe they will, NC State will have their hands full--unfortunately, WVU has not played well in bowl games without a fella by the name of Pat White under center.\n<h3>12/28 - Insight Bowl: Missouri vs. Iowa</h3>\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3148\" title=\"Blaine-Gabbert-Missouri-Tigers\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Blaine-Gabbert-Missouri-Tigers-e1292392509939.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"280\" />\nMizzou flaked for two weeks this season. They sat in the drivers seat, took it to Oklahoma in convincing fashion, but couldn\'t get themselves up for the inevitable battles vs. Nebraska and the inferior Texas Tech. After getting the wheels back on track, they finished the season strong. Iowa\'s Ricky Stanzi is a joy to watch. 25 TDs to 4 INTs--flat out, impressive! He led the Hawkeyes to compete in every game, yet they dropped their final 3 only two weeks after knocking off #5 Michigan State. In this contest, Stanzi will be without a couple weapons who have been suspended for off-the-field issues. We\'ll see if the Hawkeyes can fill those gaps. In this border war on neutral ground, I gotta go with Missouri. MIZ-ZOU.\n<h3>12/29 - Military Bowl: East Carolina vs. Maryland</h3>\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3156\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Maryland-e1292395736293.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"359\" />\nNothing like two state schools battling in the Military Bowl. ECU started the season off well at 5-2, then dropped 4 of their last 5. QB Dominique Davis will have his hands full vs. Maryland, who is disciplined, talented and oft disrespected on both sides of the ball. I\'m going Terps all the way in this first ever meeting between these two teams.\n<h3>12/29 - Texas Bowl: Illinois vs. Baylor</h3>\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3150\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/robert-griffinBaylor-e1292393352278.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"583\" />\nDo yourself a favor and check out at least a visual snippet of this game. Baylor will play with the relative home field advantage, and will look to cap the season on a positive note after dropping their final three games. Baylor QB Robert Griffin III, and Illinois RB Mikel Leshoure are two to watch in this battle. I\'m going with the Baylor Bears in their first bowl appearance since 1994.\n<h3>12/29 - Alamo Bowl: Oklahoma State vs. Arizona</h3>\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3151\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/JustinBlackmonOSU-e1292393858530.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"303\" />\nTwo words. Justin Blackmon. The Arizona defensive game plan will be to shut this guy down. If I were Mike Gundy, and I were a man...who was forty...two... I would ensure that Blackmon receive 10 touches in this contest, even if they\'re triple teaming the guy--OSU has to get him the ball. Can you believe Dez Bryant and this dude played together? How\'d we miss that? Arizona can compete, and they can also fall flat in the second half of big games; however, you know the Stoops boys are sharing information on how to stop common foes. Regardless, this game belongs to the Cowboys.\n<h3>12/30 - Armed Forces Bowl: Army vs. SMU</h3>\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3152\" title=\"SMU\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/SMU.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"399\" />\nCan SMU stop Army\'s option attack? I believe that they can. It\'s so nice to see SMU back in the mix after years of football obscurity--I thought last season might have been a fluke, but it seems they\'re really on the upswing. June Jones will certainly have a few wrinkles in the game plan with so much time to prepare. Army will move the ball and will score some points, but when it comes down to it, they\'re inability to pass the ball effectively will hurt them vs. the Mustangs.\n<h3>12/30 - Pinstripe Bowl: Kansas St. vs. Syracuse</h3>\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3153\" title=\"bill-snyder-KSU\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/bill-snyder-KSU-e1292394624356.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"618\" />\nBill Snyder is letting Syracuse know, \"Oh yeah, we\'re coming to New York, and we\'re gonna put it down! Meet us at Yankee Stadium, Orangmen!\" How can you pick against Bill Snyder? I know I can\'t.\n<h3>12/30 - Music City Bowl: North Carolina vs. Tennessee</h3>\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3167\" title=\"TaurenPooleTennessee\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/TaurenPooleTennessee-e1292399099390.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"336\" />\nTo many Tar Heel fans, this will be the season that \"could have been.\" Broken rules + Player suspensions = Disappointing season. Tennessee, all things considered, had an amazing season--competing deep into games with some of the nation\'s most elite teams. I think Derek Dooley is going to do amazing things at UT! You hear that Colin Cowherd? Yeah, bro, I remember you dissing him earlier this season. He took Lane Kiffin\'s mess and is going to a bowl game...which the Volunteers will win.\n<h3>12/30 - Holiday Bowl: Nebraska vs. Washington</h3>\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3154\" title=\"jake-locker-Washington\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/jake-locker-Washington-e1292395215407.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"422\" />\nJake Locker might wish he had declared for the draft after last season. The Huskies just didn\'t offer much support to the talent under center. Locker will have his hands full vs. a well prepared Bo Pelini/Nebraska defense. I\'ll honestly be surprised if Washington scores more than 13 points in this game. If you haven\'t seen Nebraska play this year, have a look-see. Roy Helu Jr. and Taylor Martinez are an exciting offensive duo.\n<h3>12/31 - Meineke Car Care Bowl: South Florida vs. Clemson</h3>\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3155\" title=\"KyleParkerClemson\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/KyleParkerClemson-e1292395520539.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"334\" />\nI really don\'t have much to say about this one. It\'s not that I don\'t care, it\'s just that I don\'t care very much. Clemson put up yet another sub-par season, and the Bulls of South Florida are still trying to find their way under new leadership. Slight edge to the Tigers.\n<h3>12/31 - Sun Bowl: Notre Dame vs. Miami</h3>\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3157\" title=\"TommyReesNotreDame\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/TommyReesNotreDame-e1292395993738.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"398\" />\nThe season in South Bend was riddled with tragedy. Am I about to go out on a limb? I certainly am. Yes, I believe Notre Dame will win this bowl game, but I also believe that Notre Dame has turned the corner under Brian Kelly. Regardless of how I feel, Miami is the popular favorite, and favored by 3.5 where you can pay to play. I\'m a little shocked by the line, considering the firing of Randy Shannon. Can\'t really explain my confidence on this one, but I think the golden hats prevail.\n<h3>12/31 - Liberty Bowl: Georgia vs. UCF</h3>\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3158\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/AJ-GREEN-Georgia.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"375\" />\nA.J. Green watched the beginning of the season in street clothes. That was the difference in Georgia\'s season. This Georgia squad proved that they could compete with the best when they went to war with Auburn. They fought hard for their sixth win to enjoy this extra game. I believe they\'ll take full advantage of it vs. the UCF Golden Knights. If you like NFL talent, tune in to enjoy A.J. Green.\n<h3>12/31 - Chick-Fil-A Bowl: South Carolina vs. Florida State</h3>\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3160\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/marcus-lattimore-south-carolina-e1292396817797.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"347\" />\nWant to see the best Freshman running back in the nation? He wears #21 for the Gamecocks. South Carolina playing at their best takes it to Alabama. South Carolina missing the mark gets hammered by Auburn. When I say South Carolina, yes, I mean QB Stephen Garcia--it comes and goes with his play--when he plays within the system and minimizes his mistakes, he\'s dangerous. Not only that, he\'s surrounded by talent. RB Marcus Lattimore, WRs Alshon Jefferey and Tori Gurley: These three are Sunday players. I like the Gamecocks--I like Steve Spurrier over Jimbo Fisher.\n<h3>1/1 - TicketCity Bowl: Northwestern vs. Texas Tech</h3>\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3161\" title=\"TaylorPottsTexTech\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/TaylorPottsTexTech-e1292397203255.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"290\" />\nNorthwestern hasn\'t won a bowl game since the 1948 Rose Bowl. I don\'t think that streak is going to end vs. this Texas Tech team. Tommy Tuberville has quietly taken a messy situation in Lubbock, TX, and worked a few wonders. As much as I love NW coach Pat Fitzgerald\'s mojo, I think the Red Raiders will be slingin\' their guns in this battle.\n<h3>1/1 - Outback Bowl: Florida vs. Penn State</h3>\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3162\" title=\"urban-meyer\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/urban-meyer.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"333\" />\nFarewell, Urban. As an LSU fan, I\'m supposed to loathe you, but I don\'t. You\'re probably as confused as I am about your 2010 Gators squad. This Florida team just seemed unfocused, grossly lacking that on field leadership that Tim Tebow offered the previous four years. Making matters worse is Florida QB John Brantley who is considering a transfer after the season. If I could offer a bit of advice--just play one game at a time, young man, and stay where you are. What can <em>you</em> offer to the program? Where could <em>you</em> lead it? I foresee the squad focused for Urban\'s final game on the UF sidelines. Penn State will be no pushover, but they simply don\'t have the firepower to run with the Gators, even if both squads are firing on both cylinders.\n<h3>1/1 - Capital One Bowl: Alabama vs. Michigan State</h3>\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3163\" title=\"markingramAlabma\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/markingramAlabma-e1292398330265.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"525\" />\nHow did Alabama lose three games this season? I still believe they\'re the most talented team in the country. Rarely do a I look at a coach like Nick Saban and question personnel decisions, but I felt Mark Ingram was underutilized all season, considering the early season knee issue. Yes, I\'m an outsider--perhaps both Ingram and Trent Richardson are headed to the draft, in which case, I get it. I hope to see Ingram get 20+ carries in the Capital One Bowl. The Tide will roll in this match-up. Yeah, I\'m biased--I love the SEC, and can\'t stand the Big 10.\n<h3>1/1 - Gator Bowl: Mississippi State vs. Michigan</h3>\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3164\" title=\"Denard-Robinson-Michigan\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Denard-Robinson-Michigan-e1292398764413.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"333\" />\nIt\'s another SEC vs. Big 10 match-up. Hmmmm...wonder which way I\'m going? I do love watching Denard Robinson play, but after facing Cam Newton, Mississippi State will feel like they\'re playing against Newton\'s little brother. Mississippi State is a very good football team, and they\'ll come off the field with the hardware.\n<h3>1/1 - Rose Bowl: Wisconsin vs. TCU</h3>\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3168\" title=\"andy-dalton-TCU\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/andy-dalton-TCU-e1292399196883.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"343\" />\nIf the regular season was any indication, these two teams could merit an U/O of 100. I see a clash of the titans in the 2011 Rose Bowl game. I feel like TCU learned an incredible lesson in their loss to Boise State last bowl season--they haven\'t lost since, and they\'ve left nothing on the field since. I\'m taking the Horned Frogs over the Badgers, and to finish #2 in the final BCS standings.\n<h3>1/1 - Fiesta Bowl: UConn vs. Oklahoma</h3>\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3169\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/OU-DeMarco-Murray-e1292399981861.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"371\" />\nWorst bowl match-up ever? We\'ll see. This is definitive proof of the failure known as the BCS. Sure, the Fiesta Bowl has a tendency to turn Oklahoma into Choklahoma, but not with this squad, and not vs. UCONN. I pity the Huskies. I know they\'ll come to play, but I feel as if the OU Stoops crew will be looking to send a message to the BCS and their computers.\n<h3>1/3 - Orange Bowl: Stanford vs. Virginia Tech</h3>\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3170\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/AndrewLuckStanford-e1292400895341.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"333\" />\nThis match-up has the makings of a solid game. After their early season falter, Virginia Tech put together an impressive run--11 straight wins. Stanford\'s only loss was to Oregon, and it could easily be argued that the Cardinal (yes, Cardinal--color, not animal) weren\'t playing their best ball until late in the season. I\'d go so far as to say that they could beat Oregon if they played tomorrow. I like Jim Harbaugh\'s boys in this battle. If you tune in, be prepared for the ongoing booth dialog about Andrew Luck as an NFL prospect. I would suggest that the Jr. stick around, considering the NFL season in 2011-12 will probably be 9 games long, beginning in November.\n<h3>1/4 - Sugar Bowl: Ohio State vs. Arkansas</h3>\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3171\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/PryorOSU-e1292401173619.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"388\" />\nAnother Big 10/SEC match-up? Terrelle Pryor is an exciting athlete. Ryan Mallett is a better QB. Sorry OSU fans. I enjoy watching TP, but I don\'t think you realize what you\'re up against in Arkansas. The Hogs played with everyone in the SEC only losing to Alabama and Auburn--Alabama by 4, and Auburn in a shoot-out with a score grossly misrepresenting how close the contest actually was. I\'ll stick with the SEC in this one. I know--shocker.\n<h3>1/6 - GoDaddy.com Bowl: Middle Tennessee vs. Miami (OH)</h3>\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3172\" title=\"DwightDasherMTSU\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/DwightDasherMTSU-e1292401966658.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"333\" />\nPerhaps a slightly disappointing season for senior MTSU QB Dwight Dasher. The guy can make plays, but missing multiple games at the beginning of the season forced him to try and find mid-season form with no action under his belt. Things won\'t get easier for him vs. a Miami (OH) Redhawks squad that was on the verge of death a year ago. The \'hawks are flying high and should dictate all aspects of this match-up.\n<h3>1/7 - Cotton Bowl: LSU vs. Texas A&amp;M</h3>\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3173\" title=\"PatrickPetersonLSU\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/PatrickPetersonLSU-e1292402334317.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"281\" />\nI\'ll try to keep it short and sweet. A die hard Tiger fan, I\'m thoroughly excited for this match-up vs. Texas A&amp;M in Dallas. LSU has struggled offensively nearly all season long, simply due to inconsistent QB play. Running back Stevan Ridley may be one of the best kept secrets in the NCAA. The defense, led by DT Drake Nevis and CB Patrick Peterson are as close to an NFL style defense you\'ll see at the collegiate level. A&amp;M kicked their season up a notch by going to Frosh QB Ryan Tannehill early in the season--he became their difference maker. He saw some decent defenses in the Big 12, but he\'s never seen a defense with this speed and strength of this LSU squad--fully rested and ready to roll. If LSU QB Jordan Jefferson can begin to play to his potential, this could cap a nice season for the Bayou Bengals. I LOVE LSU in this one. You should love them, too.\n<h3>1/8 - BBVA Compass Bowl: Pittsburgh vs. Kentucky</h3>\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3174\" title=\"randall-cobb-Kentucky\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/randall-cobb-Kentucky-e1292402772920.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"361\" />\nYou heard about Kentucky QB Mike Hartline getting suspended, yes? This could actually be beneficial for the Cats, as they\'ll more than likely go to sophomore QB Morgan Newton. Perhaps Wildcats coach Joker Phillips may also show more wildcat looks with the best player you\'ve probably never heard of, Randall Cobb. The smart choice here is probably the Pitt Panthers, but I\'m going with Kentucky in Randall Cobb\'s final game in UK Blue. I\'m going SEC over an average team from a pretty weak Big East conference.\n<h3>1/9 - Kraft Fight Hunger Bowl: Nevada vs. Boston College</h3>\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3175\" title=\"KaepernickNevada\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/KaepernickNevada-e1292403317403.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"333\" />\nHow can you not love Colin Kaepernick? Nevada\'s pistol attack is absolutely deadly. When they get down, they can come back in a hurry. When they\'re up, they can bury a team just as quickly. Don\'t believe me? Just ask Boise State. The Boston College defense may be one of the better units Nevada has faced, excluding Boise State, yet I don\'t think the Eagles can handle the Wolf Pack attack for all four quarters. Sticking with Kaepernick, leading Nevada to the best season in school history!\n<h3>1/10 - BCS National Championship: Oregon vs. Auburn</h3>\n<object classid=\"clsid:d27cdb6e-ae6d-11cf-96b8-444553540000\" width=\"500\" height=\"385\" codebase=\"http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0\"><param name=\"allowFullScreen\" value=\"true\" /><param name=\"allowscriptaccess\" value=\"always\" /><param name=\"src\" value=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/iOi2hj_sjyY?fs=1&amp;hl=en_US\" /><param name=\"allowfullscreen\" value=\"true\" /><embed type=\"application/x-shockwave-flash\" width=\"500\" height=\"385\" src=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/iOi2hj_sjyY?fs=1&amp;hl=en_US\" allowscriptaccess=\"always\" allowfullscreen=\"true\"></embed></object>\n\nVS.\n\n<object classid=\"clsid:d27cdb6e-ae6d-11cf-96b8-444553540000\" width=\"500\" height=\"385\" codebase=\"http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0\"><param name=\"allowFullScreen\" value=\"true\" /><param name=\"allowscriptaccess\" value=\"always\" /><param name=\"src\" value=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/QehP9o5S3Hs?fs=1&amp;hl=en_US\" /><param name=\"allowfullscreen\" value=\"true\" /><embed type=\"application/x-shockwave-flash\" width=\"500\" height=\"385\" src=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/QehP9o5S3Hs?fs=1&amp;hl=en_US\" allowscriptaccess=\"always\" allowfullscreen=\"true\"></embed></object>\nCan Oregon possibly stop Auburn? Nope. I don\'t think there\'s any way that they can. If you haven\'t seen Cam Newton play this season, it seems that there is no known way to contain him for four quarters. Even when Alabama found a way to contain him for a couple of quarters, he just kept coming. Add to that fact a tremendous support cast who also keeps coming, and Oregon is probably shifting their mindset towards a shoot-out.\n\nCan Auburn slow or stop Oregon? Put it this way: Oregon will have to beat Auburn by putting the ball in the air. Auburn\'s weakness has been in the secondary, yet they\'re much improved. With five weeks to prepare for this game, they\'ll be even better. I just don\'t see Darron Thomas executing that kind of a passing attack. The Auburn defensive front, led by Nick Fairley, will wear on Oregon as the game goes on.\n\nI don\'t see this one playing close for very long. It\'s going to be incredibly interesting to see what happens if the Ducks get down early, playing from an unfamiliar position. For this game to go the distance, Oregon needs to run out front, and score a lot of points.\n\nI like Auburn, clearly. I think once the nervous energy subsides on both sidelines, and both teams get down to business, people will see that','College Bowl Preview ','','inherit','open','open','','3127-revision-16','','','2010-12-15 10:48:37','2010-12-15 18:48:37','',3127,'http://manjr.com/2010/uncategorized/3127-revision-16/',0,'revision','',0),(3180,2,'2010-12-15 11:09:36','2010-12-15 19:09:36','','AT-AT Toilet Drink','','inherit','open','open','','at-at-toilet-drink','','','2010-12-15 11:09:36','2010-12-15 19:09:36','',0,'http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/AT-AT-Toilet-Drink.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(3181,3,'2010-12-15 11:11:23','2010-12-15 19:11:23','<a href=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/AT-AT-Toilet-Drink.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-3180\" title=\"AT-AT Toilet Drink\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/AT-AT-Toilet-Drink.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"599\" height=\"435\" /></a>\r\n\r\nVia: <a href=\"http://i.imgur.com/HW2PD.jpg\" target=\"_blank\">Imgur</a>','AT-AT Toilet Drink','','publish','open','open','','at-at-toilet-drink','','','2010-12-15 11:11:23','2010-12-15 19:11:23','',0,'http://manjr.com/?p=3181',0,'post','',0),(3182,2,'2010-12-15 11:10:58','2010-12-15 19:10:58','<a href=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/AT-AT-Toilet-Drink.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-3180\" title=\"AT-AT Toilet Drink\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/AT-AT-Toilet-Drink.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"599\" height=\"435\" /></a>\n\nVia: Imgur','AT-AT Toilet Drink','','inherit','open','open','','3181-revision','','','2010-12-15 11:10:58','2010-12-15 19:10:58','',3181,'http://manjr.com/2010/uncategorized/3181-revision/',0,'revision','',0),(3183,2,'2010-12-15 11:12:27','2010-12-15 19:12:27','<a href=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/AT-AT-Toilet-Drink.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-3180\" title=\"AT-AT Toilet Drink\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/AT-AT-Toilet-Drink.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"599\" height=\"435\" /></a>\n\nVia: <a href=\"http://i.imgur.com/HW2PD.jpg\" target=\"_blank\">Imgur</a>','AT-AT Toilet Drink','','inherit','open','open','','3181-autosave','','','2010-12-15 11:12:27','2010-12-15 19:12:27','',3181,'http://manjr.com/2010/uncategorized/3181-autosave/',0,'revision','',0),(3184,7,'2010-12-15 10:50:01','2010-12-15 18:50:01','Outside the NFL playoffs, it may be the greatest multi-week sports season of the year--in fact it <em>is</em> the harbinger of the playoffs for the pros. It surrounds the Christmas and New Year holidays, and it even spurs annual debate by crowning a Champion without a playoff system. It\'s time to go bowling!\n\nUnlike many people who feel there are too many bowls, I don\'t care who the bowl sponsor is, or who\'s playing in it...I\'ll watch it and enjoy it. At first glance a couple weeks ago, the match-ups looked pretty uninteresting. After careful consideration, I\'ve found that there lies potential for some great football games.\n\nLet\'s break \'em down in play order:\n<h3>12/18 - New Mexico Bowl: BYU vs. UTEP</h3>\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3133\" title=\"UTEP\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/UTEP-e1292376625439.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"600\" />\nBYU is a pretty easy favorite in this match-up. UTEP QB Trevor Vittatoe is a difference maker, yet his ankle is busted up, and he\'s less than four days from having to put it to the test. If he\'s somehow able to play through the pain, the Miners could make it interesting.\n<h3>12/18 - Humanitarian Bowl: Northern Illinois vs. Fresno State</h3>\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3135\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Fresno.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"387\" />\nNorthern Illinois put up an impressive 10-3 season, losing a heart breaker in the MAC Championship. Now they\'re meeting a Fresno team led by veteran coach Pat Hill who has been given multiple weeks of preparation. This promises to be a battle, and picking either team would be a logical decision. The vast majority of the nation is going with the bulldogs, but I\'m taking the Huskies.\n<h3>12/18 - New Orleans Bowl: Ohio University vs. Troy</h3>\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3136\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Boo-Jackson-OhioU-e1292378277401.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"342\" />\nOhio QB, Franshaw \"Boo\" Jackson. He can be exciting when he\'s hitting on all cylinders, yet I was unimpressed with the MAC this season. I\'m going against the populous once again on this one, and sticking with the team from the south. I see another battle, and Troy coming out on top.\n<h3>12/21 - St. Petersburg Bowl: Southern Miss. vs. Louisville</h3>\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3137\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/SouthernMiss.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"368\" />\nDidn\'t ya hear? Brett Favre found a game of NCAA eligibility and is coming out of collegiate retirement. I just couldn\'t pass up the opportunity to use the image. Look at the young gun slinger... Call me insane, but I\'m going against the majority again with this pick. I feel like Louisville has the slight edge. It has the potential to be another close one.\n<h3>12/22 - Las Vegas Bowl: Utah vs. Boise State</h3>\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3138\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/KellenMooreBoise.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"312\" />\nAside from a couple missteps vs. TCU and Notre Dame, Utah put together an impressive season. They won close games down the stretch and earned this match-up vs. powerhouse, Boise State. The Broncos BCS dreams were crushed in the NCAA game of the year vs. Nevada, yet a week later they went back to work and took care of business. I have a feeling that Kellen Moore is going to go off in Vegas like a 21 year old with their multi-millionaire father\'s credit card. ...that Kellen Moore is going to go off in Vegas like a fat dude at the Circus Circus buffet. He may opt for both options. BSU is the team that I would never bet against. You shouldn\'t either.\n<h3>12/23 - Poinsettia Bowl: Navy vs. San Diego State</h3>\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3139\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Ricky-Dobbs-NAVY.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"310\" />\nNavy is impressive... but San Diego State is possibly the best 8-4 team in the country. They have played <em>everyone</em> close. Everyone. Their 4 losses were by a combined 15 points. I think the Navy option attack might give them headaches, and I\'m rolling with the Midshipmen...as of now. I reserve the right to change my mind due to the factual evidence listed above. It\'s worth noting, this is the final game for Navy QB Ricky Dobbs--the kid is a stud. He has always played well in big games, and probably loves the thought of being the underdog.\n<h3>12/24 - Hawai\'i Bowl: Hawaii vs. Tulsa</h3>\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3143\" title=\"Hawaii\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Hawaii-e1292390690856.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"331\" />\nHawaii at home? Check. Hawaii with a devastating passing attack? Check. Tulsa with a suspect secondary? Check. Tulsa with the ability to score a lot of points? Check. Could be a shoot out, but this one is going to the Warriors of Hawaii.\n<h3>12/26 - Little Caesars Bowl: FIU vs. Toledo</h3>\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3145\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/TimBeckmanToledo-e1292390916838.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"375\" />\nThese two teams. Geez. How many times did you see either of these teams play this year? Exactly. FIU is scary because they\'re a new program, and they just don\'t know better than to score 50 points in some games. Still, I\'m hitching my wagon to the Rockets of Toledo and the best coach you\'ve never heard of, Tim Beckman. Don\'t be surprised when Toledo is cracking the Top 25 in another few years...if they can keep Beckman around.\n<h3>12/27 - Independence Bowl: Air Force vs. Georgia Tech</h3>\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3146\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/JoshNesbittGeorgiaTech.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"312\" />\nThis battle has options. How\'s that for a play on words? GT QB Joshua Nesbitt is a guy with the potential to take over the field. It would be awesome to see him have the game of his life in the Independence Bowl. Even so, I don\'t know that the Yellow Jackets have the moxie to dogfight with the Falcons. I\'m going with the Academy.\n<h3>12/28 - Champs Sports Bowl: West Virginia vs. NC State</h3>\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3147\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/noel-devine-WV.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"333\" />\nThe Champs Sports Bowl will mark the end to the collegiate career of WV star running back, Noel Devine, and if he can rush for 114 yards in the contest, he\'ll go over 1,000 yards for his third consecutive season. QB Geno Smith has offered a stamp of legitimacy to his sophomore season, and I\'m excited to see him after multiple weeks of rest and preparation. If the Mountaineers come into the contest focused, which I believe they will, NC State will have their hands full--unfortunately, WVU has not played well in bowl games without a fella by the name of Pat White under center.\n<h3>12/28 - Insight Bowl: Missouri vs. Iowa</h3>\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3148\" title=\"Blaine-Gabbert-Missouri-Tigers\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Blaine-Gabbert-Missouri-Tigers-e1292392509939.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"280\" />\nMizzou flaked for two weeks this season. They sat in the drivers seat, took it to Oklahoma in convincing fashion, but couldn\'t get themselves up for the inevitable battles vs. Nebraska and the inferior Texas Tech. After getting the wheels back on track, they finished the season strong. Iowa\'s Ricky Stanzi is a joy to watch. 25 TDs to 4 INTs--flat out, impressive! He led the Hawkeyes to compete in every game, yet they dropped their final 3 only two weeks after knocking off #5 Michigan State. In this contest, Stanzi will be without a couple weapons who have been suspended for off-the-field issues. We\'ll see if the Hawkeyes can fill those gaps. In this border war on neutral ground, I gotta go with Missouri. MIZ-ZOU.\n<h3>12/29 - Military Bowl: East Carolina vs. Maryland</h3>\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3156\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Maryland-e1292395736293.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"359\" />\nNothing like two state schools battling in the Military Bowl. ECU started the season off well at 5-2, then dropped 4 of their last 5. QB Dominique Davis will have his hands full vs. Maryland, who is disciplined, talented and oft disrespected on both sides of the ball. I\'m going Terps all the way in this first ever meeting between these two teams.\n<h3>12/29 - Texas Bowl: Illinois vs. Baylor</h3>\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3150\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/robert-griffinBaylor-e1292393352278.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"583\" />\nDo yourself a favor and check out at least a visual snippet of this game. Baylor will play with the relative home field advantage, and will look to cap the season on a positive note after dropping their final three games. Baylor QB Robert Griffin III, and Illinois RB Mikel Leshoure are two to watch in this battle. I\'m going with the Baylor Bears in their first bowl appearance since 1994.\n<h3>12/29 - Alamo Bowl: Oklahoma State vs. Arizona</h3>\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3151\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/JustinBlackmonOSU-e1292393858530.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"303\" />\nTwo words. Justin Blackmon. The Arizona defensive game plan will be to shut this guy down. If I were Mike Gundy, and I were a man...who was forty...two... I would ensure that Blackmon receive 10 touches in this contest, even if they\'re triple teaming the guy--OSU has to get him the ball. Can you believe Dez Bryant and this dude played together? How\'d we miss that? Arizona can compete, and they can also fall flat in the second half of big games; however, you know the Stoops boys are sharing information on how to stop common foes. Regardless, this game belongs to the Cowboys.\n<h3>12/30 - Armed Forces Bowl: Army vs. SMU</h3>\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3152\" title=\"SMU\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/SMU.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"399\" />\nCan SMU stop Army\'s option attack? I believe that they can. It\'s so nice to see SMU back in the mix after years of football obscurity--I thought last season might have been a fluke, but it seems they\'re really on the upswing. June Jones will certainly have a few wrinkles in the game plan with so much time to prepare. Army will move the ball and will score some points, but when it comes down to it, they\'re inability to pass the ball effectively will hurt them vs. the Mustangs.\n<h3>12/30 - Pinstripe Bowl: Kansas St. vs. Syracuse</h3>\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3153\" title=\"bill-snyder-KSU\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/bill-snyder-KSU-e1292394624356.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"618\" />\nBill Snyder is letting Syracuse know, \"Oh yeah, we\'re coming to New York, and we\'re gonna put it down! Meet us at Yankee Stadium, Orangmen!\" How can you pick against Bill Snyder? I know I can\'t.\n<h3>12/30 - Music City Bowl: North Carolina vs. Tennessee</h3>\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3167\" title=\"TaurenPooleTennessee\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/TaurenPooleTennessee-e1292399099390.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"336\" />\nTo many Tar Heel fans, this will be the season that \"could have been.\" Broken rules + Player suspensions = Disappointing season. Tennessee, all things considered, had an amazing season--competing deep into games with some of the nation\'s most elite teams. I think Derek Dooley is going to do amazing things at UT! You hear that Colin Cowherd? Yeah, bro, I remember you dissing him earlier this season. He took Lane Kiffin\'s mess and is going to a bowl game...which the Volunteers will win.\n<h3>12/30 - Holiday Bowl: Nebraska vs. Washington</h3>\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3154\" title=\"jake-locker-Washington\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/jake-locker-Washington-e1292395215407.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"422\" />\nJake Locker might wish he had declared for the draft after last season. The Huskies just didn\'t offer much support to the talent under center. Locker will have his hands full vs. a well prepared Bo Pelini/Nebraska defense. I\'ll honestly be surprised if Washington scores more than 13 points in this game. If you haven\'t seen Nebraska play this year, have a look-see. Roy Helu Jr. and Taylor Martinez are an exciting offensive duo.\n<h3>12/31 - Meineke Car Care Bowl: South Florida vs. Clemson</h3>\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3155\" title=\"KyleParkerClemson\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/KyleParkerClemson-e1292395520539.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"334\" />\nI really don\'t have much to say about this one. It\'s not that I don\'t care, it\'s just that I don\'t care very much. Clemson put up yet another sub-par season, and the Bulls of South Florida are still trying to find their way under new leadership. Slight edge to the Tigers.\n<h3>12/31 - Sun Bowl: Notre Dame vs. Miami</h3>\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3157\" title=\"TommyReesNotreDame\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/TommyReesNotreDame-e1292395993738.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"398\" />\nThe season in South Bend was riddled with tragedy. Am I about to go out on a limb? I certainly am. Yes, I believe Notre Dame will win this bowl game, but I also believe that Notre Dame has turned the corner under Brian Kelly. Regardless of how I feel, Miami is the popular favorite, and favored by 3.5 where you can pay to play. I\'m a little shocked by the line, considering the firing of Randy Shannon. Can\'t really explain my confidence on this one, but I think the golden hats prevail.\n<h3>12/31 - Liberty Bowl: Georgia vs. UCF</h3>\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3158\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/AJ-GREEN-Georgia.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"375\" />\nA.J. Green watched the beginning of the season in street clothes. That was the difference in Georgia\'s season. This Georgia squad proved that they could compete with the best when they went to war with Auburn. They fought hard for their sixth win to enjoy this extra game. I believe they\'ll take full advantage of it vs. the UCF Golden Knights. If you like NFL talent, tune in to enjoy A.J. Green.\n<h3>12/31 - Chick-Fil-A Bowl: South Carolina vs. Florida State</h3>\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3160\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/marcus-lattimore-south-carolina-e1292396817797.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"347\" />\nWant to see the best Freshman running back in the nation? He wears #21 for the Gamecocks. South Carolina playing at their best takes it to Alabama. South Carolina missing the mark gets hammered by Auburn. When I say South Carolina, yes, I mean QB Stephen Garcia--it comes and goes with his play--when he plays within the system and minimizes his mistakes, he\'s dangerous. Not only that, he\'s surrounded by talent. RB Marcus Lattimore, WRs Alshon Jefferey and Tori Gurley: These three are Sunday players. I like the Gamecocks--I like Steve Spurrier over Jimbo Fisher.\n<h3>1/1 - TicketCity Bowl: Northwestern vs. Texas Tech</h3>\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3161\" title=\"TaylorPottsTexTech\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/TaylorPottsTexTech-e1292397203255.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"290\" />\nNorthwestern hasn\'t won a bowl game since the 1948 Rose Bowl. I don\'t think that streak is going to end vs. this Texas Tech team. Tommy Tuberville has quietly taken a messy situation in Lubbock, TX, and worked a few wonders. As much as I love NW coach Pat Fitzgerald\'s mojo, I think the Red Raiders will be slingin\' their guns in this battle.\n<h3>1/1 - Outback Bowl: Florida vs. Penn State</h3>\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3162\" title=\"urban-meyer\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/urban-meyer.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"333\" />\nFarewell, Urban. As an LSU fan, I\'m supposed to loathe you, but I don\'t. You\'re probably as confused as I am about your 2010 Gators squad. This Florida team just seemed unfocused, grossly lacking that on field leadership that Tim Tebow offered the previous four years. Making matters worse is Florida QB John Brantley who is considering a transfer after the season. If I could offer a bit of advice--just play one game at a time, young man, and stay where you are. What can <em>you</em> offer to the program? Where could <em>you</em> lead it? I foresee the squad focused for Urban\'s final game on the UF sidelines. Penn State will be no pushover, but they simply don\'t have the firepower to run with the Gators, even if both squads are firing on both cylinders.\n<h3>1/1 - Capital One Bowl: Alabama vs. Michigan State</h3>\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3163\" title=\"markingramAlabma\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/markingramAlabma-e1292398330265.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"525\" />\nHow did Alabama lose three games this season? I still believe they\'re the most talented team in the country. Rarely do a I look at a coach like Nick Saban and question personnel decisions, but I felt Mark Ingram was underutilized all season, considering the early season knee issue. Yes, I\'m an outsider--perhaps both Ingram and Trent Richardson are headed to the draft, in which case, I get it. I hope to see Ingram get 20+ carries in the Capital One Bowl. The Tide will roll in this match-up. Yeah, I\'m biased--I love the SEC, and can\'t stand the Big 10.\n<h3>1/1 - Gator Bowl: Mississippi State vs. Michigan</h3>\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3164\" title=\"Denard-Robinson-Michigan\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Denard-Robinson-Michigan-e1292398764413.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"333\" />\nIt\'s another SEC vs. Big 10 match-up. Hmmmm...wonder which way I\'m going? I do love watching Denard Robinson play, but after facing Cam Newton, Mississippi State will feel like they\'re playing against Newton\'s little brother. Mississippi State is a very good football team, and they\'ll come off the field with the hardware.\n<h3>1/1 - Rose Bowl: Wisconsin vs. TCU</h3>\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3168\" title=\"andy-dalton-TCU\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/andy-dalton-TCU-e1292399196883.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"343\" />\nIf the regular season was any indication, these two teams could merit an U/O of 100. I see a clash of the titans in the 2011 Rose Bowl game. I feel like TCU learned an incredible lesson in their loss to Boise State last bowl season--they haven\'t lost since, and they\'ve left nothing on the field since. I\'m taking the Horned Frogs over the Badgers, and to finish #2 in the final BCS standings.\n<h3>1/1 - Fiesta Bowl: UConn vs. Oklahoma</h3>\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3169\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/OU-DeMarco-Murray-e1292399981861.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"371\" />\nWorst bowl match-up ever? We\'ll see. This is definitive proof of the failure known as the BCS. Sure, the Fiesta Bowl has a tendency to turn Oklahoma into Choklahoma, but not with this squad, and not vs. UCONN. I pity the Huskies. I know they\'ll come to play, but I feel as if the OU Stoops crew will be looking to send a message to the BCS and their computers.\n<h3>1/3 - Orange Bowl: Stanford vs. Virginia Tech</h3>\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3170\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/AndrewLuckStanford-e1292400895341.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"333\" />\nThis match-up has the makings of a solid game. After their early season falter, Virginia Tech put together an impressive run--11 straight wins. Stanford\'s only loss was to Oregon, and it could easily be argued that the Cardinal (yes, Cardinal--color, not animal) weren\'t playing their best ball until late in the season. I\'d go so far as to say that they could beat Oregon if they played tomorrow. I like Jim Harbaugh\'s boys in this battle. If you tune in, be prepared for the ongoing booth dialog about Andrew Luck as an NFL prospect. I would suggest that the Jr. stick around, considering the NFL season in 2011-12 will probably be 9 games long, beginning in November.\n<h3>1/4 - Sugar Bowl: Ohio State vs. Arkansas</h3>\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3171\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/PryorOSU-e1292401173619.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"388\" />\nAnother Big 10/SEC match-up? Terrelle Pryor is an exciting athlete. Ryan Mallett is a better QB. Sorry OSU fans. I enjoy watching TP, but I don\'t think you realize what you\'re up against in Arkansas. The Hogs played with everyone in the SEC only losing to Alabama and Auburn--Alabama by 4, and Auburn in a shoot-out with a score grossly misrepresenting how close the contest actually was. I\'ll stick with the SEC in this one. I know--shocker.\n<h3>1/6 - GoDaddy.com Bowl: Middle Tennessee vs. Miami (OH)</h3>\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3172\" title=\"DwightDasherMTSU\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/DwightDasherMTSU-e1292401966658.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"333\" />\nPerhaps a slightly disappointing season for senior MTSU QB Dwight Dasher. The guy can make plays, but missing multiple games at the beginning of the season forced him to try and find mid-season form with no action under his belt. Things won\'t get easier for him vs. a Miami (OH) Redhawks squad that was on the verge of death a year ago. The \'hawks are flying high and should dictate all aspects of this match-up.\n<h3>1/7 - Cotton Bowl: LSU vs. Texas A&amp;M</h3>\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3173\" title=\"PatrickPetersonLSU\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/PatrickPetersonLSU-e1292402334317.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"281\" />\nI\'ll try to keep it short and sweet. A die hard Tiger fan, I\'m thoroughly excited for this match-up vs. Texas A&amp;M in Dallas. LSU has struggled offensively nearly all season long, simply due to inconsistent QB play. Running back Stevan Ridley may be one of the best kept secrets in the NCAA. The defense, led by DT Drake Nevis and CB Patrick Peterson are as close to an NFL style defense you\'ll see at the collegiate level. A&amp;M kicked their season up a notch by going to Frosh QB Ryan Tannehill early in the season--he became their difference maker. He saw some decent defenses in the Big 12, but he\'s never seen a defense with this speed and strength of this LSU squad--fully rested and ready to roll. If LSU QB Jordan Jefferson can begin to play to his potential, this could cap a nice season for the Bayou Bengals. I LOVE LSU in this one. You should love them, too.\n<h3>1/8 - BBVA Compass Bowl: Pittsburgh vs. Kentucky</h3>\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3174\" title=\"randall-cobb-Kentucky\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/randall-cobb-Kentucky-e1292402772920.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"361\" />\nYou heard about Kentucky QB Mike Hartline getting suspended, yes? This could actually be beneficial for the Cats, as they\'ll more than likely go to sophomore QB Morgan Newton. Perhaps Wildcats coach Joker Phillips may also show more wildcat looks with the best player you\'ve probably never heard of, Randall Cobb. The smart choice here is probably the Pitt Panthers, but I\'m going with Kentucky in Randall Cobb\'s final game in UK Blue. I\'m going SEC over an average team from a pretty weak Big East conference.\n<h3>1/9 - Kraft Fight Hunger Bowl: Nevada vs. Boston College</h3>\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3175\" title=\"KaepernickNevada\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/KaepernickNevada-e1292403317403.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"333\" />\nHow can you not love Colin Kaepernick? Nevada\'s pistol attack is absolutely deadly. When they get down, they can come back in a hurry. When they\'re up, they can bury a team just as quickly. Don\'t believe me? Just ask Boise State. The Boston College defense may be one of the better units Nevada has faced, excluding Boise State, yet I don\'t think the Eagles can handle the Wolf Pack attack for all four quarters. Sticking with Kaepernick, leading Nevada to the best season in school history!\n<h3>1/10 - BCS National Championship: Oregon vs. Auburn</h3>\n<object classid=\"clsid:d27cdb6e-ae6d-11cf-96b8-444553540000\" width=\"500\" height=\"385\" codebase=\"http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0\"><param name=\"allowFullScreen\" value=\"true\" /><param name=\"allowscriptaccess\" value=\"always\" /><param name=\"src\" value=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/iOi2hj_sjyY?fs=1&amp;hl=en_US\" /><param name=\"allowfullscreen\" value=\"true\" /><embed type=\"application/x-shockwave-flash\" width=\"500\" height=\"385\" src=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/iOi2hj_sjyY?fs=1&amp;hl=en_US\" allowscriptaccess=\"always\" allowfullscreen=\"true\"></embed></object>\n\nVS.\n\n<object classid=\"clsid:d27cdb6e-ae6d-11cf-96b8-444553540000\" width=\"500\" height=\"385\" codebase=\"http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0\"><param name=\"allowFullScreen\" value=\"true\" /><param name=\"allowscriptaccess\" value=\"always\" /><param name=\"src\" value=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/QehP9o5S3Hs?fs=1&amp;hl=en_US\" /><param name=\"allowfullscreen\" value=\"true\" /><embed type=\"application/x-shockwave-flash\" width=\"500\" height=\"385\" src=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/QehP9o5S3Hs?fs=1&amp;hl=en_US\" allowscriptaccess=\"always\" allowfullscreen=\"true\"></embed></object>\nCan Oregon possibly stop Auburn? Nope. I don\'t think there\'s any way that they can. If you haven\'t seen Cam Newton play this season, it seems that there is no known way to contain him for four quarters. Even when Alabama found a way to contain him for a couple of quarters, he just kept coming. Add to that fact a tremendous support cast who also keeps coming, and Oregon is probably shifting their mindset towards a shoot-out.\n\nCan Auburn slow or stop Oregon? Put it this way: Oregon will have to beat Auburn by putting the ball in the air. Auburn\'s weakness has been in the secondary, yet they\'re much improved. With five weeks to prepare for this game, they\'ll be even better. I just don\'t see Darron Thomas executing that kind of a passing attack. The Auburn defensive front, led by Nick Fairley, will wear on Oregon as the game goes on.\n\nI don\'t see this one playing close for very long. It\'s going to be incredibly interesting to see what happens if the Ducks get down early, playing from an unfamiliar position. For this game to go the distance, Oregon needs to run out front, and score a lot of points.\n\nI like Auburn, clearly. I think once the nervous energy subsides on both sidelines, and both teams get down to business, people will learn that Auburn is that team that simply can\'t be beaten.','College Bowl Preview ','','inherit','open','open','','3127-revision-17','','','2010-12-15 10:50:01','2010-12-15 18:50:01','',3127,'http://manjr.com/2010/uncategorized/3127-revision-17/',0,'revision','',0),(3185,2,'2010-12-15 11:54:49','2010-12-15 19:54:49','This game looks ridiculous. Can\'t wait to try it.\r\n\r\n<object classid=\"clsid:d27cdb6e-ae6d-11cf-96b8-444553540000\" width=\"560\" height=\"340\" codebase=\"http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0\"><param name=\"allowFullScreen\" value=\"true\" /><param name=\"allowscriptaccess\" value=\"always\" /><param name=\"src\" value=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/VT0c9cYgh0Y?fs=1&amp;hl=en_US&amp;rel=0\" /><param name=\"allowfullscreen\" value=\"true\" /><embed type=\"application/x-shockwave-flash\" width=\"560\" height=\"340\" src=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/VT0c9cYgh0Y?fs=1&amp;hl=en_US&amp;rel=0\" allowscriptaccess=\"always\" allowfullscreen=\"true\"></embed></object>','Test Drive Unlimited 2 - Audi Trailer','','publish','open','open','','test-drive-unlimited-2-audi-trailer','','','2010-12-15 11:54:49','2010-12-15 19:54:49','',0,'http://manjr.com/?p=3185',0,'post','',0),(3186,7,'2010-12-15 11:15:37','2010-12-15 19:15:37','Outside the NFL playoffs, it may be the greatest multi-week sports season of the year--in fact it <em>is</em> the harbinger of the playoffs for the pros. It surrounds the Christmas and New Year holidays, and it even spurs annual debate by crowning a Champion without a playoff system. It\'s time to go bowling!\r\n\r\nUnlike many people who feel there are too many bowls, I don\'t care who the bowl sponsor is, or who\'s playing in it...I\'ll watch it and enjoy it. At first glance a couple weeks ago, the match-ups looked pretty uninteresting. After careful consideration, I\'ve found that there lies potential for some great football games.\r\n\r\nLet\'s break \'em down in play order:\r\n<h3>12/18 - New Mexico Bowl: BYU vs. UTEP</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3133\" title=\"UTEP\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/UTEP-e1292376625439.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"600\" />\r\nBYU is a pretty easy favorite in this match-up. UTEP QB Trevor Vittatoe is a difference maker, yet his ankle is busted up, and he\'s less than four days from having to put it to the test. If he\'s somehow able to play through the pain, the Miners could make it interesting.\r\n<h3>12/18 - Humanitarian Bowl: Northern Illinois vs. Fresno State</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3135\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Fresno.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"387\" />\r\nNorthern Illinois put up an impressive 10-3 season, losing a heart breaker in the MAC Championship. Now they\'re meeting a Fresno team led by veteran coach Pat Hill who has been given multiple weeks of preparation. This promises to be a battle, and picking either team would be a logical decision. The vast majority of the nation is going with the bulldogs, but I\'m taking the Huskies.\r\n<h3>12/18 - New Orleans Bowl: Ohio University vs. Troy</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3136\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Boo-Jackson-OhioU-e1292378277401.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"342\" />\r\nOhio QB, Franshaw \"Boo\" Jackson. He can be exciting when he\'s hitting on all cylinders, yet I was unimpressed with the MAC this season. I\'m going against the populous once again on this one, and sticking with the team from the south. I see another battle, and Troy coming out on top.\r\n<h3>12/21 - St. Petersburg Bowl: Southern Miss. vs. Louisville</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3137\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/SouthernMiss.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"368\" />\r\nDidn\'t ya hear? Brett Favre found a game of NCAA eligibility and is coming out of collegiate retirement. I just couldn\'t pass up the opportunity to use the image. Look at the young gun slinger... Call me insane, but I\'m going against the majority again with this pick. I feel like Louisville has the slight edge. It has the potential to be another close one.\r\n<h3>12/22 - Las Vegas Bowl: Utah vs. Boise State</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3138\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/KellenMooreBoise.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"312\" />\r\nAside from a couple missteps vs. TCU and Notre Dame, Utah put together an impressive season. They won close games down the stretch and earned this match-up vs. powerhouse, Boise State. The Broncos BCS dreams were crushed in the NCAA game of the year vs. Nevada, yet a week later they went back to work and took care of business. I have a feeling that Kellen Moore is going to go off in Vegas like a 21 year old with their multi-millionaire father\'s credit card. ...that Kellen Moore is going to go off in Vegas like a fat dude at the Circus Circus buffet. He may opt for both options. BSU is the team that I would never bet against. You shouldn\'t either.\r\n<h3>12/23 - Poinsettia Bowl: Navy vs. San Diego State</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3139\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Ricky-Dobbs-NAVY.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"310\" />\r\nNavy is impressive... but San Diego State is possibly the best 8-4 team in the country. They have played <em>everyone</em> close. Everyone. Their 4 losses were by a combined 15 points. I think the Navy option attack might give them headaches, and I\'m rolling with the Midshipmen...as of now. I reserve the right to change my mind due to the factual evidence listed above. It\'s worth noting, this is the final game for Navy QB Ricky Dobbs--the kid is a stud. He has always played well in big games, and probably loves the thought of being the underdog.\r\n<h3>12/24 - Hawai\'i Bowl: Hawaii vs. Tulsa</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3143\" title=\"Hawaii\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Hawaii-e1292390690856.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"331\" />\r\nHawaii at home? Check. Hawaii with a devastating passing attack? Check. Tulsa with a suspect secondary? Check. Tulsa with the ability to score a lot of points? Check. Could be a shoot out, but this one is going to the Warriors of Hawaii.\r\n<h3>12/26 - Little Caesars Bowl: FIU vs. Toledo</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3145\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/TimBeckmanToledo-e1292390916838.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"375\" />\r\nThese two teams. Geez. How many times did you see either of these teams play this year? Exactly. FIU is scary because they\'re a new program, and they just don\'t know better than to score 50 points in some games. Still, I\'m hitching my wagon to the Rockets of Toledo and the best coach you\'ve never heard of, Tim Beckman. Don\'t be surprised when Toledo is cracking the Top 25 in another few years...if they can keep Beckman around.\r\n<h3>12/27 - Independence Bowl: Air Force vs. Georgia Tech</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3146\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/JoshNesbittGeorgiaTech.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"312\" />\r\nThis battle has options. How\'s that for a play on words? GT QB Joshua Nesbitt is a guy with the potential to take over the field. It would be awesome to see him have the game of his life in the Independence Bowl. Even so, I don\'t know that the Yellow Jackets have the moxie to dogfight with the Falcons. I\'m going with the Academy.\r\n<h3>12/28 - Champs Sports Bowl: West Virginia vs. NC State</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3147\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/noel-devine-WV.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"333\" />\r\nThe Champs Sports Bowl will mark the end to the collegiate career of WV star running back, Noel Devine, and if he can rush for 114 yards in the contest, he\'ll go over 1,000 yards for his third consecutive season. QB Geno Smith has offered a stamp of legitimacy to his sophomore season, and I\'m excited to see him after multiple weeks of rest and preparation. If the Mountaineers come into the contest focused, which I believe they will, NC State will have their hands full--unfortunately, WVU has not played well in bowl games without a fella by the name of Pat White under center.\r\n<h3>12/28 - Insight Bowl: Missouri vs. Iowa</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3148\" title=\"Blaine-Gabbert-Missouri-Tigers\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Blaine-Gabbert-Missouri-Tigers-e1292392509939.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"280\" />\r\nMizzou flaked for two weeks this season. They sat in the drivers seat, took it to Oklahoma in convincing fashion, but couldn\'t get themselves up for the inevitable battles vs. Nebraska and the inferior Texas Tech. After getting the wheels back on track, they finished the season strong. Iowa\'s Ricky Stanzi is a joy to watch. 25 TDs to 4 INTs--flat out, impressive! He led the Hawkeyes to compete in every game, yet they dropped their final 3 only two weeks after knocking off #5 Michigan State. In this contest, Stanzi will be without a couple weapons who have been suspended for off-the-field issues. We\'ll see if the Hawkeyes can fill those gaps. In this border war on neutral ground, I gotta go with Missouri. MIZ-ZOU.\r\n<h3>12/29 - Military Bowl: East Carolina vs. Maryland</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3156\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Maryland-e1292395736293.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"359\" />\r\nNothing like two state schools battling in the Military Bowl. ECU started the season off well at 5-2, then dropped 4 of their last 5. QB Dominique Davis will have his hands full vs. Maryland, who is disciplined, talented and oft disrespected on both sides of the ball. I\'m going Terps all the way in this first ever meeting between these two teams.\r\n<h3>12/29 - Texas Bowl: Illinois vs. Baylor</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3150\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/robert-griffinBaylor-e1292393352278.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"583\" />\r\nDo yourself a favor and check out at least a visual snippet of this game. Baylor will play with the relative home field advantage, and will look to cap the season on a positive note after dropping their final three games. Baylor QB Robert Griffin III, and Illinois RB Mikel Leshoure are two to watch in this battle. I\'m going with the Baylor Bears in their first bowl appearance since 1994.\r\n<h3>12/29 - Alamo Bowl: Oklahoma State vs. Arizona</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3151\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/JustinBlackmonOSU-e1292393858530.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"303\" />\r\nTwo words. Justin Blackmon. The Arizona defensive game plan will be to shut this guy down. If I were Mike Gundy, and I were a man...who was forty...two... I would ensure that Blackmon receive 10 touches in this contest, even if they\'re triple teaming the guy--OSU has to get him the ball. Can you believe Dez Bryant and this dude played together? How\'d we miss that? Arizona can compete, and they can also fall flat in the second half of big games; however, you know the Stoops boys are sharing information on how to stop common foes. Regardless, this game belongs to the Cowboys.\r\n<h3>12/30 - Armed Forces Bowl: Army vs. SMU</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3152\" title=\"SMU\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/SMU.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"399\" />\r\nCan SMU stop Army\'s option attack? I believe that they can. It\'s so nice to see SMU back in the mix after years of football obscurity--I thought last season might have been a fluke, but it seems they\'re really on the upswing. June Jones will certainly have a few wrinkles in the game plan with so much time to prepare. Army will move the ball and will score some points, but when it comes down to it, they\'re inability to pass the ball effectively will hurt them vs. the Mustangs.\r\n<h3>12/30 - Pinstripe Bowl: Kansas St. vs. Syracuse</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3153\" title=\"bill-snyder-KSU\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/bill-snyder-KSU-e1292394624356.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"618\" />\r\nBill Snyder is letting Syracuse know, \"Oh yeah, we\'re coming to New York, and we\'re gonna put it down! Meet us at Yankee Stadium, Orangmen!\" How can you pick against Bill Snyder? I know I can\'t.\r\n<h3>12/30 - Music City Bowl: North Carolina vs. Tennessee</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3167\" title=\"TaurenPooleTennessee\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/TaurenPooleTennessee-e1292399099390.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"336\" />\r\nTo many Tar Heel fans, this will be the season that \"could have been.\" Broken rules + Player suspensions = Disappointing season. Tennessee, all things considered, had an amazing season--competing deep into games with some of the nation\'s most elite teams. I think Derek Dooley is going to do amazing things at UT! You hear that Colin Cowherd? Yeah, bro, I remember you dissing him earlier this season. He took Lane Kiffin\'s mess and is going to a bowl game...which the Volunteers will win.\r\n<h3>12/30 - Holiday Bowl: Nebraska vs. Washington</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3154\" title=\"jake-locker-Washington\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/jake-locker-Washington-e1292395215407.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"422\" />\r\nJake Locker might wish he had declared for the draft after last season. The Huskies just didn\'t offer much support to the talent under center. Locker will have his hands full vs. a well prepared Bo Pelini/Nebraska defense. I\'ll honestly be surprised if Washington scores more than 13 points in this game. If you haven\'t seen Nebraska play this year, have a look-see. Roy Helu Jr. and Taylor Martinez are an exciting offensive duo.\r\n<h3>12/31 - Meineke Car Care Bowl: South Florida vs. Clemson</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3155\" title=\"KyleParkerClemson\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/KyleParkerClemson-e1292395520539.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"334\" />\r\nI really don\'t have much to say about this one. It\'s not that I don\'t care, it\'s just that I don\'t care very much. Clemson put up yet another sub-par season, and the Bulls of South Florida are still trying to find their way under new leadership. Slight edge to the Tigers.\r\n<h3>12/31 - Sun Bowl: Notre Dame vs. Miami</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3157\" title=\"TommyReesNotreDame\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/TommyReesNotreDame-e1292395993738.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"398\" />\r\nThe season in South Bend was riddled with tragedy. Am I about to go out on a limb? I certainly am. Yes, I believe Notre Dame will win this bowl game, but I also believe that Notre Dame has turned the corner under Brian Kelly. Regardless of how I feel, Miami is the popular favorite, and favored by 3.5 where you can pay to play. I\'m a little shocked by the line, considering the firing of Randy Shannon. Can\'t really explain my confidence on this one, but I think the golden hats prevail.\r\n<h3>12/31 - Liberty Bowl: Georgia vs. UCF</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3158\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/AJ-GREEN-Georgia.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"375\" />\r\nA.J. Green watched the beginning of the season in street clothes. That was the difference in Georgia\'s season. This Georgia squad proved that they could compete with the best when they went to war with Auburn. They fought hard for their sixth win to enjoy this extra game. I believe they\'ll take full advantage of it vs. the UCF Golden Knights. If you like NFL talent, tune in to enjoy A.J. Green.\r\n<h3>12/31 - Chick-Fil-A Bowl: South Carolina vs. Florida State</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3160\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/marcus-lattimore-south-carolina-e1292396817797.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"347\" />\r\nWant to see the best Freshman running back in the nation? He wears #21 for the Gamecocks. South Carolina playing at their best takes it to Alabama. South Carolina missing the mark gets hammered by Auburn. When I say South Carolina, yes, I mean QB Stephen Garcia--it comes and goes with his play--when he plays within the system and minimizes his mistakes, he\'s dangerous. Not only that, he\'s surrounded by talent. RB Marcus Lattimore, WRs Alshon Jefferey and Tori Gurley: These three are Sunday players. I like the Gamecocks--I like Steve Spurrier over Jimbo Fisher.\r\n<h3>1/1 - TicketCity Bowl: Northwestern vs. Texas Tech</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3161\" title=\"TaylorPottsTexTech\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/TaylorPottsTexTech-e1292397203255.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"290\" />\r\nNorthwestern hasn\'t won a bowl game since the 1948 Rose Bowl. I don\'t think that streak is going to end vs. this Texas Tech team. Tommy Tuberville has quietly taken a messy situation in Lubbock, TX, and worked a few wonders. As much as I love NW coach Pat Fitzgerald\'s mojo, I think the Red Raiders will be slingin\' their guns in this battle.\r\n<h3>1/1 - Outback Bowl: Florida vs. Penn State</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3162\" title=\"urban-meyer\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/urban-meyer.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"333\" />\r\nFarewell, Urban. As an LSU fan, I\'m supposed to loathe you, but I don\'t. You\'re probably as confused as I am about your 2010 Gators squad. This Florida team just seemed unfocused, grossly lacking that on field leadership that Tim Tebow offered the previous four years. Making matters worse is Florida QB John Brantley who is considering a transfer after the season. If I could offer a bit of advice--just play one game at a time, young man, and stay where you are. What can <em>you</em> offer to the program? Where could <em>you</em> lead it? I foresee the squad focused for Urban\'s final game on the UF sidelines. Penn State will be no pushover, but they simply don\'t have the firepower to run with the Gators, even if both squads are firing on both cylinders.\r\n<h3>1/1 - Capital One Bowl: Alabama vs. Michigan State</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3163\" title=\"markingramAlabma\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/markingramAlabma-e1292398330265.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"525\" />\r\nHow did Alabama lose three games this season? I still believe they\'re the most talented team in the country. Rarely do a I look at a coach like Nick Saban and question personnel decisions, but I felt Mark Ingram was underutilized all season, considering the early season knee issue. Yes, I\'m an outsider--perhaps both Ingram and Trent Richardson are headed to the draft, in which case, I get it. I hope to see Ingram get 20+ carries in the Capital One Bowl. The Tide will roll in this match-up. Yeah, I\'m biased--I love the SEC, and can\'t stand the Big 10.\r\n<h3>1/1 - Gator Bowl: Mississippi State vs. Michigan</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3164\" title=\"Denard-Robinson-Michigan\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Denard-Robinson-Michigan-e1292398764413.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"333\" />\r\nIt\'s another SEC vs. Big 10 match-up. Hmmmm...wonder which way I\'m going? I do love watching Denard Robinson play, but after facing Cam Newton, Mississippi State will feel like they\'re playing against Newton\'s little brother. Mississippi State is a very good football team, and they\'ll come off the field with the hardware.\r\n<h3>1/1 - Rose Bowl: Wisconsin vs. TCU</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3168\" title=\"andy-dalton-TCU\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/andy-dalton-TCU-e1292399196883.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"343\" />\r\nIf the regular season was any indication, these two teams could merit an U/O of 100. I see a clash of the titans in the 2011 Rose Bowl game. I feel like TCU learned an incredible lesson in their loss to Boise State last bowl season--they haven\'t lost since, and they\'ve left nothing on the field since. I\'m taking the Horned Frogs over the Badgers, and to finish #2 in the final BCS standings.\r\n<h3>1/1 - Fiesta Bowl: UConn vs. Oklahoma</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3169\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/OU-DeMarco-Murray-e1292399981861.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"371\" />\r\nWorst bowl match-up ever? We\'ll see. This is definitive proof of the failure known as the BCS. Sure, the Fiesta Bowl has a tendency to turn Oklahoma into Choklahoma, but not with this squad, and not vs. UCONN. I pity the Huskies. I know they\'ll come to play, but I feel as if the OU Stoops crew will be looking to send a message to the BCS and their computers.\r\n<h3>1/3 - Orange Bowl: Stanford vs. Virginia Tech</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3170\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/AndrewLuckStanford-e1292400895341.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"333\" />\r\nThis match-up has the makings of a solid game. After their early season falter, Virginia Tech put together an impressive run--11 straight wins. Stanford\'s only loss was to Oregon, and it could easily be argued that the Cardinal (yes, Cardinal--color, not animal) weren\'t playing their best ball until late in the season. I\'d go so far as to say that they could beat Oregon if they played tomorrow. I like Jim Harbaugh\'s boys in this battle. If you tune in, be prepared for the ongoing booth dialog about Andrew Luck as an NFL prospect. I would suggest that the Jr. stick around, considering the NFL season in 2011-12 will probably be 9 games long, beginning in November.\r\n<h3>1/4 - Sugar Bowl: Ohio State vs. Arkansas</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3171\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/PryorOSU-e1292401173619.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"388\" />\r\nAnother Big 10/SEC match-up? Terrelle Pryor is an exciting athlete. Ryan Mallett is a better QB. Sorry OSU fans. I enjoy watching TP, but I don\'t think you realize what you\'re up against in Arkansas. The Hogs played with everyone in the SEC only losing to Alabama and Auburn--Alabama by 4, and Auburn in a shoot-out with a score grossly misrepresenting how close the contest actually was. I\'ll stick with the SEC in this one. I know--shocker.\r\n<h3>1/6 - GoDaddy.com Bowl: Middle Tennessee vs. Miami (OH)</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3172\" title=\"DwightDasherMTSU\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/DwightDasherMTSU-e1292401966658.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"333\" />\r\nPerhaps a slightly disappointing season for senior MTSU QB Dwight Dasher. The guy can make plays, but missing multiple games at the beginning of the season forced him to try and find mid-season form with no action under his belt. Things won\'t get easier for him vs. a Miami (OH) Redhawks squad that was on the verge of death a year ago. The \'hawks are flying high and should dictate all aspects of this match-up.\r\n<h3>1/7 - Cotton Bowl: LSU vs. Texas A&amp;M</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3173\" title=\"PatrickPetersonLSU\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/PatrickPetersonLSU-e1292402334317.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"281\" />\r\nI\'ll try to keep it short and sweet. A die hard Tiger fan, I\'m thoroughly excited for this match-up vs. Texas A&amp;M in Dallas. LSU has struggled offensively nearly all season long, simply due to inconsistent QB play. Running back Stevan Ridley may be one of the best kept secrets in the NCAA. The defense, led by DT Drake Nevis and CB Patrick Peterson are as close to an NFL style defense you\'ll see at the collegiate level. A&amp;M kicked their season up a notch by going to Frosh QB Ryan Tannehill early in the season--he became their difference maker. He saw some decent defenses in the Big 12, but he\'s never seen a defense with this speed and strength of this LSU squad--fully rested and ready to roll. If LSU QB Jordan Jefferson can begin to play to his potential, this could cap a nice season for the Bayou Bengals. I LOVE LSU in this one. You should love them, too.\r\n<h3>1/8 - BBVA Compass Bowl: Pittsburgh vs. Kentucky</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3174\" title=\"randall-cobb-Kentucky\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/randall-cobb-Kentucky-e1292402772920.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"361\" />\r\nYou heard about Kentucky QB Mike Hartline getting suspended, yes? This could actually be beneficial for the Cats, as they\'ll more than likely go to sophomore QB Morgan Newton. Perhaps Wildcats coach Joker Phillips may also show more wildcat looks with the best player you\'ve probably never heard of, Randall Cobb. The smart choice here is probably the Pitt Panthers, but I\'m going with Kentucky in Randall Cobb\'s final game in UK Blue. I\'m going SEC over an average team from a pretty weak Big East conference.\r\n<h3>1/9 - Kraft Fight Hunger Bowl: Nevada vs. Boston College</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3175\" title=\"KaepernickNevada\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/KaepernickNevada-e1292403317403.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"333\" />\r\nHow can you not love Colin Kaepernick? Nevada\'s pistol attack is absolutely deadly. When they get down, they can come back in a hurry. When they\'re up, they can bury a team just as quickly. Don\'t believe me? Just ask Boise State. The Boston College defense may be one of the better units Nevada has faced, excluding Boise State, yet I don\'t think the Eagles can handle the Wolf Pack attack for all four quarters. Sticking with Kaepernick, leading Nevada to the best season in school history!\r\n<h3>1/10 - BCS National Championship: Oregon vs. Auburn</h3>\r\n<object classid=\"clsid:d27cdb6e-ae6d-11cf-96b8-444553540000\" width=\"500\" height=\"385\" codebase=\"http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0\"><param name=\"allowFullScreen\" value=\"true\" /><param name=\"allowscriptaccess\" value=\"always\" /><param name=\"src\" value=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/iOi2hj_sjyY?fs=1&amp;hl=en_US\" /><param name=\"allowfullscreen\" value=\"true\" /><embed type=\"application/x-shockwave-flash\" width=\"500\" height=\"385\" src=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/iOi2hj_sjyY?fs=1&amp;hl=en_US\" allowscriptaccess=\"always\" allowfullscreen=\"true\"></embed></object>\r\n\r\nVS.\r\n\r\n<object classid=\"clsid:d27cdb6e-ae6d-11cf-96b8-444553540000\" width=\"500\" height=\"385\" codebase=\"http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0\"><param name=\"allowFullScreen\" value=\"true\" /><param name=\"allowscriptaccess\" value=\"always\" /><param name=\"src\" value=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/QehP9o5S3Hs?fs=1&amp;hl=en_US\" /><param name=\"allowfullscreen\" value=\"true\" /><embed type=\"application/x-shockwave-flash\" width=\"500\" height=\"385\" src=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/QehP9o5S3Hs?fs=1&amp;hl=en_US\" allowscriptaccess=\"always\" allowfullscreen=\"true\"></embed></object>\r\nCan Oregon possibly stop Auburn? Nope. I don\'t think there\'s any way that they can. If you haven\'t seen Cam Newton play this season, it seems that there is no known way to contain him for four quarters. Even when Alabama found a way to contain him for a couple of quarters, he just kept coming. Add to that fact a tremendous support cast who also keeps coming, and Oregon is probably shifting their mindset towards a shoot-out.\r\n\r\nCan Auburn slow or stop Oregon? Put it this way: Oregon will have to beat Auburn by putting the ball in the air. Auburn\'s weakness has been in the secondary, yet they\'re much improved. With five weeks to prepare for this game, they\'ll be even better. I just don\'t see Darron Thomas executing that kind of a passing attack. The Auburn defensive front, led by Nick Fairley, will wear on Oregon as the game goes on.\r\n\r\nI don\'t see this one playing close for very long. It\'s going to be incredibly interesting to see what happens if the Ducks get down early, playing from an unfamiliar position. For this game to go the distance, Oregon needs to run out front, and score a lot of points.\r\n\r\nI like Auburn, clearly. I think once the nervous energy subsides on both sidelines, and both teams get down to business, people will learn that Auburn is that team that simply can\'t be beaten.','College Bowl Preview ','','inherit','open','open','','3127-revision-18','','','2010-12-15 11:15:37','2010-12-15 19:15:37','',3127,'http://manjr.com/2010/uncategorized/3127-revision-18/',0,'revision','',0),(3187,2,'2010-12-15 13:28:39','2010-12-15 21:28:39','Outside of the <a href=\"http://www.nfl.com/\" target=\"_blank\">NFL playoffs</a>, it may be the greatest multi-week sports season of the year--in fact it <em>is</em> the harbinger of the playoffs for the pros. It surrounds the Christmas and New Year holidays, and it even spurs annual debate through crowning a Champion without a playoff system. Oh yeah. It\'s time to go bowling!\n\nIf you feel there are too many bowl games, get over yourself! Why? Is it <em>too much</em> football for you? Are you paying taxes for these games? C\'mon! Get in the holiday spirit, Scrooge.\n\nI don\'t care who the bowl sponsor is, or who\'s playing in it...I\'ll watch it and enjoy it. At first glance a couple weeks ago, I thought the match-ups looked pretty uninteresting, yet after careful consideration, the potential for some great football games is undeniable.\n\nLet\'s break \'em down in play order:\n<h3>12/18 - New Mexico Bowl: BYU vs. UTEP</h3>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><img class=\"size-full wp-image-3133 aligncenter\" title=\"UTEP\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/UTEP-e1292376625439.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"600\" /></p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"></p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"></p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"></p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"></p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"></p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"></p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"></p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"></p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"></p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"></p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"></p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"></p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"></p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"></p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"></p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"></p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"></p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"></p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"></p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"></p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"></p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"></p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"></p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"></p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"></p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"></p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"></p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"></p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"></p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"></p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"></p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"></p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"></p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"></p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"></p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"></p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"></p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"></p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"></p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"></p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"></p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"></p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"></p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"></p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"></p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"></p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"></p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"></p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"></p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"></p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"></p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"></p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"></p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"></p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"></p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"></p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"></p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"></p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"></p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\">BYU is a pretty easy favorite in this match-up. UTEP QB Trevor Vittatoe is a difference maker, yet his ankle is busted up, and he\'s less than four days from having to put it to the test. If he\'s somehow able to play through the pain, the Miners could make it interesting.</p>\n\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\">12/18 - Humanitarian Bowl: Northern Illinois vs. Fresno State</h3>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><img class=\"size-full wp-image-3135 aligncenter\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Fresno.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"387\" /></p>\nNorthern Illinois put up an impressive 10-3 season, losing a heart breaker in the MAC Championship. Now they\'re meeting a Fresno team led by veteran coach Pat Hill who has been given multiple weeks of preparation. This promises to be a battle, and picking either team would be a logical decision. The vast majority of the nation is going with the bulldogs, but I\'m taking the Huskies.\n<h3>12/18 - New Orleans Bowl: Ohio University vs. Troy</h3>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><img class=\"size-full wp-image-3136 aligncenter\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Boo-Jackson-OhioU-e1292378277401.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"342\" /></p>\nOhio QB, Franshaw \"Boo\" Jackson. He can be exciting when he\'s hitting on all cylinders, yet I was unimpressed with the MAC this season. I\'m going against the populous once again on this one, and sticking with the team from the south. I see another battle, and Troy coming out on top.\n<h3>12/21 - St. Petersburg Bowl: Southern Miss. vs. Louisville</h3>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><img class=\"size-full wp-image-3137 aligncenter\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/SouthernMiss.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"368\" /></p>\nDidn\'t ya hear? Brett Favre found a game of NCAA eligibility and is coming out of collegiate retirement. I just couldn\'t pass up the opportunity to use the image. Look at the young gun slinger... Call me insane, but I\'m going against the majority again with this pick. I feel like Louisville has the slight edge. It has the potential to be another close one.\n<h3>12/22 - Las Vegas Bowl: Utah vs. Boise State</h3>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><img class=\"size-full wp-image-3138 aligncenter\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/KellenMooreBoise.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"312\" /></p>\nAside from a couple missteps vs. TCU and Notre Dame, Utah put together an impressive season. They won close games down the stretch and earned this match-up vs. powerhouse, Boise State. The Broncos BCS dreams were crushed in the NCAA game of the year vs. Nevada, yet a week later they went back to work and took care of business. I have a feeling that Kellen Moore is going to go off in Vegas like a 21 year old with their multi-millionaire father\'s credit card. ...that Kellen Moore is going to go off in Vegas like a fat dude at the <a href=\"http://www.circuscircus.com/dining/circus_buffet.aspx\" target=\"_blank\">Circus Circus buffet</a>. He may opt for both options--I know I would. BSU is the team that I would never bet against. You shouldn\'t either.\n<h3>12/23 - Poinsettia Bowl: Navy vs. San Diego State</h3>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><img class=\"size-full wp-image-3139 aligncenter\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Ricky-Dobbs-NAVY.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"310\" /></p>\nNavy is impressive... but San Diego State is possibly the best 8-4 team in the country. They have played <em>everyone</em> close. Everyone. Their 4 losses were by a combined 15 points. I think the Navy option attack might give them headaches, and I\'m rolling with the Midshipmen...as of now. I reserve the right to change my mind due to the factual evidence listed above. It\'s worth noting, this is the final game for Navy QB Ricky Dobbs--the kid is a stud. He has always played well in big games, and probably loves the thought of being the underdog.\n<h3>12/24 - Hawai\'i Bowl: Hawaii vs. Tulsa</h3>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><img class=\"size-full wp-image-3143 aligncenter\" title=\"Hawaii\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Hawaii-e1292390690856.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"331\" /></p>\nHawaii at home? Check. Hawaii with a devastating passing attack? Check. Tulsa with a suspect secondary? Check. Tulsa with the ability to score a lot of points? Check. Could be a shoot out, but this one is going to the Warriors of Hawaii.\n\n<!--more-->\n<h3>12/26 - Little Caesars Bowl: FIU vs. Toledo</h3>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><img class=\"size-full wp-image-3145 aligncenter\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/TimBeckmanToledo-e1292390916838.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"375\" /></p>\nThese two teams. Geez. How many times did you see either of these teams play this year? Exactly. FIU is scary because they\'re a new program, and they just don\'t know better than to score 50 points in some games. Still, I\'m hitching my wagon to the Rockets of Toledo and the best coach you\'ve never heard of, <a href=\"http://www.utrockets.com/ViewArticle.dbml?DB_OEM_ID=18000&amp;ATCLID=3691260\" target=\"_blank\">Tim Beckman</a>. Don\'t be surprised when Toledo is cracking the Top 25 in another few years...if they can keep Beckman around.\n<h3>12/27 - Independence Bowl: Air Force vs. Georgia Tech</h3>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><img class=\"size-full wp-image-3146 aligncenter\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/JoshNesbittGeorgiaTech.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"312\" /></p>\nThis battle has options. How\'s that for a play on words? GT QB Joshua Nesbitt is a guy with the potential to take over the field. It would be awesome to see him have the game of his life in the Independence Bowl. Even so, I don\'t know that the Yellow Jackets have the moxie to dogfight with the Air Force. I\'m going with the Falcons.\n<h3>12/28 - Champs Sports Bowl: West Virginia vs. NC State</h3>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><img class=\"size-full wp-image-3147 aligncenter\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/noel-devine-WV.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"333\" /></p>\nThe Champs Sports Bowl will mark the end to the collegiate career of WV star running back, Noel Devine, and if he can rush for 114 yards in the contest, he\'ll go over 1,000 yards for his third consecutive season. QB Geno Smith has offered a stamp of legitimacy to his sophomore season, and I\'m excited to see him after multiple weeks of rest and preparation. If the Mountaineers come into the contest focused, which I believe they will, NC State will have their hands full--unfortunately, WVU has not played well in bowl games without a fella by the name of Pat White under center.\n<h3>12/28 - Insight Bowl: Missouri vs. Iowa</h3>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><img class=\"size-full wp-image-3148 aligncenter\" title=\"Blaine-Gabbert-Missouri-Tigers\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Blaine-Gabbert-Missouri-Tigers-e1292392509939.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"280\" /></p>\nMizzou flaked for two weeks this season. They sat in the drivers seat, took it to Oklahoma in convincing fashion, but couldn\'t get themselves up for the inevitable battles vs. Nebraska and the inferior Texas Tech. After getting the wheels back on track, they finished the season strong. Iowa\'s Ricky Stanzi is a joy to watch. 25 TDs to 4 INTs in 2010--flat out, impressive! He led the Hawkeyes to compete in every game, yet they dropped their final 3 only two weeks after knocking off #5 Michigan State. In this contest, Stanzi will be without a couple weapons who have been suspended for off-the-field issues. We\'ll see if the Hawkeyes can fill those gaps. In this border war on neutral ground, I gotta go with Missouri. MIZ-ZOU.\n<h3>12/29 - Military Bowl: East Carolina vs. Maryland</h3>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><img class=\"size-full wp-image-3156 aligncenter\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Maryland-e1292395736293.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"359\" /></p>\nNothing like two state schools battling in the Military Bowl. ECU started the season off well at 5-2, then dropped 4 of their last 5. QB Dominique Davis will have his hands full vs. Maryland, who is disciplined, talented and oft disrespected on both sides of the ball. I\'m going Terps all the way in this first ever meeting between these two teams.\n<h3>12/29 - Texas Bowl: Illinois vs. Baylor</h3>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><img class=\"size-full wp-image-3150 aligncenter\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/robert-griffinBaylor-e1292393352278.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"583\" /></p>\nDo yourself a favor and check out at least a visual snippet of this game. Baylor will play with the relative home field advantage, and will look to cap the season on a positive note after dropping their final three games. Baylor QB <a href=\"http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UUDvLUqwF1I\" target=\"_blank\">Robert Griffin III</a>, and Illinois RB Mikel Leshoure are two to watch in this battle. I\'m going with the Baylor Bears in their first bowl appearance since 1994.\n<h3>12/29 - Alamo Bowl: Oklahoma State vs. Arizona</h3>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><img class=\"size-full wp-image-3151 aligncenter\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/JustinBlackmonOSU-e1292393858530.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"303\" /></p>\nTwo words. Justin Blackmon. The Arizona defensive game plan will be to shut this guy down. If I were Mike Gundy, and I were a man...who was forty...two... I would ensure that Blackmon receive 10 touches in this contest, even if they\'re triple teaming the guy--OSU has to get him the ball. Can you believe Dez Bryant and this dude played together? How\'d we miss that? Arizona can compete, and they can also fall flat in the second half of big games; however, you know the Stoops boys are sharing information on how to stop common foes. Regardless, this game belongs to the Cowboys.\n<h3>12/30 - Armed Forces Bowl: Army vs. SMU</h3>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><img class=\"size-full wp-image-3152 aligncenter\" title=\"SMU\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/SMU.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"399\" /></p>\nCan SMU stop Army\'s option attack? I believe that they can. It\'s so nice to see SMU back in the mix after years of football obscurity--I thought last season might have been a fluke, but it seems they\'re really on the upswing. June Jones will certainly have a few wrinkles in the game plan with so much time to prepare. Army will move the ball and will score some points, but when it comes down to it, they\'re inability to pass the ball effectively will hurt them vs. the Mustangs.\n<h3>12/30 - Pinstripe Bowl: Kansas St. vs. Syracuse</h3>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><img class=\"size-full wp-image-3153 aligncenter\" title=\"bill-snyder-KSU\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/bill-snyder-KSU-e1292394624356.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"618\" /></p>\nBill Snyder is letting Syracuse know, \"Oh yeah, we\'re coming to New York, and we\'re gonna put it down! Meet us at Yankee Stadium, Orangmen!\" How can you pick against Bill Snyder? I know I can\'t.\n<h3>12/30 - Music City Bowl: North Carolina vs. Tennessee</h3>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><img class=\"size-full wp-image-3167 aligncenter\" title=\"TaurenPooleTennessee\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/TaurenPooleTennessee-e1292399099390.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"336\" /></p>\nTo many Tar Heel fans, this will be the season that \"could have been.\" Broken rules + Player suspensions = Disappointing season. Tennessee, with all Kiffinesque things considered, had an amazing season--competing deep into games with some of the nation\'s most elite talent. I think Derek Dooley is going to do amazing things at UT! You hear that Colin Cowherd? Yeah, bro, I remember you dissing him earlier this season. He took Lane Kiffin\'s mess and is going to a bowl game...and the Volunteers will win.\n<h3>12/30 - Holiday Bowl: Nebraska vs. Washington</h3>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><img class=\"size-full wp-image-3154 aligncenter\" title=\"jake-locker-Washington\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/jake-locker-Washington-e1292395215407.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"422\" /></p>\nJake Locker might wish he had declared for the draft after last season. The Huskies just didn\'t offer much support to the talent under center. Locker will have his hands full vs. a well prepared Bo Pelini/Nebraska defense. I\'ll honestly be surprised if Washington scores more than 13 points in this game. If you haven\'t seen Nebraska play this year, have a look-see. Roy Helu Jr. and Taylor Martinez are an exciting offensive duo.\n<h3>12/31 - Meineke Car Care Bowl: South Florida vs. Clemson</h3>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><img class=\"size-full wp-image-3155 aligncenter\" title=\"KyleParkerClemson\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/KyleParkerClemson-e1292395520539.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"334\" /></p>\nI really don\'t have much to say about this one. It\'s not that I don\'t care, it\'s just that I don\'t care very much. Clemson put up yet another sub-par season, and the Bulls of South Florida are still trying to find their way under new leadership. Slight edge to the Tigers.\n<h3>12/31 - Sun Bowl: Notre Dame vs. Miami</h3>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><img class=\"size-full wp-image-3157 aligncenter\" title=\"TommyReesNotreDame\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/TommyReesNotreDame-e1292395993738.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"398\" /></p>\nThe season in South Bend was riddled with tragedy. Am I about to go out on a limb? I certainly am. Yes, I believe Notre Dame will win this bowl game, but I also believe that Notre Dame has turned the corner under Brian Kelly. Regardless of how I feel, Miami is the popular favorite, and is sitting at -3.5 where you can pay to play. I\'m a little shocked by the line, considering the firing of Randy Shannon. Can\'t really explain my confidence on this one, but I think the gold hats prevail.\n<h3>12/31 - Liberty Bowl: Georgia vs. UCF</h3>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><img class=\"size-full wp-image-3158 aligncenter\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/AJ-GREEN-Georgia.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"375\" /></p>\nA.J. Green watched the beginning of the season in street clothes. That was the difference in Georgia\'s season. This Georgia squad proved that they could compete with the best when they went to war with Auburn. They fought hard for their sixth win to enjoy this extra game. I believe they\'ll take full advantage of it vs. the UCF Golden Knights. If you like NFL talent, tune in to enjoy <a href=\"http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FKTm9oFWJNg\" target=\"_blank\">A.J. Green</a>.\n<h3>12/31 - Chick-Fil-A Bowl: South Carolina vs. Florida State</h3>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><img class=\"size-full wp-image-3160 aligncenter\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/marcus-lattimore-south-carolina-e1292396817797.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"347\" /></p>\nWant to see the best Freshman running back in the nation? He wears #21 for the Gamecocks. South Carolina playing at their best takes it to Alabama. South Carolina missing the mark gets hammered by Auburn. When I say South Carolina, yes, I mean QB Stephen Garcia--it comes and goes with his play--when he plays within the system and minimizes his mistakes, he\'s dangerous. Not only that, he\'s surrounded by talent. RB Marcus Lattimore, WRs Alshon Jefferey and Tori Gurley: These three are Sunday players. I like the Gamecocks--I like Steve Spurrier over Jimbo Fisher.\n<h3>1/1 - TicketCity Bowl: Northwestern vs. Texas Tech</h3>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><img class=\"size-full wp-image-3161 aligncenter\" title=\"TaylorPottsTexTech\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/TaylorPottsTexTech-e1292397203255.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"290\" /></p>\nNorthwestern hasn\'t won a bowl game since the 1948 Rose Bowl. I don\'t think that streak is going to end vs. this Texas Tech team. Tommy Tuberville has quietly taken a messy situation in Lubbock, TX, and worked a few wonders. As much as I love NW coach Pat Fitzgerald\'s mojo, I think the Red Raiders will be slingin\' their guns in this battle.\n<h3>1/1 - Outback Bowl: Florida vs. Penn State</h3>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><img class=\"size-full wp-image-3162 aligncenter\" title=\"urban-meyer\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/urban-meyer.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"333\" /></p>\nFarewell, Urban. As an LSU fan, I\'m supposed to loathe you, but I don\'t. You\'re probably as confused as I am about your 2010 Gators squad. This Florida team just seemed unfocused, grossly lacking that on field leadership that Tim Tebow offered the previous four years. Making matters worse is Florida QB John Brantley who is considering a transfer after the season. If I could offer a bit of advice--just play one game at a time, young man, and stay where you are. What can <em>you</em> offer to the program? Where could <em>you</em> lead it? I foresee the squad focused for Urban\'s final game on the UF sidelines. Penn State will be no pushover, but they simply don\'t have the firepower to run with the Gators, even if both squads are firing on both cylinders.\n<h3>1/1 - Capital One Bowl: Alabama vs. Michigan State</h3>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><img class=\"size-full wp-image-3163 aligncenter\" title=\"markingramAlabma\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/markingramAlabma-e1292398330265.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"525\" /></p>\nHow did Alabama lose three games this season? I still believe they\'re the most talented team in the country. Rarely do a I look at a coach like Nick Saban and question personnel decisions, but I felt Mark Ingram was underutilized all season, considering the early season knee issue. Yes, I\'m an outsider--perhaps both Ingram and Trent Richardson are headed to the draft, in which case, I get it. I hope to see Ingram get 20+ carries in the Capital One Bowl. The Tide will roll in this match-up. Yeah, I\'m biased--I love the SEC, and can\'t stand the Big 10.\n<h3>1/1 - Gator Bowl: Mississippi State vs. Michigan</h3>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><img class=\"size-full wp-image-3164 aligncenter\" title=\"Denard-Robinson-Michigan\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Denard-Robinson-Michigan-e1292398764413.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"333\" /></p>\nIt\'s another SEC vs. Big 10 match-up. Hmmmm...wonder which way I\'m going? I do love watching Denard Robinson play, but after facing Cam Newton, Mississippi State will feel like they\'re playing against Newton\'s little brother. Mississippi State is a very good football team, and they\'ll come off the field with the hardware.\n<h3>1/1 - Rose Bowl: Wisconsin vs. TCU</h3>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><img class=\"size-full wp-image-3168 aligncenter\" title=\"andy-dalton-TCU\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/andy-dalton-TCU-e1292399196883.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"343\" /></p>\nIf the regular season was any indication, these two teams could merit an U/O of 100. I see a clash of the titans in the 2011 Rose Bowl game. I feel like TCU learned an incredible lesson in their loss to Boise State last bowl season--they haven\'t lost since, and they\'ve left nothing on the field since. I\'m taking the Horned Frogs over the Badgers, and to finish #2 in the final BCS standings.\n<h3>1/1 - Fiesta Bowl: UConn vs. Oklahoma</h3>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><img class=\"size-full wp-image-3169 aligncenter\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/OU-DeMarco-Murray-e1292399981861.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"371\" /></p>\nWorst bowl match-up ever? We\'ll see. This is definitive proof of the failure that is the BCS. Sure, the Fiesta Bowl has a tendency to turn Oklahoma into Choklahoma, but not with this squad, and not vs. UCONN. I pity the Huskies. I know they\'ll come to play, but I feel as if the OU Stoops crew will be looking to send a message to the BCS and their computers.\n<h3>1/3 - Orange Bowl: Stanford vs. Virginia Tech</h3>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><img class=\"size-full wp-image-3170 aligncenter\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/AndrewLuckStanford-e1292400895341.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"333\" /></p>\nThis match-up has the makings of a solid game. After their early season falter, Virginia Tech put together an impressive run--11 straight wins. Stanford\'s only loss was to Oregon, and it could easily be argued that the Cardinal (yes, Cardinal--color, not animal) weren\'t playing their best ball until late in the season. I\'d go so far as to say that they could beat Oregon if they played tomorrow. I like Jim Harbaugh\'s boys in this battle. If you tune in, be prepared for the ongoing booth dialog about Andrew Luck as an NFL prospect. I would suggest that the Jr. stick around, considering the NFL season in 2011-12 will probably be 9 games long, beginning in November.\n<h3>1/4 - Sugar Bowl: Ohio State vs. Arkansas</h3>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><img class=\"size-full wp-image-3171 aligncenter\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/PryorOSU-e1292401173619.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"388\" /></p>\nAnother Big 10/SEC match-up? Terrelle Pryor is an exciting athlete. Ryan Mallett is a better QB. Sorry OSU fans. I enjoy watching TP, but I don\'t think you realize what you\'re up against in Arkansas. The <a href=\"http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oyY8oUXaTio\" target=\"_blank\">Hogs</a> played with everyone in the SEC only losing to Alabama and Auburn--Alabama by 4, and Auburn in a shoot-out with a score grossly misrepresenting how close the contest actually was. I\'ll stick with the SEC in this one. I know--shocker.\n<h3>1/6 - GoDaddy.com Bowl: Middle Tennessee vs. Miami (OH)</h3>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><img class=\"size-full wp-image-3172 aligncenter\" title=\"DwightDasherMTSU\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/DwightDasherMTSU-e1292401966658.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"333\" /></p>\nPerhaps a slightly disappointing season for senior MTSU QB Dwight Dasher. The guy can make plays, but missing multiple games at the beginning of the season forced him to try and find mid-season form with no action under his belt. Things won\'t get easier for him vs. a Miami (OH) Redhawks squad that was on the verge of death a year ago. The \'hawks are flying high and should dictate all aspects of this match-up.\n<h3>1/7 - Cotton Bowl: LSU vs. Texas A&amp;M</h3>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><img class=\"size-full wp-image-3173 aligncenter\" title=\"PatrickPetersonLSU\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/PatrickPetersonLSU-e1292402334317.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"281\" /></p>\nI\'ll try to keep it short and sweet. A die hard Tiger fan, I\'m thoroughly excited for this match-up vs. Texas A&amp;M in Dallas. LSU has struggled offensively nearly all season long, simply due to inconsistent QB play. Running back Stevan Ridley may be one of the best kept secrets in the NCAA. The defense, led by DT Drake Nevis and CB Patrick Peterson are as close to an NFL style defense you\'ll see at the collegiate level. A&amp;M kicked their season up a notch by going to Frosh QB Ryan Tannehill early in the season--he became their difference maker. He saw some decent defenses in the Big 12, but he\'s never seen a defense with this speed and strength of this LSU squad--fully rested and ready to roll. If LSU QB Jordan Jefferson can begin to play to his potential, this could cap a nice season for the Bayou Bengals. I LOVE LSU in this one. You should love them, too.\n<h3>1/8 - BBVA Compass Bowl: Pittsburgh vs. Kentucky</h3>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><img class=\"size-full wp-image-3174 aligncenter\" title=\"randall-cobb-Kentucky\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/randall-cobb-Kentucky-e1292402772920.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"361\" /></p>\nYou heard about Kentucky QB Mike Hartline getting suspended, yes? This could actually be beneficial for the Cats, as they\'ll more than likely go to sophomore QB Morgan Newton. Perhaps Wildcats coach Joker Phillips may also show more wildcat looks with the best player you\'ve probably never heard of, Randall Cobb. The smart choice here is probably the Pitt Panthers, but I\'m going with Kentucky in <a href=\"http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WhgaIWWh0QE\" target=\"_blank\">Randall Cobb</a>\'s final game in UK Blue--SEC over an average team from a pretty weak Big East conference.\n<h3>1/9 - Kraft Fight Hunger Bowl: Nevada vs. Boston College</h3>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><img class=\"size-full wp-image-3175 aligncenter\" title=\"KaepernickNevada\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/KaepernickNevada-e1292403317403.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"333\" /></p>\nHow can you not love Colin Kaepernick? Nevada\'s pistol attack is absolutely deadly. When they get down, they can come back in a hurry. When they\'re up, they can bury a team just as quickly. Don\'t believe me? Just ask Boise State. The Boston College defense may be one of the better units Nevada has faced, excluding Boise State, yet I don\'t think the Eagles can handle the Wolf Pack attack for all four quarters. Sticking with Kaepernick, leading Nevada to the best season in school history!\n<h3>1/10 - BCS National Championship: Oregon vs. Auburn</h3>\n<object classid=\"clsid:d27cdb6e-ae6d-11cf-96b8-444553540000\" width=\"500\" height=\"385\" codebase=\"http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0\"><param name=\"allowFullScreen\" value=\"true\" /><param name=\"allowscriptaccess\" value=\"always\" /><param name=\"src\" value=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/iOi2hj_sjyY?fs=1&amp;hl=en_US\" /><param name=\"allowfullscreen\" value=\"true\" /><embed type=\"application/x-shockwave-flash\" width=\"500\" height=\"385\" src=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/iOi2hj_sjyY?fs=1&amp;hl=en_US\" allowscriptaccess=\"always\" allowfullscreen=\"true\"> </embed></object>\n\nVS.\n\n<object classid=\"clsid:d27cdb6e-ae6d-11cf-96b8-444553540000\" width=\"500\" height=\"385\" codebase=\"http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0\"><param name=\"allowFullScreen\" value=\"true\" /><param name=\"allowscriptaccess\" value=\"always\" /><param name=\"src\" value=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/QehP9o5S3Hs?fs=1&amp;hl=en_US\" /><param name=\"allowfullscreen\" value=\"true\" /><embed type=\"application/x-shockwave-flash\" width=\"500\" height=\"385\" src=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/QehP9o5S3Hs?fs=1&amp;hl=en_US\" allowscriptaccess=\"always\" allowfullscreen=\"true\"> </embed></object>\nCan Oregon possibly stop Auburn? I don\'t think so. I don\'t think there\'s any way that they can stop all facets of Auburn\'s offensive attack, led by Heisman award winner, Cameron Newton. If you haven\'t seen Cam Newton play this season, you\'ll have to take my word. My opinion on this matter is worthy of the pundit stamp.\n\nThere is no <em>known</em> way to contain him for four quarters. Even when Alabama found a way to contain him for a couple of quarters, he just kept coming. Add to that fact a tremendous supporting cast who also just keeps coming, and Oregon is probably shifting their mindset towards a shoot-out.\n\nCan Auburn slow or stop Oregon? I believe Auburn can, and will. Put it this way: Oregon will have to beat Auburn by putting the ball in the air. Auburn\'s weakness has been in the secondary, yet they\'re much improved. With five weeks to prepare for this game, they\'ll be even better. I just don\'t see Darron Thomas executing that kind of a passing attack.\n\nI foresee the Auburn defensive game plan focused on stopping LaMichael James. The Auburn defensive front, led by Nick Fairley, will wear on Oregon as the game goes on, and they\'ll get to Thomas. The difference may be in what Thomas can offer once a play begins to break down.\n\nI don\'t see this one playing close for very long. It\'s going to be incredibly interesting to see what happens if the Ducks get down early, playing from an unfamiliar position. For this game to go the distance, Oregon needs to run out front, and score a lot of points.\n\nI like Auburn--clearly. I think once the nervous energy subsides on both sidelines, and both teams get down to business, the contest will end with Auburn raising the Waterford Crystal, BCS Coaches Trophy. Every Auburn fan who booed the hiring of Gene Chizik will happily eat some crow...and it\'ll taste sooo good.','2010 College Bowl Preview ','','inherit','open','open','','3127-autosave','','','2010-12-15 13:28:39','2010-12-15 21:28:39','',3127,'http://manjr.com/2010/uncategorized/3127-autosave/',0,'revision','',0),(3189,2,'2010-12-15 11:45:06','2010-12-15 19:45:06','This game looks ridiculous. Can\'t wait to try it\n\n<object classid=\"clsid:d27cdb6e-ae6d-11cf-96b8-444553540000\" width=\"560\" height=\"340\" codebase=\"http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0\"><param name=\"allowFullScreen\" value=\"true\" /><param name=\"allowscriptaccess\" value=\"always\" /><param name=\"src\" value=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/VT0c9cYgh0Y?fs=1&amp;hl=en_US&amp;rel=0\" /><param name=\"allowfullscreen\" value=\"true\" /><embed type=\"application/x-shockwave-flash\" width=\"560\" height=\"340\" src=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/VT0c9cYgh0Y?fs=1&amp;hl=en_US&amp;rel=0\" allowscriptaccess=\"always\" allowfullscreen=\"true\"></embed></object>','Test Drive Unlimited 2 - Audi Trailer','','inherit','open','open','','3185-revision','','','2010-12-15 11:45:06','2010-12-15 19:45:06','',3185,'http://manjr.com/2010/uncategorized/3185-revision/',0,'revision','',0),(3188,7,'2010-12-15 11:50:02','2010-12-15 19:50:02','Outside the <a href=\"http://www.nfl.com/\" target=\"_blank\">NFL playoffs</a>, it may be the greatest multi-week sports season of the year--in fact it <em>is</em> the harbinger of the playoffs for the pros. It surrounds the Christmas and New Year holidays, and it even spurs annual debate by crowning a Champion without a playoff system. Oh yeah. It\'s time to go bowling!\r\n\r\nIf you feel there are too many bowl games, get over yourself! Why? Is it <em>too much</em> football? Are you paying taxes for these games? C\'mon. I don\'t care who the bowl sponsor is, or who\'s playing in it...I\'ll watch it and enjoy it. At first glance a couple weeks ago, I thought the match-ups looked pretty uninteresting, yet after careful consideration, the potential for some great football games is undeniable.\r\n\r\nLet\'s break \'em down in play order:\r\n<h3>12/18 - New Mexico Bowl: BYU vs. UTEP</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3133\" title=\"UTEP\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/UTEP-e1292376625439.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"600\" />\r\nBYU is a pretty easy favorite in this match-up. UTEP QB Trevor Vittatoe is a difference maker, yet his ankle is busted up, and he\'s less than four days from having to put it to the test. If he\'s somehow able to play through the pain, the Miners could make it interesting.\r\n<h3>12/18 - Humanitarian Bowl: Northern Illinois vs. Fresno State</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3135\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Fresno.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"387\" />\r\nNorthern Illinois put up an impressive 10-3 season, losing a heart breaker in the MAC Championship. Now they\'re meeting a Fresno team led by veteran coach Pat Hill who has been given multiple weeks of preparation. This promises to be a battle, and picking either team would be a logical decision. The vast majority of the nation is going with the bulldogs, but I\'m taking the Huskies.\r\n<h3>12/18 - New Orleans Bowl: Ohio University vs. Troy</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3136\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Boo-Jackson-OhioU-e1292378277401.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"342\" />\r\nOhio QB, Franshaw \"Boo\" Jackson. He can be exciting when he\'s hitting on all cylinders, yet I was unimpressed with the MAC this season. I\'m going against the populous once again on this one, and sticking with the team from the south. I see another battle, and Troy coming out on top.\r\n<h3>12/21 - St. Petersburg Bowl: Southern Miss. vs. Louisville</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3137\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/SouthernMiss.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"368\" />\r\nDidn\'t ya hear? Brett Favre found a game of NCAA eligibility and is coming out of collegiate retirement. I just couldn\'t pass up the opportunity to use the image. Look at the young gun slinger... Call me insane, but I\'m going against the majority again with this pick. I feel like Louisville has the slight edge. It has the potential to be another close one.\r\n<h3>12/22 - Las Vegas Bowl: Utah vs. Boise State</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3138\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/KellenMooreBoise.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"312\" />\r\nAside from a couple missteps vs. TCU and Notre Dame, Utah put together an impressive season. They won close games down the stretch and earned this match-up vs. powerhouse, Boise State. The Broncos BCS dreams were crushed in the NCAA game of the year vs. Nevada, yet a week later they went back to work and took care of business. I have a feeling that Kellen Moore is going to go off in Vegas like a 21 year old with their multi-millionaire father\'s credit card. ...that Kellen Moore is going to go off in Vegas like a fat dude at the <a href=\"http://www.circuscircus.com/dining/circus_buffet.aspx\" target=\"_blank\">Circus Circus buffet</a>. He may opt for both options--I know I would. BSU is the team that I would never bet against. You shouldn\'t either.\r\n<h3>12/23 - Poinsettia Bowl: Navy vs. San Diego State</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3139\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Ricky-Dobbs-NAVY.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"310\" />\r\nNavy is impressive... but San Diego State is possibly the best 8-4 team in the country. They have played <em>everyone</em> close. Everyone. Their 4 losses were by a combined 15 points. I think the Navy option attack might give them headaches, and I\'m rolling with the Midshipmen...as of now. I reserve the right to change my mind due to the factual evidence listed above. It\'s worth noting, this is the final game for Navy QB Ricky Dobbs--the kid is a stud. He has always played well in big games, and probably loves the thought of being the underdog.\r\n<h3>12/24 - Hawai\'i Bowl: Hawaii vs. Tulsa</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3143\" title=\"Hawaii\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Hawaii-e1292390690856.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"331\" />\r\nHawaii at home? Check. Hawaii with a devastating passing attack? Check. Tulsa with a suspect secondary? Check. Tulsa with the ability to score a lot of points? Check. Could be a shoot out, but this one is going to the Warriors of Hawaii.\r\n<h3>12/26 - Little Caesars Bowl: FIU vs. Toledo</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3145\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/TimBeckmanToledo-e1292390916838.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"375\" />\r\nThese two teams. Geez. How many times did you see either of these teams play this year? Exactly. FIU is scary because they\'re a new program, and they just don\'t know better than to score 50 points in some games. Still, I\'m hitching my wagon to the Rockets of Toledo and the best coach you\'ve never heard of, <a href=\"http://www.utrockets.com/ViewArticle.dbml?DB_OEM_ID=18000&amp;ATCLID=3691260\" target=\"_blank\">Tim Beckman</a>. Don\'t be surprised when Toledo is cracking the Top 25 in another few years...if they can keep Beckman around.\r\n<h3>12/27 - Independence Bowl: Air Force vs. Georgia Tech</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3146\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/JoshNesbittGeorgiaTech.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"312\" />\r\nThis battle has options. How\'s that for a play on words? GT QB Joshua Nesbitt is a guy with the potential to take over the field. It would be awesome to see him have the game of his life in the Independence Bowl. Even so, I don\'t know that the Yellow Jackets have the moxie to dogfight with the Air Force. I\'m going with the Falcons.\r\n<h3>12/28 - Champs Sports Bowl: West Virginia vs. NC State</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3147\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/noel-devine-WV.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"333\" />\r\nThe Champs Sports Bowl will mark the end to the collegiate career of WV star running back, Noel Devine, and if he can rush for 114 yards in the contest, he\'ll go over 1,000 yards for his third consecutive season. QB Geno Smith has offered a stamp of legitimacy to his sophomore season, and I\'m excited to see him after multiple weeks of rest and preparation. If the Mountaineers come into the contest focused, which I believe they will, NC State will have their hands full--unfortunately, WVU has not played well in bowl games without a fella by the name of Pat White under center.\r\n<h3>12/28 - Insight Bowl: Missouri vs. Iowa</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3148\" title=\"Blaine-Gabbert-Missouri-Tigers\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Blaine-Gabbert-Missouri-Tigers-e1292392509939.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"280\" />\r\nMizzou flaked for two weeks this season. They sat in the drivers seat, took it to Oklahoma in convincing fashion, but couldn\'t get themselves up for the inevitable battles vs. Nebraska and the inferior Texas Tech. After getting the wheels back on track, they finished the season strong. Iowa\'s Ricky Stanzi is a joy to watch. 25 TDs to 4 INTs in 2010--flat out, impressive! He led the Hawkeyes to compete in every game, yet they dropped their final 3 only two weeks after knocking off #5 Michigan State. In this contest, Stanzi will be without a couple weapons who have been suspended for off-the-field issues. We\'ll see if the Hawkeyes can fill those gaps. In this border war on neutral ground, I gotta go with Missouri. MIZ-ZOU.\r\n<h3>12/29 - Military Bowl: East Carolina vs. Maryland</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3156\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Maryland-e1292395736293.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"359\" />\r\nNothing like two state schools battling in the Military Bowl. ECU started the season off well at 5-2, then dropped 4 of their last 5. QB Dominique Davis will have his hands full vs. Maryland, who is disciplined, talented and oft disrespected on both sides of the ball. I\'m going Terps all the way in this first ever meeting between these two teams.\r\n<h3>12/29 - Texas Bowl: Illinois vs. Baylor</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3150\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/robert-griffinBaylor-e1292393352278.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"583\" />\r\nDo yourself a favor and check out at least a visual snippet of this game. Baylor will play with the relative home field advantage, and will look to cap the season on a positive note after dropping their final three games. Baylor QB <a href=\"http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UUDvLUqwF1I\" target=\"_blank\">Robert Griffin III</a>, and Illinois RB Mikel Leshoure are two to watch in this battle. I\'m going with the Baylor Bears in their first bowl appearance since 1994.\r\n<h3>12/29 - Alamo Bowl: Oklahoma State vs. Arizona</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3151\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/JustinBlackmonOSU-e1292393858530.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"303\" />\r\nTwo words. Justin Blackmon. The Arizona defensive game plan will be to shut this guy down. If I were Mike Gundy, and I were a man...who was forty...two... I would ensure that Blackmon receive 10 touches in this contest, even if they\'re triple teaming the guy--OSU has to get him the ball. Can you believe Dez Bryant and this dude played together? How\'d we miss that? Arizona can compete, and they can also fall flat in the second half of big games; however, you know the Stoops boys are sharing information on how to stop common foes. Regardless, this game belongs to the Cowboys.\r\n<h3>12/30 - Armed Forces Bowl: Army vs. SMU</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3152\" title=\"SMU\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/SMU.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"399\" />\r\nCan SMU stop Army\'s option attack? I believe that they can. It\'s so nice to see SMU back in the mix after years of football obscurity--I thought last season might have been a fluke, but it seems they\'re really on the upswing. June Jones will certainly have a few wrinkles in the game plan with so much time to prepare. Army will move the ball and will score some points, but when it comes down to it, they\'re inability to pass the ball effectively will hurt them vs. the Mustangs.\r\n<h3>12/30 - Pinstripe Bowl: Kansas St. vs. Syracuse</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3153\" title=\"bill-snyder-KSU\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/bill-snyder-KSU-e1292394624356.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"618\" />\r\nBill Snyder is letting Syracuse know, \"Oh yeah, we\'re coming to New York, and we\'re gonna put it down! Meet us at Yankee Stadium, Orangmen!\" How can you pick against Bill Snyder? I know I can\'t.\r\n<h3>12/30 - Music City Bowl: North Carolina vs. Tennessee</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3167\" title=\"TaurenPooleTennessee\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/TaurenPooleTennessee-e1292399099390.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"336\" />\r\nTo many Tar Heel fans, this will be the season that \"could have been.\" Broken rules + Player suspensions = Disappointing season. Tennessee, with all Kiffinesque things considered, had an amazing season--competing deep into games with some of the nation\'s most elite talent. I think Derek Dooley is going to do amazing things at UT! You hear that Colin Cowherd? Yeah, bro, I remember you dissing him earlier this season. He took Lane Kiffin\'s mess and is going to a bowl game...and the Volunteers will win.\r\n<h3>12/30 - Holiday Bowl: Nebraska vs. Washington</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3154\" title=\"jake-locker-Washington\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/jake-locker-Washington-e1292395215407.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"422\" />\r\nJake Locker might wish he had declared for the draft after last season. The Huskies just didn\'t offer much support to the talent under center. Locker will have his hands full vs. a well prepared Bo Pelini/Nebraska defense. I\'ll honestly be surprised if Washington scores more than 13 points in this game. If you haven\'t seen Nebraska play this year, have a look-see. Roy Helu Jr. and Taylor Martinez are an exciting offensive duo.\r\n<h3>12/31 - Meineke Car Care Bowl: South Florida vs. Clemson</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3155\" title=\"KyleParkerClemson\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/KyleParkerClemson-e1292395520539.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"334\" />\r\nI really don\'t have much to say about this one. It\'s not that I don\'t care, it\'s just that I don\'t care very much. Clemson put up yet another sub-par season, and the Bulls of South Florida are still trying to find their way under new leadership. Slight edge to the Tigers.\r\n<h3>12/31 - Sun Bowl: Notre Dame vs. Miami</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3157\" title=\"TommyReesNotreDame\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/TommyReesNotreDame-e1292395993738.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"398\" />\r\nThe season in South Bend was riddled with tragedy. Am I about to go out on a limb? I certainly am. Yes, I believe Notre Dame will win this bowl game, but I also believe that Notre Dame has turned the corner under Brian Kelly. Regardless of how I feel, Miami is the popular favorite, and is sitting at -3.5 where you can pay to play. I\'m a little shocked by the line, considering the firing of Randy Shannon. Can\'t really explain my confidence on this one, but I think the gold hats prevail.\r\n<h3>12/31 - Liberty Bowl: Georgia vs. UCF</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3158\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/AJ-GREEN-Georgia.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"375\" />\r\nA.J. Green watched the beginning of the season in street clothes. That was the difference in Georgia\'s season. This Georgia squad proved that they could compete with the best when they went to war with Auburn. They fought hard for their sixth win to enjoy this extra game. I believe they\'ll take full advantage of it vs. the UCF Golden Knights. If you like NFL talent, tune in to enjoy <a href=\"http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FKTm9oFWJNg\" target=\"_blank\">A.J. Green</a>.\r\n<h3>12/31 - Chick-Fil-A Bowl: South Carolina vs. Florida State</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3160\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/marcus-lattimore-south-carolina-e1292396817797.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"347\" />\r\nWant to see the best Freshman running back in the nation? He wears #21 for the Gamecocks. South Carolina playing at their best takes it to Alabama. South Carolina missing the mark gets hammered by Auburn. When I say South Carolina, yes, I mean QB Stephen Garcia--it comes and goes with his play--when he plays within the system and minimizes his mistakes, he\'s dangerous. Not only that, he\'s surrounded by talent. RB Marcus Lattimore, WRs Alshon Jefferey and Tori Gurley: These three are Sunday players. I like the Gamecocks--I like Steve Spurrier over Jimbo Fisher.\r\n<h3>1/1 - TicketCity Bowl: Northwestern vs. Texas Tech</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3161\" title=\"TaylorPottsTexTech\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/TaylorPottsTexTech-e1292397203255.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"290\" />\r\nNorthwestern hasn\'t won a bowl game since the 1948 Rose Bowl. I don\'t think that streak is going to end vs. this Texas Tech team. Tommy Tuberville has quietly taken a messy situation in Lubbock, TX, and worked a few wonders. As much as I love NW coach Pat Fitzgerald\'s mojo, I think the Red Raiders will be slingin\' their guns in this battle.\r\n<h3>1/1 - Outback Bowl: Florida vs. Penn State</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3162\" title=\"urban-meyer\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/urban-meyer.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"333\" />\r\nFarewell, Urban. As an LSU fan, I\'m supposed to loathe you, but I don\'t. You\'re probably as confused as I am about your 2010 Gators squad. This Florida team just seemed unfocused, grossly lacking that on field leadership that Tim Tebow offered the previous four years. Making matters worse is Florida QB John Brantley who is considering a transfer after the season. If I could offer a bit of advice--just play one game at a time, young man, and stay where you are. What can <em>you</em> offer to the program? Where could <em>you</em> lead it? I foresee the squad focused for Urban\'s final game on the UF sidelines. Penn State will be no pushover, but they simply don\'t have the firepower to run with the Gators, even if both squads are firing on both cylinders.\r\n<h3>1/1 - Capital One Bowl: Alabama vs. Michigan State</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3163\" title=\"markingramAlabma\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/markingramAlabma-e1292398330265.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"525\" />\r\nHow did Alabama lose three games this season? I still believe they\'re the most talented team in the country. Rarely do a I look at a coach like Nick Saban and question personnel decisions, but I felt Mark Ingram was underutilized all season, considering the early season knee issue. Yes, I\'m an outsider--perhaps both Ingram and Trent Richardson are headed to the draft, in which case, I get it. I hope to see Ingram get 20+ carries in the Capital One Bowl. The Tide will roll in this match-up. Yeah, I\'m biased--I love the SEC, and can\'t stand the Big 10.\r\n<h3>1/1 - Gator Bowl: Mississippi State vs. Michigan</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3164\" title=\"Denard-Robinson-Michigan\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Denard-Robinson-Michigan-e1292398764413.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"333\" />\r\nIt\'s another SEC vs. Big 10 match-up. Hmmmm...wonder which way I\'m going? I do love watching Denard Robinson play, but after facing Cam Newton, Mississippi State will feel like they\'re playing against Newton\'s little brother. Mississippi State is a very good football team, and they\'ll come off the field with the hardware.\r\n<h3>1/1 - Rose Bowl: Wisconsin vs. TCU</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3168\" title=\"andy-dalton-TCU\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/andy-dalton-TCU-e1292399196883.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"343\" />\r\nIf the regular season was any indication, these two teams could merit an U/O of 100. I see a clash of the titans in the 2011 Rose Bowl game. I feel like TCU learned an incredible lesson in their loss to Boise State last bowl season--they haven\'t lost since, and they\'ve left nothing on the field since. I\'m taking the Horned Frogs over the Badgers, and to finish #2 in the final BCS standings.\r\n<h3>1/1 - Fiesta Bowl: UConn vs. Oklahoma</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3169\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/OU-DeMarco-Murray-e1292399981861.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"371\" />\r\nWorst bowl match-up ever? We\'ll see. This is definitive proof of the failure that is the BCS. Sure, the Fiesta Bowl has a tendency to turn Oklahoma into Choklahoma, but not with this squad, and not vs. UCONN. I pity the Huskies. I know they\'ll come to play, but I feel as if the OU Stoops crew will be looking to send a message to the BCS and their computers.\r\n<h3>1/3 - Orange Bowl: Stanford vs. Virginia Tech</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3170\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/AndrewLuckStanford-e1292400895341.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"333\" />\r\nThis match-up has the makings of a solid game. After their early season falter, Virginia Tech put together an impressive run--11 straight wins. Stanford\'s only loss was to Oregon, and it could easily be argued that the Cardinal (yes, Cardinal--color, not animal) weren\'t playing their best ball until late in the season. I\'d go so far as to say that they could beat Oregon if they played tomorrow. I like Jim Harbaugh\'s boys in this battle. If you tune in, be prepared for the ongoing booth dialog about Andrew Luck as an NFL prospect. I would suggest that the Jr. stick around, considering the NFL season in 2011-12 will probably be 9 games long, beginning in November.\r\n<h3>1/4 - Sugar Bowl: Ohio State vs. Arkansas</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3171\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/PryorOSU-e1292401173619.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"388\" />\r\nAnother Big 10/SEC match-up? Terrelle Pryor is an exciting athlete. Ryan Mallett is a better QB. Sorry OSU fans. I enjoy watching TP, but I don\'t think you realize what you\'re up against in Arkansas. The <a href=\"http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oyY8oUXaTio\" target=\"_blank\">Hogs</a> played with everyone in the SEC only losing to Alabama and Auburn--Alabama by 4, and Auburn in a shoot-out with a score grossly misrepresenting how close the contest actually was. I\'ll stick with the SEC in this one. I know--shocker.\r\n<h3>1/6 - GoDaddy.com Bowl: Middle Tennessee vs. Miami (OH)</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3172\" title=\"DwightDasherMTSU\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/DwightDasherMTSU-e1292401966658.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"333\" />\r\nPerhaps a slightly disappointing season for senior MTSU QB Dwight Dasher. The guy can make plays, but missing multiple games at the beginning of the season forced him to try and find mid-season form with no action under his belt. Things won\'t get easier for him vs. a Miami (OH) Redhawks squad that was on the verge of death a year ago. The \'hawks are flying high and should dictate all aspects of this match-up.\r\n<h3>1/7 - Cotton Bowl: LSU vs. Texas A&amp;M</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3173\" title=\"PatrickPetersonLSU\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/PatrickPetersonLSU-e1292402334317.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"281\" />\r\nI\'ll try to keep it short and sweet. A die hard Tiger fan, I\'m thoroughly excited for this match-up vs. Texas A&amp;M in Dallas. LSU has struggled offensively nearly all season long, simply due to inconsistent QB play. Running back Stevan Ridley may be one of the best kept secrets in the NCAA. The defense, led by DT Drake Nevis and CB Patrick Peterson are as close to an NFL style defense you\'ll see at the collegiate level. A&amp;M kicked their season up a notch by going to Frosh QB Ryan Tannehill early in the season--he became their difference maker. He saw some decent defenses in the Big 12, but he\'s never seen a defense with this speed and strength of this LSU squad--fully rested and ready to roll. If LSU QB Jordan Jefferson can begin to play to his potential, this could cap a nice season for the Bayou Bengals. I LOVE LSU in this one. You should love them, too.\r\n<h3>1/8 - BBVA Compass Bowl: Pittsburgh vs. Kentucky</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3174\" title=\"randall-cobb-Kentucky\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/randall-cobb-Kentucky-e1292402772920.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"361\" />\r\nYou heard about Kentucky QB Mike Hartline getting suspended, yes? This could actually be beneficial for the Cats, as they\'ll more than likely go to sophomore QB Morgan Newton. Perhaps Wildcats coach Joker Phillips may also show more wildcat looks with the best player you\'ve probably never heard of, Randall Cobb. The smart choice here is probably the Pitt Panthers, but I\'m going with Kentucky in <a href=\"http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WhgaIWWh0QE\" target=\"_blank\">Randall Cobb</a>\'s final game in UK Blue. I\'m going SEC over an average team from a pretty weak Big East conference.\r\n<h3>1/9 - Kraft Fight Hunger Bowl: Nevada vs. Boston College</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3175\" title=\"KaepernickNevada\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/KaepernickNevada-e1292403317403.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"333\" />\r\nHow can you not love Colin Kaepernick? Nevada\'s pistol attack is absolutely deadly. When they get down, they can come back in a hurry. When they\'re up, they can bury a team just as quickly. Don\'t believe me? Just ask Boise State. The Boston College defense may be one of the better units Nevada has faced, excluding Boise State, yet I don\'t think the Eagles can handle the Wolf Pack attack for all four quarters. Sticking with Kaepernick, leading Nevada to the best season in school history!\r\n<h3>1/10 - BCS National Championship: Oregon vs. Auburn</h3>\r\n<object classid=\"clsid:d27cdb6e-ae6d-11cf-96b8-444553540000\" width=\"500\" height=\"385\" codebase=\"http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0\"><param name=\"allowFullScreen\" value=\"true\" /><param name=\"allowscriptaccess\" value=\"always\" /><param name=\"src\" value=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/iOi2hj_sjyY?fs=1&amp;hl=en_US\" /><param name=\"allowfullscreen\" value=\"true\" /><embed type=\"application/x-shockwave-flash\" width=\"500\" height=\"385\" src=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/iOi2hj_sjyY?fs=1&amp;hl=en_US\" allowscriptaccess=\"always\" allowfullscreen=\"true\"></embed></object>\r\n\r\nVS.\r\n\r\n<object classid=\"clsid:d27cdb6e-ae6d-11cf-96b8-444553540000\" width=\"500\" height=\"385\" codebase=\"http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0\"><param name=\"allowFullScreen\" value=\"true\" /><param name=\"allowscriptaccess\" value=\"always\" /><param name=\"src\" value=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/QehP9o5S3Hs?fs=1&amp;hl=en_US\" /><param name=\"allowfullscreen\" value=\"true\" /><embed type=\"application/x-shockwave-flash\" width=\"500\" height=\"385\" src=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/QehP9o5S3Hs?fs=1&amp;hl=en_US\" allowscriptaccess=\"always\" allowfullscreen=\"true\"></embed></object>\r\nCan Oregon possibly stop Auburn? I don\'t think so. I don\'t think there\'s any way that they can stop all facets of Auburn\'s offensive attack, led by Heisman award winner, Cameron Newton. If you haven\'t seen Cam Newton play this season, you\'ll have to take my word. My opinion on this matter is worthy of the pundit stamp. There is no <em>known</em> way to contain him for four quarters. Even when Alabama found a way to contain him for a couple of quarters, he just kept coming. Add to that fact a tremendous supporting cast who also just keeps coming, and Oregon is probably shifting their mindset towards a shoot-out.\r\n\r\nCan Auburn slow or stop Oregon? I think if Cal did, and Oregon State did briefly, Auburn can, and will. Put it this way: Oregon will have to beat Auburn by putting the ball in the air. Auburn\'s weakness has been in the secondary, yet they\'re much improved. With five weeks to prepare for this game, they\'ll be even better. I just don\'t see Darron Thomas executing that kind of a passing attack.\r\n\r\nI foresee the Auburn defensive game plan focused on stopping LaMichael James. The Auburn defensive front, led by Nick Fairley, will wear on Oregon as the game goes on, and they\'ll get to Thomas. The difference may be in what Thomas can offer once a play begins to break down.\r\n\r\nI don\'t see this one playing close for very long. It\'s going to be incredibly interesting to see what happens if the Ducks get down early, playing from an unfamiliar position. For this game to go the distance, Oregon needs to run out front, and score a lot of points.\r\n\r\nI like Auburn, clearly. I think once the nervous energy subsides on both sidelines, and both teams get down to business, I believe Auburn will raise the Waterford Crystal, BCS Coaches Trophy.','College Bowl Preview ','','inherit','open','open','','3127-revision-19','','','2010-12-15 11:50:02','2010-12-15 19:50:02','',3127,'http://manjr.com/2010/uncategorized/3127-revision-19/',0,'revision','',0),(3190,7,'2010-12-15 11:52:08','2010-12-15 19:52:08','Outside of the <a href=\"http://www.nfl.com/\" target=\"_blank\">NFL playoffs</a>, it may be the greatest multi-week sports season of the year--in fact it <em>is</em> the harbinger of the playoffs for the pros. It surrounds the Christmas and New Year holidays, and it even spurs annual debate through crowning a Champion without a playoff system. Oh yeah. It\'s time to go bowling!\r\n\r\nIf you feel there are too many bowl games, get over yourself! Why? Is it <em>too much</em> football for you? Are you paying taxes for these games? C\'mon! Get in the holiday spirit, Scrooge.\r\n\r\nI don\'t care who the bowl sponsor is, or who\'s playing in it...I\'ll watch it and enjoy it. At first glance a couple weeks ago, I thought the match-ups looked pretty uninteresting, yet after careful consideration, the potential for some great football games is undeniable.\r\n\r\nLet\'s break \'em down in play order:\r\n<h3>12/18 - New Mexico Bowl: BYU vs. UTEP</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3133\" title=\"UTEP\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/UTEP-e1292376625439.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"600\" />\r\nBYU is a pretty easy favorite in this match-up. UTEP QB Trevor Vittatoe is a difference maker, yet his ankle is busted up, and he\'s less than four days from having to put it to the test. If he\'s somehow able to play through the pain, the Miners could make it interesting.\r\n<h3>12/18 - Humanitarian Bowl: Northern Illinois vs. Fresno State</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3135\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Fresno.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"387\" />\r\nNorthern Illinois put up an impressive 10-3 season, losing a heart breaker in the MAC Championship. Now they\'re meeting a Fresno team led by veteran coach Pat Hill who has been given multiple weeks of preparation. This promises to be a battle, and picking either team would be a logical decision. The vast majority of the nation is going with the bulldogs, but I\'m taking the Huskies.\r\n<h3>12/18 - New Orleans Bowl: Ohio University vs. Troy</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3136\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Boo-Jackson-OhioU-e1292378277401.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"342\" />\r\nOhio QB, Franshaw \"Boo\" Jackson. He can be exciting when he\'s hitting on all cylinders, yet I was unimpressed with the MAC this season. I\'m going against the populous once again on this one, and sticking with the team from the south. I see another battle, and Troy coming out on top.\r\n<h3>12/21 - St. Petersburg Bowl: Southern Miss. vs. Louisville</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3137\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/SouthernMiss.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"368\" />\r\nDidn\'t ya hear? Brett Favre found a game of NCAA eligibility and is coming out of collegiate retirement. I just couldn\'t pass up the opportunity to use the image. Look at the young gun slinger... Call me insane, but I\'m going against the majority again with this pick. I feel like Louisville has the slight edge. It has the potential to be another close one.\r\n<h3>12/22 - Las Vegas Bowl: Utah vs. Boise State</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3138\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/KellenMooreBoise.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"312\" />\r\nAside from a couple missteps vs. TCU and Notre Dame, Utah put together an impressive season. They won close games down the stretch and earned this match-up vs. powerhouse, Boise State. The Broncos BCS dreams were crushed in the NCAA game of the year vs. Nevada, yet a week later they went back to work and took care of business. I have a feeling that Kellen Moore is going to go off in Vegas like a 21 year old with their multi-millionaire father\'s credit card. ...that Kellen Moore is going to go off in Vegas like a fat dude at the <a href=\"http://www.circuscircus.com/dining/circus_buffet.aspx\" target=\"_blank\">Circus Circus buffet</a>. He may opt for both options--I know I would. BSU is the team that I would never bet against. You shouldn\'t either.\r\n<h3>12/23 - Poinsettia Bowl: Navy vs. San Diego State</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3139\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Ricky-Dobbs-NAVY.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"310\" />\r\nNavy is impressive... but San Diego State is possibly the best 8-4 team in the country. They have played <em>everyone</em> close. Everyone. Their 4 losses were by a combined 15 points. I think the Navy option attack might give them headaches, and I\'m rolling with the Midshipmen...as of now. I reserve the right to change my mind due to the factual evidence listed above. It\'s worth noting, this is the final game for Navy QB Ricky Dobbs--the kid is a stud. He has always played well in big games, and probably loves the thought of being the underdog.\r\n<h3>12/24 - Hawai\'i Bowl: Hawaii vs. Tulsa</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3143\" title=\"Hawaii\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Hawaii-e1292390690856.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"331\" />\r\nHawaii at home? Check. Hawaii with a devastating passing attack? Check. Tulsa with a suspect secondary? Check. Tulsa with the ability to score a lot of points? Check. Could be a shoot out, but this one is going to the Warriors of Hawaii.\r\n<h3>12/26 - Little Caesars Bowl: FIU vs. Toledo</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3145\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/TimBeckmanToledo-e1292390916838.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"375\" />\r\nThese two teams. Geez. How many times did you see either of these teams play this year? Exactly. FIU is scary because they\'re a new program, and they just don\'t know better than to score 50 points in some games. Still, I\'m hitching my wagon to the Rockets of Toledo and the best coach you\'ve never heard of, <a href=\"http://www.utrockets.com/ViewArticle.dbml?DB_OEM_ID=18000&amp;ATCLID=3691260\" target=\"_blank\">Tim Beckman</a>. Don\'t be surprised when Toledo is cracking the Top 25 in another few years...if they can keep Beckman around.\r\n<h3>12/27 - Independence Bowl: Air Force vs. Georgia Tech</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3146\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/JoshNesbittGeorgiaTech.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"312\" />\r\nThis battle has options. How\'s that for a play on words? GT QB Joshua Nesbitt is a guy with the potential to take over the field. It would be awesome to see him have the game of his life in the Independence Bowl. Even so, I don\'t know that the Yellow Jackets have the moxie to dogfight with the Air Force. I\'m going with the Falcons.\r\n<h3>12/28 - Champs Sports Bowl: West Virginia vs. NC State</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3147\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/noel-devine-WV.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"333\" />\r\nThe Champs Sports Bowl will mark the end to the collegiate career of WV star running back, Noel Devine, and if he can rush for 114 yards in the contest, he\'ll go over 1,000 yards for his third consecutive season. QB Geno Smith has offered a stamp of legitimacy to his sophomore season, and I\'m excited to see him after multiple weeks of rest and preparation. If the Mountaineers come into the contest focused, which I believe they will, NC State will have their hands full--unfortunately, WVU has not played well in bowl games without a fella by the name of Pat White under center.\r\n<h3>12/28 - Insight Bowl: Missouri vs. Iowa</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3148\" title=\"Blaine-Gabbert-Missouri-Tigers\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Blaine-Gabbert-Missouri-Tigers-e1292392509939.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"280\" />\r\nMizzou flaked for two weeks this season. They sat in the drivers seat, took it to Oklahoma in convincing fashion, but couldn\'t get themselves up for the inevitable battles vs. Nebraska and the inferior Texas Tech. After getting the wheels back on track, they finished the season strong. Iowa\'s Ricky Stanzi is a joy to watch. 25 TDs to 4 INTs in 2010--flat out, impressive! He led the Hawkeyes to compete in every game, yet they dropped their final 3 only two weeks after knocking off #5 Michigan State. In this contest, Stanzi will be without a couple weapons who have been suspended for off-the-field issues. We\'ll see if the Hawkeyes can fill those gaps. In this border war on neutral ground, I gotta go with Missouri. MIZ-ZOU.\r\n<h3>12/29 - Military Bowl: East Carolina vs. Maryland</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3156\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Maryland-e1292395736293.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"359\" />\r\nNothing like two state schools battling in the Military Bowl. ECU started the season off well at 5-2, then dropped 4 of their last 5. QB Dominique Davis will have his hands full vs. Maryland, who is disciplined, talented and oft disrespected on both sides of the ball. I\'m going Terps all the way in this first ever meeting between these two teams.\r\n<h3>12/29 - Texas Bowl: Illinois vs. Baylor</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3150\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/robert-griffinBaylor-e1292393352278.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"583\" />\r\nDo yourself a favor and check out at least a visual snippet of this game. Baylor will play with the relative home field advantage, and will look to cap the season on a positive note after dropping their final three games. Baylor QB <a href=\"http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UUDvLUqwF1I\" target=\"_blank\">Robert Griffin III</a>, and Illinois RB Mikel Leshoure are two to watch in this battle. I\'m going with the Baylor Bears in their first bowl appearance since 1994.\r\n<h3>12/29 - Alamo Bowl: Oklahoma State vs. Arizona</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3151\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/JustinBlackmonOSU-e1292393858530.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"303\" />\r\nTwo words. Justin Blackmon. The Arizona defensive game plan will be to shut this guy down. If I were Mike Gundy, and I were a man...who was forty...two... I would ensure that Blackmon receive 10 touches in this contest, even if they\'re triple teaming the guy--OSU has to get him the ball. Can you believe Dez Bryant and this dude played together? How\'d we miss that? Arizona can compete, and they can also fall flat in the second half of big games; however, you know the Stoops boys are sharing information on how to stop common foes. Regardless, this game belongs to the Cowboys.\r\n<h3>12/30 - Armed Forces Bowl: Army vs. SMU</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3152\" title=\"SMU\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/SMU.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"399\" />\r\nCan SMU stop Army\'s option attack? I believe that they can. It\'s so nice to see SMU back in the mix after years of football obscurity--I thought last season might have been a fluke, but it seems they\'re really on the upswing. June Jones will certainly have a few wrinkles in the game plan with so much time to prepare. Army will move the ball and will score some points, but when it comes down to it, they\'re inability to pass the ball effectively will hurt them vs. the Mustangs.\r\n<h3>12/30 - Pinstripe Bowl: Kansas St. vs. Syracuse</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3153\" title=\"bill-snyder-KSU\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/bill-snyder-KSU-e1292394624356.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"618\" />\r\nBill Snyder is letting Syracuse know, \"Oh yeah, we\'re coming to New York, and we\'re gonna put it down! Meet us at Yankee Stadium, Orangmen!\" How can you pick against Bill Snyder? I know I can\'t.\r\n<h3>12/30 - Music City Bowl: North Carolina vs. Tennessee</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3167\" title=\"TaurenPooleTennessee\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/TaurenPooleTennessee-e1292399099390.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"336\" />\r\nTo many Tar Heel fans, this will be the season that \"could have been.\" Broken rules + Player suspensions = Disappointing season. Tennessee, with all Kiffinesque things considered, had an amazing season--competing deep into games with some of the nation\'s most elite talent. I think Derek Dooley is going to do amazing things at UT! You hear that Colin Cowherd? Yeah, bro, I remember you dissing him earlier this season. He took Lane Kiffin\'s mess and is going to a bowl game...and the Volunteers will win.\r\n<h3>12/30 - Holiday Bowl: Nebraska vs. Washington</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3154\" title=\"jake-locker-Washington\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/jake-locker-Washington-e1292395215407.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"422\" />\r\nJake Locker might wish he had declared for the draft after last season. The Huskies just didn\'t offer much support to the talent under center. Locker will have his hands full vs. a well prepared Bo Pelini/Nebraska defense. I\'ll honestly be surprised if Washington scores more than 13 points in this game. If you haven\'t seen Nebraska play this year, have a look-see. Roy Helu Jr. and Taylor Martinez are an exciting offensive duo.\r\n<h3>12/31 - Meineke Car Care Bowl: South Florida vs. Clemson</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3155\" title=\"KyleParkerClemson\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/KyleParkerClemson-e1292395520539.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"334\" />\r\nI really don\'t have much to say about this one. It\'s not that I don\'t care, it\'s just that I don\'t care very much. Clemson put up yet another sub-par season, and the Bulls of South Florida are still trying to find their way under new leadership. Slight edge to the Tigers.\r\n<h3>12/31 - Sun Bowl: Notre Dame vs. Miami</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3157\" title=\"TommyReesNotreDame\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/TommyReesNotreDame-e1292395993738.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"398\" />\r\nThe season in South Bend was riddled with tragedy. Am I about to go out on a limb? I certainly am. Yes, I believe Notre Dame will win this bowl game, but I also believe that Notre Dame has turned the corner under Brian Kelly. Regardless of how I feel, Miami is the popular favorite, and is sitting at -3.5 where you can pay to play. I\'m a little shocked by the line, considering the firing of Randy Shannon. Can\'t really explain my confidence on this one, but I think the gold hats prevail.\r\n<h3>12/31 - Liberty Bowl: Georgia vs. UCF</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3158\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/AJ-GREEN-Georgia.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"375\" />\r\nA.J. Green watched the beginning of the season in street clothes. That was the difference in Georgia\'s season. This Georgia squad proved that they could compete with the best when they went to war with Auburn. They fought hard for their sixth win to enjoy this extra game. I believe they\'ll take full advantage of it vs. the UCF Golden Knights. If you like NFL talent, tune in to enjoy <a href=\"http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FKTm9oFWJNg\" target=\"_blank\">A.J. Green</a>.\r\n<h3>12/31 - Chick-Fil-A Bowl: South Carolina vs. Florida State</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3160\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/marcus-lattimore-south-carolina-e1292396817797.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"347\" />\r\nWant to see the best Freshman running back in the nation? He wears #21 for the Gamecocks. South Carolina playing at their best takes it to Alabama. South Carolina missing the mark gets hammered by Auburn. When I say South Carolina, yes, I mean QB Stephen Garcia--it comes and goes with his play--when he plays within the system and minimizes his mistakes, he\'s dangerous. Not only that, he\'s surrounded by talent. RB Marcus Lattimore, WRs Alshon Jefferey and Tori Gurley: These three are Sunday players. I like the Gamecocks--I like Steve Spurrier over Jimbo Fisher.\r\n<h3>1/1 - TicketCity Bowl: Northwestern vs. Texas Tech</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3161\" title=\"TaylorPottsTexTech\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/TaylorPottsTexTech-e1292397203255.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"290\" />\r\nNorthwestern hasn\'t won a bowl game since the 1948 Rose Bowl. I don\'t think that streak is going to end vs. this Texas Tech team. Tommy Tuberville has quietly taken a messy situation in Lubbock, TX, and worked a few wonders. As much as I love NW coach Pat Fitzgerald\'s mojo, I think the Red Raiders will be slingin\' their guns in this battle.\r\n<h3>1/1 - Outback Bowl: Florida vs. Penn State</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3162\" title=\"urban-meyer\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/urban-meyer.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"333\" />\r\nFarewell, Urban. As an LSU fan, I\'m supposed to loathe you, but I don\'t. You\'re probably as confused as I am about your 2010 Gators squad. This Florida team just seemed unfocused, grossly lacking that on field leadership that Tim Tebow offered the previous four years. Making matters worse is Florida QB John Brantley who is considering a transfer after the season. If I could offer a bit of advice--just play one game at a time, young man, and stay where you are. What can <em>you</em> offer to the program? Where could <em>you</em> lead it? I foresee the squad focused for Urban\'s final game on the UF sidelines. Penn State will be no pushover, but they simply don\'t have the firepower to run with the Gators, even if both squads are firing on both cylinders.\r\n<h3>1/1 - Capital One Bowl: Alabama vs. Michigan State</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3163\" title=\"markingramAlabma\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/markingramAlabma-e1292398330265.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"525\" />\r\nHow did Alabama lose three games this season? I still believe they\'re the most talented team in the country. Rarely do a I look at a coach like Nick Saban and question personnel decisions, but I felt Mark Ingram was underutilized all season, considering the early season knee issue. Yes, I\'m an outsider--perhaps both Ingram and Trent Richardson are headed to the draft, in which case, I get it. I hope to see Ingram get 20+ carries in the Capital One Bowl. The Tide will roll in this match-up. Yeah, I\'m biased--I love the SEC, and can\'t stand the Big 10.\r\n<h3>1/1 - Gator Bowl: Mississippi State vs. Michigan</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3164\" title=\"Denard-Robinson-Michigan\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Denard-Robinson-Michigan-e1292398764413.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"333\" />\r\nIt\'s another SEC vs. Big 10 match-up. Hmmmm...wonder which way I\'m going? I do love watching Denard Robinson play, but after facing Cam Newton, Mississippi State will feel like they\'re playing against Newton\'s little brother. Mississippi State is a very good football team, and they\'ll come off the field with the hardware.\r\n<h3>1/1 - Rose Bowl: Wisconsin vs. TCU</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3168\" title=\"andy-dalton-TCU\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/andy-dalton-TCU-e1292399196883.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"343\" />\r\nIf the regular season was any indication, these two teams could merit an U/O of 100. I see a clash of the titans in the 2011 Rose Bowl game. I feel like TCU learned an incredible lesson in their loss to Boise State last bowl season--they haven\'t lost since, and they\'ve left nothing on the field since. I\'m taking the Horned Frogs over the Badgers, and to finish #2 in the final BCS standings.\r\n<h3>1/1 - Fiesta Bowl: UConn vs. Oklahoma</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3169\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/OU-DeMarco-Murray-e1292399981861.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"371\" />\r\nWorst bowl match-up ever? We\'ll see. This is definitive proof of the failure that is the BCS. Sure, the Fiesta Bowl has a tendency to turn Oklahoma into Choklahoma, but not with this squad, and not vs. UCONN. I pity the Huskies. I know they\'ll come to play, but I feel as if the OU Stoops crew will be looking to send a message to the BCS and their computers.\r\n<h3>1/3 - Orange Bowl: Stanford vs. Virginia Tech</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3170\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/AndrewLuckStanford-e1292400895341.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"333\" />\r\nThis match-up has the makings of a solid game. After their early season falter, Virginia Tech put together an impressive run--11 straight wins. Stanford\'s only loss was to Oregon, and it could easily be argued that the Cardinal (yes, Cardinal--color, not animal) weren\'t playing their best ball until late in the season. I\'d go so far as to say that they could beat Oregon if they played tomorrow. I like Jim Harbaugh\'s boys in this battle. If you tune in, be prepared for the ongoing booth dialog about Andrew Luck as an NFL prospect. I would suggest that the Jr. stick around, considering the NFL season in 2011-12 will probably be 9 games long, beginning in November.\r\n<h3>1/4 - Sugar Bowl: Ohio State vs. Arkansas</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3171\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/PryorOSU-e1292401173619.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"388\" />\r\nAnother Big 10/SEC match-up? Terrelle Pryor is an exciting athlete. Ryan Mallett is a better QB. Sorry OSU fans. I enjoy watching TP, but I don\'t think you realize what you\'re up against in Arkansas. The <a href=\"http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oyY8oUXaTio\" target=\"_blank\">Hogs</a> played with everyone in the SEC only losing to Alabama and Auburn--Alabama by 4, and Auburn in a shoot-out with a score grossly misrepresenting how close the contest actually was. I\'ll stick with the SEC in this one. I know--shocker.\r\n<h3>1/6 - GoDaddy.com Bowl: Middle Tennessee vs. Miami (OH)</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3172\" title=\"DwightDasherMTSU\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/DwightDasherMTSU-e1292401966658.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"333\" />\r\nPerhaps a slightly disappointing season for senior MTSU QB Dwight Dasher. The guy can make plays, but missing multiple games at the beginning of the season forced him to try and find mid-season form with no action under his belt. Things won\'t get easier for him vs. a Miami (OH) Redhawks squad that was on the verge of death a year ago. The \'hawks are flying high and should dictate all aspects of this match-up.\r\n<h3>1/7 - Cotton Bowl: LSU vs. Texas A&amp;M</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3173\" title=\"PatrickPetersonLSU\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/PatrickPetersonLSU-e1292402334317.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"281\" />\r\nI\'ll try to keep it short and sweet. A die hard Tiger fan, I\'m thoroughly excited for this match-up vs. Texas A&amp;M in Dallas. LSU has struggled offensively nearly all season long, simply due to inconsistent QB play. Running back Stevan Ridley may be one of the best kept secrets in the NCAA. The defense, led by DT Drake Nevis and CB Patrick Peterson are as close to an NFL style defense you\'ll see at the collegiate level. A&amp;M kicked their season up a notch by going to Frosh QB Ryan Tannehill early in the season--he became their difference maker. He saw some decent defenses in the Big 12, but he\'s never seen a defense with this speed and strength of this LSU squad--fully rested and ready to roll. If LSU QB Jordan Jefferson can begin to play to his potential, this could cap a nice season for the Bayou Bengals. I LOVE LSU in this one. You should love them, too.\r\n<h3>1/8 - BBVA Compass Bowl: Pittsburgh vs. Kentucky</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3174\" title=\"randall-cobb-Kentucky\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/randall-cobb-Kentucky-e1292402772920.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"361\" />\r\nYou heard about Kentucky QB Mike Hartline getting suspended, yes? This could actually be beneficial for the Cats, as they\'ll more than likely go to sophomore QB Morgan Newton. Perhaps Wildcats coach Joker Phillips may also show more wildcat looks with the best player you\'ve probably never heard of, Randall Cobb. The smart choice here is probably the Pitt Panthers, but I\'m going with Kentucky in <a href=\"http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WhgaIWWh0QE\" target=\"_blank\">Randall Cobb</a>\'s final game in UK Blue. I\'m going SEC over an average team from a pretty weak Big East conference.\r\n<h3>1/9 - Kraft Fight Hunger Bowl: Nevada vs. Boston College</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3175\" title=\"KaepernickNevada\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/KaepernickNevada-e1292403317403.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"333\" />\r\nHow can you not love Colin Kaepernick? Nevada\'s pistol attack is absolutely deadly. When they get down, they can come back in a hurry. When they\'re up, they can bury a team just as quickly. Don\'t believe me? Just ask Boise State. The Boston College defense may be one of the better units Nevada has faced, excluding Boise State, yet I don\'t think the Eagles can handle the Wolf Pack attack for all four quarters. Sticking with Kaepernick, leading Nevada to the best season in school history!\r\n<h3>1/10 - BCS National Championship: Oregon vs. Auburn</h3>\r\n<object classid=\"clsid:d27cdb6e-ae6d-11cf-96b8-444553540000\" width=\"500\" height=\"385\" codebase=\"http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0\"><param name=\"allowFullScreen\" value=\"true\" /><param name=\"allowscriptaccess\" value=\"always\" /><param name=\"src\" value=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/iOi2hj_sjyY?fs=1&amp;hl=en_US\" /><param name=\"allowfullscreen\" value=\"true\" /><embed type=\"application/x-shockwave-flash\" width=\"500\" height=\"385\" src=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/iOi2hj_sjyY?fs=1&amp;hl=en_US\" allowscriptaccess=\"always\" allowfullscreen=\"true\"></embed></object>\r\n\r\nVS.\r\n\r\n<object classid=\"clsid:d27cdb6e-ae6d-11cf-96b8-444553540000\" width=\"500\" height=\"385\" codebase=\"http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0\"><param name=\"allowFullScreen\" value=\"true\" /><param name=\"allowscriptaccess\" value=\"always\" /><param name=\"src\" value=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/QehP9o5S3Hs?fs=1&amp;hl=en_US\" /><param name=\"allowfullscreen\" value=\"true\" /><embed type=\"application/x-shockwave-flash\" width=\"500\" height=\"385\" src=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/QehP9o5S3Hs?fs=1&amp;hl=en_US\" allowscriptaccess=\"always\" allowfullscreen=\"true\"></embed></object>\r\nCan Oregon possibly stop Auburn? I don\'t think so. I don\'t think there\'s any way that they can stop all facets of Auburn\'s offensive attack, led by Heisman award winner, Cameron Newton. If you haven\'t seen Cam Newton play this season, you\'ll have to take my word. My opinion on this matter is worthy of the pundit stamp. There is no <em>known</em> way to contain him for four quarters. Even when Alabama found a way to contain him for a couple of quarters, he just kept coming. Add to that fact a tremendous supporting cast who also just keeps coming, and Oregon is probably shifting their mindset towards a shoot-out.\r\n\r\nCan Auburn slow or stop Oregon? I think if Cal did, and Oregon State did briefly, Auburn can, and will. Put it this way: Oregon will have to beat Auburn by putting the ball in the air. Auburn\'s weakness has been in the secondary, yet they\'re much improved. With five weeks to prepare for this game, they\'ll be even better. I just don\'t see Darron Thomas executing that kind of a passing attack.\r\n\r\nI foresee the Auburn defensive game plan focused on stopping LaMichael James. The Auburn defensive front, led by Nick Fairley, will wear on Oregon as the game goes on, and they\'ll get to Thomas. The difference may be in what Thomas can offer once a play begins to break down.\r\n\r\nI don\'t see this one playing close for very long. It\'s going to be incredibly interesting to see what happens if the Ducks get down early, playing from an unfamiliar position. For this game to go the distance, Oregon needs to run out front, and score a lot of points.\r\n\r\nI like Auburn, clearly. I think once the nervous energy subsides on both sidelines, and both teams get down to business, I believe Auburn will raise the Waterford Crystal, BCS Coaches Trophy.','College Bowl Preview ','','inherit','open','open','','3127-revision-20','','','2010-12-15 11:52:08','2010-12-15 19:52:08','',3127,'http://manjr.com/2010/uncategorized/3127-revision-20/',0,'revision','',0),(3191,2,'2010-12-15 11:59:17','2010-12-15 19:59:17','Outside of the <a href=\"http://www.nfl.com/\" target=\"_blank\">NFL playoffs</a>, it may be the greatest multi-week sports season of the year--in fact it <em>is</em> the harbinger of the playoffs for the pros. It surrounds the Christmas and New Year holidays, and it even spurs annual debate through crowning a Champion without a playoff system. Oh yeah. It\'s time to go bowling!\r\n\r\nIf you feel there are too many bowl games, get over yourself! Why? Is it <em>too much</em> football for you? Are you paying taxes for these games? C\'mon! Get in the holiday spirit, Scrooge.\r\n\r\nI don\'t care who the bowl sponsor is, or who\'s playing in it...I\'ll watch it and enjoy it. At first glance a couple weeks ago, I thought the match-ups looked pretty uninteresting, yet after careful consideration, the potential for some great football games is undeniable.\r\n\r\nLet\'s break \'em down in play order:\r\n<h3>12/18 - New Mexico Bowl: BYU vs. UTEP</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3133\" title=\"UTEP\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/UTEP-e1292376625439.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"600\" />\r\nBYU is a pretty easy favorite in this match-up. UTEP QB Trevor Vittatoe is a difference maker, yet his ankle is busted up, and he\'s less than four days from having to put it to the test. If he\'s somehow able to play through the pain, the Miners could make it interesting.\r\n<h3>12/18 - Humanitarian Bowl: Northern Illinois vs. Fresno State</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3135\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Fresno.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"387\" />\r\nNorthern Illinois put up an impressive 10-3 season, losing a heart breaker in the MAC Championship. Now they\'re meeting a Fresno team led by veteran coach Pat Hill who has been given multiple weeks of preparation. This promises to be a battle, and picking either team would be a logical decision. The vast majority of the nation is going with the bulldogs, but I\'m taking the Huskies.\r\n<h3>12/18 - New Orleans Bowl: Ohio University vs. Troy</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3136\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Boo-Jackson-OhioU-e1292378277401.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"342\" />\r\nOhio QB, Franshaw \"Boo\" Jackson. He can be exciting when he\'s hitting on all cylinders, yet I was unimpressed with the MAC this season. I\'m going against the populous once again on this one, and sticking with the team from the south. I see another battle, and Troy coming out on top.\r\n<h3>12/21 - St. Petersburg Bowl: Southern Miss. vs. Louisville</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3137\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/SouthernMiss.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"368\" />\r\nDidn\'t ya hear? Brett Favre found a game of NCAA eligibility and is coming out of collegiate retirement. I just couldn\'t pass up the opportunity to use the image. Look at the young gun slinger... Call me insane, but I\'m going against the majority again with this pick. I feel like Louisville has the slight edge. It has the potential to be another close one.\r\n<h3>12/22 - Las Vegas Bowl: Utah vs. Boise State</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3138\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/KellenMooreBoise.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"312\" />\r\nAside from a couple missteps vs. TCU and Notre Dame, Utah put together an impressive season. They won close games down the stretch and earned this match-up vs. powerhouse, Boise State. The Broncos BCS dreams were crushed in the NCAA game of the year vs. Nevada, yet a week later they went back to work and took care of business. I have a feeling that Kellen Moore is going to go off in Vegas like a 21 year old with their multi-millionaire father\'s credit card. ...that Kellen Moore is going to go off in Vegas like a fat dude at the <a href=\"http://www.circuscircus.com/dining/circus_buffet.aspx\" target=\"_blank\">Circus Circus buffet</a>. He may opt for both options--I know I would. BSU is the team that I would never bet against. You shouldn\'t either.\r\n<h3>12/23 - Poinsettia Bowl: Navy vs. San Diego State</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3139\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Ricky-Dobbs-NAVY.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"310\" />\r\nNavy is impressive... but San Diego State is possibly the best 8-4 team in the country. They have played <em>everyone</em> close. Everyone. Their 4 losses were by a combined 15 points. I think the Navy option attack might give them headaches, and I\'m rolling with the Midshipmen...as of now. I reserve the right to change my mind due to the factual evidence listed above. It\'s worth noting, this is the final game for Navy QB Ricky Dobbs--the kid is a stud. He has always played well in big games, and probably loves the thought of being the underdog.\r\n<h3>12/24 - Hawai\'i Bowl: Hawaii vs. Tulsa</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3143\" title=\"Hawaii\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Hawaii-e1292390690856.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"331\" />\r\nHawaii at home? Check. Hawaii with a devastating passing attack? Check. Tulsa with a suspect secondary? Check. Tulsa with the ability to score a lot of points? Check. Could be a shoot out, but this one is going to the Warriors of Hawaii.\r\n<h3>12/26 - Little Caesars Bowl: FIU vs. Toledo</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3145\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/TimBeckmanToledo-e1292390916838.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"375\" />\r\nThese two teams. Geez. How many times did you see either of these teams play this year? Exactly. FIU is scary because they\'re a new program, and they just don\'t know better than to score 50 points in some games. Still, I\'m hitching my wagon to the Rockets of Toledo and the best coach you\'ve never heard of, <a href=\"http://www.utrockets.com/ViewArticle.dbml?DB_OEM_ID=18000&amp;ATCLID=3691260\" target=\"_blank\">Tim Beckman</a>. Don\'t be surprised when Toledo is cracking the Top 25 in another few years...if they can keep Beckman around.\r\n<h3>12/27 - Independence Bowl: Air Force vs. Georgia Tech</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3146\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/JoshNesbittGeorgiaTech.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"312\" />\r\nThis battle has options. How\'s that for a play on words? GT QB Joshua Nesbitt is a guy with the potential to take over the field. It would be awesome to see him have the game of his life in the Independence Bowl. Even so, I don\'t know that the Yellow Jackets have the moxie to dogfight with the Air Force. I\'m going with the Falcons.\r\n<h3>12/28 - Champs Sports Bowl: West Virginia vs. NC State</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3147\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/noel-devine-WV.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"333\" />\r\nThe Champs Sports Bowl will mark the end to the collegiate career of WV star running back, Noel Devine, and if he can rush for 114 yards in the contest, he\'ll go over 1,000 yards for his third consecutive season. QB Geno Smith has offered a stamp of legitimacy to his sophomore season, and I\'m excited to see him after multiple weeks of rest and preparation. If the Mountaineers come into the contest focused, which I believe they will, NC State will have their hands full--unfortunately, WVU has not played well in bowl games without a fella by the name of Pat White under center.\r\n<h3>12/28 - Insight Bowl: Missouri vs. Iowa</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3148\" title=\"Blaine-Gabbert-Missouri-Tigers\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Blaine-Gabbert-Missouri-Tigers-e1292392509939.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"280\" />\r\nMizzou flaked for two weeks this season. They sat in the drivers seat, took it to Oklahoma in convincing fashion, but couldn\'t get themselves up for the inevitable battles vs. Nebraska and the inferior Texas Tech. After getting the wheels back on track, they finished the season strong. Iowa\'s Ricky Stanzi is a joy to watch. 25 TDs to 4 INTs in 2010--flat out, impressive! He led the Hawkeyes to compete in every game, yet they dropped their final 3 only two weeks after knocking off #5 Michigan State. In this contest, Stanzi will be without a couple weapons who have been suspended for off-the-field issues. We\'ll see if the Hawkeyes can fill those gaps. In this border war on neutral ground, I gotta go with Missouri. MIZ-ZOU.\r\n<h3>12/29 - Military Bowl: East Carolina vs. Maryland</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3156\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Maryland-e1292395736293.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"359\" />\r\nNothing like two state schools battling in the Military Bowl. ECU started the season off well at 5-2, then dropped 4 of their last 5. QB Dominique Davis will have his hands full vs. Maryland, who is disciplined, talented and oft disrespected on both sides of the ball. I\'m going Terps all the way in this first ever meeting between these two teams.\r\n<h3>12/29 - Texas Bowl: Illinois vs. Baylor</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3150\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/robert-griffinBaylor-e1292393352278.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"583\" />\r\nDo yourself a favor and check out at least a visual snippet of this game. Baylor will play with the relative home field advantage, and will look to cap the season on a positive note after dropping their final three games. Baylor QB <a href=\"http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UUDvLUqwF1I\" target=\"_blank\">Robert Griffin III</a>, and Illinois RB Mikel Leshoure are two to watch in this battle. I\'m going with the Baylor Bears in their first bowl appearance since 1994.\r\n<h3>12/29 - Alamo Bowl: Oklahoma State vs. Arizona</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3151\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/JustinBlackmonOSU-e1292393858530.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"303\" />\r\nTwo words. Justin Blackmon. The Arizona defensive game plan will be to shut this guy down. If I were Mike Gundy, and I were a man...who was forty...two... I would ensure that Blackmon receive 10 touches in this contest, even if they\'re triple teaming the guy--OSU has to get him the ball. Can you believe Dez Bryant and this dude played together? How\'d we miss that? Arizona can compete, and they can also fall flat in the second half of big games; however, you know the Stoops boys are sharing information on how to stop common foes. Regardless, this game belongs to the Cowboys.\r\n<h3>12/30 - Armed Forces Bowl: Army vs. SMU</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3152\" title=\"SMU\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/SMU.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"399\" />\r\nCan SMU stop Army\'s option attack? I believe that they can. It\'s so nice to see SMU back in the mix after years of football obscurity--I thought last season might have been a fluke, but it seems they\'re really on the upswing. June Jones will certainly have a few wrinkles in the game plan with so much time to prepare. Army will move the ball and will score some points, but when it comes down to it, they\'re inability to pass the ball effectively will hurt them vs. the Mustangs.\r\n<h3>12/30 - Pinstripe Bowl: Kansas St. vs. Syracuse</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3153\" title=\"bill-snyder-KSU\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/bill-snyder-KSU-e1292394624356.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"618\" />\r\nBill Snyder is letting Syracuse know, \"Oh yeah, we\'re coming to New York, and we\'re gonna put it down! Meet us at Yankee Stadium, Orangmen!\" How can you pick against Bill Snyder? I know I can\'t.\r\n<h3>12/30 - Music City Bowl: North Carolina vs. Tennessee</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3167\" title=\"TaurenPooleTennessee\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/TaurenPooleTennessee-e1292399099390.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"336\" />\r\nTo many Tar Heel fans, this will be the season that \"could have been.\" Broken rules + Player suspensions = Disappointing season. Tennessee, with all Kiffinesque things considered, had an amazing season--competing deep into games with some of the nation\'s most elite talent. I think Derek Dooley is going to do amazing things at UT! You hear that Colin Cowherd? Yeah, bro, I remember you dissing him earlier this season. He took Lane Kiffin\'s mess and is going to a bowl game...and the Volunteers will win.\r\n<h3>12/30 - Holiday Bowl: Nebraska vs. Washington</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3154\" title=\"jake-locker-Washington\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/jake-locker-Washington-e1292395215407.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"422\" />\r\nJake Locker might wish he had declared for the draft after last season. The Huskies just didn\'t offer much support to the talent under center. Locker will have his hands full vs. a well prepared Bo Pelini/Nebraska defense. I\'ll honestly be surprised if Washington scores more than 13 points in this game. If you haven\'t seen Nebraska play this year, have a look-see. Roy Helu Jr. and Taylor Martinez are an exciting offensive duo.\r\n<h3>12/31 - Meineke Car Care Bowl: South Florida vs. Clemson</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3155\" title=\"KyleParkerClemson\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/KyleParkerClemson-e1292395520539.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"334\" />\r\nI really don\'t have much to say about this one. It\'s not that I don\'t care, it\'s just that I don\'t care very much. Clemson put up yet another sub-par season, and the Bulls of South Florida are still trying to find their way under new leadership. Slight edge to the Tigers.\r\n<h3>12/31 - Sun Bowl: Notre Dame vs. Miami</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3157\" title=\"TommyReesNotreDame\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/TommyReesNotreDame-e1292395993738.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"398\" />\r\nThe season in South Bend was riddled with tragedy. Am I about to go out on a limb? I certainly am. Yes, I believe Notre Dame will win this bowl game, but I also believe that Notre Dame has turned the corner under Brian Kelly. Regardless of how I feel, Miami is the popular favorite, and is sitting at -3.5 where you can pay to play. I\'m a little shocked by the line, considering the firing of Randy Shannon. Can\'t really explain my confidence on this one, but I think the gold hats prevail.\r\n<h3>12/31 - Liberty Bowl: Georgia vs. UCF</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3158\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/AJ-GREEN-Georgia.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"375\" />\r\nA.J. Green watched the beginning of the season in street clothes. That was the difference in Georgia\'s season. This Georgia squad proved that they could compete with the best when they went to war with Auburn. They fought hard for their sixth win to enjoy this extra game. I believe they\'ll take full advantage of it vs. the UCF Golden Knights. If you like NFL talent, tune in to enjoy <a href=\"http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FKTm9oFWJNg\" target=\"_blank\">A.J. Green</a>.\r\n<h3>12/31 - Chick-Fil-A Bowl: South Carolina vs. Florida State</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3160\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/marcus-lattimore-south-carolina-e1292396817797.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"347\" />\r\nWant to see the best Freshman running back in the nation? He wears #21 for the Gamecocks. South Carolina playing at their best takes it to Alabama. South Carolina missing the mark gets hammered by Auburn. When I say South Carolina, yes, I mean QB Stephen Garcia--it comes and goes with his play--when he plays within the system and minimizes his mistakes, he\'s dangerous. Not only that, he\'s surrounded by talent. RB Marcus Lattimore, WRs Alshon Jefferey and Tori Gurley: These three are Sunday players. I like the Gamecocks--I like Steve Spurrier over Jimbo Fisher.\r\n<h3>1/1 - TicketCity Bowl: Northwestern vs. Texas Tech</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3161\" title=\"TaylorPottsTexTech\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/TaylorPottsTexTech-e1292397203255.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"290\" />\r\nNorthwestern hasn\'t won a bowl game since the 1948 Rose Bowl. I don\'t think that streak is going to end vs. this Texas Tech team. Tommy Tuberville has quietly taken a messy situation in Lubbock, TX, and worked a few wonders. As much as I love NW coach Pat Fitzgerald\'s mojo, I think the Red Raiders will be slingin\' their guns in this battle.\r\n<h3>1/1 - Outback Bowl: Florida vs. Penn State</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3162\" title=\"urban-meyer\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/urban-meyer.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"333\" />\r\nFarewell, Urban. As an LSU fan, I\'m supposed to loathe you, but I don\'t. You\'re probably as confused as I am about your 2010 Gators squad. This Florida team just seemed unfocused, grossly lacking that on field leadership that Tim Tebow offered the previous four years. Making matters worse is Florida QB John Brantley who is considering a transfer after the season. If I could offer a bit of advice--just play one game at a time, young man, and stay where you are. What can <em>you</em> offer to the program? Where could <em>you</em> lead it? I foresee the squad focused for Urban\'s final game on the UF sidelines. Penn State will be no pushover, but they simply don\'t have the firepower to run with the Gators, even if both squads are firing on both cylinders.\r\n<h3>1/1 - Capital One Bowl: Alabama vs. Michigan State</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3163\" title=\"markingramAlabma\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/markingramAlabma-e1292398330265.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"525\" />\r\nHow did Alabama lose three games this season? I still believe they\'re the most talented team in the country. Rarely do a I look at a coach like Nick Saban and question personnel decisions, but I felt Mark Ingram was underutilized all season, considering the early season knee issue. Yes, I\'m an outsider--perhaps both Ingram and Trent Richardson are headed to the draft, in which case, I get it. I hope to see Ingram get 20+ carries in the Capital One Bowl. The Tide will roll in this match-up. Yeah, I\'m biased--I love the SEC, and can\'t stand the Big 10.\r\n<h3>1/1 - Gator Bowl: Mississippi State vs. Michigan</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3164\" title=\"Denard-Robinson-Michigan\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Denard-Robinson-Michigan-e1292398764413.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"333\" />\r\nIt\'s another SEC vs. Big 10 match-up. Hmmmm...wonder which way I\'m going? I do love watching Denard Robinson play, but after facing Cam Newton, Mississippi State will feel like they\'re playing against Newton\'s little brother. Mississippi State is a very good football team, and they\'ll come off the field with the hardware.\r\n<h3>1/1 - Rose Bowl: Wisconsin vs. TCU</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3168\" title=\"andy-dalton-TCU\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/andy-dalton-TCU-e1292399196883.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"343\" />\r\nIf the regular season was any indication, these two teams could merit an U/O of 100. I see a clash of the titans in the 2011 Rose Bowl game. I feel like TCU learned an incredible lesson in their loss to Boise State last bowl season--they haven\'t lost since, and they\'ve left nothing on the field since. I\'m taking the Horned Frogs over the Badgers, and to finish #2 in the final BCS standings.\r\n<h3>1/1 - Fiesta Bowl: UConn vs. Oklahoma</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3169\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/OU-DeMarco-Murray-e1292399981861.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"371\" />\r\nWorst bowl match-up ever? We\'ll see. This is definitive proof of the failure that is the BCS. Sure, the Fiesta Bowl has a tendency to turn Oklahoma into Choklahoma, but not with this squad, and not vs. UCONN. I pity the Huskies. I know they\'ll come to play, but I feel as if the OU Stoops crew will be looking to send a message to the BCS and their computers.\r\n<h3>1/3 - Orange Bowl: Stanford vs. Virginia Tech</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3170\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/AndrewLuckStanford-e1292400895341.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"333\" />\r\nThis match-up has the makings of a solid game. After their early season falter, Virginia Tech put together an impressive run--11 straight wins. Stanford\'s only loss was to Oregon, and it could easily be argued that the Cardinal (yes, Cardinal--color, not animal) weren\'t playing their best ball until late in the season. I\'d go so far as to say that they could beat Oregon if they played tomorrow. I like Jim Harbaugh\'s boys in this battle. If you tune in, be prepared for the ongoing booth dialog about Andrew Luck as an NFL prospect. I would suggest that the Jr. stick around, considering the NFL season in 2011-12 will probably be 9 games long, beginning in November.\r\n<h3>1/4 - Sugar Bowl: Ohio State vs. Arkansas</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3171\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/PryorOSU-e1292401173619.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"388\" />\r\nAnother Big 10/SEC match-up? Terrelle Pryor is an exciting athlete. Ryan Mallett is a better QB. Sorry OSU fans. I enjoy watching TP, but I don\'t think you realize what you\'re up against in Arkansas. The <a href=\"http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oyY8oUXaTio\" target=\"_blank\">Hogs</a> played with everyone in the SEC only losing to Alabama and Auburn--Alabama by 4, and Auburn in a shoot-out with a score grossly misrepresenting how close the contest actually was. I\'ll stick with the SEC in this one. I know--shocker.\r\n<h3>1/6 - GoDaddy.com Bowl: Middle Tennessee vs. Miami (OH)</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3172\" title=\"DwightDasherMTSU\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/DwightDasherMTSU-e1292401966658.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"333\" />\r\nPerhaps a slightly disappointing season for senior MTSU QB Dwight Dasher. The guy can make plays, but missing multiple games at the beginning of the season forced him to try and find mid-season form with no action under his belt. Things won\'t get easier for him vs. a Miami (OH) Redhawks squad that was on the verge of death a year ago. The \'hawks are flying high and should dictate all aspects of this match-up.\r\n<h3>1/7 - Cotton Bowl: LSU vs. Texas A&amp;M</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3173\" title=\"PatrickPetersonLSU\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/PatrickPetersonLSU-e1292402334317.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"281\" />\r\nI\'ll try to keep it short and sweet. A die hard Tiger fan, I\'m thoroughly excited for this match-up vs. Texas A&amp;M in Dallas. LSU has struggled offensively nearly all season long, simply due to inconsistent QB play. Running back Stevan Ridley may be one of the best kept secrets in the NCAA. The defense, led by DT Drake Nevis and CB Patrick Peterson are as close to an NFL style defense you\'ll see at the collegiate level. A&amp;M kicked their season up a notch by going to Frosh QB Ryan Tannehill early in the season--he became their difference maker. He saw some decent defenses in the Big 12, but he\'s never seen a defense with this speed and strength of this LSU squad--fully rested and ready to roll. If LSU QB Jordan Jefferson can begin to play to his potential, this could cap a nice season for the Bayou Bengals. I LOVE LSU in this one. You should love them, too.\r\n<h3>1/8 - BBVA Compass Bowl: Pittsburgh vs. Kentucky</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3174\" title=\"randall-cobb-Kentucky\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/randall-cobb-Kentucky-e1292402772920.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"361\" />\r\nYou heard about Kentucky QB Mike Hartline getting suspended, yes? This could actually be beneficial for the Cats, as they\'ll more than likely go to sophomore QB Morgan Newton. Perhaps Wildcats coach Joker Phillips may also show more wildcat looks with the best player you\'ve probably never heard of, Randall Cobb. The smart choice here is probably the Pitt Panthers, but I\'m going with Kentucky in <a href=\"http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WhgaIWWh0QE\" target=\"_blank\">Randall Cobb</a>\'s final game in UK Blue. I\'m going SEC over an average team from a pretty weak Big East conference.\r\n<h3>1/9 - Kraft Fight Hunger Bowl: Nevada vs. Boston College</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3175\" title=\"KaepernickNevada\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/KaepernickNevada-e1292403317403.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"333\" />\r\nHow can you not love Colin Kaepernick? Nevada\'s pistol attack is absolutely deadly. When they get down, they can come back in a hurry. When they\'re up, they can bury a team just as quickly. Don\'t believe me? Just ask Boise State. The Boston College defense may be one of the better units Nevada has faced, excluding Boise State, yet I don\'t think the Eagles can handle the Wolf Pack attack for all four quarters. Sticking with Kaepernick, leading Nevada to the best season in school history!\r\n<h3>1/10 - BCS National Championship: Oregon vs. Auburn</h3>\r\n<object classid=\"clsid:d27cdb6e-ae6d-11cf-96b8-444553540000\" width=\"500\" height=\"385\" codebase=\"http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0\"><param name=\"allowFullScreen\" value=\"true\" /><param name=\"allowscriptaccess\" value=\"always\" /><param name=\"src\" value=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/iOi2hj_sjyY?fs=1&amp;hl=en_US\" /><param name=\"allowfullscreen\" value=\"true\" /><embed type=\"application/x-shockwave-flash\" width=\"500\" height=\"385\" src=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/iOi2hj_sjyY?fs=1&amp;hl=en_US\" allowscriptaccess=\"always\" allowfullscreen=\"true\"></embed></object>\r\n\r\nVS.\r\n\r\n<object classid=\"clsid:d27cdb6e-ae6d-11cf-96b8-444553540000\" width=\"500\" height=\"385\" codebase=\"http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0\"><param name=\"allowFullScreen\" value=\"true\" /><param name=\"allowscriptaccess\" value=\"always\" /><param name=\"src\" value=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/QehP9o5S3Hs?fs=1&amp;hl=en_US\" /><param name=\"allowfullscreen\" value=\"true\" /><embed type=\"application/x-shockwave-flash\" width=\"500\" height=\"385\" src=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/QehP9o5S3Hs?fs=1&amp;hl=en_US\" allowscriptaccess=\"always\" allowfullscreen=\"true\"></embed></object>\r\nCan Oregon possibly stop Auburn? I don\'t think so. I don\'t think there\'s any way that they can stop all facets of Auburn\'s offensive attack, led by Heisman award winner, Cameron Newton. If you haven\'t seen Cam Newton play this season, you\'ll have to take my word. My opinion on this matter is worthy of the pundit stamp.\r\n\r\nThere is no <em>known</em> way to contain him for four quarters. Even when Alabama found a way to contain him for a couple of quarters, he just kept coming. Add to that fact a tremendous supporting cast who also just keeps coming, and Oregon is probably shifting their mindset towards a shoot-out.\r\n\r\nCan Auburn slow or stop Oregon? I believe Auburn can, and will. Put it this way: Oregon will have to beat Auburn by putting the ball in the air. Auburn\'s weakness has been in the secondary, yet they\'re much improved. With five weeks to prepare for this game, they\'ll be even better. I just don\'t see Darron Thomas executing that kind of a passing attack.\r\n\r\nI foresee the Auburn defensive game plan focused on stopping LaMichael James. The Auburn defensive front, led by Nick Fairley, will wear on Oregon as the game goes on, and they\'ll get to Thomas. The difference may be in what Thomas can offer once a play begins to break down.\r\n\r\nI don\'t see this one playing close for very long. It\'s going to be incredibly interesting to see what happens if the Ducks get down early, playing from an unfamiliar position. For this game to go the distance, Oregon needs to run out front, and score a lot of points.\r\n\r\nI like Auburn--clearly. I think once the nervous energy subsides on both sidelines, and both teams get down to business, the contest will end with Auburn raising the Waterford Crystal, BCS Coaches Trophy. Every Auburn fan who booed the hiring of Gene Chizik will happily eat some crow...and it\'ll taste sooo good.','College Bowl Preview ','','inherit','open','open','','3127-revision-21','','','2010-12-15 11:59:17','2010-12-15 19:59:17','',3127,'http://manjr.com/2010/uncategorized/3127-revision-21/',0,'revision','',0),(3192,7,'2010-12-15 12:05:06','2010-12-15 20:05:06','Outside of the <a href=\"http://www.nfl.com/\" target=\"_blank\">NFL playoffs</a>, it may be the greatest multi-week sports season of the year--in fact it <em>is</em> the harbinger of the playoffs for the pros. It surrounds the Christmas and New Year holidays, and it even spurs annual debate through crowning a Champion without a playoff system. Oh yeah. It\'s time to go bowling!\r\n\r\nIf you feel there are too many bowl games, get over yourself! Why? Is it <em>too much</em> football for you? Are you paying taxes for these games? C\'mon! Get in the holiday spirit, Scrooge.\r\n\r\nI don\'t care who the bowl sponsor is, or who\'s playing in it...I\'ll watch it and enjoy it. At first glance a couple weeks ago, I thought the match-ups looked pretty uninteresting, yet after careful consideration, the potential for some great football games is undeniable.\r\n\r\nLet\'s break \'em down in play order:\r\n<h3>12/18 - New Mexico Bowl: BYU vs. UTEP</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3133\" title=\"UTEP\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/UTEP-e1292376625439.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"600\" />\r\nBYU is a pretty easy favorite in this match-up. UTEP QB Trevor Vittatoe is a difference maker, yet his ankle is busted up, and he\'s less than four days from having to put it to the test. If he\'s somehow able to play through the pain, the Miners could make it interesting.\r\n<h3>12/18 - Humanitarian Bowl: Northern Illinois vs. Fresno State</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3135\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Fresno.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"387\" />\r\nNorthern Illinois put up an impressive 10-3 season, losing a heart breaker in the MAC Championship. Now they\'re meeting a Fresno team led by veteran coach Pat Hill who has been given multiple weeks of preparation. This promises to be a battle, and picking either team would be a logical decision. The vast majority of the nation is going with the bulldogs, but I\'m taking the Huskies.\r\n<h3>12/18 - New Orleans Bowl: Ohio University vs. Troy</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3136\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Boo-Jackson-OhioU-e1292378277401.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"342\" />\r\nOhio QB, Franshaw \"Boo\" Jackson. He can be exciting when he\'s hitting on all cylinders, yet I was unimpressed with the MAC this season. I\'m going against the populous once again on this one, and sticking with the team from the south. I see another battle, and Troy coming out on top.\r\n<h3>12/21 - St. Petersburg Bowl: Southern Miss. vs. Louisville</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3137\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/SouthernMiss.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"368\" />\r\nDidn\'t ya hear? Brett Favre found a game of NCAA eligibility and is coming out of collegiate retirement. I just couldn\'t pass up the opportunity to use the image. Look at the young gun slinger... Call me insane, but I\'m going against the majority again with this pick. I feel like Louisville has the slight edge. It has the potential to be another close one.\r\n<h3>12/22 - Las Vegas Bowl: Utah vs. Boise State</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3138\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/KellenMooreBoise.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"312\" />\r\nAside from a couple missteps vs. TCU and Notre Dame, Utah put together an impressive season. They won close games down the stretch and earned this match-up vs. powerhouse, Boise State. The Broncos BCS dreams were crushed in the NCAA game of the year vs. Nevada, yet a week later they went back to work and took care of business. I have a feeling that Kellen Moore is going to go off in Vegas like a 21 year old with their multi-millionaire father\'s credit card. ...that Kellen Moore is going to go off in Vegas like a fat dude at the <a href=\"http://www.circuscircus.com/dining/circus_buffet.aspx\" target=\"_blank\">Circus Circus buffet</a>. He may opt for both options--I know I would. BSU is the team that I would never bet against. You shouldn\'t either.\r\n<h3>12/23 - Poinsettia Bowl: Navy vs. San Diego State</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3139\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Ricky-Dobbs-NAVY.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"310\" />\r\nNavy is impressive... but San Diego State is possibly the best 8-4 team in the country. They have played <em>everyone</em> close. Everyone. Their 4 losses were by a combined 15 points. I think the Navy option attack might give them headaches, and I\'m rolling with the Midshipmen...as of now. I reserve the right to change my mind due to the factual evidence listed above. It\'s worth noting, this is the final game for Navy QB Ricky Dobbs--the kid is a stud. He has always played well in big games, and probably loves the thought of being the underdog.\r\n<h3>12/24 - Hawai\'i Bowl: Hawaii vs. Tulsa</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3143\" title=\"Hawaii\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Hawaii-e1292390690856.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"331\" />\r\nHawaii at home? Check. Hawaii with a devastating passing attack? Check. Tulsa with a suspect secondary? Check. Tulsa with the ability to score a lot of points? Check. Could be a shoot out, but this one is going to the Warriors of Hawaii.\r\n<h3>12/26 - Little Caesars Bowl: FIU vs. Toledo</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3145\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/TimBeckmanToledo-e1292390916838.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"375\" />\r\nThese two teams. Geez. How many times did you see either of these teams play this year? Exactly. FIU is scary because they\'re a new program, and they just don\'t know better than to score 50 points in some games. Still, I\'m hitching my wagon to the Rockets of Toledo and the best coach you\'ve never heard of, <a href=\"http://www.utrockets.com/ViewArticle.dbml?DB_OEM_ID=18000&amp;ATCLID=3691260\" target=\"_blank\">Tim Beckman</a>. Don\'t be surprised when Toledo is cracking the Top 25 in another few years...if they can keep Beckman around.\r\n<h3>12/27 - Independence Bowl: Air Force vs. Georgia Tech</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3146\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/JoshNesbittGeorgiaTech.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"312\" />\r\nThis battle has options. How\'s that for a play on words? GT QB Joshua Nesbitt is a guy with the potential to take over the field. It would be awesome to see him have the game of his life in the Independence Bowl. Even so, I don\'t know that the Yellow Jackets have the moxie to dogfight with the Air Force. I\'m going with the Falcons.\r\n<h3>12/28 - Champs Sports Bowl: West Virginia vs. NC State</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3147\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/noel-devine-WV.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"333\" />\r\nThe Champs Sports Bowl will mark the end to the collegiate career of WV star running back, Noel Devine, and if he can rush for 114 yards in the contest, he\'ll go over 1,000 yards for his third consecutive season. QB Geno Smith has offered a stamp of legitimacy to his sophomore season, and I\'m excited to see him after multiple weeks of rest and preparation. If the Mountaineers come into the contest focused, which I believe they will, NC State will have their hands full--unfortunately, WVU has not played well in bowl games without a fella by the name of Pat White under center.\r\n<h3>12/28 - Insight Bowl: Missouri vs. Iowa</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3148\" title=\"Blaine-Gabbert-Missouri-Tigers\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Blaine-Gabbert-Missouri-Tigers-e1292392509939.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"280\" />\r\nMizzou flaked for two weeks this season. They sat in the drivers seat, took it to Oklahoma in convincing fashion, but couldn\'t get themselves up for the inevitable battles vs. Nebraska and the inferior Texas Tech. After getting the wheels back on track, they finished the season strong. Iowa\'s Ricky Stanzi is a joy to watch. 25 TDs to 4 INTs in 2010--flat out, impressive! He led the Hawkeyes to compete in every game, yet they dropped their final 3 only two weeks after knocking off #5 Michigan State. In this contest, Stanzi will be without a couple weapons who have been suspended for off-the-field issues. We\'ll see if the Hawkeyes can fill those gaps. In this border war on neutral ground, I gotta go with Missouri. MIZ-ZOU.\r\n<h3>12/29 - Military Bowl: East Carolina vs. Maryland</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3156\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Maryland-e1292395736293.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"359\" />\r\nNothing like two state schools battling in the Military Bowl. ECU started the season off well at 5-2, then dropped 4 of their last 5. QB Dominique Davis will have his hands full vs. Maryland, who is disciplined, talented and oft disrespected on both sides of the ball. I\'m going Terps all the way in this first ever meeting between these two teams.\r\n<h3>12/29 - Texas Bowl: Illinois vs. Baylor</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3150\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/robert-griffinBaylor-e1292393352278.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"583\" />\r\nDo yourself a favor and check out at least a visual snippet of this game. Baylor will play with the relative home field advantage, and will look to cap the season on a positive note after dropping their final three games. Baylor QB <a href=\"http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UUDvLUqwF1I\" target=\"_blank\">Robert Griffin III</a>, and Illinois RB Mikel Leshoure are two to watch in this battle. I\'m going with the Baylor Bears in their first bowl appearance since 1994.\r\n<h3>12/29 - Alamo Bowl: Oklahoma State vs. Arizona</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3151\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/JustinBlackmonOSU-e1292393858530.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"303\" />\r\nTwo words. Justin Blackmon. The Arizona defensive game plan will be to shut this guy down. If I were Mike Gundy, and I were a man...who was forty...two... I would ensure that Blackmon receive 10 touches in this contest, even if they\'re triple teaming the guy--OSU has to get him the ball. Can you believe Dez Bryant and this dude played together? How\'d we miss that? Arizona can compete, and they can also fall flat in the second half of big games; however, you know the Stoops boys are sharing information on how to stop common foes. Regardless, this game belongs to the Cowboys.\r\n<h3>12/30 - Armed Forces Bowl: Army vs. SMU</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3152\" title=\"SMU\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/SMU.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"399\" />\r\nCan SMU stop Army\'s option attack? I believe that they can. It\'s so nice to see SMU back in the mix after years of football obscurity--I thought last season might have been a fluke, but it seems they\'re really on the upswing. June Jones will certainly have a few wrinkles in the game plan with so much time to prepare. Army will move the ball and will score some points, but when it comes down to it, they\'re inability to pass the ball effectively will hurt them vs. the Mustangs.\r\n<h3>12/30 - Pinstripe Bowl: Kansas St. vs. Syracuse</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3153\" title=\"bill-snyder-KSU\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/bill-snyder-KSU-e1292394624356.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"618\" />\r\nBill Snyder is letting Syracuse know, \"Oh yeah, we\'re coming to New York, and we\'re gonna put it down! Meet us at Yankee Stadium, Orangmen!\" How can you pick against Bill Snyder? I know I can\'t.\r\n<h3>12/30 - Music City Bowl: North Carolina vs. Tennessee</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3167\" title=\"TaurenPooleTennessee\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/TaurenPooleTennessee-e1292399099390.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"336\" />\r\nTo many Tar Heel fans, this will be the season that \"could have been.\" Broken rules + Player suspensions = Disappointing season. Tennessee, with all Kiffinesque things considered, had an amazing season--competing deep into games with some of the nation\'s most elite talent. I think Derek Dooley is going to do amazing things at UT! You hear that Colin Cowherd? Yeah, bro, I remember you dissing him earlier this season. He took Lane Kiffin\'s mess and is going to a bowl game...and the Volunteers will win.\r\n<h3>12/30 - Holiday Bowl: Nebraska vs. Washington</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3154\" title=\"jake-locker-Washington\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/jake-locker-Washington-e1292395215407.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"422\" />\r\nJake Locker might wish he had declared for the draft after last season. The Huskies just didn\'t offer much support to the talent under center. Locker will have his hands full vs. a well prepared Bo Pelini/Nebraska defense. I\'ll honestly be surprised if Washington scores more than 13 points in this game. If you haven\'t seen Nebraska play this year, have a look-see. Roy Helu Jr. and Taylor Martinez are an exciting offensive duo.\r\n<h3>12/31 - Meineke Car Care Bowl: South Florida vs. Clemson</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3155\" title=\"KyleParkerClemson\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/KyleParkerClemson-e1292395520539.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"334\" />\r\nI really don\'t have much to say about this one. It\'s not that I don\'t care, it\'s just that I don\'t care very much. Clemson put up yet another sub-par season, and the Bulls of South Florida are still trying to find their way under new leadership. Slight edge to the Tigers.\r\n<h3>12/31 - Sun Bowl: Notre Dame vs. Miami</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3157\" title=\"TommyReesNotreDame\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/TommyReesNotreDame-e1292395993738.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"398\" />\r\nThe season in South Bend was riddled with tragedy. Am I about to go out on a limb? I certainly am. Yes, I believe Notre Dame will win this bowl game, but I also believe that Notre Dame has turned the corner under Brian Kelly. Regardless of how I feel, Miami is the popular favorite, and is sitting at -3.5 where you can pay to play. I\'m a little shocked by the line, considering the firing of Randy Shannon. Can\'t really explain my confidence on this one, but I think the gold hats prevail.\r\n<h3>12/31 - Liberty Bowl: Georgia vs. UCF</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3158\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/AJ-GREEN-Georgia.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"375\" />\r\nA.J. Green watched the beginning of the season in street clothes. That was the difference in Georgia\'s season. This Georgia squad proved that they could compete with the best when they went to war with Auburn. They fought hard for their sixth win to enjoy this extra game. I believe they\'ll take full advantage of it vs. the UCF Golden Knights. If you like NFL talent, tune in to enjoy <a href=\"http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FKTm9oFWJNg\" target=\"_blank\">A.J. Green</a>.\r\n<h3>12/31 - Chick-Fil-A Bowl: South Carolina vs. Florida State</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3160\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/marcus-lattimore-south-carolina-e1292396817797.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"347\" />\r\nWant to see the best Freshman running back in the nation? He wears #21 for the Gamecocks. South Carolina playing at their best takes it to Alabama. South Carolina missing the mark gets hammered by Auburn. When I say South Carolina, yes, I mean QB Stephen Garcia--it comes and goes with his play--when he plays within the system and minimizes his mistakes, he\'s dangerous. Not only that, he\'s surrounded by talent. RB Marcus Lattimore, WRs Alshon Jefferey and Tori Gurley: These three are Sunday players. I like the Gamecocks--I like Steve Spurrier over Jimbo Fisher.\r\n<h3>1/1 - TicketCity Bowl: Northwestern vs. Texas Tech</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3161\" title=\"TaylorPottsTexTech\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/TaylorPottsTexTech-e1292397203255.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"290\" />\r\nNorthwestern hasn\'t won a bowl game since the 1948 Rose Bowl. I don\'t think that streak is going to end vs. this Texas Tech team. Tommy Tuberville has quietly taken a messy situation in Lubbock, TX, and worked a few wonders. As much as I love NW coach Pat Fitzgerald\'s mojo, I think the Red Raiders will be slingin\' their guns in this battle.\r\n<h3>1/1 - Outback Bowl: Florida vs. Penn State</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3162\" title=\"urban-meyer\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/urban-meyer.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"333\" />\r\nFarewell, Urban. As an LSU fan, I\'m supposed to loathe you, but I don\'t. You\'re probably as confused as I am about your 2010 Gators squad. This Florida team just seemed unfocused, grossly lacking that on field leadership that Tim Tebow offered the previous four years. Making matters worse is Florida QB John Brantley who is considering a transfer after the season. If I could offer a bit of advice--just play one game at a time, young man, and stay where you are. What can <em>you</em> offer to the program? Where could <em>you</em> lead it? I foresee the squad focused for Urban\'s final game on the UF sidelines. Penn State will be no pushover, but they simply don\'t have the firepower to run with the Gators, even if both squads are firing on both cylinders.\r\n<h3>1/1 - Capital One Bowl: Alabama vs. Michigan State</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3163\" title=\"markingramAlabma\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/markingramAlabma-e1292398330265.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"525\" />\r\nHow did Alabama lose three games this season? I still believe they\'re the most talented team in the country. Rarely do a I look at a coach like Nick Saban and question personnel decisions, but I felt Mark Ingram was underutilized all season, considering the early season knee issue. Yes, I\'m an outsider--perhaps both Ingram and Trent Richardson are headed to the draft, in which case, I get it. I hope to see Ingram get 20+ carries in the Capital One Bowl. The Tide will roll in this match-up. Yeah, I\'m biased--I love the SEC, and can\'t stand the Big 10.\r\n<h3>1/1 - Gator Bowl: Mississippi State vs. Michigan</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3164\" title=\"Denard-Robinson-Michigan\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Denard-Robinson-Michigan-e1292398764413.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"333\" />\r\nIt\'s another SEC vs. Big 10 match-up. Hmmmm...wonder which way I\'m going? I do love watching Denard Robinson play, but after facing Cam Newton, Mississippi State will feel like they\'re playing against Newton\'s little brother. Mississippi State is a very good football team, and they\'ll come off the field with the hardware.\r\n<h3>1/1 - Rose Bowl: Wisconsin vs. TCU</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3168\" title=\"andy-dalton-TCU\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/andy-dalton-TCU-e1292399196883.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"343\" />\r\nIf the regular season was any indication, these two teams could merit an U/O of 100. I see a clash of the titans in the 2011 Rose Bowl game. I feel like TCU learned an incredible lesson in their loss to Boise State last bowl season--they haven\'t lost since, and they\'ve left nothing on the field since. I\'m taking the Horned Frogs over the Badgers, and to finish #2 in the final BCS standings.\r\n<h3>1/1 - Fiesta Bowl: UConn vs. Oklahoma</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3169\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/OU-DeMarco-Murray-e1292399981861.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"371\" />\r\nWorst bowl match-up ever? We\'ll see. This is definitive proof of the failure that is the BCS. Sure, the Fiesta Bowl has a tendency to turn Oklahoma into Choklahoma, but not with this squad, and not vs. UCONN. I pity the Huskies. I know they\'ll come to play, but I feel as if the OU Stoops crew will be looking to send a message to the BCS and their computers.\r\n<h3>1/3 - Orange Bowl: Stanford vs. Virginia Tech</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3170\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/AndrewLuckStanford-e1292400895341.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"333\" />\r\nThis match-up has the makings of a solid game. After their early season falter, Virginia Tech put together an impressive run--11 straight wins. Stanford\'s only loss was to Oregon, and it could easily be argued that the Cardinal (yes, Cardinal--color, not animal) weren\'t playing their best ball until late in the season. I\'d go so far as to say that they could beat Oregon if they played tomorrow. I like Jim Harbaugh\'s boys in this battle. If you tune in, be prepared for the ongoing booth dialog about Andrew Luck as an NFL prospect. I would suggest that the Jr. stick around, considering the NFL season in 2011-12 will probably be 9 games long, beginning in November.\r\n<h3>1/4 - Sugar Bowl: Ohio State vs. Arkansas</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3171\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/PryorOSU-e1292401173619.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"388\" />\r\nAnother Big 10/SEC match-up? Terrelle Pryor is an exciting athlete. Ryan Mallett is a better QB. Sorry OSU fans. I enjoy watching TP, but I don\'t think you realize what you\'re up against in Arkansas. The <a href=\"http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oyY8oUXaTio\" target=\"_blank\">Hogs</a> played with everyone in the SEC only losing to Alabama and Auburn--Alabama by 4, and Auburn in a shoot-out with a score grossly misrepresenting how close the contest actually was. I\'ll stick with the SEC in this one. I know--shocker.\r\n<h3>1/6 - GoDaddy.com Bowl: Middle Tennessee vs. Miami (OH)</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3172\" title=\"DwightDasherMTSU\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/DwightDasherMTSU-e1292401966658.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"333\" />\r\nPerhaps a slightly disappointing season for senior MTSU QB Dwight Dasher. The guy can make plays, but missing multiple games at the beginning of the season forced him to try and find mid-season form with no action under his belt. Things won\'t get easier for him vs. a Miami (OH) Redhawks squad that was on the verge of death a year ago. The \'hawks are flying high and should dictate all aspects of this match-up.\r\n<h3>1/7 - Cotton Bowl: LSU vs. Texas A&amp;M</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3173\" title=\"PatrickPetersonLSU\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/PatrickPetersonLSU-e1292402334317.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"281\" />\r\nI\'ll try to keep it short and sweet. A die hard Tiger fan, I\'m thoroughly excited for this match-up vs. Texas A&amp;M in Dallas. LSU has struggled offensively nearly all season long, simply due to inconsistent QB play. Running back Stevan Ridley may be one of the best kept secrets in the NCAA. The defense, led by DT Drake Nevis and CB Patrick Peterson are as close to an NFL style defense you\'ll see at the collegiate level. A&amp;M kicked their season up a notch by going to Frosh QB Ryan Tannehill early in the season--he became their difference maker. He saw some decent defenses in the Big 12, but he\'s never seen a defense with this speed and strength of this LSU squad--fully rested and ready to roll. If LSU QB Jordan Jefferson can begin to play to his potential, this could cap a nice season for the Bayou Bengals. I LOVE LSU in this one. You should love them, too.\r\n<h3>1/8 - BBVA Compass Bowl: Pittsburgh vs. Kentucky</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3174\" title=\"randall-cobb-Kentucky\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/randall-cobb-Kentucky-e1292402772920.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"361\" />\r\nYou heard about Kentucky QB Mike Hartline getting suspended, yes? This could actually be beneficial for the Cats, as they\'ll more than likely go to sophomore QB Morgan Newton. Perhaps Wildcats coach Joker Phillips may also show more wildcat looks with the best player you\'ve probably never heard of, Randall Cobb. The smart choice here is probably the Pitt Panthers, but I\'m going with Kentucky in <a href=\"http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WhgaIWWh0QE\" target=\"_blank\">Randall Cobb</a>\'s final game in UK Blue. I\'m going SEC over an average team from a pretty weak Big East conference.\r\n<h3>1/9 - Kraft Fight Hunger Bowl: Nevada vs. Boston College</h3>\r\n<img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3175\" title=\"KaepernickNevada\" src=\"http://manjr.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/KaepernickNevada-e1292403317403.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"333\" />\r\nHow can you not love Colin Kaepernick? Nevada\'s pistol attack is absolutely deadly. When they get down, they can come back in a hurry. When they\'re up, they can bury a team just as quickly. Don\'t believe me? Just ask Boise State. The Boston College defense may be one of the better units Nevada has faced, excluding Boise State, yet I don\'t think the Eagles can handle the Wolf Pack attack for all four quarters. Sticking with Kaepernick, leading Nevada to the best season in school history!\r\n<h3>1/10 - BCS National Championship: Oregon vs. Auburn</h3>\r\n<object classid=\"clsid:d27cdb6e-ae6d-11cf-96b8-444553540000\" width=\"500\" height=\"385\" codebase=\"http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0\"><param name=\"allowFullScreen\" value=\"true\" /><param name=\"allowscriptaccess\" value=\"always\" /><param name=\"src\" value=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/iOi2hj_sjyY?fs=1&amp;hl=en_US\" /><param name=\"allowfullscreen\" value=\"true\" /><embed type=\"application/x-shockwave-flash\" width=\"500\" height=\"385\" src=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/iOi2hj_sjyY?fs=1&amp;hl=en_US\" allowscriptaccess=\"always\" allowfullscreen=\"true\"></embed></object>\r\n\r\nVS.\r\n\r\n<object classid=\"clsid:d27cdb6e-ae6d-11cf-96b8-444553540000\" width=\"500\" height=\"385\" codebase=\"http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0\"><param name=\"allowFullScreen\" value=\"true\" /><param name=\"allowscriptaccess\" value=\"always\" /><param name=\"src\" value=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/QehP9o5S3Hs?fs=1&amp;hl=en_US\" /><param name=\"allowfullscreen\" value=\"true\" /><embed type=\"application/x-shockwave-flash\" width=\"500\" height=\"385\" src=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/QehP9o5S3Hs?fs=1&amp;hl=en_US\" allowscriptaccess=\"always\" allowfullscreen=\"true\"></embed></object>\r\nCan Oregon possibly stop Auburn? I don\'t think so. I don\'t think there\'s any way that they can stop all facets of Auburn\'s offensive attack, led by Heisman award winner, Cameron Newton. If you haven\'t seen Cam Newton play this season, you\'ll have to take my word. My opinion on this matter is worthy of the pundit stamp.\r\n\r\nThere is no <em>known</em> way to contain him for four quarters. Even when Alabama found a way to contain him for a couple of quarters, he just kept coming. Add to that fact a tremendous supporting cast who also just keeps coming, and Oregon is probably shifting their mindset towards a shoot-out.\r\n\r\nCan Auburn slow or stop Oregon? I believe Auburn can, and will. Put it this way: Oregon will have to beat Auburn by putting the ball in the air. Auburn\'s weakness has been in the secondary, yet they\'re much improved. With five weeks to prepare for this game, they\'ll be even better. I just don\'t see Darron Thomas executing that kind of a passing attack.\r\n\r\nI foresee the Auburn defensive game plan focused on stopping LaMichael James. The Auburn defensive front, led by Nick Fairley, will wear on Oregon as the game goes on, and they\'ll get to Thomas. The difference may be in what Thomas can offer once a play begins to break down.\r\n\r\nI don\'t see this one playing close for very long. It\'s going to be incredibly interesting to see what happens if the Ducks get down early, playing from an unfamiliar position. For this game to go the distance, Oregon needs to run out front, and score a lot of points.\r\n\r\nI like Auburn--clearly. I think once the nervous energy subsides on both sidelines, and both teams get down to business, the contest will end with Auburn raising the Waterford Crystal, BCS Coaches Trophy. Every Auburn fan who booed the hiring of Gene Chizik will happily eat some crow...and it\'ll taste sooo good.','2010 College Bowl Preview ','','inherit','open','open','','3127-revision-22','','','2010-12-15 12:05:06','2010-12-15 20:05:06','',3127,'http://manjr.com/2010/uncategorized/3127-revision-22/',0,'revision','',0),