Yeah, there are too many of them, a majority are poorly attended and there isn't always the highest level of urgency from the combatants. But many of them turn out to be a lot of fun, and they are an opportunity for players to experience the postseason and for coaches to see their troops for another 15 practices. They can sometimes serve as a jumping off point for the next season, especially with very young teams.
The early part of the bowl schedule doesn't have a lot of meat, but have at least something to check out.
Buffalo (7-5) vs Charlotte (7-5)
WHY TO WATCH: It's the first bowl game of the season, which is reason enough. Seeing the sun and sand in the Bahamas will be great escapism, especially for those of us stuck in colder climates. Both teams average over 31 ppg and like to lean on the ground game, but the Bulls have a big edge in defense, which could ultimately tip the scales in their favor. Charlotte DE Alex Highsmith is one of the best yet unheralded game wreckers, getting to the quarterback with stunning regularity. Buffalo's 1-2 ground game punch of Jarret Patterson and Kevin Marks will attempt to keep him honest.
BOWL RECORDS: Buffalo 0-3, Charlotte first appearance
BETTING NUMBERS: Buffalo -6.5, Total 55.5
Utah State (7-5) vs. Kent State (6-6)
WHY TO WATCH: Utah State will look toward 2020 without LB David Woodward, its best defensive player, but will have QB Jordan Love playing his final game as he has declared for the NFL. Kent State is in its first bowl game since 2012, when it went 11-3 under Darrell Hazell.Utah State has a talent edge, but the Flashes should be sky high and ready for battle considering that none of these players has tasted real success or the postseason. Kent coach Sean Lewis is the youngest FBS coach in America, at just 33 years old.
BOWL RECORDS: Utah State 5-7, Kent State 0-3
BETTING NUMBERS: Utah State -7, Total 67
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