CFB Focus Fiesta Bowl Preview

Many analysts and fans believe that the Fiesta Bowl is the de facto national championship game, as both Ohio State and Clemson have been atop nearly every efficiency metric/analytic measurement all season.

Whether or not either is the best remains to be seen. What isn't up for debate is that these two are the most well-rounded teams in the playoff. Both the Buckeyes and Tigers are top 10 in nearly every important category, on both sides of the line of scrimmage, and each has immense talent at the quarterback position -- Justin Fields for OSU and Trevor Lawrence for Clemson. They grew up 50 miles apart in Georgia and were the top two prizes of the 2016 recruiting season, and each can make plays.

Like the other semifinal, the quarterbacks may get the most attention, but the game will come down to which teams shuts down the run game the best. Both JK Dobbins for OSU and Travis Etienne are among the top backs in the country, and whichever has the bigger night will likely be helping his team move on to the championship game.

FIESTA BOWL
(2) Ohio State (13-0) vs. (3) Clemson (13-0)
BETTING NUMBERS: Clemson -2, TOTAL 63

OHIO STATE BUCKEYES
BOWL RECORD: 24-25
BOWL RECORD vs Clemson: 0-3
RECORD vs Clemson: 0-3
AP/BCS/CFP NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS: 5 (1942/1954/1968/2002/2014)
JEFF SAGARIN SOS: 14
RUSHING OFFENSE: 5.67 YPC (6TH)
PASSING OFFENSE: 9.34 YPA (9TH)
TOTAL OFFENSE: 7.02 YPP (5TH)
SCORING OFFENSE: 48.7 (1ST)
POINTS PER PLAY: 0.643 (3RD)
POINTS PER POSSESSION: 3.981 (1ST)
THIRD DOWN CONVERSIONS: 56.97 (1ST)
RED ZONE TD PERCENTAGE: 81.94 (3RD)
PLAYS OF 20+ YARDS: 91 (5TH)
TIMES SACKED PER ATTEMPT: 0.079 (T-94TH)
RUSHING DEFENSE: 2,82 YPC (6TH)
PASSING DEFENSE: 5.35 YPA (2ND)
TOTAL DEFENSE: 3.93 YPP (2ND)
SCORING DEFENSE: 12.5 (T-2ND)
POINTS ALLOWED PER PLAY: 0.199 (3RD)
POINTS ALLOWED PER POSSESSION: 0.976 (2ND)
OPP THIRD DOWN CONVERSIONS: 28.65 (4TH)
OPP RED ZONE TD PERCENTAGE: 39.29 (4TH)
PLAYS OF 20+ YARDS ALLOWED: 38 (T-7TH)
SACKS PER ATTEMPT: 0.122 (1ST)
TURNOVER MARGIN: +11 (T-9TH)

WHAT TO WATCH FOR ON OFFENSE
Justin Fields gets all the headlines, but JK Dobbins is the guy who truly makes this offense go. The junior has run like a man on a mission all season, showing equal parts power and elusiveness. His ability to get skinny in the hole and jump cut in space will challenge Clemson's athletic but sometimes overaggressive front seven, and he has the ability to take it to the house. Fields hasn't seen a defense this good all season, especially on the back end. He may need to run the ball more than he wants to, and it's unknown how effective he'll be as he's worked in practice with a brace on his left knee. He said in press conferences that he was around 85 percent, but teammates claim he has looked close to full speed. A mobile Fields will put much more pressure on Clemson to get home. Look for the Buckeyes to employ more underneath passing as its unlikely to find much open downfield against Clemson's sticky coverage. The Buckeyes offensive line has been a force in the run game, but has also shown a susceptibility to blitzes -- and that's what Clemson DC Brent Venables loves. He brings heat from all angles, and has involved the linebackers more this year than in previous seasons. If the Buckeyes can't hold up in the trenches it could be a very long night, another reason it might be a good idea to play a lot of 10 personnel and use the quick passing game. 
WHAT TO WATCH FOR ON DEFENSE
It's fair to say Ohio State's offense hasn't seen defensive skill like it will see in Clemson, but the same is true for Clemson's offense -- there isn't a group in the ACC that has the athletes to hold up against the Tigers, but the Buckeyes have them at every level. DC Jeff Hafley has been a miracle worker repairing Ohio State's defense, which was top five in most important categories. Chase Young grabs the headlines, and with good reason. He led the nation in sacks despite missing two games, and has played his best on the biggest stage. If Clemson decides to be brave and block him with just a single lineman, Young should shine. The rest of the line has been good, too, staying true to its gap control principles. That's a big reason why Ohio State has been so much better against the run -- it's scheme and principles allow guys to get upfield. The Buckeyes linebacking corps is good but not great, but has shown more physicality than recent groups. They can all hit, but Clemson's speed will present problems. It's the back end where the most fascinating battles will take place. Jeff Okudah has the size and skill to shut down any of Clemson's receivers, and Damon Arnette on the other side isn't far behind. The X-factor is Shaun Wade, who has been great covering slot guys and has unusual instincts for the football. A healthy Wade means the Buckeyes can move their sets up front and be selective in their blitzes. The Buckeyes have employed a single-high safety look for most of the season, and its paid off as few teams have been able to hit big plays. Simple has been better this year, so don't look for the Buckeyes to change very much at this stage. 
OUTLOOK
Conventional wisdom said the Buckeyes would take a step back after Urban Meyer walked away from the coaching profession. The man was ridiculously successful in his time in Columbus, and cast a large shadow over anyone who followed. That's what makes Ryan Day's inaugural season as OSU coach all the more amazing -- the Buckeyes have looked more focused, less panicked and more well-rounded than any team Meyer had, and that's in no small part to Day. He appears to have the credentials to keep Ohio State among the nation's elite for the foreseeable future, but he's worried most about the immediate future. Namely facing Clemson. Day knows how difficult it will be to take down the champs, but it isn't as if the Buckeyes are lacking in talent. They have the best defensive player in FBS in DE Chase Young, who will either harass Trevor Lawrence or will be double teamed routinely, allowing a teammate to wreak havoc. The Buckeyes have strength on the back end, and will need to jam Clemson's giant receivers off the line. If they allow the hands guys to run free it's over. Justin Fields has been extremely resourceful with the football, throwing just one interception all season. He'll be pressured like never before by Clemson DC Brent Venables, so Day will need to have his screen and short passing plays dialed up. Hit a few of those and the pressure stops, which could open up rushing lanes for JK Dobbins. If Ohio State's sometimes shaky offensive line can hold up against Clemson's blitz packages it will have success. But that may be easier said than done.

CLEMSON TIGERS
BOWL RECORD: 24-20
BOWL RECORD vs Ohio State: 3-0
RECORD vs Ohio State: 3-0
AP/BCS/CFP NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS: 3 (1981/2016/2018)
JEFF SAGARIN SOS: 62
RUSHING OFFENSE: 6.08 YPC (1ST)
PASSING OFFENSE: 8.61 YPA (19TH)
TOTAL OFFENSE: 7.26 YPP (4TH)
SCORING OFFENSE: 46.5 (4TH)
POINTS PER PLAY: 0.618 (4TH)
POINTS PER POSSESSION: 3.461 (5TH)
THIRD DOWN CONVERSIONS: 47.44 (14TH)
RED ZONE TD PERCENTAGE: 75.00 (T-9TH)
PLAYS OF 20+ YARDS: 88 (7TH)
TIMES SACKED PER ATTEMPT: 0.031 (T-5TH)
RUSHING DEFENSE: 2.95 YPC (8TH)
PASSING DEFENSE: 5.13 YPA (1ST)
TOTAL DEFENSE: 3.91 YPP (1ST)
SCORING DEFENSE: 10.6 (1ST)
POINTS ALLOWED PER PLAY: 0.166 (1ST)
POINTS ALLOWED PER POSSESSION: 0.822 (1ST)
OPP THIRD DOWN CONVERSIONS: 30.81 (13TH)
OPP RED ZONE TD PERCENTAGE: 40.00 (T-5TH)
PLAYS OF 20+ YARDS ALLOWED: 28 (1ST)
SACKS PER ATTEMPT: 0.104 (6TH)
TURNOVER MARGIN: +14 (T-6TH)

WHAT TO LOOK FOR ON OFFENSE
Facing Clemson is truly a "pick your poison" scenario for defensive coordinators. Do you focus on stopping Trevor Lawrence and his absurdly accurate deep ball skill, which means Travis Etienne will have room to run? Or do you load up to stop Etienne and have Lawrence beat you over the top? These are questions that have likely kept OSU DC Jeff Hafley up nights, but considering how much Ohio State has improved its defense from 2018 it's quite possible he has a few surprises up his sleeve. Clemson loves to play fast and attack, and Etienne is as dangerous as they come in open space. He has great speed, but is also adept at forcing missed tackles. If he gets free he's gone. The Tigers wideouts are 6-4, 6-4 and 6-5 across the line, and have speed to go with their imposing size. Add in the return of TE Braden Galloway, who can stretch the middle of the field, and you see that Ohio State has its hands full. Clemson's offensive line has been very good, but offers a ray of hope for OSU -- Lawrence has struggled when a dominant defensive end has beaten his tackles, so you can bet the Tigers will be tracking Chase Young on every play. Look for OSU to employ Young in more different looks than at any time this season -- stand up end, inside to utilize his quickness advantage, with his hand down on both sides of the formation. If Clemson can handle him without help from a running back or tight end it will be sitting pretty, and the entire playbook will be open. Lawrence processes information like a veteran, so he's not going to be thrown when Ohio State switches from its base to nickel to dime.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR ON DEFENSE
The Tigers still create pressure, but not as effortlessly as they did last season with their all-world defensive front. Freshman DT Tyler Davis has been a revelation, though, and will battle with OSU All-America guard Wyatt Davis. There has been a lot more three-man fronts in 2019, which has allowed the linebacking corps to bring more heat. Last season they were more assistants, but this year they have been right in the middle of things. Isaiah Simmons is the man who makes the linebacking corps hum, being employed all over the field. He's physical enough to take on lineman as an edge rusher and fast enough to play coverage on receivers. His versatility is a huge part of why Clemson's defense is so good, but he's just one part. Brent Venables has employed more different packages this season, to best take advantage of his personnel. He'll blitz from all levels, and his players are seldom out of position because they understand their roles. They don't try to do too much because they know the guy next to them has his responsibility handled. The Tigers secondary has been more aggressive this season, which has resulted in more interceptions. AJ Terrell is the standout, but safeties K'Von Wallace and Tanner Muse won all-league honors and are equally adept against the run or the pass. The Tigers have relied mostly on their time-tested Cover 4, one reason they have given up the fewest explosive plays in FBS. The Clemson D is ridiculously athletic, so it will be a huge challenge for Ohio State to get it back on its heels. And when Clemson goes to its dime package, which puts Simmons in coverage, there is even more speed on the field. 
OUTLOOK
Heavy is the head that wears the crown -- except when you're Clemson. Dabo Swinney has been telling anyone who'll listen that his team is being disrespected -- never mind that the Tigers are favored despite being a lower seed. His "aw shucks" act is wearing pretty thin, but people know why he does it. He has to get his team engaged, especially after a season in which it played almost no one. On the way to the Fiesta Bowl the Tigers were uncommonly special, showing ferocity on offense and on defense. Trevor Lawrence had eight interceptions at the seasons' midway point, and still has eight interceptions. So he's been really good the last part of the season. Clemson has a warehouse full of tall, physical receivers and the nation's most explosive runner in Etienne. If Ohio State can't corral him it's going to be a long night. Despite the loss of its entire defensive front to the NFL, the Tigers may be better as whole than last year. Simmons is a real wild card, lining up as an edge rusher, as a conventional linebacker with speed and tracking ability and as a safety in coverage. He may be the most versatile defensive player in college football, and his play will determine whether or not Clemson can contain Ohio State's variety of weapons. Don't overlook the experience factor -- all of these guys have been here before, most multiple times. They won't be rattled by the bright lights, which means they should be firing on all cylinders. The Tigers have been the nation's best program for the past three years, and a repeat national title would put them into some rarefied air. They certainly have the ability to do it.

CFB Focus Peach Bowl Preview

People have been quick to crown LSU as national champions even before the College Football Playoff matchup with Oklahoma was announced, and while the Tigers have put up video game offensive numbers they aren't just going to waltz over an experienced Sooners squad looking for respect.

LSU coach Ed Orgeron has gone from the guy no one wanted to one of the most lovable and best coaches in the game, and Sooners coach Lincoln Riley has proven himself to be one of the most adept offensive minds in all of football. The Tigers have never been in the CFP, while Oklahoma is making its third appearance and looking for its first victory.

The Tigers should feel more at home in Atlanta, though Sooners quarterback Jalen Hurts is more than familiar with Atlanta from his time at Alabama. While most fans will be watching Hurts and his opposite, Heisman winner Joe Burrow, the game will be decided by defense and which team runs the ball better.

LSU wants to spread Oklahoma out and score quickly, while Sooners will want to use long, methodical, physical drives and keep the ball away from the Tigers shiny offense.

PEACH BOWL
(1) LSU (13-0) vs. (4) Oklahoma (12-1)
BETTING NUMBERS: LSU -13.5, TOTAL 76

LSU TIGERS
BOWL RECORD: 26-23-1
BOWL RECORD vs Oklahoma: 1-1
RECORD vs Oklahoma: 1-1
AP/BCS/CFP NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS:  3 (1958/2003/2007)
JEFF SAGARIN SOS: 15
RUSHING OFFENSE: 4.96 YPC (23RD)
PASSING OFFENSE: 10.25 YPA (6TH)
TOTAL OFFENSE: 7.70 YPP (T-2ND)
SCORING OFFENSE: 47.8 (3RD)
POINTS PER PLAY: 0.649 (2ND)
POINTS PER POSSESSION: 3.767 (3RD)
THIRD DOWN CONVERSIONS: 50.63 (6TH)
RED ZONE TD PERCENTAGE: 76.92 (8TH)
PLAYS OF 20+ YARDS: 93 (3RD)
TIMES SACKED PER ATTEMPT: 0.059 (T-61ST)
RUSHING DEFENSE: 3.70 YPC (30TH)
PASSING DEFENSE: 6.48 YPA (T-19TH)
TOTAL DEFENSE: 5.09 YPP (27TH)
SCORING DEFENSE: 21.2 (25TH)
POINTS ALLOWED PER PLAY: 0.319 (T-24TH)
POINTS ALLOWED PER POSSESSION: 1.633 (T-17TH)
OPP THIRD DOWN CONVERSIONS: 30.16 (10TH)
OPP RED ZONE TD PERCENTAGE: 58.82 (60TH)
PLAYS OF 20+ YARDS ALLOWED: 55 (T-52ND)
SACKS PER ATTEMPT: 0.073 (T-36TH)
TURNOVER MARGIN: +8 (T-15TH)

WHAT TO WATCH FOR ON OFFENSE
An aggressive, all-out attack on a Sooners defense that was improved but still pretty average, especially on the back end. Joe Burrow has shattered all existing passing records at LSU, and is deadly accurate with the football, even when pressured. He has a riverboat gambler attitude and is seemingly unflappable, so the Sooners are going to have to hope that he's a little too hyper and sails some passes early. Lead runner Clyde Edwards-Helaire has been banged up and may not be 100 percent, and he brings tenacity and burst to the Tigers ground attack. If he's limited or can't play then freshman Tyrion Davis-Price will be in the spotlight. The receiving corps is dazzling, led by All-America Ja'Marr Chase. He's blessed with outstanding speed and hands, but he's not alone. Justin Jefferson and Terrace Marshall each have double digit touchdowns, and tight end Thaddeus Moss has become a more utilized weapon late in the season. The addition of Joe Brady as passing game coordinator has done wonders for previously stodgy LSU. The Tigers don't get fancy with formations, they simply put the onus on the quarterback to make sound decisions and deliver the football. They also aren't afraid to take deep shots, leading the nation in pass plays of 20+ yards with 73. Whether against base or nickel, LSU has been nearly unstoppable, and there doesn't appear to be any indication of that changing here. If Oklahoma blitzes, Burrow will adjust and throw a slant or cross over the middle, and if the Sooners simply play zone on the back end Burrow will have too many weapons and open space to deal the football.
WHAT TO WATCH FOR ON DEFENSE
LSU hasn't had any true beasts up front, though Chaisson has been a force as an edge rusher. Aranda is aggressive with his front, and emphasizes getting into the backfield to create havoc. He has loosened the reins and is no longer afraid to stunt or loop up front. The linebackers are a strength, and have speed and power to spare. Patrick Queen and Jacob Phillips have been the difference-makers, and are among the Tigers leaders in tackles for loss. The LBs have taken to being more patient this year, where in previous seasons they would be the tone setters and be all over the place. There is something to being gap sound, and Aranda has gotten that group to buy in. It's helped that LSU has been able to stick with its favored Cover 1, thanks to the sticky man-to-man ability of Stingley Jr and Fulton. The former was only the best freshman defensive player in America, and the latter exhibited solid tackling as well as an ability to find the football (12 PBU). While Grant Delpit hasn't been as good as he was the last two seasons, fellow safety JaCoby Stevens has thrived in nickel and dime packages. Oklahoma's receivers will be a test for LSU, but the Tigers appear to have the personnel to hold up. 
OUTLOOK
For years it was a tough-as-nails defense that guided LSU, with an offense that often kept the Tigers from achieving loftier heights. This year it's reversed, though the defense isn't exactly bad -- it's just not up to Dave Aranda standards. There have been a lot of injuries, but LSU has gotten healthy late in the year which has really helped the back seven. Linebacker K'Lavon Chaisson has been a beast, and in Derek Stingley and Kristian Fulton LSU has a corner tandem that many feel is the best in the country. LSU has been had on the deep ball more often than usual, so it's possible that Oklahoma takes some shots down the deep middle. Offensively, LSU is a mismatch for the Sooners defense. Blitzing will be high because OU doesn't have the athletes to hang with LSU's myriad weapons. Burrow may get hit, but won't get rattled, and has the rare distinction of being the nation's top rated passer with both a clean pocket AND with pressure. You don't see that very often. The Tigers will let it all hang out, so unless they turn the ball over a ton -- and considering there were five games without a turnover that could be wishful thinking on the part of the Sooners. Brady has taken LSU from its traditional 21 personnel to an RPO scheme, with more 10 and 11 personnel -- which he isn't afraid to run out of.

OKLAHOMA SOONERS
BOWL RECORD: 26-23-1
BOWL RECORD vs LSU: 1-1
RECORD vs LSU: 1-1
AP/BCS/CFP NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS:  7 (1950/1955/1956/1974/1975/1985/2000)
JEFF SAGARIN SOS: 18
RUSHING OFFENSE: 5.94 YPC (4TH)
PASSING OFFENSE: 11.09 YPA (3RD)
TOTAL OFFENSE: 7.94 YPP (1ST)
SCORING OFFENSE: 43.2 (6TH)
POINTS PER PLAY: 0.604 (5TH)
POINTS PER POSSESSION: 3.612 (4TH)
THIRD DOWN CONVERSIONS: 50.70 (5TH)
RED ZONE TD PERCENTAGE: 69.57 (28TH)
PLAYS OF 20+ YARDS: 104 (1ST)
TIMES SACKED PER ATTEMPT: 0.059 (T-61ST)
RUSHING DEFENSE: 4.10 YPC (T-54TH)
PASSING DEFENSE: 6.67 YPA (29TH)
TOTAL DEFENSE: 5.29 YPP (35TH)
SCORING DEFENSE: 24.5 (T-4TH)
POINTS ALLOWED PER PLAY: 0.408 (T-66TH)
POINTS ALLOWED PER POSSESSION:2.158 (55TH)
OPP THIRD DOWN CONVERSIONS: 30.12 (9TH)
OPP RED ZONE TD PERCENTAGE: 62.79 (T-79TH)
PLAYS OF 20+ YARDS ALLOWED: 62 (T-87TH)
SACKS PER ATTEMPT: 0.087 (T-17TH)
TURNOVER MARGIN: -7 (T-109TH)

WHAT TO WATCH FOR ON OFFENSE
Lincoln Riley has shown himself to be a master offense technician, tweaking his offense to his personnel. This year the Sooners have become a more physical, downhill rush team, led by QB Jalen Hurts. He lacks the arm talent of predecessors Baker Mayfield and Kyler Murray, so Riley decided to lean more on the ground game this season. Hurts and Kennedy Brooks have been an outstanding 1-2 punch, and both could get more work than usual with backup Rhamondre Stevenson serving a suspension. The best defense for the Sooners could be a ground-heavy attack, which controls the clock and keeps Burrow and crew on the sideline. LSU is likely to blitz more than usual, so the Sooners may be able to hit some big plays, especially on counters and draws. When OU has to go to the air, it will be CeeDee Lamb who answers the call. One of the the best all-around talents in the game, Lamb is a proficient route runner, has strong hands and is deadly in the open field. His battle with Stingley is one to watch. The Sooners have a cadre of receivers who will need to step up if Lamb is neutralized, and the top candidate is Charleston Rambo. Hurts has more experience in big situations than any quarterback in the playoffs, and he has shown himself to be cool under fire. If any player can carry a team on his back, it's Hurts. 
WHAT TO WATCH FOR ON DEFENSE
The Sooners may not be great yet on defense, but they have definitely improved over last year. Gone are the read and react looks, in favor of a more aggressive mindset. Alex Grinch definitely shook up the unit in his first season as coordinator, favoring a one-gap approach that has the defense shooting through gaps into the backfield. It's important to play assignment football in this scheme, and the Sooners have for the most part done that. Neville Gallimore has been a big-time run stuffer inside, and LB Kenneth Murray has been much more disciplined this year while still leading the team in tackles. Last year he roamed free, this year he was asked to play more assignment football -- which included some coverage responsibilities. The hope is that the defense creates enough negative plays to offset the occasional home run play it allows. LSU uses a lot of 10 and 11 personnel on offense, so don't be surprised if the Sooners employ dime personnel in obvious passing situations. That means Murray and Nick Bonitto could be asked to drop into coverage or maybe rush the passer. Two-high safeties will attempt to minimize damage on vertical routes. Parnell Motley has been excellent in coverage this season and may be asked to shadow Chase. But that still leaves Jefferson and Marshall as tough matchups, ones that Oklahoma probably won't win very often. 
OUTLOOK
The Sooners are the biggest underdog in the playoff field, so they really have nothing to lose. Expect OU to come out loose, unintimidated and ready to play. There should be a steady diet of Hurts and Brooks, and if the ground game works early it will help set up some downfield shots to Lamb and his mates. If Oklahoma gets into a situation where it has to pass to win, things won't be pretty. Getting Lamb in space -- on jet sweeps, tunnel screens and slants -- is imperative as he is the X-factor for Oklahoma, a player LSU must account for on every down. A plan that limits deep throws and forces LSU to execute consistently could keep Oklahoma in the contest, and if the teams go into the fourth quarter in a tight contest, are you going to bet against Jalen Hurts?

CFB Focus Bowl Preview -- Dec. 28

Lost amid all of the hoopla for the College Football Playoff is the fact that there are two other games being played today. They may not have the same kind of implications as the semifinals, but they do have big names attempting to gain one more win and head into the offseason on a high note.

One personal aside -- while I enjoy the drama of the CFP, it's still a little disappointing that Cotton Bowl isn't part of New Year's Day. Growing up, I always enjoyed knowing that we had the big four games -- Cotton, Rose, Sugar and Orange, and if I was ever made college football czar I would go back to putting them all on New Year's Day, provided they weren't hosting CFP semifinals that year.

CAMPING WORLD BOWL (12 pm, Orlando)
Notre Dame (10-2) vs Iowa State (7-5)
WHY TO WATCH: Can Notre Dame end finish on the plus side of .500 in bowl games this decade? A win here would do it. Iowa State is 21 points from being unbeaten and has to feel that it can hang with the Irish, especially since it lost by one to Iowa and Oklahoma and by two to Baylor. This is the first-ever meeting between the teams, but the Irish are 3-1 in bowl games vs current Big 12 members. The Cyclones don't only play tight games in the regular season, as five of their last seven bowl appearances have been decided by four points or less. The Irish will be led by quarterback Ian Book, who didn't put up a ton of yards but was excellent at valuing the football (only six interceptions). Notre Dame has a little more margin for error should its offense not fire as the defense is top 15 nationally and fourth in turnover margin. So the Irish have been good at limited opponents possessions. The Cyclones are solid on D, but have given up their share of big plays. Brock Purdy is a standout at quarterback but will be challenged by a Notre Dame defense that has allowed just 13 touchdowns and ranks fifth in opponent passer rating. That may mean more work for freshman running back Breece Hall.
BOWL RECORDS: Notre Dame 18-19, Iowa State 4-10 
BETTING NUMBERS: Notre Dame -3.5, Total 54.5

COTTON BOWL (12 pm, Dallas) 
Memphis (12-1) vs Penn State (10-2)
WHY TO WATCH: The country's best G5 program tries to take down a traditional power from the Big Ten, and both sides have a ton of speed and playmakers. So it has the potential to be a score-fest. Memphis is 0-3 in bowl games against Power 5 programs, but has lost its last two by a combined four points. The Tigers offense is top 10 nationally and features Kenneth Gainwell in the backfield and Antonio Gibson and Damontie Coxie out wide. All three are difference makers, as is quarterback Brady White, who tossed 33 TDs while stretching the field to the tune of 9.6 YPA. Gibson is also one of the most dangerous return men in America, and could give the Tigers a field position advantage. The Nittany Lions weren't nearly as explosive on offense this season as in previous years, but do have home run threats in RB Journey Brown and WR/RS KJ Hamler. If Penn State's offense is to have success QB Sean Clifford must throw better than he has this season (59.5 completion percentage). PSU's D has been nails most of the season, ranking in the top 10 in total and scoring defense, but has allowed 39 pass plays of 20+ yards. Penn State has dropped five of its last seven bowl games but is unbeaten in three Cotton Bowl appearances (2-0-1). The Nittany Lions were humiliated in their lone bowl showdown against a G5 team, losing 30-14 to Houston in the 2012 Ticket City Bowl. 
BOWL RECORDS: Memphis 4-7, Penn State 29-18-2 
BETTING NUMBERS: Penn State -7, Total 60.5

CFB Focus Bowl Preview -- Dec. 27

Today is a tasty appetizer to tomorrow's main course, and there are quite a few big names involved in action.

A couple of young teams building for next year -- North Carolina and USC -- have a chance to impress, while a pair of G5 teams look to end the season on a high note by upsetting a Power 5 foe.

MILITARY BOWL (12 p.m., Annapolis, Md.)
North Carolina (6-6) vs Temple (8-4)
WHY TO WATCH: There wasn't a ton of expectation for UNC in Mack Brown's return to Chapel Hill, so getting to a bowl game was a big time accomplishment -- especially with one of the youngest teams in college football. Freshman QB Sam Howell flashed big time potential and looks to be a nice building block for the Tar Heels. Temple was solid under first year coach Rod Carey, playing physical on defense and showing some explosiveness on offense. This could be one of the more entertaining non-NY6/CFP contests. 
BOWL RECORDS: North Carolina 14-19, Temple 3-5
BETTING NUMBERS: North Carolina -5, Total 53.5

PINSTRIPE BOWL (3:20 p.m., New York City)
Michigan State (6-6) vs Wake Forest (8-4)
WHY TO WATCH: Nothing says bowl season like Yankee Stadium, right? It will be interesting to see how many fans show up to this one as the East Coast is largely the domain of pro sports. Michigan State was a disappointment this season, and you have to wonder if the time has come for MSU to move on from Mark Dantonio. Wake Forest has a top notch offense, led by QB Jamie Newman and WR Sage Surratt, but will be challenged by a Spartans D that was a top 15 unit for much of the 2019 season. Sparty has never beaten a current ACC in a bowl game, and has scored fewer than 7 points in two of their last three postseason appearances, while Wake has won five of its last six bowl games, scoring 34 or more in its last three. 
BOWL RECORDS: Michigan State 12-16, Wake Forest 9-4
BETTING NUMBERS: Michigan State -3.5, Total 49.5

TEXAS BOWL (6:45 p.m., Houston)
Oklahoma State (8-4) vs Texas A&M (7-5)
WHY TO WATCH: This one could be a lot of fun as two potentially explosive offenses tangle in Texas. The Cowboys will go as far as RB Chuba Hubbard can carry them, and that could be far since he was one of the top rushers in all of college football. The Aggies showed flashes this season but could not beat the best teams on its schedule. A number of Aggies have decided to declare for the NFL, so desire could be a question mark. OSU has won its last three bowl games, scoring at least 30 points in all of them. The Aggies are 5-1 in bowl games against the Big 12, but have won just once in their last four trips to the postseason. 
BOWL RECORDS: Oklahoma State 19-10, Texas A&M 18-22
BETTING NUMBERS: Texas A&M -7, Total 53.5
  
HOLIDAY BOWL (8 p.m., San Diego)
USC (8-4) vs Iowa (9-3)
WHY TO WATCH: Always among the more fun contests, this Big Ten/Pac 12 showdown will match USC's wide open offense against Iowa's stifling defense. The Trojans will be looking to make a statement toward 2020 and should be ready to go, while the Hawkeyes have a veteran team that lacks explosiveness on offense but can shut down the best offenses with difference-makers at each level on defense. USC has played in this game twice in the last five seasons, beating Nebraska in 2014 and losing narrowly to Wisconsin the following year. Iowa is just 2-5 in its last seven bowl games, and has gone just 2-7 vs the Pac-12 in the postseason. Iowa is 2-0-1 in three previous Holiday Bowl appearances.
BOWL RECORDS: USC 34-18, Iowa 16-15-1
BETTING NUMBERS: Iowa -2, Total 52.5

CHEEZ-IT BOWL (10:15 p.m., Phoenix)
Air Force (10-2) vs Washington State (6-6)
WHY TO WATCH: Fascinating showdown between offenses that are as different as two can be. Air Force wants to hold the football and grind opponents down with its triple option -- run ably by Donnie Hammond -- and play opportunistic defense. Wazzu is coached by Mike Leach, which means Anthony Gordon will be throwing the football all night long. There should be a lot of points here as both teams were top 25 nationally in scoring. Air Force has won two of its last three bowl games but is just 1-4 vs the Pac 12 in the postseason. Wazzu has dropped three of its last five bowl games, including a loss to Mountain West member Colorado State in the 2013 New Mexico Bowl. 
BOWL RECORDS: Air Force 12-13-1, Washington State 8-7
BETTING NUMBERS: Air Force -3, Total 68.5

CFB Focus Bowl Preview -- Dec. 26

The day after Christmas means a few things -- returning those horrible gifts you received but didn't want in the first place, taking advantage of sales with the numerous gift cards you were given, and bowl games resuming.

This is kind of the calm before the storm, games that won't really attract a ton of national attention but may yet prove to be intriguing.

INDEPENDENCE BOWL (4 p.m., Shreveport, La.)
Miami Fla (6-6) vs Louisiana Tech (9-3) 
WHY TO WATCH: To see if Miami is the least bit interested. The Hurricanes have had a history of not playing well in lower-tier bowl games, winning just twice in their last 10 postseason appearances -- none of the marquee variety. The Canes lost this bowl game to South Carolina in 2014, and it wouldn't be a shock to see them go through the motions here as focus and desire have been inconsistent all season. Tech is 2-1-1 all-time in the Independence Bowl, and has won five straight bowl games. Miami has a top 15 defense, but it could be challenged by a Tech offense that's top 40 nationally, including 27th in scoring (34 ppg). The Hurricanes have scored more than 24 points just twice in their last seven games, and if they can't mount some kind of offensive attack it will be another postseason disappointment. Tech should play hard as it would love to add a big time pelt to its wall. 
BOWL RECORDS: Miami 19-21, Louisiana Tech 7-3-1
BETTING NUMBERS: Miami -6, Total 49.5

QUICK LANE BOWL (8 p.m., Detroit, Mich.)
Pittsburgh (7-5) vs Eastern Michigan (6-6)
WHY TO WATCH: Pitt's classic unis, the best in college football, for one. Strength on strength for another, as Eastern Michigan loves to air it out and Pitt is lethal against the pass. It's whether the Panthers can score or not that will determine the outcome. Pitt scored 20 points or fewer in eight games this season, and every possession seems like a struggle. Eastern's defense hasn't been great so the Panthers may have more opportunities this time, but an explosion seems unlikely. Eagles QB Mike Glass III is one of the more unheralded passers in America, accounting for 29 total touchdowns and showing off a big-time arm. He's completed 80 percent of his passes the last three contests and could pose a challenge for Pitt's talented secondary. Paris Ford, Damar Hamlin and Dane Jackson all have at least one interception and nine passes defended, so accomplishing things through the air won't be easy. Pitt has lost six of its last seven bowl games, but the one win was against the MAC (Bowling Green 2013). Eastern Michigan is playing its third bowl in four seasons after appearing in just two prior to 2016, but has won just once, the 1987 California Bowl over San Jose State.
BOWL RECORDS: Pittsburgh 13-21, Eastern Michigan 1-2
BETTING NUMBERS: Pittsburgh -11, Total 49

CFB Focus Bowl Preview -- Dec. 24

Christmas is almost upon us, which means a temporary break from bowl games. But before everyone opens their gifts and starts thinking about how quickly they can return things, there's one more game to put you in the holiday spirit.

Hawaii plays a de facto home game against BYU in the Hawaii Bowl, so enjoy the coconut trees and the numerous shots of the ocean, Don Ho and volcanoes. The announcers will do their best to make you feel bad that you're having terrible weather while they are calling the game in shorts and Hawaiian shirts.

HAWAII BOWL (8 pm, Honolulu, HI)
Hawaii (9-5) vs. Brigham Young (7-5)
WHY TO WATCH: Duh -- it's Hawaii on Christmas Eve. There will be numerous shots of coconuts, palm trees and the ocean, which should help you relax after a big afternoon of wrapping presents. The football is almost secondary, though it should be a good show from two teams who love to throw it all over the place. BYU is better and stingier on defense, but Hawaii provides a challenge to everyone it faces -- provided it gets the good version of Cole McDonald at quarterback.
BOWL RECORDS: Hawaii 6-6, BYU 15-20-1
BETTING NUMBERS: BYU -2, Total 64 

CFB Focus Bowl Preview -- Dec. 23

Just one game today, as the powers that be realize that people spend more time on last minute shopping and wrapping presents than they do watching a bowl game this close to Christmas. They are more likely to be checking out "Elf" for the 95th time.

Still, this game has a few interesting storylines.

GASPARILLA BOWL (2:30 pm, Tampa, Fla.)
UCF (9-3) vs. Marshall (8-4)
WHY TO WATCH: To see if the Herd can continue its amazing postseason success. Marshall has won a dozen bowl games in 14 trips, but playing UCF in the Sunshine State will be a daunting task. UCF is always entertaining, though it hasn't been quite as physical this year as in past seasons. Tune in just to see the Gabriels -- QB Dillon Gabriel and WR Gabriel Davis -- put on a show. But don't sleep on Marshall RB Brenden Knox, as he could prove to be a sneaky game changer.
BOWL RECORDS:  UCF 4-6, Marshall 12-2 
BETTING NUMBERS: UCF -17.5, Total 61.5

CFB Focus Bowl Preview -- Dec. 21

Want to win a bowl trivia contest? Ask people which date has the most bowl games. They'll probably answer New Years Day, which is fairly logical. But they would be wrong. It's today, Dec. 21st -- seven bowl games on tap, all of varying important and fun.

There's an FCS tilt to lead it off, which means a great band show, a tasty P5 v G5 in Sin City and a host of G5 teams facing off for conference pride.

Here is rundown of all of today's games. Try to keep up.

CELEBRATION BOWL (12 pm, Atlanta)
Alcorn State (9-3) vs. North Carolina A&T (8-3)
WHY TO WATCH: It's the first game of a huge day of bowls, and the halftime show will be the best of any game on this year's slate. Oh, the game should be pretty competitive if you want to watch for that reason. Two very good defensive teams (both top 20 FCS in scoring D) will do battle, and the one who can make a big play here and there will win.
BETTING NUMBERS: North Carolina A&T -3, Total 51.5

NEW MEXICO BOWL (2:20 pm, Albuquerque)
San Diego State (9-3) vs Central Michigan (8-5)
WHY TO WATCH: Stellar defense vs big play offense. There's also the matter of motivation -- the Aztecs KNOW they can't play offense, and were pretty much an afterthought in the MWC despite having a veteran team. CMU made the league title game in year one under Jim McElwain and feels it still has something to prove. America will get a chance to see Aztecs defenders Kyahva Tezino and Luq Barcoo, and Chippewas RB Jonathan Ward.
BOWL RECORDS: San Diego State 5-9, Central Michigan 3-8
BETTING NUMBERS: San Diego State -3.5, Total 41

CURE BOWL (2:30 pm, Orlando)
Georgia Southern (7-5) vs Liberty (7-5)
WHY TO WATCH: Who among us doesn't love disparate offenses on display? The Eagles live by the triple option while Liberty loves to fling it all over the place. Fans who like downfield passing should love the matchup of Flames WR Antonio Gandy-Golden going against Eagles DBs Kindle Vildor and Monquavion Brinson, each of whom has an an NFL future. There's also that Hugh Freeze guy patrolling the Liberty sideline, and taking the Flames to a bowl game in year one of his image makeover.
BOWL RECORDS: Georgia Southern 2-0, Liberty first bowl appearance
BETTING NUMBERS: Georgia Southern -5, Total 58.5

BOCA RATON BOWL (3:30 pm, Boca Raton, FL)
SMU (10-2) vs FAU (10-3)
WHY TO WATCH: There should be plenty of points, which is reason enough to tune in. This would be must-watch TV if Lane Kiffin was still at FAU, but he has moved on to Ole Miss so the drama factor will be almost nil. Both teams sport high-powered offenses, so it could be as simple as the last one who has the ball, wins.
BOWL RECORDS: SMU 7-8-1, FAU 3-0
BETTING NUMBERS: SMU -3, Total 71

CAMELLIA BOWL (5:30 pm, Montgomery, AL)
FIU (6-6) vs Arkansas State (7-5)
WHY TO WATCH: Butch Davis is always entertaining, and the Red Wolves have receiver Omar Bayless, who does a little bit of everything despite the fact the opposition knows he's getting his.
BOWL RECORDS: FIU 2-2, Arkansas State 3-6
BETTING NUMBERS: Arkansas State -2.5, Total 63

LAS VEGAS BOWL (7:30 pm, Las Vegas)
Washington (7-5) vs Boise State (12-1)
WHY TO WATCH: The final game as coach for Chris Petersen, and it's safe to assume his Huskies will want to send him out on a high note against the program he helped elevate. UW had a disappointing campaign and will want to build for next season. Boise State is the G5 that keeps on chugging, and has the electric John Hightower on offense. Look for Bryan Harsin to find multiple ways to get him the football. Also, Vegas, baby!
BOWL RECORDS: Washington 17-20-1, Boise State 12-6
BETTING NUMBERS: Washington -3.5, Total 50

NEW ORLEANS BOWL (9 pm, the Crescent City)
Appalachian State (12-1) vs UAB (9-4)
WHY TO WATCH: How will the Mountaineers react to Eli Drinkwitz being a one and done coach? He took over at Missouri, which means OL coach Shawn Clark will do the heavy lifting for this one and the foreseeable future, as he got the gig permanently. The Blazers may not be pretty on offense, but man can they play some D?! Bill Clark is the next G5 coaching name to watch as someone needs to take a chance on the guy. App State's offense was one of the best in America all season, and has a lot of big play weapons. The chess match between coaches should be fun.
BOWL RECORDS: App State 4-0, UAB 1-2
BETTING NUMBERS: App State -16, Total 48

CFB Focus Bowl Preview -- Dec. 20

The holiday season brings gifts, and few things are as much fun to unwrap as college bowl games.

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.

BAHAMAS BOWL (2 pm, Nassau, Bahamas)
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

FRISCO BOWL (7:30 pm, Frisco, Texas)
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