New Year's Eve Bowl Games

Sun Bowl

Stanford (+10)  vs. Oklahoma
Stanford is without starting QB Andrew Luck for the game, which is one reason why the line is favoring the Sooners by double digits. Heisman runner-up Toby Gerhart will have to shoulder a big load against the 7th ranked defense in the nation and for Stanford they will be happy to be back in a Bowl game for the first time since 2001. Oklahoma has to be dissappointed with the Sun Bowl after hopes of playing in the BCS for the fifth year in a row. Injuries and inconsistency have plagued the Sooners and even with a ton of NFL talent you have to wonder what their mindset will be on New Year's Eve morning in El Paso. We should know early whether they came to play as Stanford won't hesitate to play physical and run right at the Sooners as they have all year in the Pac 10. The game is big for Jim Harbaugh and the Cardinal, who want to represent the Pac 10 well after some embarrassing losses so far this bowl season, and to build on next year and send Gerhart out on a high note. I expect an offensive shootout with the Cardinal able to stay in the game with surprising play from QB Tavita Pritchard and Gerhart shouldering a large load on the ground. If Stanford's defense can get enough stops and avoid the long touchdowns and big plays from Landry Jones and DeMarco Murray, I believe the Cardinal has a chance at the upset. Bob Stoops has lost 4 straight Bowl games, all in the BCS, so will a step down inspire him and his team or will Stanford be too much for an unfocused Oklahoma squad? The Pac 10 has won five straight in the Sun Bowl. Watch for some early fireworks on New Year's Eve with the Sun Bowl and take the points and hope Stanford keeps it close.

Chick Fil-A Bowl (Peach Bowl)

Tennessee (+6) vs. Virginia Tech
The Volunteers should be very happy to be in this bowl in Lane Kiffin's first year and my guess is they have improved greatly in the time off. Virginia Tech is outside of the BCS for the first time in years, but should be happy with a trip to Atlanta. I believe these teams are more even than the spread indicates and with the SEC winning four straight in this bowl I think they have a good chance at the upset. Either way the game should be close with the defenses and special teams playing a big role in who wins. I like the Vols chances and will gladly take 6 points. Virginia Tech 23 - Tennessee 21