NCAAF Trends and Indexes - Bowl Season (12/18 - 1/10)

[Spark]

*** ALAMO BOWL ***

ARIZONA (7-5) VS. OKLAHOMA ST (10-2)
Alamodome - San Antonio, TX
Kickoff: 9:15 p.m. EDT Line: Okl. St -5 O/U 66
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A pair of explosive offenses will be on display in San Antonio when the Oklahoma State Cowboys and Arizona Wildcats face off in the 18th installment of the Alamo Bowl. Oklahoma State finished the regular season with an outstanding 10-2 record, but managed to finish in a three-way tie atop the Big 12 South at 6-2 and lost out on a chance to play for the Big 12 Championship by way of a tiebreaker through the BCS standings. The Cowboys controlled their own destiny heading into the regular-season finale against bitter rival Oklahoma but came out on the short end of a 47-41 final in a Bedlam Battle classic in Stillwater November 27th.

The Cowboys had the nation's No. 1 ranked offense this season, averaging an eye-popping 537.6 yards per game, and boast the country's top-ranked passing offense as well. OSU's offense set single-season school records for points (539), total offensive yards (6,451), passing yards (4,256) and touchdown passes (34) in 2010. Oklahoma State's other loss came to Nebraska back on October 23 in another shootout, losing 51-41 in Stillwater. This will be the Cowboys' third appearance in the Alamo Bowl having lost both previous matchups with Ohio State in 2004 and to Purdue in 1997. OSU has also lost in its last two bowl appearances overall. Big 12 Coach of the Year Mike Gundy saw his Cowboys beaten by Ole Miss in the Cotton Bowl at the end of last season and Oregon in the 2008 Holiday Bowl. Oklahoma State's overall bowl record stands at 12-8.

Arizona will be making its third straight bowl appearance under head coach Mike Stoops after a 7-5 regular season. The Wildcats were ranked 13th in the nation following an impressive 7-1 start to the year before a deflating 42-17 loss to then No. 10 Stanford on November 6th triggered a four-game losing streak to end their schedule. The 'Cats wound up 4-5 in the Pac-10 standings, tied for fifth place. The regular season ended on an especially heart-breaking note, falling to rival Arizona State in Tucson when Alex Zendejas' extra point was blocked in double overtime to hand the Sun Devils a 30-29 win. Arizona was blanked in a 33-0 shellacking by Nebraska in last year's Holiday Bowl and will be making its first-ever appearance at the Alamo Bowl. The Wildcats' overall bowl record stands at 6-8-1.

This will be the first meeting between Oklahoma State and Arizona on the gridiron since 1942. The all-time series is even at 3-3 with Arizona having won three of the last four games. The matchup will also serve as a preview to a home-and-home series between the two schools starting in Stillwater next season. This is the first year the Alamo Bowl will feature both the Pac-10 and Big 12 Conferences. For the past 15 years, the game has pitted the Big 12 against Big Ten competition. "It's great to be the first league team to play in this first year of the new Alamo Bowl affiliation with the conference. Our players are excited to be playing in an outstanding bowl against a quality opponent like Oklahoma State," Stoops said in anticipation of the matchup.

At the head of OSU's offensive juggernaut is junior quarterback Brandon Weeden and 2010 Biletnikoff Award winner and unanimous All-American sophomore Justin Blackmon. Blackmon caught 102 passes for 1,665 yards and 18 touchdowns in just 11 games en route to being named the nation's top wide receiver. The Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year also added a pair of scores with a 69-yard run and a blocked punt return and ranked first in the country in receiving yards per game (151.36), receptions per game (9.27) and finished ninth in all- purpose yards per game (159). Blackmon tied the NCAA record with his 11th consecutive game of at least 100 receiving yards and a score versus Oklahoma and needs only eight yards to break Larry Fitzgerald's NCAA record for receiving yards by a sophomore.

Weeden broke OSU's single-season record for passing touchdowns with 32 and became the first Cowboy quarterback to pass for over 4,000 yards in a season (4,037). He completed 67.4 percent of his passes, had 13 interceptions and ended the year with a 105.2 passer rating. In addition to Blackmon, Weeden developed a nice rapport with junior wideout Josh Cooper, who caught 61 passes for 683 yards and five touchdowns. "I think before the year started, we knew we had a chance to be special. We knew we had guys that could make some plays, but to be at this magnitude, maybe not. But we knew we had a chance to be here. We fulfilled our expectation, but we also exceeded it as well," Weeden said of OSU's chance to post an 11-win season.

Not to be forgotten is an effective ground game led by senior Kendall Hunter, who racked up 1,516 rushing yards to lead the Big 12 and tied for the conference lead with 16 touchdowns this season. He averaged 5.8 yards per carry and 126.3 yards per game on 261 totes. Dan Bailey, the 2010 Lou Groza Award winner as the nation's top placekicker, could be the x-factor in a tight game. Oklahoma State's all-time leading scorer was 24-for-28 on field goals this year including a pair of strikes from 52 yards.

The category where the Cowboys lack when compared to Arizona is defense. The squad finished ranked 91st in the nation and eighth in their own conference. OSU's moniker is usually to outscore the opponent, not stop them, as was evidenced by its giving up an average of 412.8 yards and 27.8 points per game. A startling number is the 110 fourth-quarter points allowed this season, although, the Cowboys do feature a handful of players capable of making a difference. Senior cornerback Andrew McGee had five of the team's 16 interceptions, a total which had OSU tied for 21st in the country. Standout senior linebacker Orie Lemon led the team with 119 tackles. His nine tackles for a loss also paced the Cowboys and 93 of his stops were of the solo variety. Linebacker Shaun Lewis was named the Big 12 Co-Defensive Freshman of the Year for 2010, racking up 55 tackles, including seven for a loss, three interceptions, three forced fumbles and two fumble recoveries. Junior defensive end Jamie Blatnick led OSU with five sacks on the year.

Like Oklahoma State, Arizona is led by a high-powered passing attack that finished ninth in the nation and first in Pac-10 play and will counter with its own 1-2 punch in juniors quarterback Nick Foles and wide receiver Juron Criner. Foles completed 67.6 percent of his passes for 2,911 yards with 19 touchdowns against seven interceptions in just 10 games this season. The passing game averaged 310 yards per game with a bulk of that yardage credited to the first-team All-Pac 10 selection and second-team All-American Criner, who totaled 1,186 yards and 10 touchdowns on 73 receptions while averaging 16.2 yards per reception. Criner's yardage and reception totals were both tops in the conference.

Fellow juniors David Douglas and David Roberts provide depth as secondary options in the 'Cats air attack. Douglas was second on the team with 46 catches and five touchdowns while racking up 424 yards. Roberts finished second to Criner with 468 receiving yards on 42 grabs with a pair of scores. The Wildcats ended the regular season with the nation's 24th-ranked offense overall, and the rushing game features a pair of capable backs in junior Keola Antolin and senior Nic Grigsby. While neither player stood out in terms of yardage, the two combined for 15 of the team's 20 rushing scores. Antolin led the team with 667 rushing yards and his 4.7 yards per carry, while Grigsby averaged an equally solid 4.6 yards per tote with 474 yards and a team-high eight scores.

A strong defensive unit for Arizona was overshadowed by its disappointing end to the year. It ranked 36th in the nation in total defense and 32nd in scoring defense, allowing 21.6 points per game. Junior linebacker Paul Vassallo was the team's leading tackler and finished seventh in the Pac-10 with 94 stops, 73 of those solo. Senior defensive end Ricky Elmore gave opposing quarterbacks fits all season with his 11 sacks to lead the Pac-10. His 13 tackles for a loss also paced the Wildcats and was good for fourth in league play. Arizona ended second in the conference with 33 sacks with fellow senior end Brooks Reed getting 6 1/2 of those and standout redshirt freshman tackle Justin Washington six. Washington was second on the team with 10 1/2 tackles for a loss.

"I think they do a good job of putting pressure on the quarterback. The quarterback is a very good player and the receiver and two running backs make some plays. They played very well the first two or three months of the season and didn't play as well as they wanted to in the last month," Gundy said of matching up with the Wildcats.

• PREGAME NOTES
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Oklahoma State swaggers into San Antonio boasting a nation’s-best offense (538 YPG) high on star power. The 10-2 Cowboys are led by QB Brandon Weeden, the first in team history to throw for 4,000 yards in a season, the Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year in WR Justin Blackmon and the league’s leading rusher in RB Kendall Hunter. But even with such a star-studded cast, Mike Gundy’s Pokes once again failed to reach their season goal when another loss to rival Oklahoma kept them out of the Big 12 Championship game and a possible BCS Bowl appearance. Still, an OSU team averaging 45 PPG and 538 yards per outing would seem like the obvious pick over an Arizona bunch that wilted like a lost traveler in the desert at season’s end, losing its final four games, including a 1-point defeat to hated Arizona State on a blocked PAT.

Obvious, that is, until you get a closer look at the Oklahoma State defense. Not only did the Cowboys stop unit get ripped for 413 YPG, in the showdown they wanted the most against the Sooners, OSU’s ‘D’ was stampeded for a whopping 588 total yards, including 468 passing, numbers that should have Arizona QB Nick Foles licking his chops. Further ‘chop-licking’ comes courtesy of our powerful database that tells us Arizona stands 11-2 ATS as an underdog off a loss and coach Stoops is 4-0 ATS off a SU favorite loss versus a foe off a SU and ATS loss. No such luck for the chalk: Big 12 bowl favorites of 6 or more points are 0-6 ATS against a Pac-10 opponent and the favorite in OSU bowl games is a jaw-dropping 2-13 ATS. Wait, it gets worse. Cowboys’ coach Gundy is 0-5 SU and ATS versus a greater than .500 foe off a SU favorite loss and Oklahoma State is just 1-5 SU and ATS as a bowler with a winning record playing off a loss. Note: Arizona’s five losses this season came by just 6 points combined!

• TOP RATED TEAM ATS TRENDS
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--OKLAHOMA ST is 9-0 ATS (+9.0 Units) as a favorite of 3.5 to 10 points over the last 2 seasons.
The average score was OKLAHOMA ST 36.2, OPPONENT 17.6 - (Rating = 4*)

--OKLAHOMA ST is 7-0 ATS (+7.0 Units) after scoring 37 points or more in 2 straight games over the last 3 seasons.
The average score was OKLAHOMA ST 47.0, OPPONENT 25.2 - (Rating = 3*)

--OKLAHOMA ST is 6-0 ATS (+6.0 Units) after covering the spread in 3 out of their last 4 games this season.
The average score was OKLAHOMA ST 41.3, OPPONENT 19.5 - (Rating = 3*)

• TOP RATED TEAM OVER/UNDER TRENDS
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--OKLAHOMA ST is 24-5 OVER (+17.8 Units) vs. good passing teams with a completion pct. of 59% or better over the last 3 seasons.
The average score was OKLAHOMA ST 38.7, OPPONENT 31.9 - (Rating = 3*)

--OKLAHOMA ST is 24-7 OVER (+16.2 Units) after scoring 20 points or more in the first half in 2 straight games since 1992.
The average score was OKLAHOMA ST 36.7, OPPONENT 28.8 - (Rating = 3*)

• TOP RATED TEAM FIRST HALF TRENDS
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--ARIZONA is 24-44 against the 1rst half line (-24.4 Units) in non-conference games since 1992.
The average score was ARIZONA 12.1, OPPONENT 10.1 - (Rating = 4*)

--ARIZONA is 28-46 against the 1rst half line (-22.6 Units) off 1 or more straight overs since 1992.
The average score was ARIZONA 12.5, OPPONENT 13.7 - (Rating = 4*)

• TOP RATED TEAM FIRST HALF OVER/UNDER TRENDS
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--OKLAHOMA ST is 16-6 OVER (+9.4 Units) the 1rst half total after covering the spread in 4 out of their last 5 games since 1992.
The average score was OKLAHOMA ST 16.1, OPPONENT 13.3 - (Rating = 2*)

--OKLAHOMA ST is 8-1 UNDER (+6.9 Units) the 1rst half total after 1 or more consecutive losses against the spread over the last 3 seasons.
The average score was OKLAHOMA ST 13.9, OPPONENT 7.2 - (Rating = 2*)

• HIGHEST RATED SUPER SITUATIONS
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--PLAY OVER - Neutral field teams where the total is between 63.5 and 70 (ARIZONA) - with a winning record on the season playing another winning team, in minor bowl games (played in December).
(34-10 since 1992.) (77.3%, +23 units. Rating = 3*)

The average total posted in these games was: 66.1
The average score in these games was: Team 36.5, Opponent 36.5 (Total points scored = 73)
The number of games in which this system covered the total by 7 or more points was 18 (40.9% of all games.)

The situation's record this season is: (0-0).
Over the last 3 seasons the situation's record is: (4-6).
Over the last 5 seasons the situation's record is: (10-6).
Over the last 10 seasons the situation's record is: (24-10).

[Udog]

NCAAF


Thursday, December 30

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What Bettors Need to Know
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Armed Forces Bowl: Army Black Knights vs. SMU Mustangs (-7, 52)

The Skinny: Two programs that are trying to recapture the magic from their glory years are meeting in the Armed Forces Bowl this season.

In just three seasons, June Jones has revived the SMU program after it endured a 25-year bowl drought after the “death penalty” in 1986. And the Mustangs (7-6) get to stay at home for this bowl game, as the game will be played on their campus. TCU’s stadium, which usually hosts the game, is currently undergoing renovations. SMU will need a big game from running back Zach Line, who led Conference USA in rushing.

Army (6-6), which won two national titles in the 1940s, is making its first bowl appearance since 1996. The Black Knights hope the Mustangs aren’t used to seeing a triple-option team, and will ride quarterback Trent Steelman and running back Jared Hassin as much as they can.

Point spread: SMU -7. Over/under 52.

The spread opened at -8 in favor of SMU but has been bet down to a touchdown. The total has remained steady at 52.

SMU’s Edge: The Mustangs continue to make strides under Jones, a veteran coach with bowl game experience. SMU also has a versatile offense led by quarterback Kyle Padron, running back Zach Line and wide receiver Aldrick Robinson. Thursday's game is being played at SMU's home field at Gerald Ford Field due to renovations at the regular venue at TCU.

Army’s Edge: Despite losing three of their past four games, the Black Knights have the ability to catch defenses off guard with their triple-option attack. Army has a dynamic duo on offense, too, with Steelman and Hassin leading the way.

The Quarterbacks: SMU’s Padron has had an inconsistent season, throwing multiple interceptions in four of his 13 games. But he’s also thrown for more than 3,500 yards, and added 254 rushing yards.

For the season, Army’s Steelman has rushed for 620 yards and 11 touchdowns, and thrown for 837 yards and five touchdowns.

NFL prospects: SMU – WR Aldrick Robinson. Army – DT Michael Gann; OLB Joshua McNary.

Bowl history: SMU is 5-6-1 all-time in bowl games, including winning last year’s Hawaii Bowl. The Mustangs are in back-to-back bowl games for the first time since the early 1980s, when they went to four bowl games over a five-year stretch from 1980-84.

Army is 2-2 all-time in bowl games, and is in its first since 1996. The last time the Black Knights won a bowl game was 1985, when they held on for a 31-29 victory over Illinois in the Peach Bowl.

Etc.: The Armed Forces Bowl has already announced a sellout for the game. … Army has played one bowl game in the state of Texas, the 1988 Sun Bowl where the Black Knights fell to Alabama, 29-28. … All three service academies are playing in bowl games this year. … Army and SMU have met twice before, with Army winning both games.

Weather: The forecast is calling for cloudy skies and strong-to-medium winds blowing south of up to speeds of 20 mph, from end zone to end zone. Game-time tempertures will be in the low 70s.

Trends:

- Black Knights are 6-1 ATS in their last seven games as road underdogs.
- Black Knights are 5-2 ATS in their last seven non-conference games.
- Mustangs are 5-2 ATS in their last seven non-conference games.
- Over is 6-0 in Black Knights' last six non-conference games.
- Under is 4-1 in Mustangs' last five games overall.



Pinstripe Bowl: Syracuse Orange vs. Kansas State Wildcats (+1, 48)

The Skinny: Kansas State and Syracuse both ended bowl droughts and will face off in the inaugural Pinstripe Bowl on Dec. 30 in Yankee Stadium.

The Wildcats (7-5) are bowl eligible for the first time since 2006 while the Orange (7-5) are playing in their first bowl since 2004.

Kansas State and Syracuse have played each other in bowl games twice before. The Wildcats won the 1997 Fiesta Bowl and the Orange triumphed in the 2001 Insight.com Bowl.

Syracuse lost its last two games and three of its last four in the regular season. Kansas State started the season 4-0 but came back to earth. The Wildcats dropped four of their last six games and snapped a two-game skid with a season-ending victory over North Texas.

Point Spread: Syracuse -1. Over/under -- 48.

Kansas State’s edge: The run game. Kansas State has an experienced offensive line that was able to open holes for senior Daniel Thomas to run through most of the season. Thomas was the nation’s ninth-leading rusher with a 124.6-yard average per game and must be licking his chops watching tape of Syracuse allowing Boston College’s second-string rusher to run for 206 yards.

Thomas finished second in the Big 12 with 1,495 rushing yards and tied for the conference lead with 16 touchdowns. He ran for a career-high 269 yards and two touchdowns on 36 carries at North Texas on Nov. 27.

Syracuse’s Edge: Pass defense. Syracuse owns the toughest pass defense in the Big East Conference, allowing 157.6 yards allowed per game. The Orange really buckled down against the pass in their final three games, allowing 106.3 in their final three games.

The Quarterbacks: Syracuse quarterback Ryan Nassib is coming off a rough performance in the Orange’s regular-season finale against Boston College. Syracuse managed just five first downs and 98 yards of total offense, while Nassib was 5-of-10 for 55 yards.

Nassib started the season well but never really built on it, finishing with 2,095 yards, 16 touchdowns and eight interceptions.

Carson Coffman threw for 1,832 yards with 12 touchdowns and seven interceptions this season. He completed 62 percent of his passes and was sacked 24 times. Coffman was sacked four or more times in four games this season.

NFL Prospects: Kansas State: RB Daniel Thomas. Syracuse: RB Delone Carter.

Bowl History: The Orange is 12-9-1 in bowl games and is 3-2 in bowl games against Big 12 opponents, including a 26-3 victory against Kansas State in the 2001 Insight.com Bowl.

Kansas State has a bowl record of 6-7 and is making just its second appearance in seven years; it once went to bowls in 11 consecutive seasons under coach Bill Snyder. That 11-year run was snapped following a 2003 loss to Ohio State in the Fiesta Bowl.

Etc: There hasn’t been an NCAA bowl game in the Bronx since the Gotham Bowl on Dec. 15, 1962, when Nebraska edged Miami 36-34. Kansas State has only played in the state of New York twice, and not since 1966.

Weather: It will be a beautiful day in the Bronx Thursday with the forecast calling for clear skies, light winds and game-time temperatures in the low 30s.

Trends:

- Wildcats are 0-4 ATS in their last four bowl games.
- Orange are 6-2 ATS in their last eight non-conference games.
- Over is 4-0 in Wildcats' last four games overall.
- Under is 5-1 in Orange's last six games overall.



Music City Bowl: Tennessee Volunteers vs. North Carolina Tar Heels (-1, 50)

The Skinny: This appears to be an even matchup of teams that have overcome a variety of obstacles. Tennessee sat at 2-6 two months ago, but won its last four games by an average of 24 points to finish 6-6. The young Volunteers struggled early in the season under first-year coach Derek Dooley but battled in every game, including a 16-13 loss to highly-ranked LSU on the last play of the game.

North Carolina suspended 15 players for the season opener and three of them – potential first-round picks – didn’t play a down all season. The Heels lost their first two games and two of their last three, finishing 7-5. They were a Top 25 preseason pick but needed a narrow 24-19 win over last-place Duke in the season finale to finish above .500.

Point spread: North Carolina -1. Over/under – 50.

The spread has moved slightly with action on UT, going from 1.5 to 1. The total has remained steady at 50 points.

Tennessee’s Edge: The Volunteers played their best football down the stretch. They beat Mississippi by 38 points and held a Kentucky team that averaged 33 points to two touchdowns in a 24-14 win. Their late-season surge was sparked by freshman quarterback Tyler Bray, who is surrounded by a talented group of receivers, including Denarius Moore and Gerald Jones. Also fueling the win streak, the defense didn’t allow more than 14 points in any of the last four games.

North Carolina’s Edge: The Tar Heels, too, possess a potent passing attack led by T.J. Yates, yet their biggest edge may be their experience. This is nothing new for coach Butch Davis and the Heels, playing in their third straight bowl game. The 23-year old Yates is a battle-tested senior. North Carolina also has a slight edge in total defense, with some proven standouts at linebacker and in the secondary. North Carolina will be without running back Anthony Elzy, who was left behind after failing to meet the expectations of the program. Elzy rushed 296 yards and and two scores while catching 25 passes for 338 yards and two touchdowns this season.

The Quarterbacks: Bray ignited the Volunteers from the moment he took the starting job. In his first start he threw for five touchdowns in the first half. Bray averaged 333 yards and three touchdowns per game in his four starts. Tennessee averaged nearly 250 yards passing a game (36th in the country) and that number likely would’ve been considerably higher had Bray started all year.

A four-year starter, Yates has racked up more than 9,100 passing yards in his career, including 3,184 yards and 18 touchdowns this season for North Carolina. Yates threw for 439 yards and three touchdowns against Florida State and 412 against LSU, one of the top defenses in the country. The Heels averaged 266 passing yards (25th).

NFL Prospects: Tennessee – LB Chris Walker; TE Luke Stocker. North Carolina – LB Bruce Carter; LB Quan Sturdivant; CB Charles Brown; QB T.J. Yates.

Bowl history: Tennessee is 25-23 all-time. The Vols lost 37-14 to Virginia Tech in the 2009 Chick-Fil-A Bowl and in 2008 beat Wisconsin 21-17 in the Outback Bowl.

North Carolina is 12-15 all-time. The Heels have lost their last three bowls, including a 19-17 loss to Pittsburgh in the 2009 Meineke Car Care Bowl. Their last bowl win was the 2001 Peach Bowl, a 16-10 win over Auburn.

Etc.: This matchup comes several months earlier than originally anticipated. Tennessee and North Carolina were scheduled to meet in 2011 and 2012 but the Volunteers backed out of the home-and-away series. It’s the first matchup of these teams from bordering states since 1961.

Weather: The forecast in Nashville is calling for morning showers which will let up in the afternoon, giving way to cloudy skies and winds of 15 mph. Game-time temperatures will be in the low 40s.

Trends:

- Tar Heels are 4-0 ATS in their last four vs. SEC.
- Volunteers are 3-9 ATS in their last 12 non-conference games.
- Under is 6-1 in Tar Heels' last seven games as favorites.
- Under is 5-1 in Volunteers' last six bowl games.



Holiday Bowl: Washington Huskies vs. Nebraska Cornhuskers (-14, 52.5)

The Skinny: The Cornhuskers fell to Oklahoma in the Big 12 Championship, and then plummeted in the bowl selections. They face a Washington team that at 6-6 is barely bowl eligible. These two teams have already met this year, with the Huskies taking a home beating 56-21 in September.

Nebraska is a heavy favorite again, despite losing two of its last three in heartbreaking fashion to end the season. Close losses to Texas A&M and the Sooners landed the Cornhuskers in the Holiday Bowl for the second straight year.

Washington is just happy to have another game. The Huskies ran off three straight wins to close the season.

Point Spread: Nebraska -14. Over/under – 52.5.

The spread has moved for -13 to two touchdowns while the total has remained steady at 52.5 at most books.

Nebraska’s Edge: Running and pass defense; these strengths have carried the Huskers through the regular season. Nebraska will field the 10th best rushing game in the nation – an attack that rolled up 383 yards the first time these two teams met. The Huskers’ pass defense ranks fifth in the nation and feasted on Washington quarterback Jake Locker last time, holding him to 71 yards and two interceptions. The game ended any talk of Heisman consideration for the senior.

Washington’s Edge: Running back Chris Polk comes in averaging 103 yards per game, and is fresh off a 284-yard performance against Washington State. He will be running into the weakest part of the Husker defense. Nebraska ranks 52nd against the run, and had issues stopping Polk early in their first matchup.

The Quarterbacks: Nebraska’s Taylor Martinez has had a roller coaster of a freshman season. His exceptional speed dazzled the Husker faithful early, but injuries and some questionable judgment have led to his fall from grace in Lincoln. His costly interceptions and inability to avoid sacks in the Oklahoma game may have cost his team a place in the Fiesta Bowl.

Washington’s Locker has endured a difficult season. He was being projected as a first-round pick when the season began, but thanks in part to his performance against the Huskers that hype quickly died away. Still, Locker had a respectable year, throwing for 2,207 yards with 17 touchdowns. He was injured in the Stanford game and was unable to go against Oregon, effectively ruining his chances to perform against the two best teams in the Pac-10.

NFL Prospects: Nebraska – CB Prince Amukamara; DE Jared Crick; LB Lavonte David; K Alex Henery. Washington – QB Jake Locker; LB Mason Foster, RB Chris Polk

Bowl history: Nebraska is 24-22 all-time in bowls, and has won its only two bowls with current coach Bo Pelini – including a Holiday Bowl win last year.

Washington has 14-14-1 bowl record, and has lost all three of its Holiday Bowl appearances. This is the Huskies’ second bowl appearance under coach Steve Sarkisian.

Etc.: Psychological advantage could go to Washington. The Huskies are just happy to be bowl eligible, and they have revenge as an added incentive. Nebraska is still licking its wounds after missing out on a BCS bid and getting passed over for Missouri to play neighboring Iowa in the Insight Bowl.

Weather: The forecast for San Diego is calling for rain and strong winds reaching speed of 30 mph, with game-time temperatures in the mid 50s.

Trends:

- Huskies are 4-1 ATS in their last five bowl games.
- Cornhuskers are 4-1 ATS in their last five Bowl games.
- Over is 4-0 in Huskies' last four vs. Big 12.
- Under is 6-1 in Cornhuskers' last seven Bowl games.


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[Udog]

NCAAF


Thursday, December 30

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Tips and Trends
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North Carolina Tar Heels vs Tennessee Volunteers [ESPN | 6:40 PM ET]

TAR HEELS: (-2, O/U 50) For all the suspensions and distractions North Carolina had to face this year, a record of 7-5 SU and 6-6 ATS isn't too shabby. With a full compliment of it's players, the Tar Heels were a fringe Top 10 team to start the year. The Tar Heels played their best football away from home, going 4-1 SU and 3-2 ATS this season. North Carolina is 3-3 ATS as a single digit favorite this year. The Tar Heels played arguably their best game of the season against fellow SEC school LSU in their 1st game of the year. North Carolina averages 24.9 PPG this year while allowing 22.9 PPG. The Tar Heels are 4-0 ATS in their last 4 games after allowing less than 100 yards rushing in their previous game. North Carolina is 4-0 ATS in their last 4 games against the SEC. The Tar Heels are 5-1 ATS in their last 6 games after allowing less than 20 points in their previous game. The Tar Heels are 7-3 ATS in their last 10 games following a SU win. North Carolina is 1-5 ATS in their last 6 games overall. The Tar Heels are 1-5 ATS in their last 6 games played on grass.

Tar Heels are 4-1 ATS last 5 non-conference games.
Over is 20-9 last 29 games after allowing less than 20 points in their previous game.

Key Injuries - LB Bruce Carter (knee) is questionable.

Projected Score: 24 (UNDER-Total of the Day)

VOLUNTEERS: Tennessee is certainly excited to be here, as they won their final 4 games SU to become bowl eligible. The Volunteers are 6-6 SU and 7-5 ATS overall this season. The Volunteers are 2-3 SU and 4-1 ATS away from home this season. Tennessee is 2-4 ATS as the listed underdog this year, with tonight marking the first time they are just a single digit underdog. Tennessee is averaging 27 PPG this year while allowing 24.7 PPG. The Volunteers are 4-0 ATS in their last 4 games following a SU win. Tennessee is 4-0 ATS in their last 4 games following an ATS win. The Volunteers are 5-0 ATS in their last 5 games overall. The Volunteers are 8-2 ATS in their last 10 games after allowing less than 20 points in their previous game. Tennessee is 2-6 ATS in their last 8 games as the listed underdog. The Volunteers are 0-4 ATS in their last 4 games against the ACC.

Volunteers are 3-9 ATS last 12 non-conference games.
Under is 5-1 last 6 Bowl games.

Key Injuries - DE Ben Martin (achilles) is questionable.

Projected Score: 20



Nebraska Cornhuskers vs Washington Huskies [ESPN | 10:00 PM ET]

CORNHUSKERS: (-14, O/U 53) Nebraska had title aspirations this season, so how motivated will this team be to head back to San Diego for the 2nd straight season in a non BCS bowl? The Cornhuskers finished the regular season with a 10-3 SU and 6-6-1 ATS overall record. Nebraska is 4-2 both SU and ATS away from home this season. The Cornhuskers are 2-5-1 ATS as a double digit favorite this year. Nebraska averages nearly 260 YPG rushing this season, 9th best in the country. The Cornhuskers average 32.7 PPG while allowing the 8th fewest PPG in the nation at 17.2 PPG. The Cornhuskers are 4-0 ATS in their last 4 Thursday games. Nebraska is 7-1-1 ATS in their last 9 non-conference games. The Cornhuskers are 5-1 ATS in their last 6 games played in December. Nebraska is 7-2 ATS in their last 9 games following a SU loss. The Cornhuskers are 2-8-1 ATS in their last 11 games as a favorite of more than 10 points.

Cornhuskers are 4-0 ATS last 4 neutral site games.
Under is 12-4 last 16 games played on grass.

Key Injuries - WR Niles Paul (foot) is probable.

Projected Score: 38 (SIDE of the Day)

HUSKIES: Washington won their final 3 games in order to qualify for a bowl game. Now they get a 2nd chance at Nebraska, since they lost at home 21-56 SU back in September. Washington finished the regular season with a 6-6 SU and 5-6-1 ATS record. The Huskies were 3-3 SU and 3-2-1 ATS overall this season away from home. Washington is 2-3-1 ATS as the listed underdog this year, with tonight marking the 2nd biggest underdog they've been listed at this season. The Huskies are 3-0-1 ATS in their last 4 games after accumulating more than 450 total yards in their previous game. Washington is 7-2 ATS in their last 9 games played in December. The Huskies are 8-21 ATS in their last 29 games following an ATS win. Washington is 0-3-1 ATS against a team with a winning record. The Huskies are 0-4 ATS in their last 4 games after allowing more than 280 yards passing in their previous game.

Huskies are 4-1 ATS last 5 bowl games.
Over is 5-1 last 6 non-conference games.

Key Injuries - CB Quinton Richardson (knee) is questionable.

Projected Score: 13


------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[Udog]

NCAAF
Write-Up


Thursday, December 30

Armed Forces Bowl
Dallas noon
Army is in its first bowl since 1996, its second since '88; Cadets lost at home 31-28 to Hawai'i, Jones' old team- they lost three of their last four games, with all three losses by 14+ points. You look at teams Army beat and Kent State is best team- they were 0-4 vs bowl teams, losing those games by average score of 32-17. They've softened their schedule to get more wins and its worked. Army is 4-4 as an underdog this season.

SMU is at home for this game; they crushed Nevada 45-10 in bowl LY, its first bowl since the Pony Express days of 1984; June Jones is 4-2 as a bowl coach, going back to his Hawai'i days. Mustangs are 3-5-1 vs the spread when favored- they went 3-4 SU in last seven games, losing by 7 to Navy team that beat Army by 14. Key question in this game is does Army have the athletes to cover all the WRs in Run-n-Shoot offense?

Favorites covered five of last six Armed Forces Bowls; average total in this bowl the last three years is 69.0.

Pinstripe Bowl
Bronx 3:30
Kansas State is in first bowl since 2006, its second since '03; Wildcats gave up 41 ppg in last three games. They went 2-4 in last six games, and in three of four losses, they scored 28+ points. K-State is 3-2 as favorite this season- only teams to hold them under 27 were Nebraska, UCF and Oklahoma State. Wildcats lost games 47-42/44-36 and won their finale 49-41 at North Texas of Sun Belt, so defense is obviously a problem.

Syracuse is in its first bowl since 2004, so they're excited; Orange went 14-45 from 2005- 09, so 7-5 record is big progress- they lost three of last four games, scoring total of 26 points in last three games, with last two in their home dome. Syracuse allowed 14 or less points in all seven wins; they're 0-5 giving up more than 14, with all five losses by 8+ points. SU is 3-2 as an underdog this season.

This is the first Pinstripe Bowl, so no history to go on, but its outside in New York City at 3:30 in afternoon, so it ain't going to be warm out. The crowd figures to be heavily for Syracuse, since they have ton of alumni in the New York/New Jersey area.

Music City Bowl
Nashville 6:30
North Carolina is in bowl for third straight year, losing last two years by combined total of three points; their last bowl win was '01 Peach Bowl. Tar Heels' season was marred by suspensions/eligibility questions, as it looks like the NCAA will be calling soon. Eight of Carolina's 12 games this year were decided by six or less points; UNC is 4-3 as a favorite in 2010. They do have a good QB, but their special teams are suspect.

Tennessee is 18-19 since start of '08 season; Dooley is their third coach in last three years, so they're very happy to be in bowl and figure to be the crowd favorite here, since its only three hours from Knoxville to this site. Vols had to win last four games to get here, and they did, behind a freshman QB who took over starting job after Vols had 2-6 record. Vols allowed 14-14-10-14 points in their last four games; they really got a lot better as the season went on.

SEC teams are 4-2 in this bowl; underdogs covered five of last six Music City Bowls, with low scoring games last two years (it does gets cold in Nashville, so check the weather).

Holiday Bowl
San Diego 10:00
Nebraska went to Seattle and killed Washington 56-21 in September; not sure why powers-that-be wanted a rematch. Nebraska won four of its last five bowls, winning 26-21/33-0 last couple years; Cornhuskers have a big edge in special teams, as Washington lost its punter in September to a leg injury. Huskers are 5-7 as favorite this year, 2-6 when they're fave of 10+ points- they did lose two of last three games- three of their last five games were decided by three or less points.

Washington is in bowl for first time in eight years; they had to win their last three games to get to 6-6, after losing three straight games, all by 30+ points in late October. Locker was just 4-20 passing in the September debacle; will be interesting to see his progress here, as he was banged-up for much of season- Locker had a bad year that will cost him lot of money next summer. Huskies are 3-3 as an underdog this season.

Holiday Bowls are historically high scoring, with average total of 61.8 in last four; Big 12 teams are 4-2 vs Pac-10 squads the last six years here, with favorites covering three of last four years.

[Spark]

The Nebraska Cornhuskers fell to Oklahoma in the Big 12 Championship, and then plummeted in the bowl selections. They face a Washington team that at 6-6 is barely bowl eligible. These two teams have already met this year, with the Huskies taking a home beating 56-21 in September. Nebraska is a heavy favorite again, despite losing two of its last three in heartbreaking fashion to end the season. Close losses to Texas A&M and the Sooners landed the Huskers in the Holiday Bowl for the second straight year. Washington is just happy to have another game. The Huskies ran off three straight wins to close the season. The spread has moved for -13 to two touchdowns while the total has remained steady at 55 at most books.

Nebraska will field the 10th best rushing game in the nation – an attack that rolled up 383 yards the first time these two teams met. The Huskers’ pass defense ranks fifth in the nation and feasted on Washington quarterback Jake Locker last time, holding him to 71 yards and two interceptions. The game ended any talk of Heisman consideration for the senior. Meanwhile, Running back Chris Polk comes in averaging 103 yards per game, and is fresh off a 284-yard performance against Washington State. He will be running into the weakest part of the Husker defense. Nebraska ranks 52nd against the run, and had issues stopping Polk early in their first matchup.

[Spark]

*** PINSTRIPE BOWL ***

KANSAS ST VS. SYRACUSE
Yankee Stadium - Bronx, NY
Kickoff: 3:20 p.m. EDT Line: Pick O/U 48
--------------------------------------------------
The inaugural Pinstripe Bowl takes place on December 30th in the first-ever gridiron clash at the new Yankee Stadium as the Syracuse Orange and Kansas State Wildcats look to finish the year on a strong note. Syracuse took a step forward in 2010 regardless of Thursday's outcome, finishing the regular season at 7-5 and posting a 4-3 record in the Big East. The height of the Orange's season came on October 23rd when it shocked then 20th-ranked West Virginia with a 19-14 victory in Morgantown. A win the next week at Cincinnati got the 'Cuse to 7-3 before losing two of its last three games. Syracuse owns a 12-9-1 record all-time in bowl games. This will be the Orange's first such encounter since 2004 -- a 51-14 loss to Georgia Tech in the Champs Sports Bowl. Syracuse's last bowl win was in the 2001 Insight.com Bowl -- a 26-3 victory over Thursday's opponent Kansas State.

Kansas State experienced an up-and-down year, eventually finishing with an identical 7-5 mark and going 3-5 in a tough Big 12 Conference. The Wildcats started the year 4-0 before running in to a buzzsaw in then No. 7 Nebraska in a convincing 48-13 loss. KSU bounced back to pound Kansas the next week but lost four of the next five games against league competition. The Wildcats have a 6-7 ledger all-time in bowl competition and have lost their last two postseason encounters. Their last appearance came at the 2006 Texas Bowl where they dropped a 37-10 decision to Rutgers. "When you look at the past, it is hard not to see this as a success. This is my fourth year here but only my first bowl game I have ever been to," said Wildcat defensive back Tysyn Hartman. "Just making it to a bowl game is not enough by any means. We have not had a bowl win here since 2002 and we have not been to a bowl game since 2006, so winning is definitely something that we want to do."

The 2010 Pinstripe Bowl will be the first of its kind in the Bronx since the Gotham Bowl was staged on December 15, 1962 when Nebraska beat Miami-Florida at the old Yankee Stadium. Syracuse has a history in the Bronx, having played at the old Yankee Stadium on six previous occasions. The school participated in the first college football game at the original Yankee Stadium, posting a 3-0 win over Pittsburgh on October 23, 1923, in addition to past appearances at the old Polo Grounds in New York City, Shea Stadium in Flushing and Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. This will be the third bowl matchup between these two programs, with KSU having taken the first meeting, 35-18, at the 1997 Fiesta Bowl.

"When the announcement was made that a bowl game was going to be played in Yankee Stadium for the first time, my thought was that if we were not going to play in a BCS game, then how great would it be to play in the first college bowl game in Yankee Stadium in my first head coaching job," said Syracuse head coach Doug Marrone, a Bronx native who led the Orange back to postseason play in only his second year at the helm. "The opportunity to play in the New Era Pinstripe Bowl in my hometown is part of the whole dream. New York State is our foundation. This is another step in our return to prominence."

Standout running back Daniel Thomas was the engine that drove the Wildcats' offense in 2010. The senior garnered second-team All-American status and ranked ninth in the nation with 1,495 yards, placing him second among K- State's single-season rushing leaders. He averaged 5.4 yards per carry and 124.6 per game while scoring 16 touchdowns. His career totals of 2,760 rushing yards and 3,205 all-purpose yards put him third and fifth, respectively, in K- State annals. He needs just 58 yards in Thursday's game to move into second place on the 'Cats all-time rushing list. "They like to run the ball," said the Orange's Smith of Thomas. "Our goal is to stop the run, which is our whole defensive philosophy. We just have to do a better job on stopping the run in this last game."

The quarterback position is manned by senior Carson Coffman, who threw for 1,832 yards and 12 touchdowns while running for another nine in 11 games this season. He tossed seven interceptions and was efficient in completing 64.2 percent of his passes in his first season as the starter. However, while K- State ranked 20th in the country in rushing offense, the passing game stood 97th and 10th in the Big 12. Senior wideout Aubrey Quarles was the lone player to post any sort of significant numbers on the receiving end from Coffman, gaining 685 yards with five touchdowns on 47 grabs.

Kansas State's defense was a soft spot this season, ranking second-to-last in the Big 12 in total defense and 106th nationally. It gave up an average of 441.3 yards per game and 28.5 points per game. The rushing defense was particularly poor, allowing opposing backs to gain an average of 229.1 yards -- the third-worst mark in the country. Junior defensive back David Garrett was the unit's top performer, leading the team with 86 tackles and 13 for a loss. He added three sacks, a pick and nine pass breakups. Senior lineman Prizell Brown paced the squad with five sacks and freshman defensive back Ty Zimmerman had three of the team's 13 interceptions.

The Orange's offense leans heavily on senior running back Delone Carter, who surpassed the 1,000-yard mark for the second consecutive season in 2010. He averaged an impressive 5.1 yards per carry on his way to 1,035 yards and seven touchdowns. Junior Antwon Bailey serves as a second option, having gained 504 yards with two scores in averaging 4.7 yards per tote.

Junior quarterback Ryan Nassib was at the head of a proficient if unspectacular passing attack that finished 92nd in the country. Nassib's 174.6 passing yards per game was fourth in the Big East and his 189 completions ranked second in SU's single-season annals. He ended the year with 2,095 yards passing, 16 touchdowns, eight interceptions and completed 56.1 percent of his throws. He was able to spread the ball around to a number of different receivers, most notably junior Van Chew, who led the team with 41 receptions, 611 yards and five touchdowns. Four players had 30 or more grabs this season for the 'Cuse, including sophomore Alec Lemon, who caught four touchdowns to rank second on the team. Freshman placekicker Ross Krautman was a bright spot, connecting on all but one of his 18 attempts on field goals.

Defense was a strong point for the Orange this year, ranking fifth in the nation in total defense and 13th in scoring defense. Syracuse allowed 295 yards per game and 18.1 points against. The unit was particularly stingy against the pass, surrendering just 157.6 yards per game to rank sixth in the country. The Orange had just nine interceptions, forced 12 fumbles and collected 26 sacks, placing them in the middle of the pack amongst Big East teams, but got the job done nonetheless. Senior linebacker Derrell Smith paced the team with 103 tackles, 67 solo and eight for a loss, while forcing three fumbles. Fellow senior linebacker and first team All-Big East performer Doug Hogue was a disruptive force with a team-leading 9 1/2 tackles for a loss, finishing second to Smith with 89 stops, tying for the team lead with two picks and recording three sacks. Junior defensive end Chandler Jones paced the 'Cuse with four sacks and had 8 1/2 tackles for a loss.

"I think they are a very fine football team and a storied program. They have a great coach in Doug Marrone. I am very impressed with him and I understand why he is a quality coach and good person as well," said K-State head coach Bill Snyder. "They are a very sound defensive team and play an aggressive style. They are a stunt-oriented team a high percentage of the time, so they are in attack mode and at the same time they do not give up big plays. That is a tribute to their pass rush and their discipline and the coverage unit."

• PREGAME NOTES
-------------------------
Bill Snyder’s felines opened the season 4-0 but were quickly de-clawed, finishing on a 3-5 SU run. Even worse, K-State was outgained in each of its last six games while the defense was ripped for 35 PPG in their final three outings. A living legend in the Sunflower State, Snyder may boast an 18-5 SU and ATS record versus opponents off consecutive losses since 1998 but his Purple Cats have cashed just one ticket in their most recent seven games versus bowl qualifiers. In addition, the Big East has surprisingly held its own against Big 12 foes in postseason play, going a perfect 4-0 SU and ATS since 2001. Yes, we know Syracuse stumbled in its final two games of the season but coach Marrone owns a 4-0 ATS log when playing off backto-back defeats.

• TOP RATED TEAM ATS TRENDS
----------------------------------------
--KANSAS ST is 35-19 ATS (+14.1 Units) after scoring 42 points or more last game since 1992.
The average score was KANSAS ST 37.1, OPPONENT 17.0 - (Rating = 3*)

--SYRACUSE is 2-11 ATS (-10.1 Units) in road games off an upset loss as a favorite since 1992.
The average score was SYRACUSE 20.4, OPPONENT 26.2 - (Rating = 2*)

• TOP RATED TEAM OVER/UNDER TRENDS
----------------------------------------------------
--KANSAS ST is 39-18 OVER (+19.2 Units) after 1 or more consecutive losses against the spread since 1992.
The average score was KANSAS ST 33.1, OPPONENT 21.6 - (Rating = 3*)

--KANSAS ST is 37-17 OVER (+18.3 Units) after a playing a game where 60 total points or more were scored since 1992.
The average score was KANSAS ST 35.3, OPPONENT 21.6 - (Rating = 3*)

• TOP RATED TEAM FIRST HALF TRENDS
-------------------------------------------------
--SYRACUSE is 9-0 against the 1rst half line (+9.0 Units) in road games after a game where they forced 1 or less turnovers over the last 3 seasons.
The average score was SYRACUSE 7.9, OPPONENT 10.8 - (Rating = 4*)

--SYRACUSE is 7-0 against the 1rst half line (+7.0 Units) in road games when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 3 seasons.
The average score was SYRACUSE 8.1, OPPONENT 12.0 - (Rating = 3*)

--SYRACUSE is 7-0 against the 1rst half line (+7.0 Units) in road games vs. good passing teams with a completion pct. of 58% or better over the last 3 seasons.
The average score was SYRACUSE 10.1, OPPONENT 12.6 - (Rating = 3*)

• TOP RATED TEAM FIRST HALF OVER/UNDER TRENDS
------------------------------------------------------------------
--SYRACUSE is 29-9 UNDER (+19.1 Units) the 1rst half total after gaining 100 or less rushing yards last game since 1992.
The average score was SYRACUSE 10.1, OPPONENT 11.4 - (Rating = 3*)

--SYRACUSE is 41-21 UNDER (+17.9 Units) the 1rst half total after a game where they forced 1 or less turnovers since 1992.
The average score was SYRACUSE 13.1, OPPONENT 11.4 - (Rating = 3*)

--SYRACUSE is 21-4 UNDER (+16.6 Units) the 1rst half total after a 2 game home stand since 1992.
The average score was SYRACUSE 11.8, OPPONENT 11.3 - (Rating = 4*)

• HIGHEST RATED SUPER SITUATIONS
----------------------------------------------
--PLAY AGAINST - Any team (KANSAS ST) - good passing team (7.5-8.3 PYA) against a poor passing team (5.6-6.4 PYA) after 7+ games, in non-conference games.
(28-7 since 1992.) (80%, +20.3 units. Rating = 4*)

The straight up record of the team this system pertains to is: (22-13)
The average line posted in these games was: Opponent favored by 4.4
The average score in these games was: Team 24.1, Opponent 22.2 (Average point differential = +1.9)
The number of games in which this system covered the spread by 7 or more points was 16 (45.7% of all games.)

The situation's record this season is: (0-0).
Over the last 3 seasons the situation's record is: (1-2).
Over the last 5 seasons the situation's record is: (8-3).
Over the last 10 seasons the situation's record is: (17-4).

--PLAY UNDER - All teams where the first half total is 21.5 to 24.5 (SYRACUSE) - in a non-conference game between two teams from major division 1-A conferences, game between two teams with 5 or less offensive starters returning.
(36-10 over the last 10 seasons.) (78.3%, +25 units. Rating = 3*)

The average first half total posted in these games was: 23
The average first half score in these games was: Team 9.2, Opponent 9.2 (Total first half points scored = 18.4)

The situation's record this season is: (0-0).
Over the last 3 seasons the situation's record is: (4-2).
Over the last 5 seasons the situation's record is: (8-4).
Since 1992 the situation's record is: (38-18).

--PLAY AGAINST - Any team where the 1rst half line is +1.5 to -1.5 (KANSAS ST) - off an big road win scoring 38 or more points, in the second half of the season.
(32-9 over the last 5 seasons.) (78%, +22.1 units. Rating = 3*)

The average first half line posted in these games was: Opponent favored by 2
The average first half score in these games was: Team 17, Opponent 14 (Average first half point differential = +3)

The situation's record this season is: (5-3).
Over the last 3 seasons the situation's record is: (19-7).
Over the last 10 seasons the situation's record is: (53-24).
Since 1992 the situation's record is: (72-45).

--PLAY ON - Any team (SYRACUSE) - after scoring 17 points or less in 3 straight games against opponent after scoring 37 points or more last game.
(41-17 over the last 5 seasons.) (70.7%, +22.3 units. Rating = 3*)

The straight up record of the team this system pertains to is: (17-41 over the last 5 seasons.)
The average line posted in these games was: Opponent favored by 14
The average score in these games was: Team 21.5, Opponent 31.6 (Average point differential = -10.1)
The number of games in which this system covered the spread by 7 or more points was 24 (42.1% of all games.)

The situation's record this season is: (8-7).
Over the last 3 seasons the situation's record is: (22-15).
Over the last 10 seasons the situation's record is: (67-48).
Since 1992 the situation's record is: (104-92).

[Spark]

*** MUSIC CITY BOWL ***

N CAROLINA VS. TENNESSEE
LP Field - Nashville, TN
Kickoff: 6:30 p.m. EDT Line: Pick O/U 50.5
--------------------------------------------------
North Carolina is hoping to salvage a once-promising season and Tennessee looks to capitalize on its strong finish to 2010 when the Tar Heels and Volunteers hook up in the Music City Bowl in Nashville. This will be the first meeting between the two programs since 1961 when UNC logged a 22-21 win. The Volunteers lead the overall series, 20-10-1. The two sides have never met in a bowl game or previously participated in the Music City Bowl, which is in its 13th year of existence. North Carolina was ranked 18th in the preseason AP poll only to drop out and never return amid an 0-2 start and a bevy of NCAA suspensions that involved 12 players to start the season surrounding impermissible benefits associated with agents.

The NCAA's evaluation dragged well into the second month of the season and weighed heavily on the Tar Heels, who eventually saw the dismissal of senior defensive tackle and All-American candidate Marvin Austin and were handed permanent ineligibility rulings on top returning wideout senior Greg Little as well as first-team preseason All-American defensive end Robert Quinn and senior starting cornerback Charles Brown. In addition to all the suspensions, Davis' squad will also be without two other key contributors for the game due to injury. Seniors Bruce Carter, who started 10 games this year at linebacker, and starting offensive guard Alan Pelc both had season ending surgery earlier this month.

UNC persevered under head coach Butch Davis to gain a bowl bid for the third straight year, managing to climb to 6-3 after a 37-35 win over then No. 24 Florida State on November 6th before dropping two of its last three to end at 7-5 and 4-4 in the ACC. The Tar Heels are 12-16 all-time in bowl games with losses in each of their last three postseason appearances. UNC took part in the Meineke Car Care Bowl the last two years and suffered successive losses to West Virginia and Pittsburgh, in that order. The program's last bowl win came in 2001, a 16-10 triumph over Auburn in the Peach Bowl. "I congratulate our team, and especially the 17 seniors, for the extraordinary job they've done in leading our program to a third consecutive bowl appearance," said Davis. "Regardless of the situation, this team fought week after week to make our fans proud. We look forward to representing North Carolina against a talented Tennessee team."

Tennessee came on strong to win its last four games and become bowl eligible at 6-6 with a 3-5 ledger in SEC play. The season was Derek Dooley's first as head coach after Lane Kiffin up and bolted after one year at the helm for the open position as head man at Southern California. Dooley has the historic UT program back in the postseason for a second consecutive year coming off a 37-14 loss to Virginia Tech under Kiffin in the 2009 Chick-fil-A Bowl. Tennessee is 25-23 all-time in postseason play and making its 49th bowl appearance, which is tied for second in NCAA history alongside Texas. The Vols have alternated wins and losses in their last five trips to the postseason. Their last victory was a New Year's Day triumph in 2008 against Wisconsin in the Outback Bowl.

The Tar Heels had players step up to the challenge through a season of turmoil, but one given constant was the play of senior quarterback T.J. Yates, who holds UNC career records for completions, attempts, yards and completion percentage and is second in touchdowns. In 2010, Yates threw for 3,184 yards and 18 touchdowns against just eight interceptions while completing 67.6 percent of his passes. His quarterback rating of 148.79 ranked 23rd in the country and an average of 265.3 passing yards per game placed him second in the ACC. Yates holds 31 school records in all and enters the Music City Bowl with 61 consecutive pass attempts without an interception.

The main beneficiary of Yates' arm was junior wideout Dwight Jones, who had 895 yards and four scores on 57 catches. However, a number of players posted big games during the year in the passing game with four of the top 10 single- game receiving yard performances in UNC history having occurred this season. Senior running back Anthony Elzy had one of those games and has come on strong for the Tar Heels since taking over as the starter in the backfield. He averaged 177 all-purpose yards over UNC's final three games and finished as the team's second leading receiver with 338 yards. Overall, North Carolina's rushing attack was second-to-last in the conference, while the passing game ranked third in league play.

The Tar Heel defense took the biggest hit via off-field incidents, but managed to finish fourth in the ACC in total defense for giving up 338.5 yards per game and was eighth in scoring defense, allowing an average of 22.9 points. Those totals were good enough to stand 32nd and 45th, respectively, on the national level. Junior linebacker Zach Brown had 68 tackles to lead the team, while junior defensive end Quniton Coples harassed opposing signal-callers to the tune of 8 1/2 sacks -- tying him for third in the conference. He also led the Heels with 14 tackles for a loss. Sophomore Donte Paige-Moss paired nicely with Coples along the line, notching 5 1/2 sacks and 11 tackles for a loss. Senior safety Da'Norris Searcy had four of the team's 16 interceptions.

The Volunteers rallied after winning just two of their first eight games behind the play of freshman quarterback Tyler Bray, who took over as the full- time starter following consecutive losses to SEC heavyweights Alabama and South Carolina. Under Bray, the Vols' offense flourished with 50 and 52 points in consecutive weeks in wins over Memphis and Ole Miss. He then managed tight games in victories over Vanderbilt and Kentucky to close out the regular season. In all, Bray appeared in eight games and threw for 1,537 yards and 14 touchdowns compared with seven picks. He connected on 54.7 percent of his passes.

A slew of capable receivers gives Bray options and junior Tauren Poole piled up 994 rushing yards with 11 touchdowns in averaging 5.2 yards per carry in the ground game. Senior Denarius Moore led the receiving corps with 912 yards and nine touchdowns courtesy of 43 receptions. Fellow senior Gerald Jones' 46 grabs led the club and his 507 yards were second, while tight end Luke Stocker had a fine senior season with 34 catches for 359 yards and a score. Justin Hunter made just 15 catches but six went for touchdowns, a UT freshman record, and gained 407 yards with a whopping 27.1-yard average.

The Volunteer defense, like the offense, finished largely in the middle of the pack both nationally and in the conference but features enough playmakers to make a difference in a tight game. UT pins its hopes not on shutting down the opposing offense, but capitalizing on its mistakes. The defense ranked 32nd in the country in turnover margin and had the nation's ninth highest interception total with 17. Sophomore defensive back Prentiss Waggner had five of those to lead the team and returned three for touchdowns. Fellow sophomore Janzen Jackson picked off four passes, and while none reached the opposing end zone, he racked up 114 return yards. Senior linebacker Nick Reveiz led all UT tacklers with 94 stops and junior defensive end Malik Jackson logged a team- high five sacks and 11 tackles for a loss.

"Everybody's asked me, 'Why is it important to go to a bowl game?' To me, it's the benchmark standard for every program. I don't care who you are, every year you want to have a winning season and go to a bowl game. And it's an opportunity to continue to develop and coach your football team to get better," Dooley said of his young UT squad. "We're playing a great opponent, as talented a team as I've seen all year on film. Went through a lot of adversity that affected their results, but has done a great job of overcoming it. So give their coaching staff credit for the job it has done this year and keeping them focused through a lot of distraction."

• PREGAME NOTES
-------------------------
Tennessee fans were left in a lurch after the 2009 campaign when head coach Lane Kiffin high-tailed it out of Knoxville after just a single season. And even though his replacement, Derek Dooley, had SEC blood running in his veins, a 2-6 start had many Volunteer fans convinced that the learning curve had been too steep for the former Louisiana Tech head coach. Then Dooley caught lightning in a bottle with 4-0 SU and ATS finish and Tennessee managed to snag a bowl bid. Unlike UT, Butch Davis’ Tar Heels were expected to be a major player in the ACC but their promising potential unraveled due to numerous player suspensions amid an NCAA investigation. But thanks to a victory over Duke, UNC capped its tumultuous season by earning a trip to Music City, USA, its third straight bowl appearance under Davis.

Carolina may own a 7-1 ATS mark versus SEC foes of late but we think they’re in over their heels here: ACC bowl favorites are a weak 7-17-1 ATS versus SEC competition. SEC bowl dogs are also 16-6 ATS against a foe off a SU win and 6-6 bowl dogs overall are a spotless 5-0 ATS playing off back-to-back victories. Keep a close eye on both quarterbacks today. Carolina’s T.J. Yates, who many thought would lose his starting job in spring practice, became the school’s all-time leading passer with 772 completions in 1,238 attempts for 9,143 yards. Tennessee’s Tyler Bray played little over the first seven games but took over in the second half of game eight at South Carolina to jump-start the Vols’ season-ending run.

• TOP RATED TEAM ATS TRENDS
----------------------------------------
--TENNESSEE is 38-20 ATS (+16.0 Units) in road games when playing against a team with a winning record since 1992.
The average score was TENNESSEE 25.2, OPPONENT 22.5 - (Rating = 3*)

--TENNESSEE is 22-7 ATS (+14.3 Units) in road games vs. good passing teams with a completion pct. of 58% or better since 1992.
The average score was TENNESSEE 28.2, OPPONENT 22.6 - (Rating = 3*)

• TOP RATED TEAM OVER/UNDER TRENDS
----------------------------------------------------
--TENNESSEE is 38-19 UNDER (+17.1 Units) after a game where they forced 3 or more turnovers since 1992.
The average score was TENNESSEE 29.9, OPPONENT 17.9 - (Rating = 3*)

--TENNESSEE is 10-1 UNDER (+8.9 Units) off 2 or more consecutive unders over the last 3 seasons.
The average score was TENNESSEE 17.7, OPPONENT 16.4 - (Rating = 4*)

--N CAROLINA is 20-4 UNDER (+15.5 Units) after failing to cover the spread in 4 or 5 out of their last 6 games since 1992.
The average score was N CAROLINA 20.6, OPPONENT 20.7 - (Rating = 3*)

--N CAROLINA is 21-6 UNDER (+14.2 Units) in road games vs. good passing teams averaging 8 or more passing yards/att since 1992.
The average score was N CAROLINA 19.3, OPPONENT 26.5 - (Rating = 4*)

• TOP RATED TEAM FIRST HALF TRENDS
-------------------------------------------------
--TENNESSEE is 10-1 against the 1rst half line (+8.9 Units) versus the first half line in all games this season.
The average score was TENNESSEE 15.6, OPPONENT 10.5 - (Rating = 4*)

--TENNESSEE is 10-1 against the 1rst half line (+8.9 Units) in games played on a grass field this season.
The average score was TENNESSEE 15.6, OPPONENT 10.5 - (Rating = 4*)

--TENNESSEE is 6-0 against the 1rst half line (+6.0 Units) in the second half of the season this season.
The average score was TENNESSEE 19.8, OPPONENT 9.0 - (Rating = 3*)

--N CAROLINA is 33-52 against the 1rst half line (-24.2 Units) after playing 2 straight conference games since 1992.
The average score was N CAROLINA 12.4, OPPONENT 11.8 - (Rating = 4*)

--N CAROLINA is 22-39 against the 1rst half line (-20.9 Units) in non-conference games since 1992.
The average score was N CAROLINA 12.6, OPPONENT 12.3 - (Rating = 4*)

• TOP RATED TEAM FIRST HALF OVER/UNDER TRENDS
------------------------------------------------------------------
--TENNESSEE is 45-26 UNDER (+16.4 Units) the 1rst half total off 1 or more consecutive unders since 1992.
The average score was TENNESSEE 12.0, OPPONENT 10.3 - (Rating = 3*)

--TENNESSEE is 37-19 UNDER (+16.1 Units) the 1rst half total as an underdog vs. the 1rst half line since 1992.
The average score was TENNESSEE 9.8, OPPONENT 12.8 - (Rating = 3*)

--TENNESSEE is 23-7 UNDER (+15.2 Units) the 1rst half total off 2 or more consecutive unders since 1992.
The average score was TENNESSEE 10.3, OPPONENT 10.2 - (Rating = 3*)

• HIGHEST RATED SUPER SITUATIONS
----------------------------------------------
--PLAY OVER - Any team vs the 1rst half total (N CAROLINA) - in a game involving two poor rushing teams (100-140 RY/game), after allowing 40 or less rushing yards last game.
(29-4 over the last 10 seasons.) (87.9%, +24.6 units. Rating = 4*)

The average first half total posted in these games was: 23.9
The average first half score in these games was: Team 16.6, Opponent 12.2 (Total first half points scored = 28.8)

The situation's record this season is: (0-0).
Over the last 3 seasons the situation's record is: (10-1).
Over the last 5 seasons the situation's record is: (18-4).
Since 1992 the situation's record is: (31-9).

--PLAY UNDER - Any team against the total (N CAROLINA) - after failing to cover the spread in 5 or 6 out of their last 7 games, when playing on a Thursday.
(32-6 over the last 10 seasons.) (84.2%, +25.4 units. Rating = 4*)

The average total posted in these games was: 51.4
The average score in these games was: Team 21.3, Opponent 20.1 (Total points scored = 41.4)
The number of games in which this system covered the total by 7 or more points was 25 (64.1% of all games.)

The situation's record this season is: (3-1).
Over the last 3 seasons the situation's record is: (11-2).
Over the last 5 seasons the situation's record is: (16-6).
Since 1992 the situation's record is: (55-18).

--PLAY UNDER - Neutral field teams where the total is between 49.5 and 56 (TENNESSEE) - after having won 4 out of their last 5 games, in a non-conference game between two teams from major division 1-A conferences.
(35-7 since 1992.) (83.3%, +27.3 units. Rating = 4*)

The average total posted in these games was: 52.8
The average score in these games was: Team 24.1, Opponent 20.6 (Total points scored = 44.8)
The number of games in which this system covered the total by 7 or more points was 24 (57.1% of all games.)

The situation's record this season is: (1-0).
Over the last 3 seasons the situation's record is: (9-0).
Over the last 5 seasons the situation's record is: (13-2).
Over the last 10 seasons the situation's record is: (19-3).

[Spark]

*** HOLIDAY BOWL ***

WASHINGTON VS. NEBRASKA
Qualcomm Stadium - San Diego, CA
Kickoff: 10:00 p.m. EDT Line: Nebraska -14 O/U 55
-------------------------------------------------------------
The Washington Huskies will look to avenge a Sept. 18th loss when they face the Nebraska Cornhuskers in the Holiday Bowl at Qualcomm Stadium in San Diego. This will be the ninth meeting between Nebraska and Washington, with the Cornhuskers holding a slight, 4-3-1 edge, although they have won each of the last three meetings (1997, 1998, 2010). Most recently, the teams met on Sept. 18th of this year, with the Cornhuskers securing a 56-21 victory in Husky Stadium. The two teams are also scheduled to meet next Sept. 17th, in Lincoln, Nebraska.

The Cornhuskers rode a 6-2 conference record to a second straight Big 12 North title, but blew a 17-0 lead en route to a 23-20 loss to Oklahoma in the Big 12 title game on Dec. 4th. They finished the regular season with a 10-3 overall record. This will be Nebraska's second consecutive appearance in the Holiday Bowl, after a 33-0 trouncing of Arizona in 2009's edition. The Cornhuskers currently hold a 24-22 all-time bowl game record, with this being their 47th bowl game appearance

Washington enters the Holiday Bowl in the midst of a three-game win streak. The Huskies defeated UCLA, Cal and Washington State to salvage a deteriorating regular season and secure their first bowl appearance since the 2002 Sun Bowl. They closed the 2010 campaign 6-6 overall and tied for third in the Pac-10 with USC, at 5-4. Thursday's game against Nebraska will mark Washington's fourth appearance in the Holiday Bowl, where the Huskies previously faced Big 12 opponents Colorado, Kansas State and Texas. This will be Washington's 31st bowl game appearance, dating back to 1924. The team posts a 15-14-1 all-time record in such games.

The Huskies are led by senior quarterback Jake Locker. He completed 179-of-316 passes for 2,209 yards and 17 touchdowns this season. Although already established, Locker's role as leader was resoundingly hammered home after he battled through a late-season rib injury to spur a bowl berth. After the rib was broken on Sept. 30th against Stanford, Locker endured the pain, starting three of the Huskies' four remaining games. With the extended rest provided by the layoff, he now finds himself virtually pain-free entering the Nebraska game. "Feeling great, feeling awesome," Locker said of the rib recently. "I feel normal. Yeah, like I always had before."

Of course, Locker's job is made easier by the phenomenal play of sophomore running back Chris Polk, who has run for 1,287 yards and eight touchdowns on 226 carries this season, making him just the second player in Washington history to rush for 1,000 yards or more in two seasons. In the Huskies' regular season finale against Washington State, Polk had a game for the ages, as he ran for 284 yards and two touchdowns. The 284 yards were just 12 shy of the single-game school rushing record. Also a threat offensively is wide recover Jermaine Kearse, who has caught 62 passes for 1,001 yards and 12 touchdowns. Kearse and Polk have combined for just the second 1,000-yard rusher/receiver tandem in Huskies' history. They also stand as just the ninth such tandem in FBS this season.

While the offense has produced, the defense has struggled to contain teams, allowing 31.2 ppg. At issue has been the defensive line, which has battled injuries and enters Thursday's game hobbled. Only Alamenda Ta'amu and Mason Foster have managed to start every game on the line this season, while starting tackle Semisi Tokalahi has been rendered incapacitated with an ankle injury and Cameron Elisara has been slowed by neck and shoulder stingers. Due in part to the rotating defensive front, the Huskies' have allowed 198.8 rushing yards per game and 32 rushing touchdowns this season.

Washington's struggles against the run should be a welcome sign for the capable ground game of Nebraska. In fact, it was a dominating rushing performance that vaulted the Cornhuskers over the Huskies in the teams' previous meeting. A bevy of backs piled up a combined 383 rushing yards on 7.1 ypc and six rushing touchdowns in the Cornhuskers' dominating, 56-21, victory. Quarterback Taylor Martinez led the team with 156 rushing yards and three rushing scores, while also throwing for 150 yards and a touchdown on 7- of-11 passing.

Martinez continues to be the engine that drives the Nebraska offense. He has thrown for 1,578 yards and nine touchdowns this season to lead an offense which averages 32.7 ppg. As a team, the Cornhuskers compile an impressive 259.6 rushing ypg. headlined by the rushing exploits of tailback Roy Helu Jr. (1,211 yards, 11 TDs) and Martinez (942 yards, 12 TDs). Martinez will be looking for a bounce-back performance. He failed to find the mark in the Big 12 championship game after sitting out the regular season finale against Colorado due to injuries to his right ankle and left foot. He was just 12-of-24 for 143 yards and an interception in the title game. He was also sacked seven times.

On defense, the Cornhuskers have few weak points. The secondary, led by Prince Amukamara, allows just 159.9 passing yards per game. Amukamara has recorded 58 tackles and 13 pass breakup this year. Of course, the secondary's job is made easier by the pressure applied by the defensive line, which has tallied 31 sacks thus far. Jared Crick leads the team with nine-and-a-half sacks, while Lavonte David has tallied six sacks and has also registered 14 tackles for loss and a team-high 145 total tackles. Nebraska is solid against the run as well, allowing 144.3 rushing ypg. On the whole, the unit allows 17.2 ppg.

• PREGAME NOTES
-------------------------
If there’s one player who will show up for postseason play with blood in his eye, it’s red-faced Washington QB Jake Locker. Locker bypassed the NFL draft to return for his senior season in 2010 and after a 1-1 start this year, U-Dub’s “Locker For The Heisman” campaign was hitting on all cylinders. One week later, it was dead, courtesy of a horrific 56-21 beating in Seattle at the hands, or maybe we should say ‘feet’ – of a Nebraska team that rushed for a mind-boggling 383 yards. Locker was more Fake than Jake in the disaster, going 4-for-20 passing while throwing two interceptions. The ensuing defeat was one of four losses by 30 points or more this year for Washington, all of which came during a 3-6 start that had many declaring the Huskies among the most disappointing teams in the country. But just when Steve Sarkisian’s sled dogs had officially been declared D.O.A., they finished with a late flurry to claim the Pac-10’s final bowl slot.

Meanwhile, Nebraska reached the Big 12 Championship only to suffer a narrow 3-point loss to Oklahoma but still closed out with back-to-back 10-win seasons for the first time since 2000 and 2001. The linesmaker may have tabbed the Huskers as two-touchdown favorites but our powerful database begs to differ. Not only is Washington a stout 7-2 SU and ATS as bowlers off a SU and ATS win, Big 12 bowl favorites of 6 or more points are 0-6 ATS against Pac-10 adversaries. Want more! Holiday Bowl favorites are a weak 4-8 ATS of late and conference championship losers like Nebraska have gone 6-13 ATS as bowl chalk of more than 4 points. The bottom line is the Holiday Bowl is a LONG way from a BCS Bowl and not where Big Red wanted to be for their final game as a member of the Big 12. Add to the fact that bowlers returning to the same bowl they won the previous year are a measly 3-12 ATS when entering off a season-ending loss.

• TOP RATED TEAM ATS TRENDS
----------------------------------------
--WASHINGTON is 57-88 ATS (-39.8 Units) after playing a conference game since 1992.
The average score was WASHINGTON 24.7, OPPONENT 27.2 - (Rating = 6*)

--WASHINGTON is 30-49 ATS (-23.9 Units) when the total is between 49.5 and 56 since 1992.
The average score was WASHINGTON 24.8, OPPONENT 30.2 - (Rating = 4*)

• TOP RATED TEAM OVER/UNDER TRENDS
----------------------------------------------------
--NEBRASKA is 25-4 UNDER (+19.8 Units) in road games after allowing 325 or more passing yards in their last game since 1992.
The average score was NEBRASKA 27.3, OPPONENT 26.1 - (Rating = 3*)

--NEBRASKA is 28-7 UNDER (+19.3 Units) in road games after a game where they committed 4 or more turnovers since 1992.
The average score was NEBRASKA 26.4, OPPONENT 25.3 - (Rating = 3*)

• TOP RATED TEAM FIRST HALF TRENDS
-------------------------------------------------
--NEBRASKA is 0-8 against the 1rst half line (-8.6 Units) after allowing 125 or less rushing yards in 2 straight games over the last 3 seasons.
The average score was NEBRASKA 8.1, OPPONENT 13.3 - (Rating = 4*)

• TOP RATED TEAM FIRST HALF OVER/UNDER TRENDS
------------------------------------------------------------------
--NEBRASKA is 24-5 UNDER (+18.5 Units) the 1rst half total after the first month of the season over the last 3 seasons.
The average score was NEBRASKA 12.8, OPPONENT 8.4 - (Rating = 3*)

--NEBRASKA is 8-0 UNDER (+8.0 Units) the 1rst half total as a favorite of 6 or more points vs. the first half line over the last 2 seasons.
The average score was NEBRASKA 11.6, OPPONENT 7.4 - (Rating = 4*)

• HIGHEST RATED SUPER SITUATIONS
----------------------------------------------
--PLAY UNDER - Neutral field teams where the total is between 49.5 and 56 (WASHINGTON) - after having won 3 out of their last 4 games, in a non-conference game between two teams from major division 1-A conferences.
(24-4 over the last 10 seasons.) (85.7%, +19.6 units. Rating = 4*)

The average total posted in these games was: 52.8
The average score in these games was: Team 19.2, Opponent 22.6 (Total points scored = 41.9)
The number of games in which this system covered the total by 7 or more points was 17 (60.7% of all games.)

The situation's record this season is: (0-0).
Over the last 3 seasons the situation's record is: (12-0).
Over the last 5 seasons the situation's record is: (17-2).
Since 1992 the situation's record is: (39-11).

--PLAY ON - Underdogs of 6 to 11.5 points vs. the first half line (WASHINGTON) - revenging a blowout loss against opponent by 35 points or more, off a road win.
(29-7 since 1992.) (80.6%, +21.3 units. Rating = 4*)

The average first half line posted in these games was: Opponent favored by 9.1
The average first half score in these games was: Team 13.9, Opponent 13.7 (Average first half point differential = +0.3)

The situation's record this season is: (0-0).
Over the last 3 seasons the situation's record is: (0-2).
Over the last 5 seasons the situation's record is: (3-2).
Over the last 10 seasons the situation's record is: (13-2).

--PLAY UNDER - All teams where the total is between 49.5 and 56 (NEBRASKA) - in a non-conference game between two teams from major division 1-A conferences, off a loss against a conference rival.
(43-14 over the last 10 seasons.) (75.4%, +27.6 units. Rating = 3*)

The average total posted in these games was: 53
The average score in these games was: Team 21.9, Opponent 23.3 (Total points scored = 45.2)
The number of games in which this system covered the total by 7 or more points was 36 (63.2% of all games.)

The situation's record this season is: (2-1).
Over the last 3 seasons the situation's record is: (11-4).
Over the last 5 seasons the situation's record is: (24-7).
Since 1992 the situation's record is: (61-29).

--PLAY UNDER - All teams where the first half total is 25 to 28 (NEBRASKA) - after having won 4 or 5 out of their last 6 games, in a non-conference game between two teams from major division 1-A conferences.
(47-18 over the last 10 seasons.) (72.3%, +27.2 units. Rating = 3*)

The average first half total posted in these games was: 26.5
The average first half score in these games was: Team 13.6, Opponent 10.8 (Total first half points scored = 24.4)

The situation's record this season is: (2-1).
Over the last 3 seasons the situation's record is: (18-7).
Over the last 5 seasons the situation's record is: (28-12).
Since 1992 the situation's record is: (65-29).

[Udog]

NCAAF


Friday, December 31

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
What Bettors Need to Know
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Sun Bowl: Notre Dame Fighting Irish vs. Miami Hurricanes (-2.5, 47)

The Skinny: In the late 1980s, Notre Dame and Miami were on top of the college football world. How times have changed since the Irish beat the Hurricanes 29-20 in their last meeting in 1990.

Both sporting 7-5 records, the two meet again for the first time in 20 years at the Sun Bowl on New Year’s Eve.

Notre Dame (5-5-2 ATS) finished the season with wins over Utah, Army, and USC. Miami (5-7 ATS) completed its season with a disappointing 23-20 loss in overtime to South Florida. After the game, coach Randy Shannon was fired. Larry Coker’s successor had a four-year record of 28-22. Offensive line coach Jeff Stoutland will be the Hurricanes’ interim coach at the Sun Bowl, and then Al Golden, who resurrected Temple's program, will take over.

Point Spread: Miami -3. Over/under 47.

This spread has dropped slightly from its opening of a field goal. The total has climbed from its opening of 45.5 points to 47 as of Thursday.

Miami’s Edge: The Hurricanes rank second in the nation in pass defense, having allowed only seven passing touchdowns this year. They are also second in pass efficiency defense and have 16 interceptions. The Miami defense has forced a total of 28 turnovers and is most effective in the red zone, where it ranks seventh in limiting opponents’ efficiency..

Notre Dame’s Edge: The Irish defense improved dramatically late in the season, limiting its last three opponents to one offensive touchdown. The improved linebacker play has been led by sophomore Manti Te’o who has recorded 127 total tackles.

The Quarterbacks: Miami’s Jacory Harris came back in the second half of the South Florida game after missing two games with an injury. He has completed 54.8 percent of his passes and has been picked off 12 times. True freshman Stephen Morris filled in for Harris while he was out, hitting on 60 of 120 passes, and throwing eight interceptions. Harris appears to be the scheduled starter for Friday.

Freshman Tommy Rees replaced injured starter Dayne Crist in Notre Dame’s game against Tulsa and then led the Irish to three wins in November. He has completed 85 of 135 passes for 905 yards and 10 touchdowns.

NFL Prospects: Miami – RB Damien Berry, WR Leonard Hankerson, WR Travis Benjamin, G Brandon Washington, DB Brandon Harris. Notre Dame – WR Michael Floyd, DT Ian Williams.

Bowl history: This is Miami’s 36th bowl appearance and first time in the Sun Bowl. The Hurricanes’ overall bowl record is 19-16.

For the Irish, this will be their 30th bowl appearance and also the first time playing in the Sun Bowl. Notre Dame has an overall 14-15 record in the postseason, having lost nine straight bowl games until they beat Hawaii in the Sheraton Hawaii Bowl, 49-21, in 2008.

Etc.: Notre Dame and Miami started their series in 1955 with the Irish holding an overall 15-7-1 edge. For four straight years – 1987-1990 – the two teams met when both were ranked in the top 10 nationally.

Weather: The skies will be cloudy in El Paso. Strong winds, getting up above 20 mph, are expected to blow west across the field. Game-time temperatures will be in the high 40s.

Trends:

- Fighting Irish are 1-6 ATS in their last seven bowl games.
- Hurricanes are 1-4 ATS in their last five bowl games as favorites.
- Under is 6-1 in Fighting Irish’s last seven non-conference games.
- Under is 5-1 in Hurricanes’ last six bowl games.




Chick-fil-A Bowl: South Carolina Gamecocks vs. Florida State Seminoles (+3, 54.5)

The Skinny: The Chick-fil-A Bowl represents a chance for both South Carolina (9-4, 7-6 ATS) and Florida State (9-4, 7-6 ATS) to offset some of the pain of losing in their respective conference championship games.

It's also a rekindling of South Carolina coach Steve Spurrier's rivalry with Florida State from his days at Florida, both as a player and a coach. Spurrier is 5-8-1 all-time against the Seminoles.

It will be the second consecutive game played at the Georgia Dome for the Gamecocks; they lost to Auburn 56-17 there in the SEC title game Dec. 4.

Point Spread: South Carolina -3. Over/under 54.5

The spread has stayed put at a field goal while the total has climbed half a point to 54.5.

South Carolina's Edge: Although the Seminoles are fairly balanced on offense, they do tend a bit toward the run, which is a good matchup for South Carolina's defense, which ranks ninth in the nation with 104.3 rushing yards allowed per game. The one chink in that armor has been Cam Newton, and while Florida State quarterback Christian Ponder is a threat to run, he's not in Newton's league.

Florida State's Edge: The Seminoles rank second in the nation with 3.54 sacks per game, and if they can get pressure on South Carolina quarterback Stephen Garcia, he is prone to making mistakes. Brandon Jenkins leads Florida State with 13 sacks, which ranks second in the nation behind Clemson's Da'Quan Bowers (15.5).

The Quarterbacks: Garcia, a junior, has enjoyed the most productive season of his career, throwing for 2,816 yards with 20 touchdowns and 11 interceptions while rushing for 208 yards and six scores. But Garcia's mistakes in big spots have been a concern. He lost fumbles on consecutive drives in the fourth quarter of a 35-27 loss at Auburn in the regular season, and he threw two interceptions in four games, including three of the Gamecocks' four losses.

Ponder was slowed by an elbow injury late in the season, causing him to miss two games, including the 44-33 loss to Virginia Tech in the ACC title game, but he is expected to play in the bowl game. Although he hasn't come close to matching his rushing output as a sophomore, Ponder is still a threat to run; he has rushed for 177 yards and four touchdowns this year. He has also improved as a passer, throwing for 2,038 yards with 20 touchdowns and eight interceptions this season. If Ponder can't play, the Seminoles have a capable backup in E.J. Manuel, who led them to a victory against West Virginia in last year's Gator Bowl.

NFL Prospects: South Carolina — DE Cliff Matthews, OT Jarriel King. Florida State — C Rodney Hudson, QB Christian Ponder, DE Markus White.

Bowl history: South Carolina is 4-11 all-time in bowls and has won only one of four bowl games under Spurrier. The Gamecocks played in this bowl game once, when it was called the Peach Bowl, losing 14-3 to West Virginia in 1969.

This marks Florida State's 29th consecutive year playing a bowl game, the longest streak in the nation. The Seminoles hold a 23-14-2 record in bowl games, and they went 14 years without losing one beginning in 1982.

Etc.: South Carolina's Marcus Lattimore (1,198 rushing yards) and Alshon Jeffery (1,387 passing yards) are the first duo in school history to give the Gamecocks a 1,000-yard rusher and a 1,000-yard receiver in the same season. … The Gamecocks and Seminoles shared two common opponents this season - both beat Clemson and Florida.

Trends:

- Seminoles are 5-0-1 ATS in their last six bowl games.
- Gamecocks are 6-1 ATS in their last seven non-conference games.
- Over is 5-1 in Seminoles’ last six bowl games.
- Under is 5-2 in Gamecocks’ last seven vs. ACC.


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[Udog]

NCAAF


Friday, December 31

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Tips and Trends
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Notre Dame Fighting Irish vs Miami Hurricanes [CBS | 2:00 PM ET]

FIGHTING IRISH: Behind Coach Kelly, Notre Dame is finishing the season strong. The Irish have won their past 3 games SU, 2 of which came as the listed underdog. Notre Dame was 7-5 SU and 5-5-2 ATS overall this season. The Irish were 3-2 SU and 4-1 ATS away from home this year. The Irish were 3-1 ATS as the listed underdog this season. Notre Dame has a top 30 passing offense, led by QB Dayne Crist. Crist has led a passing attack that is averaging 257 YPG this year. Notre Dame is averaging 25.8 PPG for the season, while giving up 20.5 PPG. The Fighting Irish are 2-6-1 ATS in their last 9 games following an ATS win. Notre Dame is 4-13 ATS in their last 17 games after accumulating less than 170 yards passing in their previous game. The Fighting Irish are 1-4 ATS in their last 5 games played on turf. Notre Dame is 1-6 ATS in their last 7 bowl games.

Fighting Irish are 6-1 ATS last 7 games as an underdog.
Under is 9-1 last 10 games against the ACC.

Key Injuries - S Dan McCarthy (shoulder) is doubtful.

Projected Score: 24 (SIDE of the Day)

HURRICANES: (-3, O/U 47) Miami had a frustrating season this year, culminating with back to back losses at home to end the regular season. Miami went 7-5 SU and 5-7 ATS overall this year. The Hurricanes started the year thinking they could compete for a BCS championship. Instead, they are playing before New Years in a bowl game where some are questioning their mental state. Miami is 4-1 ATS as a single digit favorite this season. The Hurricanes rank in the top 50 in both passing and rushing offense this year. Miami averages 27.1 PPG this year while giving up just 19.7 PPG. The Hurricanes are 2-5 ATS in their last 7 games as the listed favorite. Miami is 2-6 ATS in their last 8 games played in December. The Hurricanes are 1-4 ATS in their last 5 games overall. The Hurricanes are 1-5 ATS in their last 6 games following a SU loss.

Hurricanes are 1-4 ATS last 5 Bowl games as a favorite.
Under is 6-0-1 last 7 games overall.

Key Injuries - QB Jacory Harris (concussion) is probable.

Projected Score: 21



Florida St. Seminoles vs South Carolina Gamecocks [ESPN | 7:30 PM ET]

SEMINOLES: Florida St. is coming off a loss in their conference championship as well, a 33-44 SU loss to Virginia Tech. Florida St. is 9-4 SU and 7-6 ATS overall this season. The Seminoles are 3-3 both SU and ATS away from home this year. Florida St. is 1-2 ATS as the listed underdog this season. The Seminoles have scored at least 30 PTS in 4 of their past 5 games overall. Florida St. is averaging 31.8 PPG this season, while allowing just 19.8 PPG. The Seminoles are 4-0-1 ATS in their last 5 games as an underdog up to a field goal. The Seminoles are 3-0-1 ATS in their last 4 bowl games as the listed underdog. Florida St. is 8-1-1 ATS in their last 10 neutral site games. The Seminoles are 4-1-1 ATS in their last 6 games played in December. Florida St. is 2-5 ATS in their last 7 games overall.

Seminoles are 5-0-1 ATS last 6 bowl games.
Under is 5-1 last 6 non-conference games.

Key Injuries - QB Christian Ponder (elbow) is probable.

Projected Score: 28

GAMECOCKS: (-3, O/U 54.5) The last time South Carolina took the field, they were playing Auburn in the SEC Championship game. The Gamecocks were blown out in that contest, and they've had plenty of time to think about it. South Carolina gets another high profile opponent tonight, so they are likely to be plenty motivated. The Gamecocks are 9-4 SU and 7-6 ATS overall this year. South Carolina is 3-2 both SU and ATS overall this season. The Gamecocks are 2-2 ATS as a single digit favorite this year. The Gamecocks average 32 PPG this season while giving up 22.9 PPG this season. The Gamecocks are 5-0 ATS in their last 5 games following a SU loss. South Carolina is 4-0 ATS in their last 4 games as a favorite up to a field goal. The Gamecocks are 6-1 ATS in their last 7 non-conference games. South Carolina is 5-1 ATS in their last 6 games against the ACC. The Gamecocks are 9-4 ATS against a team with a winning record. South Carolina is 1-4 ATS in their last 5 neutral site games.

Gamecocks are 4-0 ATS last 4 games following a double-digit loss at home.
Over is 8-2 last 10 neutral site games.

Key Injuries - LB Shaq Wilson (hamstring) is questionable.

Projected Score: 31 (OVER-Total of the Day)


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[Udog]

NCAAF
Write-Up


Friday, December 31

Car Care Bowl
Charlotte noon
South Florida won three of last four bowls; they were favored in all four games; last time they were bowl dog, it was here in '05, when they lost 14-0 to NC State (+3.5). QB Daniels was hurt during season but expects to play here; he's no great shakes but is mobile when healthy. Four of last five USF games were decided by 3 or less points- they finished year 4-2, instead of folding down stretch like they had in previous seasons.

Clemson lost three of last four bowls, despite being favored in all four-- they've got a soph QB who is quitting football to go play pro baseball, which is part of why Tigers struggled so much in '10. Clemson might be 6-6, but they lost to unbeaten Auburn in OT. Tigers scored 14 points or less in four of last five games; their last eight games stayed under. This is a talented team but as usual, Clemson underachieved.

Favorites are 4-3 vs spread in last seven Car Care Bowls, even though in three of last four, the deciding margin was one or two points. ACC clubs lost last two, after winning first five Car Care Bowls.

Sun Bowl
El Paso 2:00
Miami fired its coach and its new starting QB sprained his ankle during week at practice, so previous starter Harris gets nod here. 'canes lost last two bowls 24-17/20-14; their only bowl win since '04 (1-3) was against Nevada by a point. Miami is 2-3 in last five games, losing as 12/15 point favorites to Virginia/USF. With as many distractions as they've had since season ended, not sure how Miami could be favored over anyone.

Notre Dame has one bowl win since 1994, two years ago at Hawai'i in Hawai'i Bowl (49-21); their last four bowl losses are all by 14+ points. Irish won last three games to get to 7-5, allowing only 22 points in those wins- they beat USC for first time in nine years in an LA monsoon. ND allowed 20 or less points in its wins, 28+ in its losses- they're 3-1 when an underdog this year. Irish are 4-1 vs spread away from home.

If you omit the 3-0 Oregon State-Pitt debacle two years ago, the average total in last six Sun Bowls would be 68.5. Hard to endorse Miami when they have separate issues involving firing the coach and injured QB.

Liberty Bowl
Memphis 3:30
Central Florida is 0-3 in bowl games, losing 10-3 to Miss State of SEC in this game three years ago- they gave up 49-45 points in their other bowl appearances. Knights had best season ever under O'Leary, winning eight of last nine games. UCF was underdog only once all year, losing 17-13 at Kansas State (+7)- they allowed 12.7 ppg in winning last three games. UCF converted over 50% on third down in eight of its last nine games.

Georgia won its last four bowls, covering last three as a favorite; Richt was at Florida State with Bobby Bowden when Seminoles were winning all their bowl games. Dawgs started this season 1-4, then got hot when star WR Green's suspension ended- they won five of last seven games, scoring 31 points in both their last two losses. Six of last seven Georgia games went over the total. Dawgs allowed 31+ points in last four games vs D-I foes.

Underdogs covered five of last six Liberty Bowls; weather has often been a factor in this game, so check the weather before playing totals. A game with two really good young QBs is expected to produce lot of points.

Chick-fil-A Bowl
Atlanta 7:30
South Carolina lost four of last five bowls, despite being favored in four of the five games; they scored total of 10 points in losing bowls the last two years (31-10/20-7). 9-4 Gamecocks allowed 31+ points in all four of their losses- they made SEC title game for first time, but got blown out by Auburn. Carolina is 5-3 as favorite this year- they were +2 or better in turnovers in each of its last four wins.

Florida State won three of its last four bowls, with average total of 60.8 in the four games- they were underdog in three of the four games. FSU's last three bowl wins were all by 12+ points. Seminoles allowed 19 or less points in all their wins this year; they gave up 47-28-37-44 points in the four losses- they're 1-2 as an underdog. Ponder is expected to play after missing ACC title game with an elbow injury.

South Carolina is 4-11 all-time in bowls; Spurrier is 7-9 as a bowl coach. Would expect pretty good game; both teams have veteran QBs. They've both had good seasons, so they should be excited to be here. Underdogs won SU in four of last five Chick-fil-A Bowls.

[Spark]

••• MEINEKE CAR CARE BOWL •••

S FLORIDA (7-5) VS. CLEMSON (6-6)
Bank Of America Stadium - Charlotte, NC
Kickoff: 12:00 p.m. EDT Line: Clemson -5.5 O/U 40.5
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GAME BREAKDOWN: The Tigers are 1-4 in the last five bowl games and this team may have a hard time getting up for this game. Sloppy play on offense cost this team a much better season as four of six losses came by less than a touchdown and Clemson took undefeated Auburn to overtime on the road earlier this year. QB Kyle Parker lost some favor with the coaching staff and though he is headed towards a baseball contract it still appears that he will start this game. Parker was benched in the finale against South Carolina after costly turnovers but the strength of this team is on defense, allowing less than 18 points per game with spectacular numbers against the pass.

South Florida QB B.J. Daniels sat out the final game of the season and his status is still not clear for this game. Daniels had a very disappointing season but South Florida is led by defense as well, with some of the better numbers in the Big East. Clemson played a far tougher schedule and appears to be slightly stronger on both sides of the ball but this is a fairly even match-up with the line right where it projects. Coach Holtz is just 1-3 in bowl games and he was not able to get his team going for huge home games late in the year, falling to both Pittsburgh and Connecticut with a lot on the line.

• TOP RATED TEAM TRENDS
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--CLEMSON is 6-0 UNDER as a favorite this season.
--CLEMSON is 6-0 UNDER off 2 or more consecutive unders this season.
--CLEMSON is 8-1 UNDER after the first month of the season this season.

• BETTING SYSTEM: Play Against - Favorites of 3.5 to 10 points (CLEMSON) - in a game involving two average rushing teams (3.5 to 4.3 YPR), after allowing 125 or less rushing yards in 3 straight games.
(31-12 over the last 10 seasons.) (72.1%, +17.8 units. Rating = 3*)

The straight up record of the team this system pertains to is: (17-26 over the last 10 seasons.)
The average line posted in these games was: Opponent favored by 6.6
The average score in these games was: Team 23.3, Opponent 25.8 (Average point differential = -2.5)
The number of games in which this system covered the spread by 7 or more points was 14 (34.1% of all games.)

The situation's record this season is: (0-4).
Over the last 3 seasons the situation's record is: (6-4).
Over the last 5 seasons the situation's record is: (12-6).
Since 1992 the situation's record is: (41-18).

• BETTING SYSTEM: Play Under - Any team vs the 1rst half total (S FLORIDA) - in a game involving two average rushing teams (3.5 to 4.3 YPR), in a non-conference game between two teams from major division 1-A conferences.
(34-10 over the last 5 seasons.) (77.3%, +23 units. Rating = 3*)

The average first half total posted in these games was: 24.2
The average first half score in these games was: Team 10.3, Opponent 10.3 (Total first half points scored = 20.7)

The situation's record this season is: (6-6).
Over the last 3 seasons the situation's record is: (22-8).
Over the last 10 seasons the situation's record is: (60-30).
Since 1992 the situation's record is: (86-56).

[Spark]

••• SUN BOWL •••

NOTRE DAME (7-5) VS. MIAMI (7-5)
Sun Bowl - El Paso, TX
Kickoff: 2:00 p.m. EDT Line: Miami -2.5 O/U 47
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GAME BREAKDOWN: While some of the off field issues have garnered more attention than the on field performance, Coach Kelly will have a chance to end his first season at Notre Dame on a high note with a win over a marquee program. Notre Dame closed the season with three straight wins over quality teams including breaking the long losing streak against USC, something neither of his successors could do. Miami is a team in transition with Al Golden recently announced as the next Head coach. Offensive line coach Jeff Stoutland will lead the team in this game however to keep some continuity going.

With a staff looking for jobs and several players with eyes on the NFL this is not an ideal situation for Miami although this is a talented team. Miami beat five teams that will play in bowl games but losing the final two games of the season at home sealed the fate for Coach Shannon after four years. Injuries forced both teams to regroup and shuffle their lineups but Notre Dame impressively ignited its defense late in the year, allowing just 22 points in the final three games. The Irish have a poor track record in recent bowls but Miami has failed to cover in four straight bowls.

• TOP RATED TEAM TRENDS
----------------------------------
--Brian Kelly is 19-6 ATS when the total is between 42.5 and 49.
--MIAMI is 9-2 UNDER off 1 or more consecutive unders over the L2 seasons.
--NOTRE DAME is 8-2 UNDER in non-conference games this season.

• BETTING SYSTEM: Play Over - Any team vs the 1rst half total (MIAMI) - off 1 or more consecutive unders, in a game involving two average offensive teams (21-28 PPG) after 7 or more games.
(123-77 over the last 5 seasons.) (61.5%, +38.3 units. Rating = 3*)

The average first half total posted in these games was: 24.8
The average first half score in these games was: Team 14.3, Opponent 13.5 (Total first half points scored = 27.8)

The situation's record this season is: (14-19).
Over the last 3 seasons the situation's record is: (70-54).
Over the last 10 seasons the situation's record is: (157-119).
Since 1992 the situation's record is: (175-136).

[Spark]

••• LIBERTY BOWL •••

UCF (10-3) VS. GEORGIA (6-6)
Liberty Bowl - Memphis, TN
Kickoff: 3:30 p.m. EDT Line: Georgia -6.5 O/U 54
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GAME BREAKDOWN: Central Florida may come from Conference USA but the Knights have a team that should be able to compete with anyone, even in a match-up with a SEC team. UCF finished 10-3 and all three losses came in close games against bowl teams. While Conference USA has lost the last four Liberty Bowls, each of the last six games has been decided by eight points or less. UCF coach George O’Leary also has plenty of experience playing the Bulldogs from his days coaching at Georgia Tech. UCF should be well motivated after getting blown out in its bowl game last season and this has not proven to be a typical Georgia team.

The Bulldogs were fortunate to get to 6-6 after a 1-4 start to the season and while the offense has put up big numbers the defense has allowed 29 or more points six times. Georgia has won and covered in four straight bowl games and Coach Richt is 7-2 S/U in bowl games but this may be his toughest challenge, motivating a disappointing team to face a smaller conference team in a far less prestigious game than the program is generally used to. Georgia obviously played a stronger schedule but UCF was a better per carry rushing team on both sides of the ball and line value is with the dog.

• TOP RATED TEAM TRENDS
----------------------------------
--UCF is 11-2 ATS after playing a game at home over the L2 seasons.
--UCF is 12-1 ATS after allowing 100 or less rushing yards last game over the L3 seasons.
--George O’Leary is 13-3 ATS after allowing 125 or less rush yds in 2 straight as UCF coach.

• BETTING SYSTEM: Play Under - Neutral field teams where the first half total is 25 to 28 (UCF) - off a home win against a conference rival against opponent off a home win.
(28-8 since 1992.) (77.8%, +19.2 units. Rating = 3*)

The average first half total posted in these games was: 26.6
The average first half score in these games was: Team 9.9, Opponent 10.1 (Total first half points scored = 20.1)

The situation's record this season is: (0-1).
Over the last 3 seasons the situation's record is: (8-2).
Over the last 5 seasons the situation's record is: (10-2).
Over the last 10 seasons the situation's record is: (18-4).

• BETTING SYSTEM: Play On - Favorites of 3.5 to 10 points (GEORGIA) - after going over the total by more than 14 points in two consecutive games, in the second half of the season.
(38-16 over the last 10 seasons.) (70.4%, +20.4 units. Rating = 3*)

The straight up record of the team this system pertains to is: (40-14 over the last 10 seasons.)
The average line posted in these games was: Team favored by 6.5
The average score in these games was: Team 32.5, Opponent 22.4 (Average point differential = +10.1)
The number of games in which this system covered the spread by 7 or more points was 26 (49.1% of all games.)

The situation's record this season is: (3-5).
Over the last 3 seasons the situation's record is: (14-10).
Over the last 5 seasons the situation's record is: (24-14).
Since 1992 the situation's record is: (41-21).

• BETTING SYSTEM: Play Under - Neutral field teams where the total is between 49.5 and 56 (UCF) - in a game involving 2 very good teams - outscoring opponents by 10+ PPG after 7+ games, in non-conference games.
(66-28 since 1992.) (70.2%, +35.2 units. Rating = 3*)

The average total posted in these games was: 52.7
The average score in these games was: Team 24.2, Opponent 24.2 (Total points scored = 48.5)
The number of games in which this system covered the total by 7 or more points was 42 (44.7% of all games.)

The situation's record this season is: (2-0).
Over the last 3 seasons the situation's record is: (8-0).
Over the last 5 seasons the situation's record is: (10-6).
Over the last 10 seasons the situation's record is: (26-16).

[Spark]

••• CHICK-FIL A BOWL •••

FLORIDA ST (9-4) VS. S CAROLINA (9-4)
Georgia Dome - Atlanta, GA
Kickoff: 7:30 p.m. EDT Line: S Carolina -3 O/U 54.5
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GAME BREAKDOWN: While this has technically been the strongest year at South Carolina since Coach Spurrier took over the program, another bowl loss coupled with the blowout SEC Championship game loss would leave a very unsettled tint to the season. The Gamecocks have lost badly in the past two bowl games and while this is a more prestigious game, returning to the same field as the ugly loss to Auburn may not be advantageous. Florida State is in the same boat, technically improvement was shown in Jimbo Fisher’s first season but the opportunity was there for greater things.

Florida State has been a great performer in bowl encounters including back-to-back convincing victories the last two seasons. Statistically these are very similar teams as both defenses have great talent and produce a lot of sacks, but also allow more yards than expected. Both offenses rely on the passing game a little too much to be a complete team at an elite level. The Seminoles are the better rushing team, averaging 4.8 yards per carry but South Carolina’s worst defensive games have come against strong passing teams, which Florida State can be at times.

• TOP RATED TEAM TRENDS
----------------------------------
--Steve Spurrier is 4-13 ATS after having won 5 or 6 of last 7 games as S CAROLINA coach.
--FLORIDA ST is 10-2 OVER as an underdog over the L3 seasons.
--FLORIDA ST is 0-6 ATS vs. teams averaging 8+ passing yards/att. over the L3 seasons.

• BETTING SYSTEM: Play Under - Neutral field teams where the total is between 49.5 and 56 (FLORIDA ST) - after having won 2 out of their last 3 games, in a non-conference game between two teams from major division 1-A conferences.
(23-3 over the last 10 seasons.) (88.5%, +19.7 units. Rating = 4*)

The average total posted in these games was: 53.1
The average score in these games was: Team 20.5, Opponent 20.3 (Total points scored = 40.8)
The number of games in which this system covered the total by 7 or more points was 16 (61.5% of all games.)

The situation's record this season is: (1-0).
Over the last 3 seasons the situation's record is: (9-0).
Over the last 5 seasons the situation's record is: (13-0).
Since 1992 the situation's record is: (42-16).

• BETTING SYSTEM: Play Under - All teams where the first half total is 25 to 28 (S CAROLINA) - after having won 4 or 5 out of their last 6 games, in a non-conference game between two teams from major division 1-A conferences.
(47-18 over the last 10 seasons.) (72.3%, +27.2 units. Rating = 3*)

The average first half total posted in these games was: 26.5
The average first half score in these games was: Team 13.6, Opponent 10.8 (Total first half points scored = 24.4)

The situation's record this season is: (2-1).
Over the last 3 seasons the situation's record is: (18-7).
Over the last 5 seasons the situation's record is: (28-12).
Since 1992 the situation's record is: (65-29).