SouthernCollegeSports.com

SCS.com This game should appeal to the defensive fan as both South Florida and NC State have been extremely solid on that side of the ball this year. With both offenses having faltered at times and both defenses being strong for most of the season, don't expect a Texas Tech-like score.

South Florida's Keys to the Game

In order to win this game, South Florida must pressure NC State quarterback Marcus Stone. Stone, who relieved former starter Jay Davis mid-season, has been shaky at times this year, and if pressured heavily, he could make some rookie mistakes. USF must also get the ball in the hands of their playmakers. WR Amarri Jackson and RB Andre Hall are both magnificent athletes who, if given the opportunity, can make big plays on every down.

NC State's Keys to the Game

If Wolfpack defensive end Mario Williams can get pressure on the USF offense, then NC State will have a great chance. State has some good talent in the secondary, but they have allowed spurts of offensive yards at times this year. If Williams can get some pressure on the backfield, then errant throws play into the secondary's hands.

Staff Predictions:

Jonathan David Reed Cortney Jeff

NC State NC State NC State NC State NC State

HOUSTON BOWL
TCU vs Iowa State

SCS.com Coming in riding a nine-game win streak, TCU is as dangerous as any team in America right now, and after narrowly missing the Big XII North Division title for the second year in a row, the Cyclones of Iowa State are certainly hungry for a win.

TCU's Keys to the Game

After beating Oklahoma early in the season, TCU erased any thought of a giant talent difference between them and the big boys. TCU quarterback Jeff Ballard, replacing former starter Tye Gunn, has been spectacular with a 60% completion percentage. If Ballard can beat the Cyclones' blitzes, then the Frogs will light up the scoreboard.

Iowa State's Keys to the Game

Iowa State needs running back Stevie Hicks to have a good game. The offense has stagnated during his absence this year, and if Iowa State has any chance to beat the Horned Frogs, they must get him at least 30 carries. They Cyclone defense is going to try to bring the heat against Ballard, but they must be sure that they do not leave their secondary vulnerable or else Ballard could have a career day.

Staff Predictions:

Jonathan David Reed Cortney Jeff

TCU TCU Iowa State TCU TCU

LIBERTY BOWL
Tulsa vs Fresno State

SCS.com After turning around the Golden Hurricane in a very short time, coach Steve Kragthorpe has them ready to go. Fresno State is a little more used to bowl games, but don't expect the Hurricane to lie down.

Tulsa's Keys to the Game

QB Paul Smith must have a good game and get Tulsa to a big early lead. The Hurricane defense must also play the run tough for the first half or so. If Fresno State resorts to the pass to try and win they game, they will play right into the hands of Tulsa.

Fresno State's Keys to the Game

Basically all Fresno State needs to do in this game is run the ball. If they pound it at the small front of the Golden Hurricanes, eventually RBs Wendell Mathis and Bryson Sumlin will break them down and get Fresno State the victory. This is also the end of the career of Fresno State quarterback Paul Pinnegar. Watch for a good game from him as he tries to impress the pro scouts one final time.

Staff Predictions:

Jonathan David Reed Cortney Jeff

Tulsa Fresno State Tulsa Fresno State Fresno State

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