It’s never too soon to start talking about College Football. It’s only May, but we’re already getting some bowl predictions. This is good for some early season discussion.
These bowl predictions are from Jerry Palm of CBSSPortsline.
Let’s take a closer look at the ACC teams we follow on this blog, and whether we agree at this point.
Florida State vs Ohio State – Rose Bowl, Final 4
Hard not see FSU in this position as the defending national champion. They have a schedule with Oklahoma St., Clemson, Louisville, Notre Dame, Miami and Florida that should keep their attention. They would get an Ohio State team that won’t face many challenges in the Big 10.
Clemson vs Auburn – Orange Bowl
I’m not sure about this one yet. We’ll know about Clemson very early with a game at Georgia. The offense doesn’t appear to have any special play makers as in years past, but the defense should be very good. I think Auburn in the SEC’s best team and will be in the Final 4.
Duke vs Kansas St. – Russell Athletic Bowl
Good respect shown for Duke, that they are still considered the ACC’s third best team. They might be better than last year.
Virginia Tech vs Florida – Belk Bowl
If the Hokies can get consistent QB play, they could be awfully good. I like this early predicted matchup with Florida. That’s a winnable game. The Gators can’t possibly be as bad as they were at the end of last season.
Miami vs Washington – Sun Bowl
It’s only a matter of time before Miami is again very good. I don’t think it’s this year. They’ll make a bowl, but it will be a little lower one. I actually like UNC or Louisville here.
Pittsburgh vs Kent St. – Pinstripe Bowl
This is a bowl destined for a 6-6, 7-5 type team. That sounds about right for Pittsburgh.
North Carolina vs Mississippi St. – Music City Bowl
It seems like the last 6 or 7 years we’ve been predicting UNC to turn the corner. In May I feel like the Heels will be pretty good. I like them in the Sun, maybe even the Russell Athletic Bowl.
Syracuse vs Connecticut – Military Bowl
Two years bowling for the Orange, in their first two years in the ACC? I think Syracuse fans will take it.
Louisville vs Western Kentucky – Independence Bowl
Bobby Petrino’s old, new team against his previous team? Louisville ends up higher than this.
Boston College vs Tulsa – Detroit Bowl
Steve Addiazo’s rebuilding project at BC continues.
Where’s Georgia Tech? The Yellow Jackets haven’t missed making it to bowl game since 1996. I think Palm mis-fired on this one, considering the Jackets should start the season 3-0, I believe they’ll end bowl eligible for an 18th straight year. I don’t see Virginia, Wake Forest, or NC State being in the mix for a bowl this year, but it’s still early. Opinions can change.
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