New Orleans Bowl

Dec. 21, 2007

Prediction: Troy vs. Memphis

Sun Belt no. 1 vs. Conference USA

Analysis:

The same Troy who came within a blink of an eye of beating Florida State last season will be the top dog in the Sun Belt Conference once again. They will follow up a dominating New Orleans Bowl win last season by making a return trip to the Crescent City once again. Middle Tennessee State provided stiff competition last year for the conference crown and could do so once again. But with Omar Haugabook running the show this year along with a decent defense, and Troy should rise to the top once again.

Memphis looks to put a disappointing 2006 season behind them in their quest to become bowl eligible. The New Orleans Bowl will be an attractive choice for Memphis who should be able to bring at least 10,000 fans with them for the ride. They'll be hungry for a bowl game after three straight appearances in bowls from '03 to '05. Wide receiver Duke Calhoun will be the focal point of the offense after averaging 16.2 yard per catch with six touchdowns last season.