Texas Bowl

Dec. 28, 2007

Prediction: Houston vs. Colorado

C-USA vs. Big XII

Analysis:

The Texas Bowl will be looking to add a team from Texas, and Houston fits the profile. Even though the Cougars lose four year starting quarterback Kevin Kolb, they should still have a formidable team. Running back Anthony Alridge and his 10.1 average yards per carry return for Houston. Winning the Conference USA West title could land Art Briles's squad home for the holidays in the Texas Bowl for their third straight bowl bid.

After a largely forgettable year in 2006, Dan Hawkins should lead Colorado back to the post-season once again. The Buffs were unusually unlucky last season with five losses by a touchdown or less. Colorado won't be quite as unlucky this year and with 15 returning starters, they'll be much more experienced. If they can get consistent production from the quarterback position, it will be an improvement over last year when Bernard Jackson completed less than 50 percent of his passes. Redshirt freshman Cody Hawkins could take over.