Texas Bowl

Dec. 28, 2007

8 p.m. EST, Houston, Tex., NFL Network

Prediction: Houston vs. Kansas

Conference USA vs. Big XII

Analysis:

Kansas had a really nice win over a decent Central Michigan team on Saturday. The may have only been a MAC opponent, but the Chippewas are a team that won a bowl game a year ago and have both a nice quarterback and running back. Cornerback Aqib Talib is the team's MVP and player to watch.

Houston may have lost their season opener, but they played a tough Oregon team on the road. The loss was expected. As long as they can stay atop the Conference USA standings, they should remain bowl eligible.

Texas Bowl

Dec. 28, 2007

Prediction: Houston vs. Oklahoma State

Conference USA vs. Big XII

Analysis:

Our fallout from the Gator Bowl continues with Oklahoma State dropping from the Indepedence Bowl to the Texas Bowl. And the worst news of all, sorry Colorado fans, some team had to drop out totally and the Buffs are now not predicted to go bowling. We still predict Colorado to be bowl eligible, but the number of bowls affiliated with the Big XII just isn't enough to accomodate the Buffs.

Oklahoma State would probably rather play an SEC opponent in the Indepedence Bowl, but playing Houston in its home town could be just as tough. The Cowboys' top player is wide receiver Adarius Bowman and he'll look to take advantage of the Cougar secondary. Houston might be one of the top teams in Conference USA, but playing an Oklahoma State team that deserves to play in a better bowl could be a bit much.

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.