New Years Day Rose Bowl and Orange Bowl Picks

Happy New Years.  It’s January 1, which means the real bowl games start and we’re no longer subjected to the Wyoming Stamps.com Bowl.   Today we have the Rose Bowl and the Orange Bowl.  Let’s preview the games.

ROSE BOWL: USC -9 VS. PENN STATE

I’m shocked that the Torjans are 9-point favorites.  I came out thinking they would be favored by 3.  Both teams are 11-1, but I’m more impressed with what Penn State has done this season.  PSU averages 40 PPG and allowed 12 PPG.  USC scores 37 PPG and allows 8 PPG.  These teams have one common opponent: Oregon State.  Penn State killed them in their 2nd game, USC lost to them in 3rd game, but I wouldn’t give that too much weight.  The Trojans have an obvious advantage since this is essentially a home game.  72% of the public is taking the USC spread, but 63% are taking the Penn State moneyline at +270.  These teams match up pretty well.  It should be a great game and it should be close.  I think taking the points is the way to go, but I’m bias as a PA native.

ORANGE BOWL: VIRGINIA TECH VS. CINCINNATI -2

Cincinnati is 11-2 and Virginia Tech is 9-4.  I like Virginia Tech in this one because I think they have a much better defense.  They allow only 17 PPG to Cincinnati’s 20 PPG and they’ve had a much tougher schedule.  They’ve also only given up 9.7 PPG in their last 3.  The betting public is split down the middle on this one, but 8/12 experts like VT and so do I.