Thursday, December 24, 2009

SEC Football Blogger

Oklahoma State vs. Ole Miss, 2009 Cotton Bowl, Prediction Pick

Posted: 24 Dec 2009 03:18 PM PST

Oklahoma State vs. Ole Miss, 2009 Cotton Bowl, Prediction Pick

The Cotton Bowl, in and of itself is the Norma Desmond of bowl games. It used to be one of the major bowl games that we would see year in and year out. National Championships were decided at this bowl game. And now? It keeps mostly to itself in some sort of a Grey Gardens scenario, but I would not be surprised to find the Texas Bowl lying face down in the Cotton Bowl’s pool.

That’s not to say that what we have here won’t be fun. Though Dez Bryant is a long ago memory? Oklahoma State has been able to maintain the offensive balance that Mike Gundy has been priding himself on. Keith Toston and Zac Robinson have combined to bring forth a strong running game. And while the Giggidy’s defense is strong? The Giggidy can be run upon, as the Egg Bowl has shown.

Oklahoma State’s has strong running game stats (6th against the run), but being 92nd against the pass makes you wonder how much of that is based on the fact that it’s a whole lot easier to get moving versus the pass. I know Jevan Snead has had something of a lost season. But it’s as Punch-Out says. Redemption is only three games away. It just might start here.

I kinow it seems like some sort of a cliche to say, but the difference for this game? Turnovers. Ole Miss has had some real struggles taking care of the ball this year. Okie State wasn’t great either, but at least their margin was positive. And in a game where both teams offensive strength coincide with their opponents defensive weakness? We’re going to see points scored. Who keeps two hands on the bean and looks off their main receiver? They’ll get the win.

As for me? Oklahoma State 38, Ole Miss 35.

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