GameAbove Sports Bowl
Pittsburgh (-7, T-51) vs Toledo
Pittsburgh was one of the hottest teams to start the season, jumping out to a 7-0 record before losing the final five games and quarterback Eli Holstein to injury. Overall, 7-5 was a decent season, given the high expectations in the preseason. But the way the season ended was very disappointing. Toledo has the travel advantage as they are a short drive from Detroit. The Rockets have scored just 28 points in the last two games while the Panthers have been held to under 23 points in their last four. Both offenses are limited, and all signs point to a lower scoring game.
THE PICK: Under 51
Rate Bowl
Rutgers vs Kansas State (-7, T-50.5)
Both sides entered the season with high hopes. Many picked Kansas State to win the Big 12 but the Wildcats would lose three of the final four games and scored 21 or fewer points in three of those games. Rutgers comes in with some momentum winning three of the final four games with the lone loss coming to No. 20 Illinois. Both teams will be dealing with opt-outs and portal entries, so that could be a concern. Still, there are some skill players who will play including Rutgers’ Kyle Monangai and Kansas State’s DJ Giddens, running backs who should see a lot of action. The Scarlet Knights have been playing well, and should keep it close, and wouldn’t be surprised if they pull off the outright win.
THE PICK: Rutgers +7
68 Ventures Bowl
Arkansas State vs Bowling Green (-7, T-51)
Bowling Green hasn’t won a bowl game since 2014 but is playing in its third straight postseason game. The Falcons defense has carried much of the load this season, ranked 24th, allowing 20.3 points per game. Bowling Green had narrow losses at Penn State (34-27) and Texas A&M (26-20) and were considered legitimate MAC contenders. But a loss to Miami (Ohio) ended their hopes of a conference title. Offensively, they’re led by Harold Fannin Jr., who has racked up nearly 1,400 yards as a tight end. He is rising up the draft boards and should put on a show for scouts, assuming he plays. Arkansas State won four of its last six games to finish with its first winning season since 2019. Bowling Green wins, but the Red Wolves keep it close:
THE PICK: Arkansas State +7
