Hopefully everyone enjoyed the action filled Saturday that was College Football Hanukkah’s kickoff.
On the second day of CFH, the football gods give to us two famous last names coaching in an otherwise run of the mill game. I’m actually excited for this one.
In Bowl Mania, Money_Rolls has jumped out to an early lead after the first six games. I’m not quite sure who that is, though, so if you’re reading this and want due credit, shoot me a message on Twitter or something.
Let’s take a look at the lone matchup taking place on Tuesday evening.
Cheribundi Tart Cherry Boca Raton Bowl
Akron vs. Florida Atlantic (Tuesday, 7 PM ET – ESPN)
In a hotly contested contest, the Boca Raton Bowl reigns supreme in 2017 for best title sponsor. For those wondering, it’s actually promoting a fruit juice. And speaking of promoting, what a job Lane Kiffin has done this year promoting the Owls football program, which was started at the turn of the century but has taken the next step to relevance thanks to its brash and often controversial head coach. Kiffin has been trolling Alabama all season long, and Kiffin will really have a chance to steal recruits from bigger programs if Florida Atlantic looks good on national television.
Not surprisingly, the Owls led Conference USA in offensive yards per game this season and are talented at several positions. Quarterback Jason Driskel, brother of former Florida signal-caller Jeff, plays smart and doesn’t turn the ball over much. That has typically been enough for Florida Atlantic because the running game has been so strong. Devin Singletary leads the country with 29 rushing touchdowns, a mark that is currently tied for fifth for most in a single season in FBS history. He’s an underrated back because of where he plays, but the country will definitely learn his name on Tuesday night. The combination of smart, turnover free football and a powerful running game alone would have been enough for the Owls to win this game. But Kiffin has a knack of landing jobs he probably shouldn’t, and I have a feeling that his thoughts are “a blowout victory can only help my cause to get out of this place”. Kiffin will be swinging what’s between his legs in this one and put on a show for the home crowd. I have Florida Atlantic for a whopping 40 points in Bowl Mania.
My Pick: 40-21 Florida Atlantic
If you have interest in offering your insight for any of the bowl games this season, shoot me an email at kbecks@aroundthecorn.com or reach out on one of ATC’s social media sites (Facebook, Twitter). I’d be happy to accommodate.
