We knew it was going to happen at some point, and it didn’t take long to occur.
South Florida became the first bowl participant this season to look like a shell of its regular season self following the departure of its head coach and offensive playcaller.
With all due respect to a capable Old Dominion defense, the second highest scoring offense in the country being held to 10 points wasn’t simply a biproduct of a perfect on-the-field performance.
But yea, it’s true – I’m also just a little salty that my perfect Bowl Mania entry is no more.
Let’s take a look at the only bowl game on the slate for Thursday, which can’t hurt me in that regard.
XBox Bowl
Missouri State vs. Arkansas State (Thursday, 9 PM ET – ESPN2)
What has in some ways been the forgotten bowl game on the schedule (it’s the only one not featured in ESPN’s Bowl Mania contest) has at least made a strong case for having the coolest hardware. One look at the championship trophy and offensive/defensive player of the game awards, and you’re sold that both teams will be going all out in this one. It’s also the first bowl game in program history for the Bears, which joined the FBS ranks this season. There may be a revenge angle for Missouri State, which was trounced 70-7 by Arkansas State the last time these two played in 2015.
The downside, if you can frame it in such a way, of qualifying for the postseason in your first year at the FBS level is that such a performance is going to have other programs poaching both your players and coaching staff. Missouri State will be without two starting offensive linemen, its leading receiver in terms of touchdown receptions, a defensive lineman and its head coach in this one. Arkansas State, meanwhile, boasts the Sun Belt Conference’s top passer in Jaylen Raynor, who is expected to suit up. Raynor has always had his issues with turnovers, but has generally managed to negate that thanks to his dual threat abilities. He’s also got potential NFL talent to throw to in Corey Rucker, who will be looking to make a last impression on scouts in this game. The Bears are more balanced offensively, but the Red Wolves have the star power and also double the number of victories over bowl eligible teams compared to Missouri State. While it won’t count for Bowl Mania, I have the Red Wolves taking care of business here.
My Pick: 28-20 Arkansas State
Bowl Mania Confidence: N/A
