As promised in an earlier blog, I am putting forward my predictions and betting advice for the Peach Bowl and Fiesta Bowl. Also known as “The only college football postseason games that actually matter.” With these games kicking off in just a couple of days on New Years Eve, its time to take a closer look at the chances all four teams have at winning the National Championship.
Peach Bowl: Alabama v. Washington- The Crimson Tide role into this matchup with the number #1 defense in the nation and an undefeated record. Saban looks to go back-to-back, winning two National Championships in the first two years of the college football playoffs. Quarterback Jalen Hurts was named SEC Offensive Player of the Year as a true freshman and has the potential to be a Heisman trophy candidate in years to come. This game will be the ultimate underdog game for the Washington Huskies, as nobody, inclduing myself, sees them winning this matchup. Enetering the Peach Bowl with a 12-1 record, the Huskies are coming off one of their programs best seasons. Quarterback Jake Browning has been extremely efficient in the air, ranking 8th in the nation in yards per attempt and completing 63.2% of his passes. If the Huskies want to shock the world they are going to need to pull out all the stops. Playing against the most talented team in the nation, Washington must enter this game with a “nothing to lose” mentality if they want to pull off the big upset. Unfortunately for the Huskies, I dont see it happening. As a matter of fact, I predict a blowout. Alabamas defense, combined with the altheticism of Hurts will be too much for Washington to handle. Expect things to get ugly quick. Spread and Over/Under: Alabama (-14), 53.5 points. Prediction: Alabama wins 43-27. (Bama/Over)
Fiesta Bowl: Clemson v. Ohio State- Deshaun Watson and the Clemson Tigers will look to get back into the National Championship this year to get redemption, after falling short to the Crimson Tide last year. Watson isn’t the only reason Clemson has become a playoff mainstay. The relentless defensive front of the Tigers has been responsible for much of their success these past two years. Clemson showed last year that in big games their defense steps it up a notch and has the ability to change the game. Look for Dabo Sweeney to put forth a strong defensive game plan to counter Ohio States explosive offense. As for Urban Meyer and the Ohio State Buckeyes; they look to derail the Tigers and find their program back atop the college football world. JT Barret has had a huge bounce back season after losing his job to Cardale Jones last year. Debatebly becoming the best quarterback in the Big Ten. By his side is one of the most explosive players in the country, running back Curtis Samuel. This guy has the ability to take off down the field for six on just about any play. The outcome of this game will rely heavily on the amount of productivity the Buckeyes get out of Samuel. I expect this game to one the most exciting games of the year. In the end im taking the Tigers winning and getting their rematch with Alabama. Spread and Over/Under: Clemson (-3) and 59.5. Prediction: Clemson wins 32-20. (Clemson/Under)
I will be releasing a post-game analysis on both games, as well as a National Championship prediction following these matchups. As always, thanks for reading.
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