Even in the middle of November, nobody could have foreseen this as an Orange Bowl encounter. What each team proved down the stretch how resilient they were and seized the opportunity when presented with it to be conference champs. Cincinnati (11-2, 6-6 ATS) arrives in South Florida as the more impressive team, with balance on both sides of the ball. The Bearcats are 14-4 ATS vs defensive teams permitting 285 or less yards per game. Don’t sell Virginia Tech (9-4, 5-7 ATS) short, with seventh-ranked defense and offense with almost a month to improve. The Hokies are 12-2 ATS off an upset win as an underdog. This is an important game for the ACC’s reputation, as they have lost eight straight BCS games and are 2-6 against the spread.Why to Watch and Wager
In terms of national excitement, the Poinsettia Bowl had a better matchup with TCU and Boise State. This BCS Bowl has drawn a collective yawn form the media and frankly is drawing a good slot playing New Year’s night, as opposed to the other bowls.
Irregardless, these two schools managed to do something nobody in their respective conferences could, take charge and win. Coach Brian Kelly, thought to be goner, will stay at least for one more year in the Queen City, and is a fabulous taskmaster, getting the most out of players by not accepting excuses. When the Bearcats had more quarterback injuries than a five-car pileup, Kelly told everyone not to fell sorry for them, it’s part of the game and his squad persevered. This team has proven they can win anywhere and are 13-4 ATS away from home when playing against a good team (Win Pct. 60% to 75%).
Frank Beamer has been through many situations as coach of Virginia Tech, but getting a team that ranks 107th in total offense to a BCS game, well that might be a bigger miracle than not having a hangover after drinking two bottles of $3.00 bubbly. With limited weapons on offense, the defense has to force turnovers and the Hokies must win the field position battle or else. Virginia Tech is 26-11 ATS after allowing 17 points or less in three straight games.
Players to watch for Cincinnati are quarterback Tony Pike, receiver Mardy Gilyard, safety Brandon Underwood and punter Kevin Huber, who led the nation in net punting and could force Virginia Tech to travel long distances to score. For the Hokies, impact players include Tyrod Taylor, corners Victor Harris and Stephan Virgil and tight end Greg Boone. If the Virginia Tech secondary limits the Cincy passing game, they have a real shot.
Look for each team to be selling out for respect in South Florida.
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