#10 Iowa (10-2) vs. #9 Georgia Tech (11-2) in the Orange Bowl
The key for a Big Ten victory in the Orange Bowl will be how well Iowa stops Georgia Tech’s running game. Tech relies very heavily on their running, which could be a problem for them, as Iowa has a dominating defensive line. Unless the Yellow Jackets can get Josh Nesbitt and his ilk to the outside, the Hawkeyes should be able to keep this game in check. With a powerful and physical offensive line, Iowa should be able to score when they need to, keeping them in the game. I expect the game to be close, but a disciplined effort by the Iowa defense should give them the victory.
Iowa 27, Georgia Tech 17
This game will be televised on FOX at 8 p.m. on Tuesday, January 5.
Overall
Overall, I believe that the 2009/10 bowl season will help redeem the Big Ten Conference. After being embarrassed on a national stage the past few years, the Big Ten will go 2-0 in BCS games and 3-1 against ranked teams. They will go 2-0 against the ACC, 1-0 against the Pac 10, and 1-1 against both the Big Twelve and the SEC. With the sole exception of the beat down that Michigan State will receive, each team will be fighting in a close and exciting game, which should help increase the number of viewers. Overall, I expect the Conference to go 5-2, and finish the post season strong.
Article comments
1 - Matthew T. Sussman
Matchups against two SEC teams and Miami, which might as well be considered one. And here we go again!
I'm quite surprised at how big a favorite Auburn opened up as (eight points), but maybe it's because they almost beat No. 1 Alabama, whereas Northwestern almost lost to No. 120 Eastern Michigan.
2 - Robert M. Barga
But beat a #4 team?
The SEC is going to do Okay against the Big Ten, but not too well. ACC is toast