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Posted: Monday December 23, 2002 11:59 AM
Updated: Thursday December 26, 2002 3:54 PM
CNNSI.com's Stewart Mandel breaks down today's bowl games.
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More breakdowns: Motor City Bowl |
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Gerald Hayes
Jamie Squire/Getty Images |
Oregon State piled up yardage in the offensive-minded Pac-10 this season but will be in for a challenge against a tough defensive team like Pittsburgh. It will be an interesting showdown between Beavers RB Steven Jackson (138 yards per game), the nation's fifth-leading rusher, and Panthers All-America LB Gerald Hayes (122 tackles). Pittsburgh also gets excellent coverage from its defensive backs, making things difficult for Oregon State QB Derek Anderson. But the Panthers have a strong defense as well, allowing only 2.5 yards per carry, which could mean trouble for RB Brandon Miree. No one can hold down gifted Panthers receiver Larry Fitzgerald for too long, but if the Beavers can get pressure on erratic Pittsburgh QB Rod Rutherford, they can force him to make some mistakes.
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 The pick: Oregon State 24, Pittsburgh 21
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Derrick Knight
Brian Bahr/Getty Images |
The Eagles are a physical team that has caused fits in recent years for such powerhouses as Miami and Notre Dame, which BC defeated 14-7 earlier this season. The Golden Eagles' success is usually dependent on their ground game, with RB Derrick Knight (1,367 yards, 13 TDs) averaging 149.7 yards during their past three victories. The Rockets counter with two tackle machines in Tom Ward (162) and David Gardner (143) but haven't fared as well against run-oriented teams. Toledo's own offense is very balanced, with standout QB Brian Jones (70.7 percent completions, 3,115 yards) making it all tick. Led by LB Josh Ott and S Ralph Parent, look for the Eagles' defense to stay back in coverage and dare Jones to keep putting the ball in his running backs' hands.
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| The pick: Boston College 27, Toledo 21
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