THE GREEN -- It's bowl season, when Americans get drunk and turn on random, meaningless college football games.

Someone wins. Someone loses.

Speaking of losers, national college football writers who haven't seen an unclothed female in person in decades will then turn the results of the aforementioned meaningless contests into referendums on leagues or teams or whatnot.

'Tis the season.

For us at Neal's Picks, bowl season represents one more chance at closing the gap for the poor picks of September and October. Houston Nutt said, "They remember November." Yeah, they do, but those stats from the fall, when some at Neal's Picks were distracted by a certain baseball's team futile attempt to win another World Series, created a mountain that has been difficult to ascend.

Happy Holidays, everyone.

On to the picks...

Championship Week:

Jeffrey Wright: 7-5 overall, 5-7 ATS

Neal McCready: 7-5 overall, 4-8 ATS

Chase Parham: 8-4 overall, 3-9 ATS

Barrett Clark: 1-2 overall, 4-8 ATS

Corey Clark: 9-3 overall, 7-5 ATS

Bowl season records:

Jeffrey Wright: 27-13 overall, 20-20 ATS

Neal McCready: 27-13 overall, 19-21 ATS

Chase Parham: 25-15 overall, 19-21 ATS

Barrett Clark: 25-15 overall, 16-24 ATS

Corey Clark: 25-15 overall, 19-21 ATS

Overall season records:

Jeffrey Wright: 136-43 overall, 85-77 ATS

Neal McCready: 136-43 overall, 79-83 ATS

Chase Parham: 136-43 overall, 91-71 ATS

Barrett Clark: 144-34 overall, 82-80 ATS

Corey Clark: 135-44 overall, 78-84 ATS

All times Central Standard Time

Saturday, Dec. 15:

North Carolina A&T (-8) vs. Alcorn State, Air Force Reserve Celebration Bowl, 11 a.m., ABC, Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta:

Jeffrey Wright: RIP Steve McNair. I’ll take those points.Jeffrey Wright’s pick: North Carolina A&T 23, Alcorn State 20

Neal McCready: I've been listening to Fall of a Titan on the podcast app. It's good. Steve McNair's life was a mess at the end and I truly don't know what I believe at this moment. Neal's Pick: North Carolina A&T 37, Alcorn State 30

Chase Parham: I see we've reached the ridiculous portion of the pick'em. Out of principle I refuse to look up anything on this game. Give me the favorite in this SWAC-MEAC slugfest. Parham's Pick: NCAT 42, Alcorn 31

Barrett Clark: No Clue. Barrett's Pick: NCA&T 28 Alcorn 21

Corey Clark: Will Hall for OC. Corey’s Pick: NCA&T 30 Alcorn 20

North Texas (+7.5) vs. Utah State, New Mexico Bowl, 1 p.m., ESPN, Dreamstyle Stadium, Albuquerque, N.M.:

Jeffrey Wright: Let’s see. I can pick the team the team that kept its coach and get 7.5 points?n Yeah, I’m going to do that. Jeffrey Wright’s pick: Utah State 38, North Texas 34

Neal McCready: I'm a big believer in taking the team that wants it more. Utah State, through no fault of A.D. John Hartwell, is a mess. North Texas, meanwhile, kept its coach. Neal's Pick: Utah State 34, North Texas 28

Chase Parham: North Texas kept its coach despite not so great odds -- at least for one more season -- while Utah State had a booster coup and rehired a mediocre coach instead of having a shot at a huge name. I know who's in a better mood for this one. Parham's Pick: North Texas 27, Utah State 24

Barrett Clark: Utah State pulls away late. Barrett's Pick: Utah State 35 NT 27

Corey Clark: Will Hall for OC. Corey’s Pick:Utah State 21 NT 20

Tulane (-3.5) vs. Louisiana-Lafayette, AutoNation Cure Bowl, 1:30 p.m., CBS Sports Network, Camping World Stadium, Orlando:

Jeffrey Wright: ULL has been good at limiting the explosive play this year, and Tulane can only score on the explosive play. I’ll take the Cajun (Cajuns?). Jeffrey Wright’s pick: ULL 28, Tulane 23

Neal McCready: It is against my religious beliefs to predict ULL to win anything. Ever. Neal's Pick: Tulane 478, ULL 0

Chase Parham: Tulane had had a nice turnaround and features a strong run defense against a ULL squad that runs it a ton whether it's working or not. The bigger question for Ole Miss fans is whether the Wave will look for a new offensive coordinator in a few weeks. Parham's Pick: Tulane 20, ULL 13

Barrett Clark: I love New Orleans. Barrett's Pick: Tulane 31-ULL 28

Corey Clark: Will Hall for OC. Sorry Tulane. Corey’s Pick: Tulane 1000 ULL 0. (He’s not even calling plays, but his presence on the sideline factors in)

Fresno State (-5) vs. Arizona State, Mitsubishi Motors Las Vegas Bowl, 2:30 p.m., ABC, Sam Boyd Stadium, Las Vegas:

Jeffrey Wright: I really want to take ASU here, but Fresno is just better. Also, the Sun Devils are playing without N’Keal Henry, and I feel like Fresno is going to be way more excited to play this game than ASU. Jeffrey Wright’s pick: Fresno State 24, Arizona State 17

Neal McCready: Fresno State has burned me a lot in the last month. No more. Go Bulldogs. Neal's Pick: Fresno State 35, Arizona State 27

Chase Parham: Fresno State has had a nice season, and Arizona State is getting the most recent laugh with the Herm Edwards hire. The Sun Devils were plenty competent and secured some nice wins. I think both teams will be motivated so give me the points. Parham's Pick: ASU 38, Fresno 34

Barrett Clark: I hate Fresno. Barrett's Pick: ASU 31 Fresno 30

Corey Clark: Will Hall plays to win the game. Corey’s Pick: ASU 30 Fresno 29

Georgia Southern (-3) vs. Eastern Michigan, Raycom Media Camelia Bowl, 4:30 p.m., ESPN, Cramton Bowl, Montgomery, Ala.:

Jeffrey Wright: The strength of Eastern Michigan is its pass defense, and that’s not going to help against Georgia Southern. Also, Georgia Southern is 9-3 ATS, so we reward the trustworthy. Jeffrey Wright’s pick: Georgia Southern 31, Eastern Michigan 24

Neal McCready: Ah, a clash of directional schools in Jay G. Tate's hometown. Neal's Pick: Georgia Southern 30, Eastern Michigan 23

Chase Parham: I know Ole Miss media relations guru Adam Kuffner is really excited for his Eagles to be at a bowl game -- even if the game is in Montgomery. Eastern Michigan somehow beat Purdue. I still think that's more about Purdue than Eastern. Parham's Pick: Georgia Southern 28, Eastern Michigan 20

Barrett Clark: Georgia Southern wins. Barrett's Pick: GSU 23 EMU 21

Corey Clark: Will Hall for OC. Corey’s Pick: GSU 30 EMU 24

Middle Tennessee (+7) vs. Appalachian State, R-L Carriers New Orleans Bowl, 8 p.m., ESPN, Mercedes-Benz Superdome, New Orleans:

Jeffrey Wright: I’ll take the team that has its coach and those points, please. They’ve also covered five of their last six.Jeffrey Wright’s pick: Appalachian State 28, MTSU 24

Neal McCready: Appalachian State lost its coach. Middle Tennessee didn't hire Hugh Freeze. Advantage, Blue Raiders. Neal's Pick: Middle Tennessee 28, Appalachian State 27

Chase Parham: I have a hard time picking bowl winners who lost their coach in the offseason. App State is pretty nasty defensively, but the Mountaineers fall in that category. Meanwhile, Middle put together a pretty run after the starting off the year poorly, culminating in the C-USA title game. I just wonder if Middle can score enough points. Parham's Pick: App State 31, Middle 17

Barrett Clark: I want to visit App State one day. Barrett's Pick: App State 28 MTSU 21

Corey Clark: Will Hall for OC. Corey's Pick: MTSU 28 App St 27

Tuesday, Dec. 18:

UAB (-2.5) vs, Northern Illinois, Cheribundi Boca Raton Bowl, 6 p.m., ESPN, FAU Stadium, Boca Raton, Fla.:

Jeffrey Wright: One of my favorite holiday traditions is to fade the MAC. You won’t win every bet, but you will win more than you lose.Jeffrey Wright’s pick: UAB 24, Norther Illinois 17

Neal McCready: Bill Clark has had a special season at UAB, building a very respectable program in quick order. Amazing. Neal's Pick: UAB 40, Northern Illinois 17

Chase Parham: Bill Clark has done a tremendous job in Birmingham, and I'll pull for them to finish off a pretty nice season in Lane Kiffin's backyard. Parham's Pick: UAB 31, Northern Illinois 23

Barrett Clark: Cousin Bill! Barrett's Pick: UAB 24 NIU 21

Corey Clark: Will Hall for OC. Corey’s Pick: Cousin Bill’s Blazers 44 NIU 40

Wednesday, Dec. 19:

San Diego State (+3) vs. Ohio, DXL Frisco Bowl, 7 p.m., ESPN, Toyota Stadium, Frisco, Texas:

Jeffrey Wright: #FadeTheMACJeffrey Wright’s pick: San Diego State, 20, Ohio 14

Neal McCready: Speaking of nice stories, Frank Solich is one. Neal's Pick: Ohio 27, San Diego State 21.

Chase Parham: Frank Solich has been a nice success story since getting ousted at Nebraska. Ohio is a consistent program, and he's found a nice niche in the MAC. I know nothing about either team. Parham's Pick: Ohio 28, San Diego State 20

Barrett Clark: No Clue. Barrett's Pick: Ohio 28 SDSU 24

Corey Clark: Will Hall for OC. Corey’s Pick: Ohio 40 SDSU 30

Thursday, Dec. 20:

Marshall (-2.5) vs. South Florida, Bad Boy Mowers Gasparilla Bowl, 7 p.m., ESPN, Raymond James Stadium, Tampa, Fla.:

Jeffrey Wright: Doc Holliday is undefeated against the spread in bowl games, and USF is playing a home game when the rest of the school is out. Jeffrey Wright’s pick: Marshall 38, USF 31

Neal McCready: I don't know. I really just don't know. Neal's Pick: South Florida 21, Marshall 20

Chase Parham: South Florida has had quite a collapse in the second half of the season, and it's hard to see the Bulls caring in this one -- even in the home city. The safest bet is a lack of attendance. Parham's Pick: Marshall 35, South Florida 31

Barrett Clark: Marshall wins a close one. Barrett's Pick: Marshall 27 USF 25

Corey Clark: Bobby Hall for OC’s Dad. Corey’s Pick: Herd 34 USF 30

Friday, Dec. 22:

Florida International (+5.5) vs. Toledo, Makers Wanted Bahamas Bowl, 11:30 a.m., ESPN, Thomas A. Robinson National Stadium, Nassau, Bahamas:

Jeffrey Wright: #FadeTheMACJeffrey Wright’s pick: Toledo 31, FIU 28

Neal McCready: I'll take the points. Neal's Pick: FIU 27, Toledo 24

Chase Parham: Jason Candle has had his star fall a bit over the past year. With apologies to Russell, I'll take the points and go against the MAC here. Parham's Pick: FIU 27, Toledo 20

Barrett Clark: Will Hall for OC. Barrett's Pick: Toledo 35 FIU 28

Corey Clark: Rebecca Hall for OC’s Wife. Corey’s Pick: FIU 14 Toledo 13

Western Michigan (+12.5) vs. Brigham Young, Famous Idaho Potato Bowl, 3 p.m., ESPN, Albertson Stadium, Boise, Idaho:

Jeffrey Wright: #FadeTheMACJeffrey Wright’s pick: BYU 34, Western Michigan 17

Neal McCready: Feels like a lot of points, but I know BYU is decent and I know nothing about Michigan other than the Visit Michigan commercials are aesthetically pleasing. Neal's Pick: BYU 38, Western Michigan 21

Chase Parham: I know the towns and mascots of the directional Michigan teams. That's about it. Parham's Pick: BYU 24, Western Michigan 20

Barrett Clark: Will Hall for OC. Barrett's Pick: BYU 35 WMU 21

Corey Clark: I think it’s important to note that I’m really pulling for Will Hall to be named Offensive Coordinator at Ole Miss. Corey’s Pick: BYU 38 WMU 20

Saturday, Dec. 22:

Memphis (-3.5) vs. Wake Forest, Jared Birmingham Bowl, Legion Field, Birmingham, Ala., 11 a.m., ESPN:

Jeffrey Wright: Mike Norvell has yet to win a bowl game at Memphis, and the Tigers are playing without Henderson. However, Vegas knows something as more and more money keeps coming in on Wake, and the number is moving toward Memphis. Jeffrey Wright’s pick: Memphis 41, Wake Forrest 34

Neal McCready: Somehow, some way, Memphis has held on to its coach for two straight seasons. Hmmm. Neal's Pick: Memphis 27, Wake Forest Forest 23

Chase Parham: This line has moved a good bit after Darrell Henderson decided not to play in the bowl game. I'm find picking Memphis at the value. Parham's Pick: Memphis 41, Wake 35

Barrett Clark: Memphis wins and covers. Barrett's Pick: Tigers 24 Deacon Demons 17

Corey Clark: I think Memphis misses a last second field goal to tie. Corey's Pick: Wake 37 Memphis 34

Houston (+4.5) vs. Army, Lockheed Martin Armed Forces Bowl, Amon G. Carter Stadium, Fort Worth, Texas, 2:30 p.m., ESPN:

Jeffrey Wright: Army can run the ball, and Houston can’t stop the run.Jeffrey Wright’s pick: Army 31, Houston 24

Neal McCready: Have I ever told you how much I despise the city of Houston. I remember my late uncle, Alton McCready, joking about the (lack of) academic prowess of the University of Houston when we were kids. The joke, likely too off-color for today's standard, still makes me laugh. Neal's Pick: Army 23, Houston 16

Chase Parham: What am I if not patriotic? Go Army. Beat Houston. Parham's Pick: Army 31, Houston 24

Barrett Clark: Army runs all over Houston. Barrett's Pick: Army 28 Houston 21

Corey Clark:I'm interested in this one for sure. Corey's Pick: Houston 28 Army 27

Buffalo (-1) vs. Troy, Dollar General Bowl, Ladd-Peebles Stadium, Mobile, Ala., 6 p.m., ESPN:

Jeffrey Wright: #FadeTheMACJeffrey Wright’s pick: Troy 31, Buffalo 28

Neal McCready: I'll never forget being forced to treat this game like it actually mattered. Then I'd watch Mobile officials practically throw tickets in people's faces, begging the citizenry to please, please, please attend. Neal's Pick: Buffalo 27, Troy 24

Chase Parham: Is Neal Brown a bad interview or something? Maybe not, but it seems odd considering how well respected he is as a coach. Parham's Pick: Troy 34, Buffalo 31

Barrett Clark: Troy wins in the upset (can a one point spread really be an upset?). Barrett's Pick: Troy 17 Buffalo 14

Corey Clark: I have no clue. Corey's Pick: Troy 35 Buffalo 34

Louisiana Tech (+1) vs. Hawai'i, SoFi Hawai'i Bowl, Aloha Stadium, Honolulu, 9:30 p.m., ESPN:

Jeffrey Wright: Give me the home team.Jeffrey Wright’s pick: Hawaii 38, Louisiana Tech 35

Neal McCready: I'll ride with the boys from Ruston. Why not? Neal's Pick: Louisiana Tech 30, Hawai'i 28

Chase Parham: The road team in Hawaii seems like a better bet. They actually want to play this game. Parham's Pick: La Tech 30, Hawaii 24

Barrett Clark: LA Tech at the end. Barrett's Pick: LA Tech 28 Hawaii 27

Corey Clark: Old WAC opponents at it again. Corey's Pick: La Tech 45 Hawaii 38

Games of Wednesday, Dec. 26:

Boston College (-2.5) vs. Boise State, SERVPRO First Responder Bowl, Cotton Bowl, Dallas, 12:30 p.m., ESPN:

Jeffrey Wright: This game feels like a trap. Public money is on Boise, but the sharps are on Boston College. Sometimes you just need to keep it simple — take Boise State because it’s a bowl game, and Boise cares during bowl games.Jeffrey Wright’s pick: Boise State 21, Boston College 17

Neal McCready: I'll take the points, as I think Boise gets up for games like this and the kids from BC are likely pissed they missed Christmas for this. Neal's Pick: Boise State 30, Boston College 23

Chase Parham: This should be a fairly entertaining game to get the bowl schedule back in action after the Christmas break. Boise is the better team and this line opened at 3.5 which would have been a thought for the points since I think it’s low scoring. But as it fell under the field goal number, we’ll roll with the favorites. B.C. didn’t look great down the stretch, and the Eagles can’t duplicate what Fresno did to Boise. Parham’s Pick: Boise State 24, Boston College 20

Barrett Clark: Gotta go with the P5 here. Barrett's Pick: BC 34 Boise 31

Corey Clark: I haven’t watched either team play a down this year. Historical pick. Corey’s Pick: Boise 35 BC 28

Minnesota (+5.5) vs. Georgia Tech, Quick Lane Bowl, Ford Field, Detroit, 4:15 p.m., ESPN:

Jeffrey Wright: I have no idea if the Georgia Tech players like Paul Johnson or not, but I’ll guess they do for the sake of Picks.Jeffrey Wright’s pick: Georgia Tech 31, Minnesota 21

Neal McCready: I'll guess the Jackets are motivated to win one last game for Paul Johnson. Neal's Pick: Georgia Tech 27, Minnesota 21

Chase Parham: Georgia Tech won six of its final eight in the regular season, and I expect a motivated group for Paul Johnson’s final game as head coach. Also, despite opponents having time to prepare, Tech has won two straight bowl games with its option attack. Minnesota will be without its best linebacker, who is skipping the game because of the NFL Draft. Parham’s Pick: Georgia Tech 37, Minnesota 27

Barrett Clark: I think Ga Tech wins and covers. Barrett's Pick: GATech 28 MN 21

Corey Clark: Everything I’ve seen about this game highlights the fact that it’s Johnson’s last. GT runs an offense that you don’t see. Looks like an easy cover for GT. Using that math: Corey’s Pick: GT 31 MN 30

California (-1) vs. TCU, Cheez-It Bowl, Chase Field, Phoenix, 8 p.m., ESPN:

Jeffrey Wright: I just can’t bet on TCU this year. They are outside of the circle of trust.Jeffrey Wright’s pick: Cal 20, TCU 17

Neal McCready: The Golden Bears come to Oxford in September. That should be one of the pivotal games of 2019 for the Rebels. Neal's Pick: California 24, TCU 21

Chase Parham: This is two awful offenses against two pretty good defenses, resulting in a betting total of 38.5 which seems absurd for today’s college football. TCU and Cal are 90th and 118th, respectively in yards per play nationally, but the Horned Frogs seem better suited to connect on a couple big plays. Parham’s Pick: TCU 20, Cal 13

Barrett Clark: I have no opinion on the game. But, my daughter sure does like Cheez-Its. Barrett's Pick: Cal 28 TCU 24

Corey Clark: Freakishly licked lips. Corey’s Pick: Cal 35 TCU 32

Games of Thursday, Dec. 27:

Temple (-3.5) vs. Duke, Walk-On's Independence Bowl, Independence Stadium, Shreveport, La., 12:30 p.m., ESPN:

Jeffrey Wright: I get David Cutcliffe in a bowl game played in Shreveport, and you’re giving me points?!?!? Also, I get Cutcliffe against an interim coach. Fun fact — Duke has beaten five bowl teams this year. Jeffrey Wright’s pick: Duke 28, Temple 21

Neal McCready: This should be called the Cutcliffe Bowl. This is a gimme. Neal's Pick: Duke 65, Temple 0

Chase Parham: Who's going to bet against David Cutcliffe in an Independence Bowl? Not I. I'm rolling with the Shreveport hall of famer. Parham's Pick: Duke 31, Temple 23

Barrett Clark: I'm taking favorites and laying points all day today. Barrett's Pick: Temple 28, Duke 24

Corey Clark: You do not give David Cutcliffe extra time. Cat's in the Independence Bowl Hall of Fame. Corey's Pick: Duke 42 Temple 30

Miami (-3) va. Wisconsin, New Era Pinstripe Bowl, Yankee Stadium, New York, 4:15 p.m., ESPN:

Jeffrey Wright: This is actually a bad matchup for Wisconsin because Miami has one of the best run-stopping defenses in the country. They rank second in the nation in stuff rate and first in havoc rate. However, the temperatures will be in the 30s, and the Canes worst loss of the year came in the cold in Boston, and they’re 0-2 in their last two bowl games with similar temperature. Jeffrey Wright’s pick: Wisconsin 17, Miami 14

Neal McCready: I'm with Jeffrey here. This is a weather-based pick for me. The 'Canes hate the cold, and it'll feel balmy for the boys from Madison. Neal's Pick: Wisconsin 20, Miami 14

Chase Parham: No one in their right mind is taking the boys from South Beach in New York. And I kind of like Wisconsin. I don't know why. Parham's Pick: Wisconsin 34, Miami 20

Barrett Clark: Barrett's Pick: Miami 30, Wisconsin 24

Corey Clark: Which Miami team shows? Corey's Pick: Miami 24 Wisconsin 20

Baylor (+4) vs. Vanderbilt, Academy Sports + Outdoors Texas Bowl, NRG Stadium, Houston, 8 p.m., ESPN:

Jeffrey Wright: Vanderbilt is better than Baylor. I honestly didn’t know Baylor was bowl eligible. Oh, yeah, they beat Texas Tech in Dallas. Good for them. Jeffrey Wright’s pick: Vanderbilt 30, Baylor 23

Neal McCready: It's a damn shame this isn't Art Briles versus James Franklin. They could call it the Horrible Human Bowl. Neal's Pick: Vanderbilt 24, Baylor 17

Chase Parham: Vanderbilt was as impressive at times as a bad team can be. The cover against Notre Dame was pristine. Parham's Pick: Vandy 21, Baylor 13

Barrett Clark: Barrett's Pick: Vanderbilt 31, Baylor 24

Corey Clark: It just means more. Corey's Pick: Vanderbilt 28 Baylor 23

Games of Friday, Dec. 28

Purdue (+3.5) vs. Auburn, Franklin American Mortgage Music City Bowl, Nissan Stadium, Nashville, 12:30 p.m., ESPN:

Jeffrey Wright: I know Malzahn’s teams are typically no shows in bowl games (Auburn hasn’t won a bowl game against a Power 5 opponent on the Gus Bus), but if Auburn can’t win this game, then I have no idea why Auburn will bring him back next year. Jeffrey Wright’s pick: Auburn 23, Purdue 17

Neal McCready: I'm here for Gus Malzahn chaos. I'm not one to wish my summer away, but I'm looking forward to Oregon beating the Tigers in the opener in Dallas next season. No school hosts an implosion quite as dramatically as Auburn. Neal's Pick: Purdue 27, Auburn 23

Chase Parham: Tyler Trent is there. That’s enough reason to ride with the Boilermakers. Parham’s Pick: Purdue 30, Auburn 24

Barrett Clark: Taking favorites, laying points. Barrett's Pick: Auburn 31, Purdue 17

Corey Clark: I'm just cheering for the chaos. Corey's Pick: Purdue 27 Auburn 24

West Virginia (+1.5) vs. Syracuse, Camping World Bowl, Camping World Stadium, Orlando, 4:15 p.m., ESPN:

Jeffrey Wright: Dana isn’t great in bowl games, and this line still feels wrong. Therefore, I’ll take Syracuse. Jeffrey Wright’s pick: Syracuse 35, West Virginia 31

Neal McCready: West Virginia is down a quarterback, as Will Grier is doing the smart thing and sitting. Syracuse is actually good, and the Orange will want to win this one. Neal's Pick: Syracuse 28, West Virginia 24

Chase Parham: Syracuse has its quarterback and probably cares about this one. The same can’t be said for West Virginia. Parham’s Pick: Syracuse 28, WVU 24

Barrett Clark: Barrett's Pick: Syracuse 31, West Virginia 28

Corey Clark: I'll take the points Corey's Pick: Cuse 35 WVU 34

Iowa State (+3) vs. Washington State, Valero Alamo Bowl, Alamodome, San Antonio, 8 p.m., ESPN:

Jeffrey Wright: Washington State is playing in a Dome, and Leach is due for a bowl win. Jeffrey Wright’s pick: Washington State 24, Iowa State 17

Neal McCready: I'm riding with Gardner Minshew. Neal's Pick: Washington State 31, Iowa State 27

Chase Parham: It’s good to be Matt Campbell these days. But that won’t help him tonight. Parham’s Pick: WSU 45, Iowa State 40

Barrett Clark: Barrett's Pick: Washington State 42, Iowa State 31

Corey Clark: The Pirate vs Campbell. Are they aware of the impact they will have on so many RG message boarders? Corey's Pick: WSU 42 Iowa State 37

Games of Saturday, Dec. 29

Florida (+6) vs. Michigan, Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl, Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta, 11 a.m., ESPN:

Jeffrey Wright: I get Dan and a touchdown against Shea. I’ve bet this one before. Jeffrey Wright’s pick: Florida 27, Michigan 24

Neal McCready: I saw where Shea Patterson elected not to declare for the NFL draft. For solidarity's sake, Shea, I, too, will not declare for the NFL draft. Neal's Pick: Michigan 24, Florida 21

Chase Parham: I see a lot of people talking about The Coffee Pot. Good of you to support the local economy. Parham's Pick: Florida 21, Michigan 17

Barrett Clark: Going with favorites and laying points again. Barrett's Pick: Michigan 30, Florida 23

Corey Clark: I’m making these picks from The Coffee Pot in Amory, MS. These picks are a cooperative effort. All the State fans say Florida. Corey’s Pick: Florida 28 Michigan 24

South Carolina (-5) vs. Virginia, Belk Bowl, Bank of America Stadium, Charlotte, 11 a.m., ABC:

Jeffrey Wright: Is South Carolina really an SEC team without Debo and with that defensive line? I think not. Jeffrey Wright’s pick: Virginia 20, South Carolina 17

Neal McCready: My irrational love for Boom continues here. I just can't imagine the Gamecocks losing this game. Is anyone watching these games, by the way? Neal's Pick: South Carolina 31, Virginia 24

Chase Parham: I like Dan Werner and hope he has a good day. Past that, does anyone care? Parham's Pick: South Carolina 34, Virginia 27

Barrett Clark: South Carolina 30, Virginia 23

Corey Clark: The Mayor hasn’t watched VA this year so he doesn’t know. Corey’s Pick: SCar 28 UVA 24

Arkansas State (+1) vs. Nevada, NOVA Home Loans Arizona Bowl, Arizona Stadium, Tucson, Ariz., 12:15 p.m., CBSSN:

Jeffrey Wright: I’d rather die than bet on Justice Hansen again. Jeffrey Wright’s pick: Nevada 38, Arkansas State 34

Neal McCready: I know no one is watching this game. No freaking chance. Neal's Pick: Nevada 28, Arkansas State 24

Chase Parham: I can't decide if this is a great time slot or a horrid time slot. Parham's Pick: Arkansas State 38, Nevada 20

Barrett Clark: Nevada 28, Arkansas State 24

Corey Clark: Arkansas State is the consensus. Corey’s Pick: ArkSt 28 Nevada 24

Clemson (-12.5) vs. Notre Dame, College Football Playoff Semifinal at the Goodyear Cotton Bowl Classic, AT&T Stadium, Arlington, Texas, 3 p.m., ESPN:

Jeffrey Wright: This feels like too many points. Notre Dame isn’t 2012 Notre Dame.Jeffrey Wright’s pick: Clemson 31, Notre Dame 24

Neal McCready: I feel like we've all slept on Notre Dame all season, but for some reason, I can't wake myself up here. I like Clemson big. Neal's Pick: Clemson 38, Notre Dame 17

Chase Parham: Call me crazy, but I think Notre Dame can win this game. I picked Purdue, too, though... Parham's Pick: Notre Dame 27, Clemson 24

Barrett Clark: Clemson 34, Notre Dame 20

Corey Clark: Chief said he heard a good discussion of ND. He thinks ND is soft. Corey’s Pick: Clemson 42 ND 14

Alabama (-14) vs. Oklahoma, College Football Playoff Semifinal at the Capital One Orange Bowl, Hard Rock Stadium, Miami Gardens, Fla., 7 p.m., ESPN:

Jeffrey Wright: Cue that band, baby. Roll Tide. Jeffrey Wright’s pick: Alabama 45, Oklahoma 24

Neal McCready: Is Tua healthy? I have this weird feeling he's not. And if he's not, I have some doubts. The Sooners can really score, and they're not going to be intimidated by big, bad 'Bama. I'm going with the Tide, but I won't be shocked if there's an upset here. Neal's Pick: Alabama 45, Oklahoma 38

Chase Parham: Tua Tagovailoa said he's at 80 percent which probably means 70 percent since players typically fudge a little in the positive direction. This line is too big for Tua to be handicapped. Parham's Pick: Alabama 45, Oklahoma 41

Barrett Clark: Alabama 49, Oklahoma 31

Corey Clark: Bama wins and doesn’t cover much to the dismay of the regulars. Corey’s Pick: Bama 49 OU 42

Games of Dec. 31

Cincinnati (-6) vs. Virginia Tech, Military Bowl Presented by Northrup Grunman, Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium, Annapolis, Md., 11 a.m., ESPN:

Jeffrey Wright: I’m fading the American during bowl season. Jeffrey Wright’s pick: Virginia Tech 27, Cincinnati 24

Neal McCready: I have to think the Bearcats want this one. Bearcats are always better. Neal's Pick: Cincinnati 34, Virginia Tech 24

Chase Parham: Sounds like nap time. Parham's Pick: Va Tech 31, Cincinnati 24

Barrett Clark: Take favorites. Lay points. Barrett's Pick: Cincinnati 31, Virginia Tech 24

Corey Clark: I like Fuente getting a month to prepare. Corey’s Pick: Va Tech 24 Cincy 23

Stanford (-4.5) vs. Pittsburgh, Hyundai Sun Bowl, Sun Bowl Stadium, El Paso, Texas, 1 p.m., CBS:

Jeffrey Wright: Stanford owns the Sun Bowl. I don’t know if that is actually true, but it seems true. Jeffrey Wright’s pick: Stanford 27, Pittsburgh 21

Neal McCready: At least they're not in Birmingham. Neal's Pick: Stanford 27, Pittsburgh 10

Chase Parham: El Paso seems nice this time of year. Parham's Pick: Stanford 24, Pitt 14

Barrett Clark: Stanford 30, Pittsburgh 14

Corey Clark: Trees! Corey’s Pick: Stanford 21 Pitt 10

Michigan State (+2) vs. Oregon, Redbox Bowl, Levi's Stadium, Santa Clara, Calif., 2 p.m., FOX:

Jeffrey Wright: I don’t believe in either team, but one team has a quarterback that doesn’t look disabled when throwing, so I’ll take that team. Jeffrey Wright’s pick: Oregon 24, Michigan State 20

Neal McCready: The Big Ten is bad. I watch it and like it, but it's bad. Neal's Pick: Oregon 30, Michigan State 24

Chase Parham: Both of these teams have tremendous flaws, but Oregon kept its coach and its quarterback for 2019. There's some momentum. Parham's Pick: Oregon 31, Michigan State 24

Barrett Clark: Oregon 27, Michigan State 24

Corey Clark: Michigan was so gross against Florida....I’m not picking a win or cover for a Big 10 team the rest of the year. Corey’s Pick: Oregon 35 MSU 24

Missouri -9 vs. Oklahoma State, Autozone Liberty Bowl, Liberty Bowl Memorial Stadium, Memphis, Tenn., 2:45 p.m., ESPN:

Jeffrey Wright: The fact that Barry Odom made his team travel to Oxford just to get some practice in encourages me that they will care. Jeffrey Wright’s pick: Missouri 41, Oklahoma State 31

Neal McCready: I had fun with all my new Mizzou friends Sunday night. Neal's Pick: Missouri 37, Oklahoma State 21

Chase Parham: Here's to Drew Lock having a big final game with the Tigers. I've given him plenty of grief over the years. Here's a hat tip. Parham's Pick: Mizzou 40, OK State 28

Barrett Clark: Missouri 31, Oklahoma State 21

Corey Clark: Patience is paying off in CoMo. Corey’s Pick: Missouri 35 OKSt 24

Northwestern (+7) vs. Utah, San Diego County Credit Union Holiday Bowl, SDCCU Stadium, San Diego, 6 p.m., FS1:

Jeffrey Wright: This feels like too many points, which means it won’t be enough points. Jeffrey Wright’s pick: Utah 21, Northwestern 17

Neal McCready: Could it be Pat Fitzgerald's swan song with the Wildcats? Neal's Pick: Northwestern 35, Utah 31

Chase Parham: When Northwestern is involved, I just take the points. Parham's Pick: Northwestern 24, Utah 20

Barrett Clark: Utah 27, Northwestern 17

Corey Clark: See above. Corey’s Pick: Utah 24 Northwestern 14

North Carolina State (+7) vs. Texas A&M, TaxSlayer Gator Bowl, TIAA Bank Field, Jacksonville, Fla., 6:30 p.m., ESPN:

Jeffrey Wright: Teams that have had players sit out in preparation for the NFL Draft haven’t had much success thus far during bowl season. Interestingly enough, if you have NFL players and they don’t play, it seems that your team is at a disadvantage. Jeffrey Wright’s pick: Texas A&M 34, NC State 24

Neal McCready: The Aggies finished strong. They'll be a factor moving forward. Neal's Pick: Texas A&M 37, N.C. State 24

Chase Parham: Oh, Dave Doeren. You were such a big part of the 2017 holiday season. Parham's Pick: Texas A&M 38, NC State 30

Barrett Clark: Texas A&M 38, N.C. State 24

Corey Clark: A&M rolls. Corey’s Pick: aTm 42 NCSt 24

Games of Jan. 1

Mississippi State (-7) vs. Iowa, Outback Bowl, Raymond James Stadium, Tampa, Fla., 11 a.m., ESPN2:

Jeffrey Wright: State has NFL players while Iowa doesn’t. Normally, that would be a good thing for MSU, but it’s not during bowl season when you don’t have other NFL guys. Jeffrey Wright’s pick: Iowa 17, MSU 13

Neal McCready: I'm not a big SEC dominance guy. I understand why the rest of the country hates the league so much by this time of year. The league is obnoxious, as are many of the writers who cover it/cheer for it. Still, Iowa's lack of speed is going to be an issue against MSU. Neal's Pick: Mississippi State 31, Iowa 21

Chase Parham: State is a just a better football team. Nick Fitzgerald will have to throw a little, but he'll be able to do that. Parham's Pick: State 27, Iowa 10

Barrett Clark: Take the favorites. Lay the points. Barrett's Pick: Mississippi State 35, Iowa 24

Corey Clark: State rolls. Corey’s Pick: State 42 Iowa 20

Kentucky (+6) vs. Penn State, VRBO Citrus Bowl, Camping World Stadium, Orlando, Fla., Noon, ABC:

Jeffrey Wright: Penn State feels like they care about this game. Jeffrey Wright’s pick: Penn State 23, Kentucky 13

Neal McCready: If I watch a game today, it'll be this one. It has the makings of an entertaining contest. ETA: My fat ass is going to be on a Peloton or in a gym most of the day; I doubt I'll watch. Neal's Pick: Kentucky 27, Penn State 24

Chase Parham: Kentucky can't score, and that seems like a problem in a football game. Parham's Pick: Penn State 28, Kentucky 13

Barrett Clark: Penn State 28, Kentucky 21

Corey Clark: Kentucky wins. Corey’s Pick: UK 35 PSU 31

LSU (-7) vs. UCF, PlayStation Fiesta Bowl, State Farm Stadium, Glendale, Ariz., Noon, ESPN:

Jeffrey Wright: I can’t wait for LSU to let me down for like the fifth time this year. Ah, never mind the first time this year. Jeffrey Wright’s pick: LSU 28, UCF 17

Neal McCready: I'm not convinced either team can score much. Neal's Pick: LSU 17, UCF 14

Chase Parham: Oddly I think LSU really cares about this game, and the league certainly cares plenty for the Tigers in this one. However, with Greedy not playing it just has an odd who-gives-a-crap vibe. Parham's Pick: LSU 30, UCF 20

Barrett Clark: LSU 31, UCF 20

Corey Clark: How motivated will LSU be? I think they win but don’t cover. Corey’s Pick: LSU 28 Twitter Champs 24

Washington (+6.5) vs. Ohio State, Rose Bowl Game Presented by Northwestern Mutual, Rose Bowl, Pasadena, Calif., 4 p.m., ESPN:

Jeffrey Wright: Get well soon, Coach Meyer. Lord knows that those students need you for Courage and Leadership next semester. Jeffrey Wright’s pick: Ohio State 34, Washington 24

Neal McCready: If I were to cheer for a team today (I won't), it'd be Washington. I can't stand Urban Meyer. Neal's Pick: Ohio State 31, Washington 24

Chase Parham: Ohio State will attempt to make some odd statement. Parham's Pick: Ohio State 30, Washington 17

Barrett Clark: Ohio State 30, Washington 23

Corey Clark: See above. Corey’s Pick: Washington 28 tOSU 27

Texas (+12.5) vs. Georgia, Allstate Sugar Bowl, Mercedes-Benz Superdome, New Orleans, 7:45 p.m., ESPN:

Jeffrey Wright: I feel like Texas is going to care way more than Georgia. Jeffrey Wright’s pick: UGA 28, Texas 21

Neal McCready: The only organization more obnoxious that the SEC's PR machine is the Sugar Bowl. Why an entire sport acquiesces to the demands of the Sugar Bowl and Rose Bowl is a concept beyond my imagination. This game won't be close. Neal's Pick: Georgia 38, Texas 10

Chase Parham: I'm excited for this game. I have no idea why. Parham's Pick: Georgia 34, Texas 16

Barrett Clark: Georgia 41, Texas 17

Corey Clark: OK cool. Corey’s Pick: Jawjah 42 UTA 14