Liberty Bowl
East Carolina Pirates vs Kentucky Wildcats
January 2nd 5 PM ESPN
Memphis, TN
Line: East Carolina -3
Overview
The Pirates of East Carolina meet the Wildcats of Kentucky in the 50th Liberty Bowl. Kentucky is playing in their third straight bowl game, a school record. East Carolina capped off a fast start to 2008 by winning 6 of their final 7.
Keys to the Game:
1. Can Michael Hartline Step Back In?
Hartline was Kentucky's starter for most of the year, but was benched in favor of the mobile Randall Cobb for the last 3 games of the season. Hartline led the Wildcats to all 6 of their victories. He doesn't have to win the game for the Wildcats because they have a solid defense, he just can't lose the game.
2. Turnovers
East Carolina has built most of their wins out of twigs and rabbits feet this year because they have a below average offense and an average defense. The Pirates forced 7 turnovers in their Conference USA Championship win over Tulsa. East Carolina is 6th nationally in takeaways with 32.
Motivation
Not really an issue since I am sure East Carolina would love to get a win over an SEC team. Kentucky wants to get the bad taste out after losing their last 3.
Prediction
I like East Carolina in this game. I think they get some turnovers from Michael Hartline and they also win the special teams battle.
East Carolina 23 Kentucky 17
East Carolina Covers -3
Confidence Ranking (of 34): 11
My confidence ranking of an East Carolina win
Bowls: 7-5 ATS, 6-6 SU
Season: 38-35-3 ATS, 47-29 SU
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Wrong Again. Are you a poor prognosticator or are you just picking against the SEC teams?
ReplyDeleteNo comment on the South Carolina-Iowa or Georgia-Michigan State game? I guess your picks got lost in the mail. My guess is you are undefeated .
ReplyDelete