College Football Bowl Picks - Hyundai Sun Bowl:

Hyundai Sun Bowl

Miami (FL) (7-5) vs. Notre Dame (7-5)

VS.

2 PM, CBS, Fri. Dec. 31, El Paso, TX

Why Watch: The tradition and past games of the Miami vs. Notre Dame series should be enough to draw you to this bowl game. Tagged the Catholics vs. the Convicts in the 80’s, the rivalry hasn’t been played in years, and that once label may not be viable today. Both programs are looking to return to their glory days and this is a game to make their move.

Who to Watch: The sidelines of both teams are filled with future draft picks and current playmakers. For Miami, it won’t be hard to miss linebacker Sean Spence. The junior from Miami has been everyone for the ‘Canes since stepping on the field as a freshman. This season, Spence brought in 101 tackles, with 17.5 for a loss. On the offensive side of the ball, keep tabs on Notre Dame wideout Michael Floyd. Floyd led the Irish in receiving with 73 catches for 916 yards and 10 scores, grabbing 11 balls in the last game of the year against USC.

How it’s Going Down: A lot of people are going to talk about the speed vs. the power, as usual when a team from the north meets a southern team. Both teams have speed, though. The difference should come in Miami’s speed on the defensive side of the ball with. The ‘Canes are going through some coaching changes following the firing of Randy Shannon, but the rest of the staff remains. Notre Dame has been dangerous passing the ball lately; with quarterback Tommy Rees running the show, but Miami ranks No. 2 in the nation in pass defense giving up just an average of 146 yards a game. They lead the nation in touchdown passes given up with seven, as well. As long as quarterback Jacory Harris is on page with his wideouts, the ‘Canes should take the game. Pick: Miami (FL) 31 – Notre Dame 20