Little Caesars Bowl
Florida International (6-6) vs. Toledo (8-4)
V 
S. 
8:30 PM, ESPN, Sunday, Dec. 26, Detroit, MI
Why Watch: Even though it’s a bowl sponsored by a pizza, there’s still reason to watch. The Little Caesars Bowl features two teams that most didn’t think would reach anything beyond the regular season besides some extended rest leading up to next season. Both put up phenomenal seasons in their respective conference play, though, and both feature coaches who may just become household names in the future in FIU’s Mario Cristobal and Toledo’s Tim Beckman.
Who to Watch: Both FIU and Toledo follow the notion that if you’ve got a play-maker, get him the ball, featuring two of the best all-purpose players in the country. For Toledo, it’s wideout Eric Page. The sophomore brought in 1,983 all-purpose yards this year, including 1,091recieving. Page also made multiple All-American teams as a kick returner, bringing in three kick-off scores. For FIU, it’s T.Y. Hilton. Hilton ranks just behind Page with 1,879 all-purpose yards on the year. The junior from Miami brought in 816 through the air, 278 on the ground and 785 in returns.
How it’s Going Down: Toledo has been the more consistent of the two this season, while losing just one conference game. They also brought in a win against Big Ten opponent Purdue earlier in the year. FIU, after losing their first four, racked off four wins in their last five to close the season. They also pulled in a 52-35 win over Troy, who put a whooping on MAC team Ohio earlier this bowl season. As dominant these two teams are in the return game, it very well could come down to special teams winning the game. In the end, though, I like the Panthers, even in Toledo’s neck of the woods. Pick: Florida International 30 – Toledo 21
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