Boston College (10-3) vs. Michigan State (7-5)
December 28, 5 p.m. (ESPN)
Again, one of these No. 2 teams that will be able to enjoy New Years eve on their own terms because their bowl game will be history.
Everyone is looking to Matt Ryan in this game, the fantastic senior quarterback at Boston College. Ryan has garnered tons of attention and headlines this year with spectacular comebacks, great poise and NFL-appealing intangibles. However, his numbers aren't great, at all. He's completed 60 percent of his passes and thrown 18 interceptions. Of the top 100 passers in the country (Ryan is ranked 57th), only four guys have more interceptions than him.
What does all of that mean? Don't expect Ryan to torch the Spartans for insane numbers. If Boston College is going to win this game, it's going to be with its defense, which is incredible at stopping the run.
The difference in this game will be the play of Brian Hoyer, the Michigan State junior quarterback. Will he be the gunslinger who threw four touchdowns to beat Penn State or the QB who couldn't lead the Spartans to a win over Northwestern?
If he's the former, it'll allow Javon Ringer and Jehuu Caulcrick to get some breathing room and keep Matt Ryan on the sidelines.
Honestly, what does BC play for at this point?
The line: Boston College -3
The pick: Michigan State