Bowl Preview: Champs Sports Bowl

Champs Sports Bowl

Citrus Bowl, Orlando

Wisconsin vs. Florida State

Date: Dec. 27

Time: 4:30 p.m.

TV: ESPN

Line: Florida State -5.5

About Wisconsin: The Badgers had a long overdue implosion this year, splitting into a thousand pieces after losing to Michigan (Michigan!), Ohio State and Penn State in consecutive weeks. That sound you heard was not Barry Alvarez’ offspring microwaving another parrot, though, it was the crushing weight of expectations falling on Bret Bielema’s ginormous head.

Intangibles:

Darrell Bevell at QB: +2

Jump Around: -4

Wisky marching band hazing: -5

Wisky marching band hazing by having chicks make out with each other: +9

About Florida State: Rumors abound that Bobby Bowden is still coaching this team. We call bunk on that one, unless you count wearing a letterman’s jacket and answering sideline reporter questions as “coaching.” Other than that, same old FSU. Can’t run or throw. On defense, stick 13 guys in the box and blitz.

Intangibles:

Tallahassee: -5

Burt Reynolds: +6

Lee Corso: -2

Chief Oscewhatshisface and flaming spear: +9

Impact Player: FSU quarterback Chris Rix. What’s that? Rix isn’t there anymore? Oh whatever, they all play like they’re Chris Rix. I’m still picking Rix.

Bowl slogan: “Orlando: the only reason to be in Florida and not be near an ocean.”

Little known fact: FSU offensive coordinator Jimbo Fisher didn’t get the Auburn job because he has a $5 million buyout as the “coach-in-waiting” for the Noles. I don’t even have a $12 buyout.

Watchability (1-5): 3

The Pick: Florida State 18, Wisconsin 16