2009 Emerald Bowl
USC had hoped to be playing a bowl game in its home state, but the Emerald Bowl wasn't quite what the Trojans were thinking before the season started. Boston College, meanwhile, is no doubt happy to be here, especially knowing it will get a chance to play against one of the nation's storied teams.Southern Cal is favored by a touchdown and the total is 44.
USC quarterback Matt Barkley gets much of the blame for the Trojans' woes, but all you have to do is look at the defense, which surrendered 27 or more points in four of its final seven games, including 47 to Oregon and 55 to Stanford, to see where the real trouble was.
Boston College isn't blessed with an outstanding quarterback, either, as 25-year-old freshman Dave Shinskie struggled quite a bit after playing minor league baseball the past six years. The Eagles do have a quality running back in Montel Harris, who rushed for more than 1,300 yards and 13 touchdowns.
While the Trojans pick up a few points for playing in their home state, the team's motivation has to be questioned, as even an impressive victory would lead to a disappointing 9-4 season. That shouldn't be a question for Boston College, so we'll go ahead and side with the Eagles.
