2009 Fiesta Bowl Preview
The Ohio State Buckeyes get a shot a redemption tonight, as they face the Texas Longhorns in the Fiesta Bowl. The Buckeyes have been embarrassed their last two trips to a BCS Bowl and are looking to avoid a repeat.
The betting public doesn't think that is going to happen, however, as 67-percent of the bets on the game are coming in on the Longhorns. Despite the fact that Texas has been getting the bulk of the wagers, the line has dropped from Texas -10 to Texas -8.5. The total on the game has climbed slightly to 52.
The teams couldn't be any more different, as Texas simply outscored opponents all season long, while the Buckeyes won their games by defense. Not to say each team can't do anything on the other side of the ball, as Ohio State rushed for more yards than Texas, while the Longhorns allowed fewer yards on the ground.
The Longhorns are disappointed not to be playing for the national championship and teams can either put forth an uninspired effort, as we've seen already this bowl season, or they can set out to make a point. It's difficult to tell which way the Longhorns will come out of the gate.
That isn't the case with Ohio State, however, as you know the Buckeyes have heard enough trash talking about their program and the Big 10 in general. The Buckeyes will be ready to play.
This is one of those types of games where if I'm wrong, I'll be kicking myself in the butt for being so stupid and backing the Buckeyes in a BCS Bowl once again. (Last year they cost me dearly in a contest that came down to the final game.)
But the reverse line movement, the betting public being on Texas, and the fact that I expect the Buckeyes to be chomping at the bit is enough to put me on the boys from Ohio.
3.5* Ohio State +8.5
