No. 16 Georgia Bulldogs (9-3) vs. No. 19 Michigan State Spartans (9-3)
When: Today, 1 p.m.
Where: Florida Citrus Bowl, Orlando, Fla.
Line: Georgia by 8.5
TV: ABC
Why you should watch: Because this typically is one of the most competitive games of the bowl season, as nine of the past 15 editions have been decided by seven points or fewer. The Big 10 is 8-7 against the Southeastern Conference since 1994, including wins the past four years.
But Georgia, which began the season ranked No. 1 in the country, is much more talented than Michigan State, as it touts quarterback Matt Stafford (3,209 yards, 22 TDs) and running back Knowshon Moreno (1,338 yards, 16 TDs). The Bulldogs, however, have struggled on defense, allowing an average of more than 25 points per game and were pounded in a 45-42 loss to Georgia Tech in which they allowed 409 rushing yards. The Spartans will use the same strategy. Quarterback Brad Hoyer’s strengths don’t include the forward pass — never good for the leader of your offense –and the team is overly reliant on running back Javon Ringer (1,590 yards, 21 TDs).
Did you know this person went to Georgia: Ryan Seacrest, host of hit TV show “American Idol.”
Did you know this person went to Michigan State: James Caan, actor who appeared in movies “The Godfather,” “Misery,” and “The Program.” If it was 1999, Caan would get the point. But it’s 2009, so the point goes to Seacrest –out.
Carey predicts: Georgia, 45-21
Bimbo predicts: Georgia
