Nebraska Cornhuskers (8-4) vs. Clemson Tigers (7-5)
When: Today, 1 p.m.
Where: Jacksonville Municipal Stadium, Fla.
Line: Clemson by 1.5
TV: CBS
Why you should watch: To see if Clemson shows up for a big game. The Tigers are making a record ninth appearance in the Gator Bowl, but haven’t played in the game since getting drubbed, 41-20, by Virginia Tech in 2001. The last time Clemson played Nebraska — a 22-15 victory in the 1982 Orange Bowl to win the national title — also was the last time the Tigers had a respectable showing in front of a national television audience. The Tigers, however, finished the season 4-1 under new coach Dabo Swinney, who replaced Tommy Bowden after a 3-4 start. Clemson touts a pair of elite running backs in James Davis (725 rushing yards, 11 TDs) and C.J. Spiller (1,042 all-purpose yards, 10 TDs). The Cornhuskers, led by quarterback Joe Ganz (3,332 yards, 23 TDs), are just happy to be in New Year’s Day bowl after an embarrassing 2007 left them home for the holidays. But don’t expect either team to have an edge in a close game, as each has struggled to put teams away. In games decided by seven points or fewer since 2001, Nebraska is 7-9, with Clemson 12-16.
Did you know this person went to Nebraska: Johnny Carson, former host of the “Tonight Show” for more than 30 years.
Did you know this person went to Clemson: Scott Lazar, first person to free-climb Venezuela’s Angel Falls. What do you think? Point to Nebraska.
Carey predicts: Clemson, 35-28
Bimbo predicts: Nebraska
