Hustle Belt - 2019 MAC Football Bowl Season CoverageMAC Football, MAC Basketball, MAC Recruiting, MAC Baseball and all of the other #MACtion hijinks in between - hustlebeltblog@gmail.comhttps://cdn.vox-cdn.com/community_logos/50387/hustle-fav.png2020-01-20T11:41:42-05:00http://www.hustlebelt.com/rss/stream/207615232020-01-20T11:41:42-05:002020-01-20T11:41:42-05:002019 MAC Bowl Season Roundup and All-Bowl Team
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<img alt="COLLEGE FOOTBALL: DEC 20 Frisco Bowl - Utah State v Kent State" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/bmZ2sVqtOr9daUOLtZcID2bajxs=/0x0:3000x2000/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/66132935/1189676308.jpg.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Matthew Pearce/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>The MAC finishes with three bowl wins for the first time since 2015, as Buffalo and Kent State make history with program firsts.</p> <p id="ijoOy3">The college football season wrapped up last Monday, as LSU climbed to the apex of the sport after besting reigning national champion Clemson, in a battle of the last two remaining unbeatens. One week prior, the MAC football season officially concluded as conference champion Miami (OH) fell short in the LendingTree Bowl against Louisiana.</p>
<p id="amMygu">Bowl season never fails to deliver unforgettable moments. This season, the MAC participated in seven postseason contests and won three for the first time since 2015. Two MAC programs witnessed history in the making with their first bowl victories and another won its third-straight bowl. Let’s take a trip down a rather-recent memory lane and recount what happened this December and January in the world of MACtion.</p>
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<h2 id="bKZSDJ"><strong>Makers Wanted Bahamas Bowl</strong></h2>
<p id="CnUXa0"><strong>Buffalo 31, Charlotte 9</strong></p>
<p id="KQCqKA">Bowl season kicked off on a Friday afternoon in the tropics of the Bahamas, where Buffalo and Charlotte were both aiming for their first bowl win in program history. The clear advantage belonged to the Bulls, who were led by a 173-yard, 2-touchdown performance by elusive running back Jaret Patterson. Not only did Patterson dominate, but Buffalo bested the 49ers on both sides of the line of scrimmage. The Bulls’ offensive line extended its streak of allowing zero sacks to four games, while their defense brutalized Charlotte with five sacks. Lance Leipold and the Bulls escaped Nassau with a valuable first addition to the trophy case, and now the MAC and C-USA have alternated victories in all six years of Bahamas Bowl history.</p>
<p id="lakk39"><strong>Buffalo’s best play:</strong></p>
<p id="RnJ9mJ">To open the scoring in Nassau, <span>Kyle Vantrease</span> threw a fade route to wide receiver <span>Antonio Nunn</span>, who Mossed his defender and completed an impressive diving catch.</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">TOUCHDOWN, BUFFALO!<br><br>Antonio Nunn jumps up and gets a foot down in-bounds on the fade from Kyle Vantrease to put the Bulls up 7-0 and cap off a seven-play, 61-yard drive. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BahamasBowl?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BahamasBowl</a> <a href="https://t.co/Y6cDDKIiyi">pic.twitter.com/Y6cDDKIiyi</a></p>— Hustle Belt (@HustleBelt) <a href="https://twitter.com/HustleBelt/status/1208104312808841218?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 20, 2019</a>
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<h2 id="DZqjYF"><strong>Tropical Smoothie Cafe Frisco Bowl</strong></h2>
<p id="P3p3Ds"><strong>Kent State 51, Utah State 41</strong></p>
<p id="1KkMld">Imagine hearing before the season that Kent State would drop 51 in a bowl win over a team that finished ranked in 2018. Well, it happened on December 20. Kent State’s 2019 season was nothing short of magical. After one bowl appearance since 1973, the Golden Flashes rattled off three-straight victories to qualify for the Frisco Bowl. Then, Kent State walloped Utah State’s defense with 51 points in a thrilling shootout in Texas. <span>Dustin Crum</span> put together an all-time performance with 286 passing yards on 21/26 completions, 147 rushing yards, and three total touchdowns. Crum led the Golden Flashes to a 24 fourth quarter points, including his game-winning touchdown — a 3-yard run on 4th down to seal the victory over the favored Aggies. Kent State finished with its first winning season since 2012 and delivered its first postseason victory in program history.</p>
<p id="lrlFPG"><strong>Kent State’s best play:</strong></p>
<p id="H2fDBq">With a tie game on 3rd and goal in the fourth quarter, Sean Lewis drew up a crafty play design to take the lead. <span>Dustin Crum</span> faked the pitch left to <span>Will Matthews</span> and scrambled right. The Offensive MVP shoveled it to <span>Antwan Dixon</span>, who broke the 40-point barrier on the pivotal touchdown.</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Fake to the left, shovel to the right. Touchdown Kent State, on this crafty play from Dustin Crum to Antwan Dixon. 41-34, with 9:36 remaining in the Frisco Bowl. <a href="https://t.co/5pMOCNPF7R">pic.twitter.com/5pMOCNPF7R</a></p>— Hustle Belt (@HustleBelt) <a href="https://twitter.com/HustleBelt/status/1208226716931346433?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 21, 2019</a>
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<p id="TmlHZz"><strong>Tropical Smoothie Bath</strong></p>
<p id="noVccC">Kent State celebrated the Tropical Smoothie Cafe Frisco Bowl win by dumping a tropical smoothie on head coach Sean Lewis.</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">GREEN SMOOTHIE BATH ✅<br><br>Kent State celebrates its first bowl win! <a href="https://t.co/9eyYaS7OIj">pic.twitter.com/9eyYaS7OIj</a></p>— ESPN College Football (@ESPNCFB) <a href="https://twitter.com/ESPNCFB/status/1208244640538742784?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 21, 2019</a>
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<h2 id="gXEuYm"><strong>New Mexico Bowl</strong></h2>
<p id="6fgKtC"><strong>San Diego State 48, Central Michigan 11</strong></p>
<p id="gMfOVB">On the third play of the game, quarterback <span>Quinten Dormady</span>’s pass was deflected at the line of scrimmage and intercepted by San Diego State’s middle linebacker Kyahva Tezino. San Diego State scored a quick touchdown in response, and that sequence set the tone for a blowout in Albuquerque. The Aztecs featured the second-best scoring defense in the country and held Central Michigan’s explosive offense to one touchdown, long after the game had been decided. San Diego State shattered its season-high of 31 points by dropping 48 on Central Michigan, along with 510 yards of offense. Despite the brutal loss, the Chippewas improved from 1-11 to 8-6 and a MAC West title, an all-around stunning rebuild under first-year head coach Jim McElwain.</p>
<p id="ewgFCt"><strong>Central Michigan’s best play:</strong></p>
<p id="Dz1fbI">Down 34-3 in the late third quarter, Central Michigan received an offensive spark from one of its two 1,000 yard rushers. Sophomore running back <span>Kobe Lewis</span> broke the century mark on a 66-yard run, sprinting down the right sideline for the Chippewas’ lone touchdown of the afternoon.</p>
<h2 id="z19wav"><strong>Quick Lane Bowl</strong></h2>
<p id="CE0X8a"><strong>Pittsburgh 34, Eastern Michigan 30</strong></p>
<p id="L3oXGM">Until the final minute at Ford Field, it appeared an upset was brewing in the Motor City. Eastern Michigan led Pitt 20-17 at halftime and kicked a go-ahead field goal with six minutes left to propel to a 30-27 advantage. In a game where both quarterbacks threw for over 300 yards, Pitt’s <span>Kenny Pickett</span> got the last laugh. Pickett completed his 361-yard outing by leading a 91-yard drive on the Eagles, iced with a 25-yard touchdown to <span>Taysir Mack</span> with 47 seconds left. The Quick Lane Bowl was one of the most thrilling matchups this bowl season, featuring 27 second quarter points and 24 in the fourth quarter. Perhaps it will also be remembered by the scuffles on Eastern Michigan’s final drive of the game.</p>
<p id="97WgKa"><strong>Eastern Michigan’s best play:</strong></p>
<p id="2ie9yb">This touchdown pass from <span>Mike Glass III</span> to <span>Quian Williams</span> occurred shortly after a 96-yard touchdown pass from Pitt. Glass’ deep ball was tipped by the cornerback but perfectly wound up in the hands of Williams, who waltzed into the end zone to complete a 50-yard score.</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">TOUCHDOWN, EAGLES!<br><br>EMU responds in a big way after giving up a 96-yard TD and get a 50-yard score of their own, courtesy of this <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SCTop10?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SCTop10</a>-worthy catch by Quian Williams off the tip!<br><br>17-10 EMU in the 2Q! <a href="https://t.co/3ISgmojciT">pic.twitter.com/3ISgmojciT</a></p>— Hustle Belt (@HustleBelt) <a href="https://twitter.com/HustleBelt/status/1210384031138889728?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 27, 2019</a>
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<h2 id="NsoKMl"><strong>SERVPRO First Responder Bowl</strong></h2>
<p id="P3Uwfg"><strong>WKU 23, Western Michigan 20</strong></p>
<p id="kKyCoj">A low-scoring defensive slugfest quickly turned into five minutes of pure chaos in Dallas. Western Michigan’s game-winning drive shockingly stalled after quarterback <span>Jon Wassink</span> tripped with an open field ahead. After a turnover on downs, WKU earned its opportunity at a win, but Western Michigan batted down the Hilltoppers’ Hail Mary attempt in the end zone. But SERVPRO’s slogan is “Like it never even happened,” and that bat-down never happened because mass substitutions by both teams resulted in 12 Western Michigan players on the field for the final play. WKU then shattered the Broncos’ hearts with a 52-yard field goal on an untimed down.</p>
<p id="kmlBwW"><strong>Western Michigan’s best play:</strong></p>
<p id="EojZcC">WKU led 10-3 right before halftime with an opportunity to add to its lead. But the Hilltoppers’ play action pass was batted and intercepted by Western Michigan cornerback Kareem Ali. Ali raced 88 yards for Western Michigan’s longest play of the season and to knot the game up at 10 apiece at the break.</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">WMU 10, WKU 10, 0:59 2Q.<br><br>Kareem Ali 85-yard interception return for a touchdown. Pass deflected, Ali in the right place at the right time. <a href="https://t.co/F4UOr1d2og">pic.twitter.com/F4UOr1d2og</a></p>— Elliott Pratt (@EPrattBGDN) <a href="https://twitter.com/EPrattBGDN/status/1211722764001918978?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 30, 2019</a>
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<h2 id="rXM1PH"><strong>Famous Idaho Potato Bowl</strong></h2>
<p id="BuMCUY"><strong>Ohio 30, Nevada 21</strong></p>
<p id="yPHRYA">It was the sendoff performance for quarterback <span>Nathan Rourke</span>, a three-time All-MAC selection who delivered the Bobcats a bowl win in each year as their starter. Rourke threw for 144 yards, rushed for 87 and a touchdown. Defensively, Ohio prevented Nevada from reaching the end zone until the fourth quarter — an 11-quarter streak of holding bowl opponents without a touchdown. Nevada quickly piled on the points with two late touchdowns, but defensive end <span>Austin Conrad</span> broke up a Philly special with around three minutes left to seal the Bobcat victory. Frank Solich arrived at a program with zero bowl wins and now Ohio owns five bowl trophies, including three in consecutive seasons.</p>
<p id="Ul5wcL"><strong>Ohio’s best play:</strong></p>
<p id="pYhvYg">The Bobcats allowed two consecutive touchdowns and Nevada was knocking on the door with a chance to cut Ohio’s lead even more. Ever since the Philadelphia Eagles successfully ran it in the <a href="https://www.sbnation.com/super-bowl">Super Bowl</a>, the “Philly Special” has been a nearly unstoppable goal line play. But <span>Austin Conrad</span> invaded the backfield and blew up the trick play. After a long scramble, Ohio pounced on the pigskin and Nevada’s scoring was done for the day.</p>
<p id="A557Vg"><strong>French Fry Bath</strong></p>
<p id="GDLgma">Ohio celebrated the Famous Idaho Potato Bowl win by dumping a bucket of French fries on head coach Frank Solich. And Solich ate one!</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Frank Solich getting the traditional French fry bath, as one does in Idaho. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PotatoBowl?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PotatoBowl</a> <a href="https://t.co/0pCy7rjM6N">pic.twitter.com/0pCy7rjM6N</a></p>— Hustle Belt (@HustleBelt) <a href="https://twitter.com/HustleBelt/status/1213247339625951233?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2020</a>
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<h2 id="jCoAXF"><strong>LendingTree Bowl</strong></h2>
<p id="kkCuoV"><strong>Louisiana 27, Miami (OH) 17</strong></p>
<p id="8NkhAH">The LendingTree Bowl was a bittersweet event, as it was the realization that the college football season was coming to a close. Miami (OH) struck first in the season’s penultimate game, but Louisiana scored touchdowns on three-straight drives extending from the end of the second quarter and deep into the third. The RedHawks suffered a couple brutal breaks, including a shockingly overturned play which resulted in a fumble. Then, on Miami’s last stand on 4th and goal at the 1, the RedHawks’ snap flew about 20 yards past quarterback <span>Brett Gabbert</span>, handing Louisiana the victory in Mobile. Miami finished 8-6 and continued the disappointing 8-game losing streak among MAC champions in bowl games. </p>
<p id="QzYGeW"><strong>Miami’s best play:</strong></p>
<p id="x6OFRk">Right after an interception was called back due to defensive pass interference on Louisiana, Miami took advantage. Brett Gabbert delivered a beautiful deep ball to James Maye. With a smaller jersey tail, perhaps Maye sneaks into the end zone on this play. But nonetheless, it’s impressive 63-yard play by the RedHawks.</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Here's the whole 63-yard passing play from Brett Gabbert to James Maye to set up the RedHawks inside the Ragin' Cajuns two-yard line! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LendingTreeBowl?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LendingTreeBowl</a> <a href="https://t.co/KjmXumc5oI">pic.twitter.com/KjmXumc5oI</a></p>— Hustle Belt (@HustleBelt) <a href="https://twitter.com/HustleBelt/status/1214388925835419653?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 7, 2020</a>
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<h2 id="lU9Nnu"><strong>All-MAC Bowl Team</strong></h2>
<div id="nkApUJ"><div data-anthem-component="table:9055569"></div></div>
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https://www.hustlebelt.com/2020/1/20/21061107/2019-mac-bowl-season-roundup-all-team-buffalo-miami-ohio-western-central-eastern-michigan-kent-stateSteve Helwick2020-01-03T06:00:00-05:002020-01-03T06:00:00-05:00How to Watch, Stream and Listen: 2019 Famous Idaho Potato Bowl
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<img alt="NCAA Football: Potato Bowl-Brigham Young vs Western Michigan" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/6QVOUYoj8wEIMApeeAuBIf-U6iw=/0x0:5184x3456/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/66016618/usa_today_11884783.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Brian Losness-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>We get to say hello to ol’ Spuddy Buddy once again, as Ohio takes on the Wolf Pack in the house potatoes built.</p> <p id="mqfLJd">It’s time for everyone’s favorite bowl game involving an anthropormorphic potato as a mascot: it’s the 2019 edition of the Famous Idaho Potato Bowl!</p>
<p id="OQqp4g">The Ohio Bobcats (6-6, 4-4 MAC) are set to play the Nevada Woldf Pack () on the blue turf of Albertsons Stadium, as both squads look to end the season on a positive note after up-and-down seasons. </p>
<p id="Boz0aM">Both teams are also looking to extend bowl winning streaks, as Ohio looks to win their second bowl game in a row, while Nevada looks to add to their current two-game win streak over the last four seasons. </p>
<p id="p7R7gh">This will be the first meeting between the two squads as well, making this bowl matchup a very unique one. </p>
<p id="VTUSLy">Here’s everything you need to know from a media standpoint:</p>
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<h2 id="sMVXun">Television and streaming</h2>
<p id="ymSWcB">The game will be broadcast nationally on ESPN, with television coverage starting at approximately 3:30 p.m. Eastern time. Anish Schroff (play-by-play), Jon Congemi (color) and Kris Budden (sideline) will provide the call for the game.</p>
<p id="ENjZLL">There are several ways to be able to watch the Famous Idaho Potato Bowl, including:</p>
<ul>
<li id="lA50WI">Cable/satellite: ESPN is available on most television packages. Check your local listings or with your provider for more information.</li>
<li id="wn9AGL">ESPN App: The game is available for streaming on the ESPN App, which is available for download on both the Google Play and Apple stores. A valid cable or satellite subscription is required for viewing. The ESPN Deportes feed is also available on the app.</li>
<li id="XfUVsC">YouTube TV: YouTube TV has ESPN available in its default package. The service runs at $49.99/month, but new customers can get a free one-week trial.</li>
<li id="p4xXSy">Sling TV: Sling offers ESPN channels as part of their Sling Orange package, <a href="https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=66960X1516590&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sling.com%2F&referrer=sbnation.com&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.hustlebelt.com%2F2019%2F12%2F7%2F20997414%2Fhow-to-watch-stream-and-listen-central-michigan-chippewas-vs-miami-redhawks-mac-title-game-2019%3FsubId1%3Dxid%3Afr1576788481062hdh%7Cxid%3Afr1576885524107aba%7Cxid%3Afr1577656925966bjj%7Cxid%3Afr1577914089420dgh&xcust=xid:fr1576788481062hdh%7Cxid:fr1576885524107aba%7Cxid:fr1577656925966bjj%7Cxid:fr1577914089420dgh" rel="sponsored nofollow noopener" target="_blank"><strong>offered for $25/month.</strong></a> If you purchase a subscription now, you can get the first month of service for 40 percent off.</li>
<li id="qTRACk">Hulu: Hulu offers a live TV package, featuring ESPN’s family of channels, which currently runs at $54.99/month. They’re currently offering a seven-day free trial, which <a href="https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=66960X1516590&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.hulu.com%2Fwelcome&referrer=sbnation.com&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.hustlebelt.com%2F2019%2F12%2F7%2F20997414%2Fhow-to-watch-stream-and-listen-central-michigan-chippewas-vs-miami-redhawks-mac-title-game-2019%3FsubId1%3Dxid%3Afr1576788481062hje%7Cxid%3Afr1576885524107efe%7Cxid%3Afr1577656925966aae%7Cxid%3Afr1577914089420hcg&xcust=xid:fr1576788481062hje%7Cxid:fr1576885524107efe%7Cxid:fr1577656925966aae%7Cxid:fr1577914089420hcg" rel="sponsored nofollow noopener" target="_blank"><strong>can be redeemed on the site</strong></a>.</li>
<li id="KaevlN">AT&T Now: AT&T Now offers a streaming package featuring the ESPN family of channels for $65/month. More details can be found <a href="https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=66960X1516590&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.atttvnow.com%2F&referrer=sbnation.com&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.hustlebelt.com%2F2019%2F12%2F7%2F20997414%2Fhow-to-watch-stream-and-listen-central-michigan-chippewas-vs-miami-redhawks-mac-title-game-2019%3FsubId1%3Dxid%3Afr1576788481062hhb%7Cxid%3Afr1576885524107ffh%7Cxid%3Afr1577656925966djj%7Cxid%3Afr1577914089421haa&xcust=xid:fr1576788481062hhb%7Cxid:fr1576885524107ffh%7Cxid:fr1577656925966djj%7Cxid:fr1577914089421haa" rel="sponsored nofollow noopener" target="_blank"><strong>here</strong></a>.</li>
</ul>
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<h2 id="JLVVQk">Terrestrial Radio/Streaming</h2>
<p id="2E2Bkv">The game will be available for a listening audience via each program’s affiliated radio stations. There will be no national radio broadcast.</p>
<ul>
<li id="j3Cz07">Ohio-centric broadcast: The WMU radio call can be found on WXTQ 105.5 FM, the Bobcats’ flagship station. Russ Eisenstein (play-by-play) and Rob Corneilius (color) will be on the call. An online stream can be found <a href="https://streamdb3web.securenetsystems.net/v5/index.cfm?stationCallSign=WXTQ">here</a>, while a list of terrestrial stations can be found <a href="https://www.ohiobobcats.com/multimedia/radio-network">here</a>.</li>
<li id="WyUJqn">Nevada-centric broadcast: The Nevada radio call can be found exclusively on CBS Sports Radio 1140 AM. John Ramey (play-by-play) and Mike Edwards (color) will be on the call. The online stream can be found <a href="https://www.radio.com/cbssportsradio1140/listen">here</a>.</li>
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<h2 id="lWKWb4">Game Notes</h2>
<ul>
<li id="GcBse6">Where/when: Albertsons Stadium in Boise, Idaho, on Friday, January 3, at 12:30 EST (11:30 local.)</li>
<li id="QHjFsf">Weather: 46 degrees and partly cloudy, with winds at 6 MPH and 57 percent humidity, per <a href="http://weather.com/"><strong>Weather.com</strong></a>.</li>
<li id="0ghoQK">Last meeting: First matchup</li>
<li id="AsHy64">Last Ohio bowl game appearance: 2018 Famous Idaho Potato Bowl (W 27-0, San Diego State)</li>
<li id="qxZZJE">Last Nevada bowl game appearance: 2018 Arizona Bowl Bowl (W 16-13 [OT], Arkansas State)</li>
<li id="765tsp">Betting odds: WKU is a 3.5-point favorite, with the over/under at 53, <a href="https://www.oddsshark.com/ncaaf/wku-western-michigan-odds-december-30-2019-1217668"><strong>per OddsShark.com</strong></a>.</li>
</ul>
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https://www.hustlebelt.com/2020/1/3/21045812/how-to-watch-stream-and-listen-2019-famous-idaho-potato-bowlJames H. Jimenez2020-01-02T16:45:00-05:002020-01-02T16:45:00-05:00Tea Time: Week 2 of #BowlSZN
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<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/UEt2zwWJD02FZ_jjStwd1y4hAN8=/0x0:1620x1080/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/66013878/Tea_Time.0.0.png" />
<figcaption>Illustration: James H. Jimenez | Screenshot: Nintendo | Mascot photographs: Big Red (Silas Grey/Getty Images) and Buster Bronco (screenshot: EA Sports) | Photograph of PJ Fleck (Screenshot: ESPN)</figcaption>
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<p>It wasn’t a great week for the MAC, while the Mountain West sits pretty at the top after a trifecta in Week 2.</p> <p id="KHctT5">Week 2 of Bowl Season was full of some of the best action of the postseason thus far. The start of the Playoff and New Year’s Six games certianly helped with that, but a lot of the lower bowls also saw plenty of dramatics. </p>
<p id="jTKJtu">The Group of Five especially had a pretty good go at it, combining for a 6-5 record in bowl games they appeared in, including two wins vs. Power Five programs and a win against a Power Five-equivalent independent. </p>
<p id="3f1nSe">There’s still time left for a few more good wins as well, with a handful of G5 vs. P5 matchups to go, and the G5 table could see significant movement in Week 3 as well. </p>
<p id="qOHdv0">Let’s check in on how things are going with our friends around the league:</p>
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<h1 id="ItwnhU">The Table</h1>
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<th align="center">Conference</th>
<th align="center">Week 1</th>
<th align="center">Week 2</th>
<th align="center">Total record</th>
<th align="center">Record vs. P5 (or equivalent)</th>
</tr>
<tr onmouseover="this.bgColor='#C7D9EC'" onmouseout="this.bgColor='#FFFFFF'">
<td align="center">Mid-American</td>
<td align="center">2-1</td>
<td align="center">0-2</td>
<td align="center">2-3</td>
<td align="center">0-1</td>
</tr>
<tr onmouseover="this.bgColor='#C7D9EC'" onmouseout="this.bgColor='#FFFFFF'">
<td align="center">Sun Belt</td>
<td align="center">2-1</td>
<td align="center">0-1</td>
<td align="center">2-2</td>
<td align="center">n/a</td>
</tr>
<tr onmouseover="this.bgColor='#C7D9EC'" onmouseout="this.bgColor='#FFFFFF'">
<td align="center">Mountain West</td>
<td align="center">1-2</td>
<td align="center">3-0</td>
<td align="center">4-2</td>
<td align="center">2-1</td>
</tr>
<tr onmouseover="this.bgColor='#C7D9EC'" onmouseout="this.bgColor='#FFFFFF'">
<td align="center">Conference USA</td>
<td align="center">1-3</td>
<td align="center">1-1</td>
<td align="center">2-4</td>
<td align="center">1-0</td>
</tr>
<tr onmouseover="this.bgColor='#C7D9EC'" onmouseout="this.bgColor='#FFFFFF'">
<td align="center">American</td>
<td align="center">0-1</td>
<td align="center">2-2</td>
<td align="center">2-3</td>
<td align="center">1-1</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</div>
<p id="FImYDy">The MAC took a couple lumps in Week 2, most notable in the Quick Lane and First Responers Bowl, which were both lost in the last minute. But that hasn’t really impacted their positioning in the table for the most part. </p>
<p id="QX4V8V">The Mountain West was easily the most successful of the G5 conferences in Week 2, scoring wins in all three matchups, including two over Power Five teams (BYU, an independent, counts as a P5 for our purposes.) </p>
<p id="F3qP4w">After going winless in the first week, the <a href="https://www.sbnation.com/college-football/teams/american">American</a> went 2-2 in Week 2, which is surely a bit of relief for the conference, which faces the touhest bowl schedule of the Group of Five.</p>
<p id="BlRC2J">With just a handful of games left, the title for Best G5 Conference of the 2019 Bowl Season is still up for grabs.</p>
<hr class="p-entry-hr" id="NtPxuE">
<h1 id="CG3DZr">The Games</h1>
<h2 id="G0Ott3">
<a href="https://www.underdogdynasty.com/2019/12/24/21036095/ucf-knights-rolls-marshall-in-a-wet-and-wild-2019-gasparilla-bowl-48-25-aac-cusa">Bad Boys Mowers Gasparilla Bowl: UCF 48, Marshall 25</a> </h2>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt="NCAA Football: Gasparilla Bowl-Central Florida vs Marshall" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/KjefFbJze2vrcffIA_NJhGatRSc=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/19569317/usa_today_13832867.jpg">
<cite>Douglas DeFelice-USA TODAY Sports</cite>
</figure>
<p id="7HGiTE">It was a sloppy and strange game in Tampa Bay’s Raymond James Stadium, as UCF cruised to a win against Marshall. Bad conditions and start-and-stop play resulted in several turnovers and a lot of chippiness as the game slipped out of control for the Thundering Herd. UCF took advantage of the turnovers and made the game all but academic by the second quarter, (recap by Underdog Dynasty’s Jake Auten)</p>
<hr class="p-entry-hr" id="ZPN7GM">
<h2 id="IDLgnE">
<a href="https://www.si.com/college/2019/12/25/hawaii-bowl-cole-mcdonald-byu-recap">Hawai’i Bowl: Hawai’i 38, BYU 34</a> </h2>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt="NCAA Football: Hawaii Bowl-Brigham Young vs Hawaii" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/3-J2UsrdM9kbJ40sdnExBs3jEJ4=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/19569334/usa_today_13836725.jpg">
<cite>Marco Garcia-USA TODAY Sports</cite>
</figure>
<p id="2hZrso">Old WAC rivals met again for the first time since 2009 when they came together for this Christmas Eve bash on the island, with the “visiting” Rainbow Warriors having to mount a comeback rally in the final minutes to take home a trophy. <span>Cole McDonald</span> tore the BYU defense apart with 495 yards and four touchdowns (with three TDs in the first half) to force BYU into keeping pace. (recap by Associated Press)</p>
<hr class="p-entry-hr" id="RftNxo">
<h2 id="looT8f">
<a href="https://www.underdogdynasty.com/2019/12/26/21038648/louisiana-tech-shuts-out-miami-in-independence-bowl-bulldogs-hurricanes-jmar-smith-connor-taylor-la">Walk-On’s Bistro Independence Bowl: Louisiana Tech 14, Miami (FL) 0</a> </h2>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt="NCAA Football: Independence Bowl-Louisiana Tech vs Miami" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/otmppX0hDhomq-I-5yel0gJ3y1s=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/19569349/usa_today_13839678.jpg">
<cite>Justin Ford-USA TODAY Sports</cite>
</figure>
<p id="xHWF7L">Louisiana Tech pulled off a Power Five “upset” over a Miami Hurricanes team which looked consistently outmatched in every aspect. LA Tech reached 10 wins on the season and continued to add onto their bowl game win streak, collecting their sixth in a row. Miami was held to a shutout in the postseason for just the third time in program history; they fired their offernsive coordinator, fomer CMU head coach Dan Enos, two days later. (recap by Underdog Dynasty’s Tanner Spearman)</p>
<hr class="p-entry-hr" id="pS8fZY">
<h2 id="xgZpEd">
<a href="https://www.hustlebelt.com/2019/12/27/21038832/2019-quick-lane-bowl-game-recap-eastern-michigan-falls-to-pitt-in-34-30-barnburner">Quick Lane Bowl: Pitt 34, Eastern Michigan 30</a> </h2>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt=" " data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/aBTC5thwrDrSO10MWTspMrlD674=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/19558116/quicklane40.jpg">
<cite>Kenneth Bailey</cite>
</figure>
<p id="Xbm62i">It was a game the Eagles dominated from the start, taking the lead early and never looking back... until the final minute, when <span>Kenny Pickett</span> hit <span>Taysir Mack</span> for a Randy Moss-esque one-handed touchdown to put Pitt up by four with less than a minute to go. It was yet another one-score bowl game loss for EMU, who’s still looking for their first postseason win since 1987. <span>Mike Glass III</span>’s punching fit putting an exclamation mark on the meltdown (recap by Hustle Belt’s Kenneth Bailey)</p>
<hr class="p-entry-hr" id="okydBO">
<h2 id="YRo6vk">
<a href="https://www.underdogdynasty.com/2019/12/28/21040294/temple-owls-thrashed-by-north-carolina-tar-heels-55-13-consecutive-embarrassing-bowl-game-losses-unc">Military Bowl: UNC 55, Temple 13</a> </h2>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt="NCAA Football: Military Bowl-North Carolina vs Temple" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/pTJXHd1Ivpc0XO8ZjH_qth8OTTs=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/19569385/usa_today_13841480.jpg">
<cite>Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports</cite>
</figure>
<p id="anqLkV">Rod Carey’s first outing as head coach of the <a href="https://www.sbnation.com/college-football/teams/temple-owls">Temple Owls</a> didn’t quite go to plan, as UNC scored 31-straight points to lock the game down by the third quarter after Temple put the game at 10-6 in the second quarter. It’s Temple’s second-straight loss to an ACC team—and their second bowl game giving up 50+ points. (recap by Underdog Dynasty’s Joe Serpico)</p>
<hr class="p-entry-hr" id="L5evew">
<p id="KKwk8K"><a href="https://collegefootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2019/12/28/air-force-closes-out-2019-by-beating-washington-state-in-cheez-it-bowl/">Cheez-It Bowl: Air Force 31, Washington State 21</a> </p>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt="NCAA Football: Cheez-It Bowl-Air Force vs Washington State" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/5w6gI5NoWb9KZpOagg7D7JVWr9w=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/19569396/usa_today_13843565.jpg">
<cite>Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports</cite>
</figure>
<p id="MQKrqQ">There’s an old adage that it’s hard to score if you don’t have the ball, and that’s what Washington State learned the hard way. Air Force’s triple option befuddled the Wazzu defense, as the Falcons would hold onto the ball for nearly 45 minutes en route to a double-digit victory. Kadin Remsburg (178 yards, one touchdown) and <span>Taven Birdow</span> (108 yards, one touchdown) combined for nearly 300 yards on the ground from the tailback position. (recap by NBC Sports’ Bryan Fischer)</p>
<hr class="p-entry-hr" id="TASiCc">
<h2 id="HDMN2f">
<a href="https://www.underdogdynasty.com/2019/12/28/21040703/penn-state-nittany-lions-rushing-edges-memphis-tigers-53-39-exhilarating-cotton-bowl-shootout-recap">Cotton Bowl Classic: #10 Penn State 53, #17 Memphis 39</a> </h2>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt="NCAA Football: Cotton Bowl Classic-Memphis vs Penn State" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/z3JKERCwIMGL5ZqrROwPmiAAXmE=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/19569435/usa_today_13844718.jpg">
<cite>Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports</cite>
</figure>
<p id="EqYkGP">The Memphis Tigets punched first, quickly running away with a 13-7 lead over Penn State to start the game off in style. It all fell apart in the seconde quarter, however, as the Nittany Lions picked up 28 points before the half to take a 35-23 lead into the break. Memphis couldn’t get an offensive rhythm going in the second half, as the PSU defense ramped up intensely to secure the win. (recap by Hustle Belt’s Steve Helwick for Underdog Dynasty)</p>
<hr class="p-entry-hr" id="YGELQw">
<h2 id="ZitwFM">
<a href="https://www.hustlebelt.com/2019/12/30/21043588/2019-first-responder-bowl-recap-wku-hilltoppers-stun-western-michigan-broncos-23-20-field-goal">SERVPRO First Responders Bowl: WKU 23, Western Michigan 20</a> </h2>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt="NCAA Football: First Responder Bowl-Western Kentucky vs Western Michigan" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/4o7f3_yUoDnYQDMX0QBHx3MfzkM=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/19569456/usa_today_13854836.jpg">
<cite>Tim Flores-USA TODAY Sports</cite>
</figure>
<p id="hJ35ro">Western Michigan found themselves on the wrong end of a one-possession loss with stakes yet again to end the season in the First Responders Bowl, as they sat helplessly watching WKU win the game in walk-off fashion thanks to an untimed down. The penalty was a result of having 12 men on the field on a WKU Hail Mary attempt, which would have forced overtime otherwise. WMU wouldn’t have been in this position in the first place if not for a series of bungled plays the possession before. It was another strange game which left WMU fans asking a lot of questions. (recap by Hustle Belt’s Steve Helwick)</p>
<hr class="p-entry-hr" id="qVPeKl">
<h2 id="x5S4EN">
<a href="https://www.againstallenemies.com/2019/12/31/21045157/navy-football-defeats-kansas-state-in-the-liberty-bowl">Auto Zone Liberty Bowl: Navy 20, Kansas State 17</a> </h2>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt="NCAA Football: Liberty Bowl-Navy vs Kansas State" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/MQMGu90fweLMYvNktmK3DJaWwsk=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/19569492/usa_today_13858375.jpg">
<cite>Justin Ford-USA TODAY Sports</cite>
</figure>
<p id="HHs3M2">Navy pulled out all the stops against Kansas State, including a trick pass to set up the game-winning field goal, to take home the Liberty Bowl in dramatic fashion. The win was a feather in the cap for one of the better teams in college football this season, as the Midshipmen close the year with 11 wins and (likely) another ranking in the final polls. (recap by Against All Enemies’ Rocky Dobson)</p>
<hr class="p-entry-hr" id="FTNVgf">
<h2 id="OxnD02">
<a href="https://www.timesherald.com/sports/national/arizona-bowl-recap/article_d8daea74-48c0-5acd-abd6-355446e2534a.html">NOVA Home Loans Arizona Bowl: Wyoming 38, Georgia State 17</a> </h2>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt="NCAA Football: Arizona Bowl-Wyoming vs Georgia State" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/z8HDRIF3yE9RtSi6M5udr2w3Exg=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/19569508/usa_today_13858548.jpg">
<cite>Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports</cite>
</figure>
<p id="2v8voV"><span>Levi Williams</span> and <span>Xazavian Valladay</span> combined for six touchdowns on the day as the Cowboys overwhelmed the Panthers early and often. It was a bang-up debut for <span>Williams</span>, who made his first start at QB after spending the entire regular season on the scout team. His 234 yards and four total touchdowns (three passing, one rushing) helped pace the offense, while <span>Valladay</span> added on 234 rushign yards (63 receiving) and two TDs as well. (recap by Arizona Daily Star reporter Michael Kev)</p>
<hr class="p-entry-hr" id="0cdZ7J">
<h1 id="IByd1a">Looking Ahead</h1>
<p id="7LWu8S">With no guest commentators this week, we’ll look ahead to the last games of the season instead, giving you a schedule of the games to come, as well as linking to any previews from our partner blogs, if available. All times are Eastern.</p>
<ul>
<li id="Rz0n9J">Birmingham Bowl: <a href="https://www.bcinterruption.com/2020/1/1/21045178/birmingham-bowl-preview-boston-college-vs-cincinnati">(AAC) Cincinnatti vs. (ACC) Boston College</a> (postponed as of publication)</li>
<li id="ps1bss">Armed Forces Bowl: <a href="https://www.underdogdynasty.com/2020/1/1/21044301/armed-forces-bowl-preview-tulane-green-wave-southern-miss-golden-eagles-preview-aac-cusa-analysis">(AAC) Tulane vs. (CUSA) Southern Miss</a> (Jan. 4, 11:30 a.m.)</li>
<li id="nWJQW4">Famous Idaho Potato Bowl: <a href="https://www.hustlebelt.com/2019/12/29/21041203/2019-famous-idaho-potato-bowl-game-preview-ohio-bobcats-vs-nevada-wolf-pack">(MAC) Ohio vs. (MWC) Nevada</a> (Jan. 3, 3:30 p.m.)</li>
<li id="CQTNOw">Mobile Bowl: (MAC) Miami vs. (SBC) UL-Lafayette (Jan. 6, 7:30 p.m.)</li>
</ul>
<p id="NN4pqj"></p>
<p id="9bWZ7h"></p>
https://www.hustlebelt.com/2020/1/2/21043639/group-of-five-bowl-college-football-bowl-games-recap-week-2-2019-tea-timeJames H. Jimenez2019-12-30T06:15:00-05:002019-12-30T06:15:00-05:00How to Watch, Stream and Listen: 2019 First Responder Bowl
<figure>
<img alt="NCAA Football: SERVPRO First Responder Bowl-Boston College vs Boise State" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/AgW1GfDxU1Lo4yArnyMnsXg4dHc=/0x0:3395x2263/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/65992870/usa_today_11899450.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>It’s the first edition of the First Responder Bowl! (Shhh, just go with it.) Here’s all you need to know to take it in. </p> <p id="bg9BfY">It’s a battle for Western supremacy, as Western Michigan (7-5, 5-3 MAC) and Western Kentucky (8-4, 6-2 Conference USA) meet up in the old Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Texas, to face off in the second annual First Responder Bowl. </p>
<p id="OkskGR">The two Westerns are former rivals, as Broncos faced the Hilltoppers nine times as an independent program, and lead the series 11-3-1 all-time. The last game between these teams was back in 1947, a game won by the Broncos by a final of 38-0. The Broncos joined the newly-formed Mid-American Conference in the next season after the MAC lost a handful of charter programs. </p>
<p id="0JrrIv">The Broncos (once called the Hilltoppers prior to 1939) look to make it four-straight in the long-dormant series when they take on Western Kentucky in this bowl game matchup. </p>
<p id="fHDUjK">It’s been a fantastic season for first-year head coach Tyson Helton, who’s led the Hilltoppers to an eight-win campaign in 2019, a season removed from 3-9 in 2018. The former offensive coordinator at Tennessee, Helton (brother of USC head coach Clay) made his mark quickly, picking up a 45-19 win vs. Arkansas, and coming within a gme of the CUSA title game. </p>
<p id="UyOMXd">Tim Lester enters a pivotal third season at Western, with the last of the players from the 2016 Cotton Bowl appearance graduating after this game, including all-MAC first-teamer LeVante Bellamy, who is near the top of the chart in rushing touchdowns (23.) The Broncos limped to a 7-5 finish with an upset loss to NIU in conference play, which took them out of MAC title game contention, but they’ll look to right the ship with a win vs. WKU in a familiar place. </p>
<p id="XKKBTh">Here’s all the media information you’ll need to watch, listen, or stream today’s action:</p>
<hr class="p-entry-hr" id="L5YfO7">
<h2 id="mqfLJd">Television and streaming</h2>
<p id="ymSWcB">The game will be broadcast nationally on ESPN, with television coverage starting at approximately 12:30 p.m. Eastern time. Dave Neal (play-by-play), DJ Shockley (color) and Dawn Davenport (sideline) will provide the call for the game.</p>
<p id="ENjZLL">There are several ways to be able to watch the First Responder Bowl, including:</p>
<ul>
<li id="lA50WI">Cable/satellite: ESPN is available on most television packages. Check your local listings or with your provider for more information.</li>
<li id="wn9AGL">ESPN App: The game is available for streaming on the ESPN App, which is available for download on both the Google Play and Apple stores. A valid cable or satellite subscription is required for viewing. The ESPN Deportes feed is also available on the app.</li>
<li id="XfUVsC">YouTube TV: YouTube TV has ESPN available in its default package. The service runs at $49.99/month, but new customers can get a free one-week trial.</li>
<li id="p4xXSy">Sling TV: Sling offers ESPN channels as part of their Sling Orange package, <a href="https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=66960X1516590&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sling.com%2F&referrer=sbnation.com&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.hustlebelt.com%2F2019%2F12%2F7%2F20997414%2Fhow-to-watch-stream-and-listen-central-michigan-chippewas-vs-miami-redhawks-mac-title-game-2019%3FsubId1%3Dxid%3Afr1576788481062hdh%7Cxid%3Afr1576885524107aba%7Cxid%3Afr1577656925966bjj&xcust=xid:fr1576788481062hdh%7Cxid:fr1576885524107aba%7Cxid:fr1577656925966bjj" rel="sponsored nofollow noopener" target="_blank"><strong>offered for $25/month.</strong></a> If you purchase a subscription now, you can get the first month of service for 40 percent off.</li>
<li id="qTRACk">Hulu: Hulu offers a live TV package, featuring ESPN’s family of channels, which currently runs at $54.99/month. They’re currently offering a seven-day free trial, which <a href="https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=66960X1516590&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.hulu.com%2Fwelcome&referrer=sbnation.com&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.hustlebelt.com%2F2019%2F12%2F7%2F20997414%2Fhow-to-watch-stream-and-listen-central-michigan-chippewas-vs-miami-redhawks-mac-title-game-2019%3FsubId1%3Dxid%3Afr1576788481062hje%7Cxid%3Afr1576885524107efe%7Cxid%3Afr1577656925966aae&xcust=xid:fr1576788481062hje%7Cxid:fr1576885524107efe%7Cxid:fr1577656925966aae" rel="sponsored nofollow noopener" target="_blank"><strong>can be redeemed on the site</strong></a>.</li>
<li id="KaevlN">AT&T Now: AT&T Now offers a streaming package featuring the ESPN family of channels for $65/month. More details can be found <a href="https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=66960X1516590&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.atttvnow.com%2F&referrer=sbnation.com&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.hustlebelt.com%2F2019%2F12%2F7%2F20997414%2Fhow-to-watch-stream-and-listen-central-michigan-chippewas-vs-miami-redhawks-mac-title-game-2019%3FsubId1%3Dxid%3Afr1576788481062hhb%7Cxid%3Afr1576885524107ffh%7Cxid%3Afr1577656925966djj&xcust=xid:fr1576788481062hhb%7Cxid:fr1576885524107ffh%7Cxid:fr1577656925966djj" rel="sponsored nofollow noopener" target="_blank"><strong>here</strong></a>.</li>
</ul>
<hr class="p-entry-hr" id="7TEkdJ">
<h2 id="JLVVQk">Terrestrial Radio/Streaming</h2>
<p id="2E2Bkv">The game will be available for a listening audience via each program’s affiliated radio stations. There will be no national radio broadcast.</p>
<ul>
<li id="j3Cz07">Western Michigan-centric broadcast: The WMU radio call can be found on WKZO 106.9 FM/560 AM, the Broncos’ flagship station. Robin Hook (play-by-play) and John Creek (color) will be on the call. An online stream can be found <a href="http://player.listenlive.co/29131">here</a>, while a list of terrestrial stations can be found <a href="https://wmubroncos.com/sports/2007/8/8/1148743.aspx">here</a>. </li>
<li id="WyUJqn">Western Kentucky-centric broadcast: The WKU radio call can be found on ESPN 102.7 Bowling Green, Hilltoppers’ flagship station. Randy Lee (play-by-play) and Leo Peckenpaugh (color) will be on the call. The online stream can be found <a href="https://espnky.com/wwku/">here</a>, while a list of terrestrial stations can be found <a href="https://wkusports.com/sports/2017/6/8/ot-radio-affiliates-html.aspx">here</a>. </li>
</ul>
<hr class="p-entry-hr" id="AfabvN">
<h2 id="lWKWb4">Game Notes</h2>
<ul>
<li id="GcBse6">Where/when: Gerald Ford Stadium in Dallas, Texas, on Monday, December 30, at 12:30 EST (11:30 local.)</li>
<li id="QHjFsf">Weather: 53 degrees and sunny, with winds at 10 MPH and 33 percent humidity, per <a href="http://weather.com/"><strong>Weather.com</strong></a>.</li>
<li id="0ghoQK">Last meeting: Western Michigan 38, Western Kentucky 30 (1947)</li>
<li id="AsHy64">Last WMU bowl game appearance: 2018 Famous Idaho Potato Bowl (L 18-49, BYU)</li>
<li id="RyTA7O">Last WMU bowl game win: 2015 Bahamas Bowl (45-31, Middle Tennessee)</li>
<li id="qxZZJE">Last WKU bowl game appearance: 2017 Cure Bowl (L, 17-27, Georgia State)</li>
<li id="Z4uXjS">Last WKU bowl game win: 2016 Boca Raton Bowl (51-31, Memphis)</li>
<li id="765tsp">Betting odds: WKU is a 3.5-point favorite, with the over/under at 53, <a href="https://www.oddsshark.com/ncaaf/wku-western-michigan-odds-december-30-2019-1217668">per OddsShark.com</a>.</li>
</ul>
<p id="jrIapf"></p>
https://www.hustlebelt.com/2019/12/30/21041837/how-to-watch-stream-and-listen-2019-first-responder-bowlJames H. Jimenez2019-12-29T17:00:15-05:002019-12-29T17:00:15-05:00In Pictures: 2019 Quick Lane Bowl
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/h2LKFUCIfS4gk6QILsZ9SnpoYCY=/0x0:1095x730/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/65984674/quicklane48.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Kenneth Bailey</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>If a picture is worth 1,000 words, this post is worth 63,000</p> <p id="DAUOC0">Even though I’m not happy with the result, I still had fun at the game this week. </p>
<p id="plKPTt">I was actually thinking of bringing my bigger lens but the lens I used let me get some of the tighter endzone shots and what not.</p>
<p id="o82to4">Generally when I do a game, I try to get shots for both sides of the game. That means a lot of walking on my end. I also try to get some different angles when possible. That’s pretty easy to do at Rynearson when I pretty much have the run of the field. It’s a little more difficult at other places.</p>
<p id="zbB281">Anyway, enjoy my pictures.</p>
<div id="gZvqJt"><div data-anthem-component="gallery:9022712"></div></div>
<p id="nKOX7V"></p>
https://www.hustlebelt.com/2019/12/29/21040020/in-pictures-2019-quick-lane-bowl-pittsburgh-panthers-eastern-michigan-eagles-football-galleryKenneth Bailey2019-12-29T15:00:00-05:002019-12-29T15:00:00-05:002019 Famous Idaho Potato Bowl Game Preview: Ohio Bobcats vs. Nevada Wolf Pack
<figure>
<img alt="NCAA Football: Frisco Bowl-Ohio vs San Diego State" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/O96gueRpVck3lYQhmur38niz2A4=/0x0:3786x2524/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/65983989/usa_today_11877067.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Why bowl games are like chicken wings and other good reasons to watch...</p> <p id="jiyBLF">There are several reasons to tune in to the Famous Idaho Potato Bowl to see the Ohio Bobcats (6-6, 5-3 MAC) take on the <a href="https://www.sbnation.com/college-football/teams/nevada-wolf-pack">Nevada Wolf Pack</a> (7-5, 4-4 MW). </p>
<p id="ks9Clt">For instance, when asked for his reaction to Nevada being selected to play in a bowl game this year, head coach Jay Norvell offered<strong> </strong><a href="https://www.pscp.tv/w/1RDGlNvjvylxL"><strong>this</strong></a>: </p>
<div class="c-float-right"><aside id="Co53I8"><q>Bowl games are like chicken wings: there are no bad bowl games.”</q></aside></div>
<p id="rsyvoY">And while the folks sponsoring the Famous Idaho Potato Bowl might have preferred an Idaho potato comparison instead of a chicken wing comparison, I’d wager they’d still agree with the principle of it. (After all, chicken and potatoes compliment each other pretty well.)</p>
<p id="Z2mj8r">Take for example the Kent State’s 51-41 win over Utah State in the 2019 Tropical Smoothie Café Frisco Bowl. Picked by several major publications to be one of the “<a href="https://www.sportingnews.com/us/ncaa-football/news/college-football-bowl-games-rankings-2019-20/1idy49bx5bc4o15pt3ogteesrd"><strong>worst</strong></a>” bowl games of 2019-20, it turned out to be pretty darn good game; a physical, thrilling, highly-contested match from beginning to end--it was a highly entertaining game to watch. </p>
<p id="5r8OBS">And although clearly team win for Kent State, college football fans were treated to what could have been the emergence of Kent State’s QB <span>Dustin Crum</span> as the next great MAC QB. <span>Crum</span> may not turn out to play in the NFL like Chad Pennington, Ben Roethlisberger, Charlie Batch, Byron Leftwich, Charlie Batch, or other MAC greats, but his performance left no doubt he could play big in big games. Playing for the first bowl win in program history, <span>Crum</span> completed 80% of his passes for 289 yards and two scores while rushing for 147 more and the game-clinching score on fourth and one late in the fourth quarter.</p>
<p id="CzyTgd">So, what are storylines worth watching in the Famous Idaho Potato Bowl? </p>
<p id="TQUoPX">For openers, the both teams are looking to build on recent bowl success. </p>
<p id="0nRKwz">Until the <a href="https://www.ubbullrun.com/">Buffalo Bulls</a> and <a href="https://www.sbnation.com/college-football/teams/kent-st-golden-flashes">Kent State Golden Flashes</a> won their first bowl games in 2019, Ohio had carried the torch for the MAC in bowl games so to speak, being the only team to win a bowl game between 2016-18.</p>
<p id="3Wpz84">Ohio had notable bowl games in 2017 and 2018, winning back-to-back bowl games for the first time in program history and in convincing fashion; Ohio beat the <a href="https://www.sbnation.com/college-football/teams/uab-blazers">UAB Blazers</a> and San Diego Aztecs by a combined 68-6, including the first shutout by a MAC team in bowl history (27-0 win over the San Diego Aztecs in the 2018 Frisco Bowl).</p>
<p id="SEboGD">If Ohio can beat Nevada, they will tie the MAC record for current MAC teams with <a href="https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/conferences/mac/bowls.html"><strong>three consecutive bowl wins</strong></a>. The <a href="https://www.sbnation.com/college-football/teams/toledo-rockets">Toledo Rockets</a> won the Tangerine Bowl three straight years from 1969-1971. Not to be outdone, the Miami RedHawks won the Tangerine Bowl three straight years from 1973-1975, including wins over <a href="https://www.dawgsports.com/">Georgia Bulldogs</a> and <a href="https://www.alligatorarmy.com/">Florida Gators</a>.</p>
<p id="BbXm9m">The all-time record for consecutive MAC bowl wins was set by former MAC member <a href="https://www.sbnation.com/college-football/teams/marshall-thundering-herd">Marshall Thundering Herd</a>, who won five straight bowls from 1997-2002. </p>
<p id="nAeCkw">If Nevada beats Ohio, the Wolf Pack will win back-to-back bowls for the first time in program history.</p>
<p id="Na2jDj">The game is also the final time to see two of Ohio’s all-time greatest player suit up for the Bobcats. </p>
<p id="u25BQf">QB <span>Nathan Rourke</span> is arguably one of the greatest QBs in Ohio history, owning the record for most touchdowns accounted for in a career with 110 (60 passing, 48 rushing, 2 receiving). Rourke’s career touchdowns accounted for shattered the previous Ohio record of 83 by Ohio great <span>Tyler Tettleton</span>. This season, Rourke ranks 16<sup>th</sup> in the FBS in <a href="http://stats.ncaa.org/rankings/change_sport_year_div"><strong>points accounted for</strong></a> per game with 16.5. </p>
<p id="X2pb3R">Rourke is also one of the most productive rushers in MAC history. Rourke’s career average of 6.1 yards per rushing attempt is tied for 8<sup>th</sup> in the <a href="https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/conferences/mac/leaders/rush-yds-per-att-player-career.html"><strong>MAC since 1962</strong></a>. </p>
<p id="nMmlZ1">Finally, with an average outing vs Nevada, Rourke will surpass 10,000 total yards for his Ohio career; currently, Rourke has <a href="https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/players/nathan-rourke-1.html"><strong>9,898</strong></a> career yards (7,313 yards passing, 2,547 yards rushing, and 38 yards receiving). </p>
<p id="TzymEY">Senior safety Javon Hagan burst onto the scene his freshman year, winning MAC Freshman of The Year honors in 2016-17, helping Ohio win a MAC East Title. Hagan’s hallmark is his versatility and Ohio has used him successfully all over the field; for example, as an extra defender in the box, in man coverage on slot receivers, and in zone coverage as a single-deep defender. Hagan goes into the contest against Nevada with impressive <a href="https://www.ohiobobcats.com/sports/fball/2018-19/bios/hagan_javon_8oz1?view=career&pos=d"><strong>career stat</strong> <strong>totals</strong></a>: 315 tackles, 8.5 tackles for loss, 9 forced fumbles, 4 fumble recoveries, 6 interceptions, and 26 pass breakups. </p>
<hr class="p-entry-hr" id="AURZZX">
<p id="HTWM3E"><strong>When the Ohio Bobcats have the ball</strong></p>
<p id="8GCn8U">Ohio has been one of the most productive offenses in the FBS in the last three seasons, finishing 9<sup>th</sup>, 12<sup>th</sup>, and 20<sup>th</sup> in scoring offense each season, respectively. The Bobcats averaged 34.7 points per contest this year. What Ohio is going to do offensively has not changed much over that period of time. Ohio will typically run the ball more than throw, with an assortment of dives, runs between the guards and tackles, and options which test the defense all along the defensive front.</p>
<p id="l8K6W8">Along with Rourke, who leads the Bobcats with 12 rushing touchdowns, Ohio has primarily used a two-back system with freshman <span>O’Shaan Allison</span> leading with 823 yards rushing and 6.4 yards per carry. Allison’s yards per carry average is tied for 15<sup>th</sup> best in the FBS in 2019. RB De’Montre Tuggle has played well in relief, contributing 547 yards and 10 scores.</p>
<p id="FqWBQ9">Ohio will work off the run and take some shots down field, looking for some chunk plays in the passing game. Ohio has been successful in moving the ball in chunks through the air in the last three years, ranking 13<sup>th</sup>, 20<sup>th</sup>, and 23<sup>rd</sup> in the FBS in passing yards per completion.</p>
<p id="0KNsH7">Opponents have successfully hit deep posts or streaks against Nevada’s defense this year and I expect Ohio to take some similar shots. </p>
<p id="CNtetg">Depending on who is healthy for Ohio, the Bobcats have the players to go deep, including two WRs in the top ten in the MAC this season in yards per catch for receivers who had a minimum of 20 receptions. Freshman WR <span>Shane Hooks</span> led the MAC this year with 19.8 yards per catch. <span>Isiah Cox</span> ranked seventh with 16.4 yards per reception.</p>
<p id="0rCvCk">Nevada will have to find a way to overcome the loss of four key defensive players from a defense already allowing 32.1 points per game. Defensive backs <span>Austin Arnold</span> and <span>Daniel Brown</span> and defensive lineman <span>Hausia Sekona</span> were <a href="https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/schools/nevada/2019.html"><strong>suspended</strong></a> for the bowl game for participation in a brawl that occurred at the end of the last game against rival UNLV. Linebacker Gabe Sewell is suspending for the first half of the game. Arnold, Brown, Sekona, and Sewell had appeared in a combined 45 games for Nevada this season, so the loss of these players will likely be felt by the Nevada defense.</p>
<hr class="p-entry-hr" id="yvplUz">
<p id="eXzdXC"><strong>When Nevada Wolf Pack has the ball</strong></p>
<p id="sl5yoc">Nevada features a young battery which sparks Nevada’s attack and bodes well for the future in freshman QB <span>Carson Strong</span> and sophomore RB <span>Toa Taua</span>. </p>
<p id="k2K08l">The Wolf Pack used three QBs this year but settled on Strong, who delivered with 1,933 yards passing, completing 63.4% of his passes with ten touchdowns against only seven interceptions. Nevada has not used <span>Strong</span> as a regular threat in the running game as Strong only has a net 22 yards rushing on the season, but Strong has shown he can scramble to keep the chains moving if the pocket breaks down.</p>
<p id="0Ls08m">Nevada’s attack is more balanced, running and passing about 50% of the time. </p>
<p id="e0lcQy">Like Ohio, Nevada features two primary running backs.</p>
<p id="94PDNW">Taua, the Mountain West Freshman of The Year in 2018, led the Pack in rushing with 759 yards and six touchdowns. Taua might remind Ohio fans of former Bobcat running back <span>A.J. Ouellette</span>: Taua, at 5’9,” 210 pounds, runs with surprising speed and finishes plays with physicality when needed.</p>
<p id="HjveQb">In short yardage, goal line, or to spell Taua, Nevada uses 230-pound power back <span>Devonte Lee</span>. Lee has proved effective in his roll, scoring six touchdowns on the season.</p>
<p id="wzCN1a">When Nevada throws the ball, they have a big target in 6’4” WR <span>Elijah Cooks</span>, who leads the team with 62 receptions this year for 729 yards and seven touchdowns. When in the red zone, look for the Wolf Pack to take a shot or two on the fade route to Cooks, whose height gives him an advantage in jump balls. Ohio’s starting corners are listed under six-feet tall.</p>
<p id="6ttKws">Nevada WR <span>Romeo Doubs</span> could be a factor if he can play: he is currently listed as questionable due to a shoulder injury which caused him to miss regular season finale vs UNLV. Doubs had come on strong in the last three games he played, catching 20 passes for 242 yards and three touchdowns. Doubs involvement had increase significantly at the end of the season when you consider he had 20 receptions in his last three games compared with 24 receptions in his first eight games.</p>
<p id="P9MVyA">Head Coach Jay Norvell <a href="http://nevadasportsnet.com/news/reporters/nevadas-jay-norvell-explains-why-hes-taken-a-larger-role-in-play-calling"><strong>reportedly</strong></a><strong> </strong>assumed more of the play calling duties in the last four games and the Wolf Pack have scored seven more points per game during that span compared with the first eight games of the year (26 vs 19 points per game). The jury is out on how much is improvement by the Nevada offense and how much is due to strength of schedule because the winning percentage of Nevada’s opponents in the first eight game was significantly better than in the last four games. Nevada’s first eight opponents combined to win 51% of their games this season while Nevada’s last four opponents have combined to win only 40% of their games.</p>
<hr class="p-entry-hr" id="XQEFat">
<p id="GSu4l1"><strong>Game Notes</strong></p>
<ul>
<li id="yNvmEJ">Where/when: Friday, January 3rd, at 3:30 EST (1:30 local) at Albertsons Stadium in Boise, Idaho</li>
<li id="d4jMi5">How to watch: The game will be televised on ESPN, and can be streamed on the ESPN App (with valid cable subscription.)</li>
<li id="jZMygT">Weather: 43 degrees at kickoff, with winds around 12 MPH thorough out. 40 percent chance of precipitation. (Per Weather.com.)</li>
<li id="jLgeX2">Odds: Ohio is an 8 point favorite, with an expected over/under of 58.5, per <a href="https://www.oddsshark.com/ncaaf/utah-state-kent-state-odds-december-20-2019-1217613"><strong>OddsShark.com</strong></a>. ESPN.com gives Ohio a “70% chance” to win the game.</li>
</ul>
<hr class="p-entry-hr" id="r0RA0l">
<p id="RGQpmp"><strong>Prediction</strong></p>
<p id="ifNYxS">Ohio will cover the spread against Nevada if the Bobcats finish near even in the turnover margin. Ohio has one of the most productive offenses in the FBS in terms of points scored and Nevada is missing several key defenders due to the suspensions. </p>
<p id="6OdkXP">Ohio has been vulnerable at times against the run this year and Nevada may find some success there but not enough to keep pace with Ohio’s offense. Ohio has prepared well for recent bowls, beating its last two opponents by a combined score of 68-6. I see the Bobcats making it three bowl wins in a row by a score of 44-17.</p>
https://www.hustlebelt.com/2019/12/29/21041203/2019-famous-idaho-potato-bowl-game-preview-ohio-bobcats-vs-nevada-wolf-packKeith Gregorski2019-12-27T14:14:06-05:002019-12-27T14:14:06-05:002019 Quick Lane Bowl Game Recap: EMU falls to Pitt on a last minute drive
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<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/yZVwG-kjc2r4bTkB8IWDdKoNd2Q=/0x0:1095x730/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/65977238/recap.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>For a brief moment, it seemed like Eastern Michigan would pull this thing off. | Kenneth Bailey</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>In a hard fought match, Eastern Michigan comes up short.</p> <p id="cagAhV">On Thursday night, I saw something I never thought I would see in my life. </p>
<p id="IB0ujx">The reported attendance was 34,765 which turned out to be a QuickLane Bowl record. By my reckoning, well over half of those people were Eastern Michigan fans. I never thought I would see that many Eastern Michigan fans in one place for a sporting event but it happened and it was nice. </p>
<p id="rR5fA8">I would love to see that number at Rynearson next season. The crowd was loud and supported their team for every second of the game.</p>
<p id="Hi0iZb">Eastern Michigan would start the scoring off a <span>Chad Ryland</span> field goal. They would come to a 10-0 lead after a three yard run from Mike Glass. After a Pittsburgh field goal and touchdown, the game was tied. The Pittsburgh touchdown came when Eastern Michigan pinned the Panthers deep and quarterback <span>Kenny Pickett</span> would connect with <span>Maurice Ffrench</span> for a 96 yard strike. The next series would bring Eastern the 17-10 lead after a Mike Glass pass bounced off the Pittsburgh defender into the waiting hands of <span>Quian Williams</span> for a 50 yard strike. Eastern Michigan would take a 20-17 lead into the locker room at halftime.</p>
<p id="ie10JL">After exchanging scores, Eastern Michigan would have a 30-27 lead with 6 minutes left in the game. At that point, it looked like Eastern Michigan would pull it off. I felt the excitement of a crowd that watched one of college football’s worst teams break the shackles of awfulness. It felt like it would be a crowning moment on Coach Creighton’s career at Eastern Michigan. He would finally get his elusive bowl victory. He would get another Power Five win. </p>
<p id="rHldEr">A 25-yard pass from Kenny Pickett to <span>Taysir Mack</span> would change that with 47 seconds left in the game, a one-handed, SportsCenter Top 10-worthy grab which took the air out of the building. With their last gasp, Eastern Michigan would try to mount a comeback but a frustrated <span>Mike Glass III</span> would come out (literally) swinging after getting sacked in the waning moments, and the ensuing <span>Preston Hutchinson</span> pass would fall short to give Pittsburgh the chance to line up in the victory formation.</p>
<p id="gubep8">Kenny Pickett would end the game 27-of-39 for 361 yards and three touchdowns. Eastern Michigan managed to reach him 3 times and caused him to fumble once. <span>Vincent Davis</span> would get 69 yards on the ground with one touchdown. <span>Mike Glass III</span> would end up going 28-of-50 for 311 yards, two touchdowns and one pick. <span>Mike Glass III</span> would also lead Eastern Michigan’s rushers with 83 yards. <span>Shaq Vann</span> would add another 48 yards to that total. Both teams used a multitude of receivers.</p>
<p id="rioe8x">All in all, it was a pretty good game but a shame that Eastern Michigan came up short.</p>
https://www.hustlebelt.com/2019/12/27/21038832/2019-quick-lane-bowl-game-recap-eastern-michigan-falls-to-pitt-in-34-30-barnburnerKenneth Bailey2019-12-24T16:30:00-05:002019-12-24T16:30:00-05:00Tea Time: Checking on the G5 after Week 1 of #BowlSZN
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/9__YY915aw1dzaOTtAQJoggLsAM=/0x0:1620x1080/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/65966514/Panther_Tears.0.png" />
<figcaption>James H. Jimenez (illustration), Mascot images: Boyd Ivey (Icon Sportswire/Getty), Florida Atlantic University and Appalachian State University</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>We look back at a wild week in Group of Five football, as the MAC unexpectedly finds itself near the top of the leaderboard.</p> <p id="ZFsZH6">Bowl season is here, and with it, the measuring-stick aspect of cheering on your conference so you can win the offseason arguments with your friends about if your conference really is better than theirs (hello, SEC fans,)</p>
<p id="nopYal">The Group of Five is a very unique set-up; they’re all fans of more intimate programs, and know they probably don’t have a chance at playing for the national title. That makes bowl season a bit different for them, then. It’s a chance to prove their teams are deserving of attention, especially against Power Five teams. A P5 “upset” is something every G5 conference can take pride in, regardless of affiliation. </p>
<p id="oXsD62">That doesn’t mean there isn’t a bit of a fraternal rivalry between the various G5 conferences. The bowl season can be a great measure of a conference’s mettle; is the parity of a conference (like the MAC) an indication of mediocrity or strength? Has a conference gotten better or worst comapred to last season? This is the time of year where theose questions can be answered. </p>
<p id="dynm7x">So with that in mind, let’s check out the official standings so far: </p>
<hr class="p-entry-hr" id="jKf6fG">
<h1 id="u3ayxN">The Table</h1>
<p id="tmDTkJ">Here are the standings, current as of Monday morning:</p>
<div id="5q1b8s">
<script src="https://cdn3.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/7447791/sorttable.0.js"></script><table class="sortable" width="" border="" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0">
<tbody>
<tr bgcolor="#EDF1F3">
<th align="center">Conference</th>
<th align="center">Bowl record (Wk. 1)</th>
<th align="center">Total record</th>
</tr>
<tr onmouseover="this.bgColor='#C7D9EC'" onmouseout="this.bgColor='#FFFFFF'">
<td align="center">Mid-American</td>
<td align="center">2-1</td>
<td align="center">2-1</td>
</tr>
<tr onmouseover="this.bgColor='#C7D9EC'" onmouseout="this.bgColor='#FFFFFF'">
<td align="center">Sun Belt</td>
<td align="center">2-1</td>
<td align="center">2-1</td>
</tr>
<tr onmouseover="this.bgColor='#C7D9EC'" onmouseout="this.bgColor='#FFFFFF'">
<td align="center">Mountain West</td>
<td align="center">1-2</td>
<td align="center">1-2</td>
</tr>
<tr onmouseover="this.bgColor='#C7D9EC'" onmouseout="this.bgColor='#FFFFFF'">
<td align="center">Conference USA</td>
<td align="center">1-3</td>
<td align="center">1-3</td>
</tr>
<tr onmouseover="this.bgColor='#C7D9EC'" onmouseout="this.bgColor='#FFFFFF'">
<td align="center">American</td>
<td align="center">0-1</td>
<td align="center">0-1</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</div>
<p id="Zb4BKQ">We haven’t included FBS independents in this standing, as there’s only one G5 independent playing in a bowl game this season. (We count BYU as a Power Five for our purposes.)</p>
<p id="ggzfNM">Perhaps the most startling thing to report back from Week 1 (besides the MAC winnning multiple games for the first time since 2015) is that SMU, the <a href="https://www.sbnation.com/college-football/teams/american">American</a>’s lone representative, was boatraced by FAU (CUSA’s lone victory so far) in their matchup. </p>
<p id="RhFC58">The Mountain West also looks to be off to a slow start, with only San Diego State winning their matchup. </p>
<p id="qRJOWj">It’s early, but with a lot of these G5 vs. G5 games coming up in Week 2, we’ll start to see some separation. </p>
<hr class="p-entry-hr" id="R5notr">
<h1 id="BDBvG4">The Results</h1>
<p id="ft3Izu">In this section, we’ll link back to recaps form our site, as well as sister site Underdog Dynasty and Mountain West Wire, a valued collaborator of ours, and have them comment on what the latest results mean for their respective conferences. </p>
<p id="RmKByM">Links to the recaps of each game are available as well.</p>
<p id="AMS7jx">We’ll go in chronological order:</p>
<h2 id="B1N8Ir"><a href="https://www.hustlebelt.com/2019/12/20/21032196/buffalo-bulls-win-first-bowl-game-in-program-history-over-charlotte-49ers-recap-bahamas-bowl-2019">2019 Bahamas Bowl: Buffalo 31, Charlotte 9</a></h2>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt="COLLEGE FOOTBALL: OCT 26 Central Michigan at Buffalo" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/Q5Qf85x4SIVQySVKz-pKhse2HOU=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/19551256/1179084710.jpg.jpg">
<cite>Photo by Gregory Fisher/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images</cite>
</figure>
<p id="rdVB75"><span>Jaret Patterson</span> and the Buffalo defense spoiled the party for the bowl debutante 49ers, as they took away a historic win in Nassau. The bowl win was the first one for Buffalo since jumping up to FBS competition in 1999. (Recap by Hustle Belt.)</p>
<hr class="p-entry-hr" id="TUims1">
<h2 id="kMhjFL"><a href="https://www.hustlebelt.com/2019/12/20/21032496/2019-tropical-smoothie-cafe-frisco-bowl-recap-kent-state-wins-first-bowl-game-vs-utah-state">2019 Tropical Smoothie Cafe Frisco Bowl: Kent State 51, Utah State 41</a></h2>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt="COLLEGE FOOTBALL: DEC 20 Frisco Bowl - Utah State v Kent State" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/BKEGlgofYRAf_8emILwRS01utIw=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/19551263/1189676321.jpg.jpg">
<cite>Photo by Matthew Pearce/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images</cite>
</figure>
<p id="okE0Z1">Kent State finally won a bowl game, 99 years after first being established as a program, and 65 years removed from their first bowl game appearance (in the amazingly named Refridgerador Bowl.) They did so in dramatic fashion over Utah State, converting a fourth-and-one from the USU 5 for a <span>Dustin Crum</span> rushing touchdown on a zone read to seal the game. (Recap by Hustle Belt.)</p>
<p id="kTnMNP">Analysis from Jeremy Mauss of Mountain West Wire: “Utah State was in a back-and-forth game that saw QB <span>Jordan Love</span> have one of his best games of the year. However, he had a fluky interception and the offense on a whole had three total turnovers, including a muffed punt. Those three turnovers went for nine points to Kent State. The Aggies defense did hold Kent State to five field goals but they were struggling to tackle and also unable to slow down QB <span>Dustin Crum</span> who ran and passed all over Utah State for a combined 336 total yards.”</p>
<hr class="p-entry-hr" id="IHHPa7">
<h2 id="6JtEj3"><a href="https://www.hustlebelt.com/2019/12/21/21033209/2019-new-mexico-bowl-recap-san-diego-state-blasts-central-michigan-in-commanding-48-11-victory">2019 New Mexico Bowl: San Diego State 48, Central Michigan 11</a></h2>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt="New Mexico Bowl - Central Michigan v San Diego State" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/na_jwARv5l4ASogTjrErMGuKqB8=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/19551272/1195340642.jpg.jpg">
<cite>Photo by Sam Wasson/Getty Images</cite>
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<p id="evx7zn">It was a dominant effort from the start by the Aztecs, as they picked up an interception on the first series and never looked back, putting up a season-best offensive performance (48 points and nearly 500 yards) while only giving up one touchdown to secure their fourth 10-win season in five years, (Recap by Hustle Belt.)</p>
<p id="uMyagP">Analysis from Jeremy Mauss of Mountain West Wire: "San Diego State had its game of the year against Central Michigan. The Aztecs had a low key 10-win season and did so with a variety of injuries in the running game. Juwan Washingon has been bothered by an ankle injury all year and he did not play in the bowl game, but to the rescue was <span>Jordan Byrd</span> who had a huge 139 yards with a touchdown. The defense had an amazing game with five forced turnovers and was dominant from start to finish."</p>
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<h2 id="cgTBPX"><a href="https://www.underdogdynasty.com/2019/12/22/21033264/libertys-suffocating-defense-wins-cure-bowl-flames-georgia-southern-eagles">2019 Cure Bowl: Liberty 23, Georgia Southern 16</a></h2>
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<img alt="NCAA Football: Cure Bowl-Liberty vs Georgia Southern" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/w8vkFU1u1ZOpc-HeKCwzeF5ayR8=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/19551283/usa_today_13824921.jpg">
<cite>Reinhold Matay-USA TODAY Sports</cite>
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<p id="EOkAG7">Georgia Southern mounted a late comeback rally, but ultimately couldn’t get the bounces they needed, giving Liberty its first bowl win as an FBS program in their first eligible season. (Recap by Underdog Dynasty’s Dan Morrison.)</p>
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<h2 id="96p3VP"><a href="https://www.underdogdynasty.com/2019/12/21/21033358/2019-boca-raton-bowl-recap-fau-owls-bully-smu-mustangs-cap-best-season-in-school-history-aac-cusa">2019 Cheribundi Tart Cherry Boca Raton Bowl: Florida Atlantic 52, SMU 26</a></h2>
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<img alt="NCAA Football: Boca Raton Bowl-Southern Methodist vs Florida Atlantic" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/SvxyCdo1rsDNzuHMwx7w3UhP_AU=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/19551295/usa_today_13825083.jpg">
<cite>Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports</cite>
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<p id="gMFE9V">Florida Atlantic is in the midst of a wholesale coaching change with Lane Kiffin’s inevitable departure, but that didn’t sink the spirits of the Owls who remained, as they bullied their way to a victory against an opponent many thought would be a heavy favorite. (Recap by Underdog Dynasty’s Cyrus Smith.)</p>
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<h2 id="3KjtS5"><a href="https://www.underdogdynasty.com/2019/12/22/21033287/arkansas-state-survives-camellia-bowl-34-26-blake-anderson-omar-bayless-football-butch-davis-fiu">2019 Camellia Bowl: Arkansas State 34, Florida International 26</a></h2>
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<img alt="NCAA Football: Camellia Bowl-Florida International vs Arkansas State" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/JkDln7FAHAxGCOazmOP-F9_nF5Q=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/19551317/usa_today_13825843.jpg">
<cite>Marvin Gentry-USA TODAY Sports</cite>
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<p id="O9umjV">Arkansas State had to hold off a late raly from a rowdy FIU team, but held on thanks in large part to a missed field goal from Panthers kicker Jose Borregalas. It was a streaky affair that really encapsulated the chaos of bowl season. (Recap by Underdog Dynasty’s Eric C. Henry.)</p>
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<h2 id="XoXC8L"><a href="https://mwwire.com/2019/12/22/las-vegas-bowl-boise-state-fails-to-show-up-in-38-7-loss-vs-washington/">2019 Mitsubishi Las Vegas Bowl: Washington 38, #19 Boise State 7</a></h2>
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<img alt="NCAA Football: Las Vegas Bowl-Boise State vs Washington" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/ALHJXKE2vTkcWBuY-dsH6IeKXF8=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/19552946/usa_today_13825709.jpg">
<cite>Stephen R. Sylvanie-USA TODAY Sports</cite>
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<p id="cBk0XY">In a bittersweet final game for Washington head coach Chris Petersen, he faced his old program and his hand-picked successor Brian Harsin for what would prove to be a decisive victory for the Huskies. Boise looked lost from the start, and end up giving the G5 an 0-1 record to start vs. their P5 bretheren. (Recap by Mountain West Wire’s Jeremy Mauss.)</p>
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<h2 id="UGviGa"><a href="https://www.cbssports.com/college-football/news/appalachian-state-vs-uab-new-orleans-bowl-score-mountaineers-cap-off-dream-season-with-win-over-blazers/">2019 R&L Carriers New Orleans Bowl: #20 Appalachian State 31, UAB 17</a></h2>
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<img alt="NCAA Football: New Orleans Bowl-Appalachian State vs UAB" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/JdeSfaUFLldCw2-_1XhJZvr7-tc=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/19552985/usa_today_13826627.jpg">
<cite>Chuck Cook-USA TODAY Sports</cite>
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<p id="OsIueo">#20 Appalachian State might be in the New Year’s Six if it wasn’t for a sloppy, rainy game against conference for Georgia Southern. The season still ended in a trophy though, as the Mountaineers overcame a slow 0-14 start to beat the C-USA runners-up UAB by a final of 31-17 to get to a 13-win season. (Recap by CBS Sports’ Barrett Sallee.)</p>
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<p id="0BjoNA">What They’re Saying Around the League</p>
<p id="LHJ3cj">For this portion, we talked to some beat reporters form other conferences to see what they had to say about the games last week. </p>
<p id="Q2paAA">Adam Woodyard, North Texas and Conference USA writer for Underdog Dynasty: "Conference USA’s bowl results have been a mixed bag so far, but then, so was the regular season. 2019 champ FAU knocking over SMU is a no small feat, and a great win for the conference, but from top to bottom there still needs to be more consistency. Runner-up UAB lost to a Sun Belt team (albeit a nationally ranked one), and so far the other teams to have played their bowls were paired against teams with more regular season wins. Still, La Tech has a legitimate shot against Miami, and that feels like improvement, even if it’s not all 14 teams at once."</p>
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<p id="m#msg-f:1653767794640058749">Jeremy Mauss, editor at Mountain West Wire: “Overall, the Mountain West bowl season is a mixed bag. A shootout game with a close loss, a blowout win and a blowout loss.</p>
<p id="Vc00eT">(Re: as Vegas Bowl:) There is a lot of second-guessing in this game for Boise State on offense. Head coach Bryan Harsin wanted none of it talking about who was calling plays with <span>Zak Hill</span> who left for the OC job at Arizona State. The bigger issue was going with freshman QB Hank Bachmeier. Senior <span>Jaylon Henderson</span> was 4-0 and playing well filling in for the injured Bachmeier. Harsin said Bachmeier had been healthy the past few weeks, so the big question is why not play him when healthy over the final few games and not just thrust him into a solid Washington team. <span>Henderson</span> did finally see playing time and he led the Broncos to a touchdown on his first drive. This specific game saw Harsin outcoached by Chris Petersen and his defense and offense failed to show up."</p>
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<h2 id="2J8ED3">What Does It Mean?</h2>
<p id="s0kcl4">It’s a bit surprising to see the American so low down the totem pole, but then, bowl matchups can be wildly unpredictable. </p>
<p id="j7gjaF">The Sun Belt has been very inconsistent in their gams so far, with App State picking up an expected win, but also an extremely unexpected loss (Georgia Southern to Liberty.) It’s really an indication of how top-heavy that league has been in recent seasons, with App State and Georgia Southern primarily runnign the show. The SBC has a lot of games late in the season, so there’s still time to catch up. </p>
<p id="niugPQ">The American had only one game last week, and it messed up big time, getting trounced by an FAU with nothing to lose, CUSA’s only win so far as of Monday. They’ve got a lot of favorable matchups remaining, however. </p>
<p id="4YrEF4">As for the MAC, getting two wins to start the year was massive. It was the first time since 2015 the conference had managed to win multiple games, and it was made all the better by giving Buffalo and Kent their first bowl games in conference history, leaving only Ball State as a bowl-less program. </p>
<p id="f1Loc7">The bowl season will heat up after the holiday season, so we’ll see if the MAC can maintain their lead in the standings going into Week 2’s action. </p>
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https://www.hustlebelt.com/2019/12/24/21035547/group-of-five-college-football-bowl-game-recap-week-one-2019-tea-timeJames H. Jimenez