The presents have been unwrapped, the gift from uncle Kevin has been returned, and we’re ready for a holiday party of college football proportions. Alabama was the only one to bail me out last time, but I’m back in the fighting spirit.

Prediction 1: #2 Ohio State (-9.5) looks for a bounce back, and what better a way than #10 Miami in the Cotton Bowl? I was awake and alert for the call in 2002…it was pass interference. We are to that point in the season where the conditions are ideal, the lights are brightest, and the best teams win. Ohio State covers -9.5.

Prediction 2: While the Ducks couldn’t give me a cover last week, they did put up fifty points on a playoff opponent, so there’s that. I haven’t been falling in love with Texas Tech all year and Landman, while great, hasn’t changed my mind. Duck’s cover -2.5 with all of that offense.

Prediction 3: My hope is that wherever you are this New Year’s Day, by around four o’clock you hit the crock pot for seconds and get ready for a slugfest between Indiana and Alabama. This is a no win prediction for me, I can’t stand either moving on to the final four. However, the Big Ten runs in my veins, and I think #1 Indiana can cover -7 with the Heisman Trophy winner under center.

While I wasn’t enamored with the matchups last time, this week should be an excellent watch. Make the most of the holiday that means the least this New Year, and watch as much football as possible.

Summary:

#2 Ohio State covers -9.5

#5 Oregon covers -2.5

#1 Indiana covers -7

Record: 33-18-2