DECEMBER 31

COTTON BOWL – 12:30PM PT/3:30PM ET [ESPN]

#4 CINCINNATI (13-0) VS. #1 ALABAMA (12-1)

Cincinnati breaks the barrier for Group of 5 teams everywhere and represents them in the playoffs. Quarterback Desmond Ridder played a key role on offense while Coby Bryant and Ahmad “Sauce” Gardner played a key role on defense. Alabama needs no introduction since they’re usually here consistently. They play their ninth Cotton Bowl game all-time, but for the second time in the playoffs. All eyes are on Heisman winner Bryce Young after his stellar 2021 performance. Cincinnati is glad to be here, but they want to show the world they are more formidable for a Group of 5 team. They were in close proximity of defeating Georgia in the New Year’s Six Bowl last season. Their goal is their defense penetrating Alabama’s offensive line while their offense must contain any pressure from the front seven. It still may be a struggle for Cincinnati to do this for the entire game.

MY PICK: ALABAMA

ORANGE BOWL – 4:30PM PT/7:30PM ET [ESPN]

#3 GEORGIA (12-1) VS. #2 MICHIGAN (12-1)

Georgia was virtually unstoppable for 12 games before Alabama came in to hand the Bulldogs their loss. Their defense and special teams are heavily credited for their success. The offense played as well as they should with quarterback Stetson Bennett, their running back depth, and rising star tight end Brock Bowers. Michigan conquered their schedule, overcame the Michigan State loss, took down the Leviathan that is Ohio State after losing the past few seasons, and defeated Iowa in special fashion to cap off their regular season. But their not done yet because their next goal is winning a playoff game. Michigan prides on defense and the run game under Jim Harbaugh. Georgia should bounce back and compete like themselves again, but Michigan has a purpose too. Both are very good on defense and special teams, but Michigan’s offense seems more reliable than Georgia’s offense. After Bennett struggled against Bama’s defense, don’t be surprised if it happens against Michigan too.

MY PICK: MICHIGAN