Washington vs. Boise State

For a team like Boise State that has been flirting on a regular basis for a BCS Bowl, the MAACO Bowl may seem like a huge letdown situation. Normally that would be the thinking, but when you consider the fact that they have so many new starters this year after suffering heavy graduation losses, this is the first true opportunity for a lot of their players in new starting roles. As a result I think there will be more anticipation and excitement than a letdown. And, Chris Petersen is too good of a coach to let that happen. Washington closed the season with a loss to in-state rival Washington State. This is a team that has struggled offensively most of the season with eight games scoring 21 points or less. The challenge is going to be huge here vs. a Broncos team that is very strong on the defensive side of the ball, having held eight teams to 14 points or less. The Broncos do not have an explosive offense this season, but they have been a bit better down the stretch. If there is one inherent advantage in an anticipated close game that can turn on one play, and that is Boise State’s coaching. Over the years they have done a great job stealing a point with a 2-point conversion, or coming up with a surprise gadget play that swings the game. I like the coaching edge to make the difference here. Under Chris Petersen, the Broncos are 21-4 straight-up in non-conference games, 13-1 straight-up following an ATS loss and 22-4 straight-up on the road folllowing a win. Grab Boise State on the moneyline.