Cotton Bowl

LSU (10-2) vs. Texas A&M (9-3)

Considering what kind of season myself and many others though LSU would have this year, I was a good year for them. Even after the first 5 games of the year no one believed in LSU despite their undefeated record. Over the course of the final two months of the season they molded into a very solid football team. Looking back on their season, the Tigers did catch a few breaks but they also played good football and in the end, they are a legit team that deserved to play in this game.

Texas A&M also had a better than expected year. The three games they lost (which were back-to-back-to-back) were all to 10-2 teams. The Aggies also beat a 10-2 team in Oklahoma, and played well enough against the rest of the Big 12 to clinch a 3-way tie for first in the South division.

LSU will be without starting running back Steven Ridley which will hurt, but with all this time to prepare I don't think it will hurt enough to significantly help A&M. LSU has had an awful offense all year, but the Aggies D isn't going to scare anyone. However, the LSU defense is stout and full of NFL talent, that could be the difference against A&M's 21st ranked offense. After playing in a weak Big 12, facing a strong team from the SEC West will be tough.

Both teams should have plenty of fans at this game with it being in Dallas, Texas. LSU is 4-1 in bowl games under Les Miles. I think the Bayou Bengals pull this one out by a touchdown.

JB