Last week I saw predictions that Oklahoma U (11-1) would be in the final 4, Baylor (9-2)would be in the Sugar Bowl , Oklahoma State (10-2) would be in the Russell Athletic Bowl and TCU (10-2) would be in the Alamo Bowl. Assuming that was the established ranking order, I was surprised to see that when Baylor lost and became 9-3, the only change was a flip flop of Baylor and OSU. If the pecking order is now OU, OSU,TCU and then Baylor, why didn't TCU move to the bowl that OSU was previously scheduled for. I don't know the answer but I think I think that perhaps TCU chose to go to the Alamo Bowl over the Russell Athletic Bowl.
The opponent for the Orlando based bowl is North Carolina (11-2) who ranked 10th in the CFP rankings. They played a heck of a game against Clemson in losing the ACC championship game 45-37. The opponent for the Alamo Bowl is Oregon U (9-3) who came in second place in the PAC12 and ranked 15th in the CFP.
Maybe the Frogs preferred a PAC12 team to an ACC team, but it seems they could have played a higher ranked team in Florida. It is far over my head how these decisions are made, but it might be as simple as the payout offered by the bowls. The Alamo Bowl paid out about a million dollars more than the Russell Athletic Bowl last year and probably will do so again this year.
Whatever the reasons, it really doesn't matter, the Horned Frogs are going to a good bowl game and a strong competitor. They deserve it and the Frogs will be a worthy opponent. This team has accomplished more than most thought they were capable. We didn't have the defense that we are accustomed to, but the offense was nothing short of spectacular. And you know what, the defense came together at the end, almost beating OU and beating Baylor. The OSU game was an anomaly. Those things happen. Put it behind you.
Now, on to the Alamo Bowl and another great game by an awesome Horned Frog team. Per Coach P,
"Bowl games are a reward for our players and the entire TCU community," Patterson said. "We're looking forward to making our 16th bowl trip in the last 18 years and having a chance to win our 11th game this season. It's great to be headed to San Antonio and the Valero Alamo Bowl to face a high-level opponent in Oregon. Our kids are excited. With several of our players being from San Antonio and the surrounding area, it's a trip home. The Valero Alamo Bowl is a great bowl and well known for its hospitality. It's always important to win your bowl game to build momentum for next year."
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| We will miss these two! |
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