Free Pick | NCAA | Saturday | Dec. 28

#249 Miami OH -2.5 over Colorado State 3:30 PM CT

The Redhawks have won a pair of non-conference meetings between these teams by convincing margins both in Oxford and Fort Collins in the recent history. Miami is looking to close the season on a high note after a stunning blowout loss in the MAC Championship game ended a seven-game winning streak. Miami’s defense had not allowed more than 21 points in any game on that winning streak before the disastrous game vs. Ohio in Detroit. Miami’s offense has lost two starting receivers and will have a shake-up on the offensive line but the defense should be in reasonably good order for this era of the bowl season.  Colorado State’s defense is not looking like it will be at full strength however, with at least three starters expected to be out for this game. DC Freddie Banks was also fired at the end of the regular season even with the 8-4 Rams allowing only 24 points per game for a surprising move. The win column lacks substance for the Rams as Colorado State was a MWC contender thanks to avoiding the top teams in the conference draw this season.