I don’t like how the Bruins faded in late-season losses to Arizona and USC when they had the College Football Playoff within grasp. But how can I support the Panthers in the Sun Bowl when they have eight regulars missing the game for various reasons? Two of their best players, QB Kedon Slovis and RB Israel Abanikanda, are out. The UCLA run game will be too much for Pitt. Bruins cover.

The Bruins were more attractive when the line was less than a touchdown, but what makes them doable at this spot is QB Dorian Thompson-Robinson and RB Zach Charbonnet electing to put aside NFL draft preparations to play. Pitt is not so lucky. QB Kedon Slovis is transferring , top RB Israel Abanikanda is off readying for the pros and All-America D-lineman Calijah Kancey is injured. The Panthers' holes in the backfield will be evident against the No. 2 rushing defense in the Pac-12. Pitt coach Pat Narduzzi has covered and won straight-up in just one of five bowl gigs.

It'll be a contrast of styles in this one. Since that's the case, take the Bruins in a blowout. The Pitt offense is a shell of its former self, and Bruins coach Chip Kelly has the weapons to force the Panthers into a shootout. Quarterback Dorian Thompson-Robinson will cause conflict in the Pitt defense, and there's no doubt that Kelly will want to send him out in style. UCLA will be close to full strength as well, so complacency will be a non-factor.

Sun Bowl from El Paso. You could probably give the 5.5 points and be safe, but I'd rather not worry about it. UCLA will be at near full strength but that's definitely not the case for Pitt as Pat Narduzzi's squad has been obliterated by injury, transfer or opt out, including All-American defensive lineman Calijah Kancey, quarterback Kedon Slovis and running back Israel Abanikanda (1,431 yards, 20 TDs).