HOLIDAY BOWL -- Those who still criticize Iowa for an outdated or boring brand of football clearly haven't seen the Hawkeyes play much over the past few years. They are throwing on early downs more often and generally have more balance. Iowa has an experienced, senior QB in Nathan Stanley and should have the edge over an improving but youthful USC club.

HOLIDAY BOWL -- Many bowl picks are predicated on players and head coaches missing the games to prepare for their next jobs, whether it be in the NFL or another school. In this case, an assistant coach -- offensive coordinator Graham Harrell, architect of USC’s high-flying offense -- spurned offers and is the key figure in this matchup against Iowa’s elite defense. The bowl might be a letdown, but USC will play hard for coach Clay Helton, popular among players, who was retained against all odds. Take the Trojans.

HOLIDAY BOWL -- I thought USC came on strong toward the end of the season, especially on offense. I like QB Kedon Slovis and what he has done for the Trojans' passing game. The Hawkeyes are one of the more steady programs in college football, but Slovis is playing much better than Iowa QB Nate Stanley. USC coach Clay Helton wants to make a statement to the team's fanbase, and there is no greater opportunity to do so than this one.

HOLIDAY BOWL -- It's been a wild season in Los Angeles, and 15 bowl practices will be huge for freshman quarterback Kedon Slovis after he was thrust into action in the first game of the year. Slovis averaged 11 or more yards per pass in each of the Trojans' last three games, which suggests that his confidence has already skyrocketed. They'll play inspired now that their coach, Clay Helton, solidified his job with a strong close to the season.