CAMELLIA BOWL -- Marshall has lost a few key players to opt outs, including leading rusher Brenden Knox, the 2019 Conference USA Offensive Player of the Year. That's not good news for struggling freshman QB Grant Wells, who is just 26 of 58 with five picks over his past two games with the Herd totaling 13 points in those two. As long as Bulls star running back Jaret Patterson is healthy, and he's supposed to play after leaving the MAC title game, then the Bulls should win by at least a TD. Buffalo is 11-3 ATS in its past 14 overall.

The player most expected to opt out -- sensational Buffalo RB Jaret Patterson -- did not. Three standouts are taking a pass, and all play for Marshall. RB Brenden Knox, OT Josh Ball and LB Tavante Beckett stood out enough for selection to the All-C-USA first team. Beckett’s absence puts a dent in the Thundering Herd defense that is second to only one in the nation versus the rush. Patterson will find more room to roam. Marshall’s offense has gone into a deep sleep, with 13 points scored in the last two outings. It is unlikely to wake up without two of the cornerstones.

Inaction due to postponements derailed the momentum of the Marshall Thundering Herd’s undefeated season. They head into their Christmas Day bowl game against Buffalo having lost their last two games. Confidence is down for freshman quarterback Grant Wells, who threw five interceptions in the loss to Rice. Grab the Bulls, whose high-octane offense averaged 48 points during MAC play.