Mike Gundy can get the Cowboys geared up for bowls. Okie State has covered in five consecutive, winning four straight-up. His counterpart, Marcus Freeman, is new to the job, having replaced Brian Kelly, who fared poorly in top-flight bowls. The Cowboys own the nation’s No. 3 defense, which will put the No. 54 offense to the test. Further, the Irish cannot count on RB Kyren Williams, one of two significant opt-outs.

I think losing coach Brian Kelly to LSU doesn't bode well for Notre Dame in this game. The Fighting Irish will be without their top RB (Kyren Williams) and top safety (Kyle Hamilton) as well... The Cowboys played a tougher schedule and own the better defense... Oklahoma State's defensive line is ranked No. 3, while Notre Dame's is ranked No. 59... The Fighting Irish went 6-1 straight-up against other bowl teams, getting outgained in four of the seven games. The Cowboys went 7-2 straight-up against bowl teams, outgaining six of nine foes... Notre Dame has played in seven New Year's Six/BCS/CFP bowl games since 2000 and is 0-7 straight-up and ATS, with a 102-263 point differential. Take the underdog.