LENDINGTREE BOWL -- The RedHawks have lacked respect from oddsmakers all season, so it's no surprise they are undervalued in this bowl game. The MAC champs have shown an ability to slow down potent offenses while going on time-consuming drives of their own to shorten the game. The Cajuns have a powerful, balanced offensive attack and a home-field advantage with the venue just a four-hour drive from campus. But it's hard to envision them at full motivation after their stirring comeback against Appalachian State in the Sun Belt title game fell just short.

LENDINGTREE BOWL -- The way these two teams match up with one another suggests to me that we're not going to see a lot of explosive offense. ULL's offense is based on its rushing attack, but the Miami run defense has been solid this year. Miami's offense is plain bad, and it's awful in the red zone, which is an area Louisiana's defense has been quite strong. So, add it all up, and I don't see a shootout developing in the final bowl game of the season.

LENDINGTREE BOWL -- Only with extenuating circumstances should a second- or third-tier bowl be assigned such a large line. Though Louisiana’s offense is potent, Miami counters with a decent defense, highlighted by 38 sacks this season. The Redhawks were overrun by a challenging non-MAC schedule, then won six of their last seven straight-up while going 5-2 ATS.

LENDINGTREE BOWL -- The Ragin' Cajuns have one of the best rushing attacks in college football, and go three-deep in the backfield. Although they'll be without stud right guard Robert Hunt, the rest of the OL unit remains in tact. Offensively, Miami is a year away from being truly dangerous. The RedHawks' inexperience will show itself here. Lay the points.