Around the ACC: Bowl Previews
Nov 15, 2014; Chapel Hill, NC, USA; Pittsburgh Panthers running back James Conner (24) runs for a touchdown as North Carolina Tar Heels defensive tackle Justin Thomason (98) and cornerback Desmond Lawrence (2) and running back Malik Simmons (11) defend in the first quarter at Kenan Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports
Lockheed Martin Armed Forces Bowl – January 2nd – 12:00 PM – ESPN
Houston Cougars (7-5) vs. Pittsburgh Panthers (6-6)
Breakdown – Houston and Pittsburgh are both entering this game as teams going through staff changes, and this game could very well be aproduct of that on the field. Houston had a rough start to the season, going 2-3 before finishing the season on a strong note at 5-2.
Players to watch – Greg Ward Jr. was the key to the second half surge for the Cougars, as the former receiver-turned quarterback threw for 1,700 yards and 15 TDs. Running back James Conner is the player to watch for the Pitt Panthers. The human bowling-ball rushed for 1,675 yards and 24 TDs.
Prediction – This is probably the hardest bowl game for me to predict, as both teams have had their ups-and-downs this season. Pittsburgh is the more-talented team however, and I believe they’ll ride the bowling-ball to victory. Pittsburgh 24, Houston 20