Picks Trying Not to Suck: Bowl Special

Boston College vs. Vanderbilt (+3.5)

Music City Bowl

Nashville, Tenn.

Dec. 31

Does Homerism think BC is a better team than Vandy? Absolutely. All things being equal, BC giving 3.5 points to Vanderbilt is a strong play. In that sense, I understand why the public is on BC by a three-to-one ratio. But the line hasn't budged, and not all things are equal in this game. 

The Commodores are playing in their first postseason game in 26 years, and they're doing it at a stadium that is less then five miles from their home field. On the other hand, BC's loss to Virginia Tech in the ACC championship means goodbye, Orange Bowl, hello, New Year's Eve in Nashville!

BC has won eight straight bowl games, but Homerism never puts much stock in those kinds of streaks. Especially not in this case, as the current coaching staff is in its second year. If you're looking for who's more motivated here, I'm going with Vandy and underrated coach Bobby Johnson.

Homerism Says: Commodores win straight up in a low-scoring game for fans of defensive, disciplined football.