Only one Big East team remains undefeated today, after West Virginia lost to LSU. How does that alter the bowl picture? Not much. Remember, I am projecting out to the end of the season when I make these bowl picks. The Mountaineers were overmatched by a superior team Saturday night. But that was not really unexpected. And that does not mean they are out of the conference championship race. They still are my favorite with league play approaching.
I still have Notre Dame taking up a spot in the Champs Sports Bowl. The team I have serious reservations about is Syracuse after its performance against Toledo (in what should have been a loss). I am leaving the Orange in for now, but do not be surprised to see some shifts in the coming weeks. I feel confident UConn will not be in a bowl game. I cannot say the same for Louisville or Rutgers.
BCS, Orange Bowl: West Virginia vs. ACC. Still holding firm on the Mountaineers.
Pinstripe Bowl: USF vs. Big 12. The Bulls remain a big-time challenger.
Belk Bowl: Pitt vs. ACC. The Panthers have lost two straight with a big game against USF coming Thursday night.
BBVA Compass Bowl: Cincinnati vs. SEC. The Bearcats dominated NC State.
Beef 'O' Brady's Bowl: Syracuse vs. Conference USA. The Orange have looked shaky all season.