And then there were basically two.
Sources told ESPN on Tuesday that Arlington, Texas, and New Orleans are now the favorites to host the new Champions Bowl, which will pit the SEC and Big 12 champions against each other starting Jan. 1, 2015. Ten cities originally received a request for a proposal to bid on the game, but only Arlington, New Orleans and Atlanta have decided to bid on the game.
The reality is that it appears Arlington and New Orleans are the heavy favorites to host, with Atlanta on the outside looking in because it already has the SEC championship game.
So you have to ask yourself if you'd rather have brisket or gumbo for New Year's. I understand it can be a tough choice and it's not like SEC fans aren't familiar with either venue. Fans flock to New Orleans each year for the Sugar Bowl and the Cotton Bowl, which is played in Arlington, already features SEC and Big 12 teams.
But adding the Champions Bowl feel will make things that much more exciting. Bourbon Street could be a little more lively with Big 12 fans bopping about, while Jerry's World could sparkle a little brighter with a Rose Bowl atmosphere.
I don't think the SEC can go wrong with either choice, but it all comes down to if people want surf or turf.