Hawaii Bowl: Hawaii vs. Tulsa
By Ty Duffy
Noteworthy: This should be a shootout. Both teams are top ten in scoring and yardage offense, averaging around 40 points per game and 500 yards. Hawaii QB Bryant Moniz led the nation in total offense. Tulsa WR Damaris Johnson led in all-purpose yards.
Hawaii’s bowl tie-in may change when it moves to the Mountain West. Right now they play in the Hawaii Bowl unless chosen for a BCS game. It’s a sweet deal (no travel costs, easy ticket sales for a home game). The Mountain West might demand more flexibility for slotting them.
Around 800 Tulsa fans will be making the 6,200 mile trip to Honolulu. Leaving Tulsa on the hook for around 9,200 tickets. The Bowl Game Experience.
For Hawaii to Win: Tulsa is 107th in total defense. They are woefully underprepared to handle Hawaii’s passing. On the other side of the ball they need to stay grounded and not get confused by Tulsa’s misdirection. Their defensive playmaking ability could be the difference. Hawaii led the nation with 23 interceptions.
For Tulsa to Win: Tulsa needs to be proactive and get to the quarterback. They will be in trouble if Moniz has time and Alex Green can get a head of steam. A special teams play from Damaris Johnson would also be helpful.
Prediction: Hawaii’s defense is inconsistent. Tulsa’s is awful. Hawaii has the home-field advantage. Take the Warriors and the over.
[Photo via Getty]