Hawaii Bowl: Fresno State vs. SMU
By Ty Duffy
Fresno State: A very solid debut for Tim DeRuyter. The Bulldogs went 9-3, only losing at Oregon, at Boise State and at a 10-win Tulsa team. The Big East took notice.
SMU: SMU is a mediocre Conference USA team during an abysmal Conference USA season. Yes, they upset 10-win Tulsa to earn a bowl trip. The rest of their wins came against Stephen F. Austin, UTEP, Houston, Memphis and Southern Miss.
Notable Players: Fresno State quarterback Derek Carr, brother of David, had a fine season throwing for more than 3,700 yards and 36 touchdowns while finishing ninth in the nation in passing efficiency. He’s coming back for his senior year and may be a dark horse 2013 Heisman candidate. His counterpart, former Texas quarterback Garrett Gilbert, continued his Longhorn form. There’s also the Bulldogs’ All-American cornerback Phillip Thomas, who led the nation in interceptions.
Surfing: Tim DeRuyter allowed his players to surf. June Jones did not. Whatever the result, it will be directly attributable to this.
Recreational Prediction: Fresno State [-11]. Travel and the layoff should effect both teams equally. Fresno is a much better team. Bowl Record ATS: 4-2
[Photo via Presswire]