For Penn State, the 2010 season didn’t feature too many exciting moments, but the Nittany Lions still earned a bid to play on New Year’s Day in the Outback Bowl, despite their 7-5 record.
Their opposition, the Florida Gators, had their season unfold just as Penn State’s did. Of course, replacing Tim Tebow is no easy task, just ask John Brantley. But just like Penn State, they were selected to play on New Year’s Day and have a chance to finish their season off with a satisfying win over one of college football’s most prized schools.
The headlines for the Outback Bowl won’t feature any players; instead, the coaches, Joe Paterno and Urban Meyer, will be the ones who draw all the attention.
And deservingly so.
Paterno, who will return for his 46th season in 2011, will look to add to his record number of bowl victories (24) in what will be his 37 appearance in a postseason game.
On the other sideline will be Meyer, who has guided Florida to two national championships since 2006.
However, Meyer and the Gators will need to do something that no other program has done: defeat Paterno in the Outback Bowl.
The all-time wins leader in college football (401) owns a 3-0 record in the Outback Bowl, win wins over Tennessee in 2007, Kentucky in 1998 and Auburn in 1996.
Unlike Penn State, Florida hasn’t fared all too well in the Outback Bowl, owning a 1-2 record, with losses to Iowa in 2003 and Michigan in 2002. But they did win their last appearance in 2005 over Iowa, 31-24.
The game is scheduled to air on ABC at 1 p.m. E.T on January 1.
Stay tuned to GCobb.com for more analysis and previews leading up to game day.
Neither team/school deserves this Bowl Game.. What a joke the NCAA has become..
I rather See Boise State versus Temple play..