Free Pick: Liberty Bowl at Memphis,Tn. 12/28/21

Texas Tech 6-6 vs. Mississippi State 7-5

This game is interesting because of Mississippi State coach, Mike Leach. He was fired by the Red Raiders several years ago, and claims they stil owe him $2.5 million dollars. Very doubtful if that means anything to the current players on this Bulldog team, but it does to him. If the opportunity presents itself, he is going to pour it on. Other than that interesting situation, this is a game with very little interest and could be a mismatch. Let’s look at the lines.

TOTAL TEAM POINTS:

Texas Tech: 25.5 Total Team Points The Red Raiders offense in not the high-flying pass happy team of the past. They actually try to establish a running game. They scored 26 or more points in 7 of their 12 games, but struggles against some of the better defenses they faced. If the Bulldog defense shows up, they have a chance to be successful. I’ll take Texas Tech UNDER 25.5 total points.

Mississippi State: 34.5 Total Team Points As usual, Leach has a quarterback who has fantastic stats and is relatively unknown. Quarterback, Will Rogers, 75% of his passes for 4449 yards and 35 touchdowns. And he is just a sophomore. They have some problems running the ball, but it doesn’t seem to matter. The Texas Tech defense is allowing 32 points per game and is giving up 266 yards per game through the air. If Mississippi State is ready to play they should have a field day. I would take Mississippi State OVER 35.5 team points.

OVER/UNDER: 58.5 Total Combined Team Points This is one of those lines that is about right. No strong feelings on this one. I’ll take the OVER 58.5 total combined team points.

POINT SPREAD: Mississippi State is a 10-point favorite The game is in Memphis which isn’t very far from the Mississippi State campus. They should have an advantage and a home crowd. The question is, will the Bulldogs be motivated and ready to play. They are the better team and should cover the spread, but in bowl games, double digit point spreads are dangerous.

AARON’S PICK: Mississippi State OVER 34.5 team points

PAPA DUDES PICK: Mississippi State -10