Look, I've told you. We don't need nuthin'. We don't even have a novelty machine in the men's room anymore.

And you call yourselves a bowling alley?

After Southern Mississippi took care of Arkansas State last night 31-19, Bowl Season rolls right along tonight with another exciting matchup between two mid-major teams. Actually though, this one might really be fun with UTEP and Toledo going at it - the scoreboard should be spinning faster than Mike Price's head after his night on the town. It's the only game in town, so here goes:

Today's Games (12/21/05):

GMAC Bowl
(ESPN 8pm EST)

Quick Facts:

• Toledo is playing in their 4th bowl game in 5 years ... but their first one since 1985 not named The Motor City Bowl. Mobile > Detroit this time of year.
• UTEP enters the game having lost back to back games to end the season against UAB and SMU
• UTEP only needed to win one of those games to play in the C-USA title game (gagging sounds can still be heard in El Paso)

The Stadium:

• Ladd Peebles Stadium has been in Mobile since 1948, and seats 40,646
• The stadium underwent an $8.1 renovation in 1998 - the only one in it's history (yes, it's old and dumpy)
• 4th Largest Stadium in the state of Alabama

Players to watch:

• Jordan Palmer (Carson's little brother) is UTEP's QB - and he's a gunslinger of the best (and worst) variety. 28 TD's, but also 18 INT's.
• Bruce Gradowski is almost robotic in his efficiency, completing 68% of his passes and adding the ability to run a bit as well. He's kind of Reggie Ball like, in that he's a tough as nails - but with a bit more accuracy on his throws.

Matchup:

• UTEP has been a giant tailspin after losing their final two games with a chance at the C-USA title, Toledo got whomped by NIU at the end of the season as well. Who can turn it around will be an interesting story line.
  
• While both teams are scoring machines, UTEP absolutely can't seem to stop from turning the ball over, and Toledo is actually pretty good in that regard.

The Line:

• Toledo (-3)

The Pick:

• Take Toledo here, UTEP has limped in and turns the ball over at a horrific rate. Should be fun to watch though, with the potential to break 90 combined points.