[Tommy]

By Ken A.

Both Georgia and West Virginia enter the Sugar Bowl on nice winnings streaks, as both teams have won and covered their last three games. Georgia got here by beating LSU in the SEC Championship Game, while West Virginia dominated a sub-par Big East Conference. During their recent winning streaks, Georgia (ranked #8) scored an average of 31.0 points and allowed an average of 17.3 points, while West Virginia (ranked #11) scored an average of 37.0 points and allowed an average of 8.7 points per contest.

Both Georgia and West Virginia had a defense that stood tall most of the season. The Bulldogs and Mountaineers each allowed 14 points or less in seven games. You can expect a successful season with those types of numbers on defense. This game has the ingredients of being a defensive showdown. Georgia, with a record of 10-2, lost to Florida 14-10 and Auburn 31-30. In the Florida game Georgia was playing without the starting quarterback. Also, Georgia lost to another solid SEC team in Auburn complements of a late four quarter rally.

West Virginia, with a record of 10-1, lost to a strong ACC team in Virginia Tech, 34-14. This game was all Virginia Tech from the start and West Virginia could not mount a rally.

Georgia is 8-1 SU and 6-3 ATS in bowls games since 1995. West Virginia is 1-6 SU and 2-5 ATS in bowl games since 1995. In 2005 Georgia played against four teams that are ranked in the top 25 and West Virginia played against two. Since 2002 Georgia is 45-8 SU and 27-22-1 ATS. West Virginia is 35-14 SU and 27-19 ATS.

These are two college football programs that have been successful. Georgia has been successful for many years. This team has stepped up to another level winning the SEC in 2004 and 2005. Georgia has been a powerhouse in the SEC. West Virginia was mediocre for several years. This team turned it around playing at a winning level since 2002 and winning the Big East in 2005. Both the SEC and Big East will be represented with two impressive football programs. It should be a full house of fans from both schools.

Which defense will be the most effective? Will one offense find a way to post some big numbers? Will turnovers play a part of the victory for the opposing team? Bowls games can bring out the best in some teams. Both Georgia and West Virginia should be mentally and physically prepared for this game.

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