Meineke Car Care Bowl: West Virginia 31, North Carolina 30
Pat White, in his four years at West Virginia, broke many records and made comeback victories and bowl wins routine. However, his career as a great running quarterback ended with one of the best passing games of his career, cementing his status as one of the best players in school history. White was voted bowl MVP for the third straight year. This performance beat out North Carolina receiver Hakeem Nicks, who caught eight passes for 217 yards and three touchdowns. North Carolina's final second comeback drive ended when Pat Lazear intercepted a pass.
Champs Sports Bowl: Florida State 42, Wisconsin 13
FSU coach Bobby Bowden saw a big play offense and hard hitting defense in the Seminoles' big win over Wisconsin in the Champs Sports Bowl. After the game, Bowden said "It looked like the old Florida State out there." The Seminoles finished with eight wins for the first time since 2004. This is amazing because nine wins used to be a given for Bowden and Florida State. Derek Nicholson and Dekoda Watson returned fumbles for touchdowns, Christian Ponder threw two touchdown passes, and the Seminoles became the first ACC team to beat Wisconsin.
Emerald Bowl: California 24, Miami 17
With Cal playing just 12 miles from their home, it was late until they shined. Quarterback Nate Longshore hooked up with Anthony Miller for a two yard touchdown with 2:41 remaining to give the Golden Bears a 24-17 lead. Miami attempted a final comeback drive at the end. However, senior linebacker Zack Follett shot through the Hurricanes' line and clubbed the ball out of quarterback Jacory Harris's hand. Cal fell on the fumble to seal their bowl victory. Jahvid Best also had a great performance, rushing for 186 yards and two touchdowns.
Next bowl game: Sunday, December 28, 2008
Independence Bowl: Northern Illinois vs. Louisiana Tech, 8:15 PM, ESPN
