Miami Beach Bowl, Central Michigan vs Tulsa: Preview and predictions

Oct 29, 2016; Memphis, TN, USA; Tulsa Golden Hurricane quarterback Dane Evans (9) and Tulsa Golden Hurricane running back James Flanders (20) celebrate during the first half against the Memphis Tigers at Liberty Bowl Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Justin Ford-USA TODAY Sports /

The Central Michigan vs Tulsa matchup in the Miami Beach Bowl might be better than people anticipate on Dec. 19.

Central Michigan and Tulsa have had long roads to the postseason and each have had their ups and downs. For the Chippewas, the high was a road win over Oklahoma State and low was finishing the year with four losses in five games.

As for Tulsa, it was four of the last five games on the season, but the Golden Hurricane was embarrassed 48-3 in the second week of the year.

The Chippewas have a much better passing offense than run game with Cooper Rush under center. He has passed for over 3,200 yards and 23 touchdowns on the year. He could cause some problems for a lackluster Tulsa defense.

Tulsa has one of the best rushing offenses in the nation, averaging over 260 yards per game on the ground. Not many programs have 1,000-yard rushers, but the Golden Hurricane have two in D’Angelo Brewer (1,320 yards) and James Flanders (1,529 yards).

However, the defense has been lackluster, allowing over 432 total yards per game, which could be trouble in this one against Central Michigan.

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Here’s how you can watch the Miami Beach Bowl on Dec. 19:

Date: Monday, Dec. 19
Start Time: 2:30 p.m. ET
Location: Miami, FL
Venue: Marlins Park
TV: ESPN
Live Stream: WatchESPN

Keys to Victory

For Tulsa, slowing down the passing attack with Rush under center will be key. While the Golden Hurricane defense has been awful, if it can key in on the pass, it will have a chance to shut down Central’s offense. Also, getting the run game going with Flanders and Brewer will be important.

Central Michigan needs to shut down the run, on the other hand. The Chippewas have to face a formidable backfield duo, but that is the major point of emphasis. Also, getting some type of run game going on offense. They haven’t fared well on the ground this year, but that could be a difference-maker.

Betting Odds

Point Spread: Tulsa -13
Over/Under: 70

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Prediction

Let’s face it, a lot of bowl season momentum comes from the final month of regular season play. If a team is red-hot, they will likely remain red-hot. If a team is cold, that’s usually how they play in the bowl. Central Michigan is cold and Tulsa is hot and the Golden Hurricane offense might have itself a day.

Final Score: Central Michigan 24, Tulsa 35

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