One of the most highly-anticipated bowl games before New Year's Eve takes place today, and that's the 2015 Russell Athletic Bowl between No. 10 North Carolina and No. 17 Baylor. Two offensive powerhouses will be going at it, but one of these squads is at a distinct disadvantage heading into the game. Read on to find out who, as well as all the info you need for the game such as the live stream link, TV schedule, betting lines, a preview and prediction.
Game Time: 5:30 p.m. ET
TV Channel: ESPN
Location: Orlando Citrus Bowl, Orlando, Fla.
Live Stream: WatchESPN
Betting Line: -2.5 UNC; 69 O/U
Heading into this one, there's no way not to get a little excited. That is, unless you're a Baylor Bears fan.
Baylor is absolutely decimated by injuries heading into their bowl game, and they played a huge part in losing three of their last four games of the season.
Starting quarterback Seth Russell, running back Shock Linwood and star receiver Corey Coleman are all out for the game. Backup quarterback Jarrett Stidham is also out, as well as offensive tackle Pat Colbert. Four starters and the backup at the most important position on the field are all injured and unable to partake in this game. That's utterly unheard of.
Do they have any hope?
Well, against a team that wasn't one of the best in the country, maybe.
But that's exactly what North Carolina has proven this year. At 11-2, the Tar Heels have shown that they're not just a basketball school. This team has a dynamic offense and surprisingly stingy defense as far as allowing points to the other team. They nearly knocked off Clemson in the ACC championship.
After starting the season with a shocking loss to an underperforming South Carolina team (though, we didn't necessarily know that at the time), they went on to run the table, dominating every opponent, until that championship game against the undefeated Tigers.
As much depth as Baylor may have, and even with the versatile sophomore quarterback, Chris Johnson, having quite a bit of confidence heading into this bowl game, North Carolina will ultimately prove to tough a task for such a hurt football team.
Prediction: North Carolina 45, Baylor 33
