The set-up: Outright win? It's possible obviously. But in a contest which I envision to be very competitive, I'm going to recommend grabbing as many points as you can. Both teams finished 6-6. Cal had to win its last two games to become eligible, while Illinois backed its way into this Bowl after losing its final two outings. Cal is stout defensively, allowing only 22.1 PPG. Unfortunatley it only averages 20.1 PPG, led by QB Chase Garbers. The Illini lost 19-10 to Iowa and then 29-10 to Northwestern. Illinois though averages 27.3 PPG, while allowing 25.4.

The pick: Despite injuries, I like the Fighting Illini here. Note as well that they're 8-4 ATS in their last 12 off two straight loss against conference rivals (including 2-0 ATS this season,) while Cal is only 5-8 ATS in its last 13 as a favorite (including just 2-4 ATS this year.) Grab the points.

8* BLOWOUT on Illinois.