25* Pre-New Year's Bowl GAME OF THE YEAR on Texas -3.5

California vs. Texas, 12/28/2011 20:00 EDT, Score: 10 - 21

Point Spread: -3½/-105 Texas

Sportsbook: 5Dimes

Result: Win

The Texas Longhorns are going to be one of the more motivated teams this bowl season. They have not forgotten about missing out on a bowl game last year, and this young squad will certainly make the most off their opportunity in the Holiday Bowl. I expect Texas to benefit more from all this extra practice than most teams.

California has given up some big yardage totals on the ground against teams that can run the football. They gave up 294 to UCLA and 213 to Arizona State in two of their last five contests. Texas ranks 19th in the country in rushing offense (210.4 yards/game) and you can be sure they will be ready to pound the rock tonight.

The Longhorns also have one of the best defenses in the country. Texas ranks 15th in the FBS in total defense (315.3 yards/game) and they are only allowing 23.2 points/game. That's impressive considering they play in the best offensive conference in the land in the Big 12.

The Longhorns are 4-1 ATS in their last 5 games as a favorite. The Golden Bears are 3-8 ATS in their last 11 games in December. Cal is 1-5 ATS in their last 6 games after scoring more than 40 points in their previous game. Bet Texas Wednesday.