Today's Arizona Republic newspaper in Phoenix outlines the options of the Fiesta Bowl based upon who wins the key games of U$C vs. UCLA and Texas vs. Colorado. on Saturday. This might be a good resource to consult as the results come in on Saturday. Basically there are 4 scenarios as follows:
1. U$C and Texas both Win their games ( most likely scenario- best for Oregon)
." At-large vs. at-large. This is the Fiesta's dream, and it will happen if USC and Texas win. Then Fiesta officials would then have the first and third picks of the non-title games, allowing them to invite Notre Dame and either Ohio State, Auburn or Oregon. It is presumed that the Orange would take Penn State with the second choice. "
2. U$C Wins and Texas Loses
." Colorado vs. at-large. This is what happens if the Buffaloes upset the Longhorns in the Big 12 title game, thereby claiming an automatic Fiesta bid. It would be a double blow for Fiesta officials, because it would drop them to No. 2 in the selection order, meaning they'd lose Notre Dame to the Orange Bowl and, mostly likely, Penn State to the Rose Bowl." (Who would they chose Oregon or Ohio State for the at- large slot? )
3. U$C and Texas Both lose (Least likelyly scenario)
." Colorado vs. USC. This scenario would be an unfortunate turn of events for the folks in the yellow blazers. This assumes that the Trojans lose to UCLA and drop at least two rungs in the final BCS standings, and that Colorado beats Texas. If that happens, the Fiesta would be obligated to take the Trojans, as Pac-10 champs, and pair them against the Buffaloes, the Big 12 champs. "
4. U$C loses and Texas Wins
." USC vs. at-large. This would be the result of Texas winning the Big 12, but USC losing to UCLA, and it makes for the Fiesta's toughest decision. Although bowls tend to avoid rematches, it might consider pitting the Trojans against Notre Dame in a replay of their midseason classic, a 34-31 USC victory Oct. 15 at South Bend, Ind. But it's likelier that the Fiesta would choose Ohio State and set up a traditional Pac-10 vs. Big Ten duel."(no chance for Oregon)
For a link to the news story click on the title aove.
