The second day of 2014 features just one bowl game, the Sugar Bowl, so plan accordingly. Here's a preview of the game, including the top draft prospects to watch.
Sugar Bowl
Oklahoma vs. Alabama
Wednesday, Jan. 2, 8:30 p.m. ET (ESPN)
Two of the nation's most tradition-rich programs meet with a combined record of 21-3. Alabama fell just short of an SEC Championship Game berth, and potentially a third consecutive BCS title, with a last-second loss to rival Auburn in the Iron Bowl. Oklahoma's national title hopes were dashed with an October loss to rival Texas. Baylor also knocked off the Sooners.
OU's top three NFL prospects are defensive back Aaron Colvin, center Gabe Ikard and wide receiver Jalen Saunders. Colvin intercepted just one pass on the season, but was consistent in coverage and also run support. Saunders made 56 receptions for 654 yards and six scores, leading the Sooners in all three categories.
Colvin should match up plenty with Alabama sophomore Amari Cooper, whose production was down this season due to nagging injuries. Alabama has a long list of top draft prospects, led by junior offensive tackle Cyrus Kouandjio, linebacker C.J. Mosley, safety Ha Ha Clinton-Dix and quarterback AJ McCarron. One of UA's draft prospects for later rounds, senior cornerback Deion Belue, should draw Saunders frequently in coverage. Kouandjio and Clinton-Dix are juniors contemplating early draft entry, while Mosley and McCarron are seniors. This will be the last game NFL scouts get to see McCarron play, as the third-year starter does not intend to play in the Senior Bowl.
Alabama has suspended Jack linebacker Xzavier Dickson for the game, and offensive guard Anthony Steen, one of the top guard prospects for the 2014 draft, will miss the game with an injury.
Follow Chase Goodbread on Twitter @ChaseGoodbread.
