Saturday’s bowl game previews

Citrus Bowl

Matchup: No. 19 LSU (7-4, Southeastern Conference) vs. No. 15 Louisville (9-3, ACC)

Logistics: at Orlando, Florida, 8 a.m., ABC

Line: Even.

Series record: First meeting.

What’s at stake

Both programs began the season with the expectations of competing in the College Football Playoffs. Neither are competing for a national title and both are looking to cap disappointing seasons with a win.

Key matchup

LSU’s defense vs. Louisville QB Lamar Jackson. The Heisman Trophy winner has accounted for more than 50 touchdowns but will be facing the best defense he has seen this season. The Tigers are the typical SEC defense, stocked with speed and hard hitters and is one of the best units in the nation.

Taxslayer Bowl

Matchup: Georgia Tech (8-4, ACC) vs. Kentucky (7-5, SEC)

Logistics: at Jacksonville, Florida, 8 a.m., ESPN

Line: Georgia Tech by 3.

Series record: Georgia Tech leads 11-7-1.

What’s at stake

Either Georgia Tech or Kentucky will carry a modest winning streak into next season. The Yellow Jackets have won three in a row and five of six. The Wildcats have won two straight and seven of 10.

Key matchup

Georgia Tech’s flexbone spread option vs. Kentucky’s defense. The Yellow Jackets rank 10th nationally in rushing, averaging 257.4 yards a game. Although the Wildcats have played much better defense over the second half of the season, they still rank 107th in rushing yards allowed, giving up 225 yards a game and 5.14 yards a carry.

Associated Press