I'll never buy the "team didn't want to be there" excuse. If a player doesn't have the pride to play every game at full speed or with the same desire, then they weren't very good to be begin with. The coaches need to recognize that and put the back-ups in because I bet they would give 100% effort.
I think it all comes down to match-ups. SMU's QB is the right fit for June Jones' system. Bo Levi Mitchell was not and that's why they slumped at first. Nevada had a horrible pass defense and their running game took a big hit losing two 1K yd rushers.
Last year Utah dominated Alabama. Excuses were Alabama didn't want to be there and were missing some OLs. Every year since I can remember, all sports analysts say the SEC is the best conference in college football because of their amazing depth. Why was Alabama so caught off guard by Utah if they had superior depth? It all comes back to schemes and match-ups.
If I was a coach and my starters were acting like they didn't want to play in a bowl game, I'd clear the bench and say "Who wants to win a starting position for next year?"
Just my 2 cents. End of rant.
