THE BOWLS DAILY REPORT : CITRUS : Emotions Will Play Part in Outcome

The outcome of the Jan. 2 Citrus Bowl game between Ohio State (9-3) and Alabama (11-1) might be decided by how well each team adjusts to its previous game. Ohio State is on a clear high after defeating Michigan for the first time since 1987, 22-6. The only negative was that the Buckeye players accidentally dropped Coach John Cooper when they were carrying him from the field.

Meanwhile, Alabama lost a shot at the national championship when it was beaten by Florida, 24-23, in the Southeastern Conference championship game.

Quarterback Jay Barker is still trying to rationalize the game.

“We would have liked to win the (Florida) game, but that’s in the past now,� Barker said last week. “We’ve had some time to get over that and now the only thing we are thinking about is the Citrus Bowl.�