Georgia Tech began and ended their season with strong performances. They knocked off Florida State as a 10.5 point underdog, and nearly knocked off Georgia in an eight overtime thriller. On the other side Vanderbilt lost four out of their final five games as the SEC conference wore them down. With extended rest look for Vanderbilt to resemble the team that began the season 5-1. Take the points with Vanderbilt.

Most mid-level bowls seem to be missing a least one starting QB. Not this one. Tech's Haynes King and Vandy's Diego Pavia are dynamic, able to move the chains with their feet as well as their right arm, and could deliver a points fest. The number of impactful defensive players sitting out is higher than those on offense, which should enhance the scoring. The Yellow Jackets average 29.1 ppg, the Commodores 26.7. No reason the total should not eclipse the 50-point mark.

Georgia Tech is a different team when QB Haynes King is available, as he was badly missed in midseason losses vs. Notre Dame and VPI. With King in the fold, the Yellow Jackets put up a valiant battle vs. Georgia in the finale only to succumb (painfully) in 8 OTs. After four weeks to recover, Brent Key's squad (with King) looks to end on a high note in Birmingham as last December in Tampa vs. UCF. Vandy of course was a revelation this season with QB Diego Pavia leading the New Mexico State regiment, but Pavia and the Dores lost four of their last five. Most of Vandy's underdog success also came at higher prices than this. Play Georgia Tech (Birmingham Bowl at Birmingham)

Surprising Vanderbilt upset Alabama, Virginia Tech, Kentucky and Auburn en route to a 6-6 season. Now the Commodores, who are 7-2 ATS as underdogs, are getting a field goal in Friday's Birmingham Bowl against 7-5 Georgia Tech. In a vote of SportsLine Discord members, 56 percent favored Vanderbilt to cover the spread. To join the Discord, click "Join Our Community" from the SportsLine homepage.