The final bowl game before the Championship game will take place today at the 2019 Lendingtree Bowl between Miami (OH) and Louisiana.

How They Got Here: Miami (OH)

Miami finished the season with a record of 8-5. Miami had a tough non-conference schedule, losing to Ohio State, Cincinnati, and Iowa. But then, Miami went 6-2 in MACtion play, including a five-game winning streak in the middle of the season. That winning-streak clinched the MAC East title and a showdown with Central Michigan in the conference title game. Miami won 26-21, winning its first MAC title since 2010.

How They Got Here: Louisiana

Louisiana finished with a record of (10-3) under second-year head coach Billy Napier. After a near upset victory against Mississippi State, they won 10 of their next 11 games. They finished the regular season with a 7-1 record in the Sun Belt and won the Sun Belt West. There was a rematch against App State in the Sun Belt Championship, but the Cajuns lost once again to App State 45-38. 

Players To Watch

Miami (OH): James Maye

Miami does not have a real reliable receiver. Maye is a speedy slot guy who can make plays on the outside. He is a freshman, so with a big performance in this bowl game, he could quickly become a dynamic leader for this team.

Louisiana: Elijah Mitchell

The running back for Louisiana is one of three all-conference running backs for the team. With just under 1,100 yards rushing and 15 TDs on the season, this rushing attack will be the key to victory.

Gambling: Louisiana -14 O/U 55

I’m taking Miami OH +14. I refuse to ever bet against the MAC in a bowl game. There is just something about MAC teams in Bowl games that makes me feel all warm and happy inside. I’ll take the Redhawks ATS in the 2019 LendingTree Bowl.

You can view the rest of our 2019 bowl previews here.