Staff Predictions for 2017 Independence Bowl

All the presents have been opened, all the eggnog has been consumed, and now the wait is over. The 2017 season for Florida State concludes on Wednesday afternoon in the Walk-On Independence Bowl in Shreveport, Louisiana. The Seminoles (6-6, 3-5 ACC) will try and break through a stout Southern Mississippi (8-4, 6-2 C-USA) defense and capture yet another winning season.

For the last staff prediction article of the year, The Daily Nole has once again assembled editor Mike Ferguson, staff writer Clint Eiland, site manager Edwin Collins, staff writer Josh Mixon and recruiting analyst Jay Brading. What do they think is going to happen on Wednesday afternoon?

Mike: When it comes to Florida State, it seems like everything has been talked about lately except the actual Independence Bowl. With that said, interim head coach Odell Haggins will have FSU motivated. Southern Mississippi is a well-coached team, but there is a significant talent disadvantage. Southern Mississippi running back Ito Smith is an outstanding player, but has been shut down against Power 5 teams like Tennessee and Kentucky. If FSU can continue that trend, it will be hard to beat. Seminoles 34, Golden Eagles 16.
 
Clint: Anyone predicting something like the Louisiana-Monroe game will likely be shocked. Southern Miss is a good team with a legitimately good defense. Quarterback James Blackman could pick them apart through the air if he gets going, but the potential for a slowed ground game could dramatically affect that possibility. Do I think it will be enough for an upset? No. Florida State has too many good players who can beat the trends and win their match-ups. But it won’t be easy. This’ll be close for three quarters until the Golden Eagles get worn out by the athletes on the FSU offense. Seminoles leave Louisiana with a 31-21 victory and some gumbo.
 
Josh: I don’t expect this to be a pretty game, and the crowd will probably be pretty sad considering Shreveport is so far away from Tallahassee. That said, I expect an ugly first half with both teams struggling to score. FSU will miss the presence of Derwin James and Josh Sweat, but will pull away in the third en route to another winning season. FSU 38, Southern Miss 17.
 
Edwin: Due the lack of participation from FSU players turning pro, this one will be pretty close. I think the Seminoles still win this one, 28-21.

Jay: FSU wins, 35-21. I’m not expecting anything special. FSU will run the ball well and likely hit a few through the air. I think the veterans on defense being absent will lead to a couple of breakdowns, but Florida State still completes a winning season.