The Bankrupt Automaker Bowl (aka “the Motor City Bowl”)
Central Michigan vs. Florida Atlantic / Detroit, MI / December 26rd, 7:30pm / ESPN

I don’t know if you’ve heard this or not, but U.S. automakers are in trouble. Last week President Bush Ok’d a $17.4 billion bailout package which means you and I own a lil’ piece of this bowl (I think, didn’t read the fine print in the bailout provisions yet). The game should be mildly entertaining, kind of like watching two puppies nip at each other. Another 6-6 team makes an appearance in FAU. If you’re betting money on this game, you have a gambling problem. Seriously. Central Michigan is favored by 6.5.

The Butch Davis Bowl (aka the “Meineke Car Care Bowl”)
North Carolina vs. West Virginia / Charlotte, NC / December 27th, 1:00pm / ESPN

Make no mistake about it, the story of this game is Butch Davis. Davis has the Tar Heels in only their second bowl game since 2001 and first since 2004. North Carolina also has a chance to spoil Pat White’s final game as WVU’s prolific QB, which I don’t think will happen (I like West Virginia). The Mountaineers are favored by 2.

The Sketchy Quarterback Play Bowl (aka the “Champs Sports Bowl”)
Florida State vs. Wisconsin / Orlando, FL / December 27th, 4:30pm / ESPN

Both of these teams have struggled mightily under center this season, and the bowl game doesn’t look to be any different. Florida State’s pass defense is 8th while Wisconsin’s is 35th. I like Wisconsin’s running game better, but it’s hard to pick Wisconsin after they needed overtime to beat I-AA Cal Poly. Florida State is a 5.5 point favorite.

More installments to follow…

AP photo

According to a Fox News report, up to 10 people a week are being treated for Wii-related injuries. Apparently, most of the injuries are related to sudden movement, resulting in tendon stretching or tearing. Doctors refer to the injuries as “Wii-itis” or “Wii-knee”.

Most of the injuries are being reported in the U.K., which has prompted U.K. doctors to issue Wii-warnings, and which also confirms my suspicions that the British are getting softer.

With all this going on, I’m sure it’s only a matter of time before lawyas in the U.S. fire up a couple class action lawsuits toward Nintendo, thus driving up the cost of Wiis and the related accessories. I suppose Congress would eventually come up with a Wii rescue plan, but who knows how long that could take.

As a preemptive move, I call on all Wii-loving Americans to do your American duty and, should you injure yourself playing a video game, play through the pain. No grimacing, no missing work, no cortisone treatments- suck it up and swing that controller. Do it for your country.

You’re welcome.