COTTON BOWL

Mississippi (9-3) vs. Oklahoma State (9-3), 11 a.m., Channel 11 -- Despite the name recognition, Eli Manning has played in relative obscurity at Mississippi. An impressive game today could translate into a small NFL fortune for Manning, and he will have an opportunity to put up big numbers against the Cowboys, who have given up 49-plus points in three games. The Rebels’ pass defense remains questionable, ranking 108th, but Manning’s decisive play has been the difference. The Cowboys try to strike a balance. Running back Tatum Bell ran for 1,240 yards and 15 touchdowns, even though he sat out 2 1/2 games because of an ankle injury. Vernand Morency filled in nicely with consecutive 200-yard games. Receiver Rashaun Woods had 14 touchdowns, seven against Southern Methodist.

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-- Jay Christensen