DALLAS -- It's a sunny and crisp early morning wake-up call here at the Cotton Bowl.

While the old stadium certainly isn't the most beautiful stadium you've ever seen, it seems to at least be a passable place to watch a football game. More importantly to the outcome, the field appears to be in excellent condition.

Fans are just starting to filter into the stands, but so far, it looks like a major edge to the Husker faithful. It will be interesting to see if the Nebraska following can keep its reputation intact with a strong showing today.

As for the game, Nebraska's offense and Auburn's defense appear to be a matchup of strength vs. strength. However, the Tigers' offense -- which finally has an almost completely healthy Kenny Irons at running back -- might be a little better than its No. 68 national ranking in total offense may indicate. The Blackshirts are sure to be tested.

Then again, this whole thing could come down to who really wants to be here more -- as is the case with so many bowl games. While disappointed not to be playing in the Fiesta Bowl, the Cotton Bowl still represents an upward swing for Nebraska, which stayed home in 2004 and played in the Alamo Bowl last year. For Auburn, a team that started the season ranked No. 4 in the AP preseason poll, it's hard to say if this is a desirable destination.

Give Auburn the edge in talent, but here's guessing Nebraska's desire to beat a top-10 opponent and achieve a 10-win season is the difference.

Staff picks:
Bob Hamar, assistant sports editor: Auburn 24, Nebraska 21
Jeff Apel, correspondent: Auburn 28, Nebraska 17
Terry Douglass, sports editor: Nebraska 23, Auburn 21

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