Auburn, Cal can lose
out for close wins

DALLAS – Sometimes, winning isn’t everything.

Auburn and California finished their seasons Saturday with victories. But both teams may have left poll voters wanting more.

When the final BCS standings and bowl pairings are announced on Sunday, expect to see Oklahoma facing top-ranked Southern California for the national title in the Orange Bowl.

And there’s a good chance that Mack Brown just might get his wish, with Texas passing Cal for one of two at-large BCS berths. In that case, the Longhorns could be invited to the Rose or Fiesta bowls. If not, it’ll be the Cotton.

Oklahoma’s 42-3 demolition of Colorado in the Big 12 title game probably ensured the Sooners will meet the Trojans.

Unlike Auburn, California was in the position of defending its spot in the BCS from Texas.

A late surge lifted the Golden Bears past Southern Mississippi, 26-16, thanks in part to a blocked extra point.

The Longhorns, who beat Texas A&M in their final game Nov. 26, need as few as three poll voters to move them past Cal on their ballots.

Chuck Carlton
The Dallas Morning News

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