Football

2014-15 Bowl Central

NEBRASKA (9-3, 7-1 B1G) HUSKERS

USC (8-4, 6-3 B1G) TROJANS

National University Holiday Bowl

Saturday, December 27, 2014 | 7 P.M. CT
San Diego, California | QUalcomm Stadium
Tickets | Husker Huddle Info | Travel

The Match Up Tickets &
Husker Huddle

Join the Conversation --> Travel Guide About the Bowl

The Match Up

Related Links USC Trojan Football Winsipedia Comparison

Nebraska has been selected to take on USC in the National University Holiday Bowl in San Diego on Saturday, Dec. 27. The matchup will take place at Qualcomm Stadium, the home of the San Diego Chargers. The game will kick off at 7 p.m. CT with ESPN providing television coverage of the matchup.

The Huskers will head to the West Coast with a 9-3 overall record, including a 5-3 mark in Big Ten Conference play. Nebraska capped the regular season with a 37-34 overtime victory at Iowa on the day after Thanksgiving.

"We look forward to the opportunity to take on USC in the Holiday Bowl and we look forward to the trip to the San Diego," Nebraska Interim Head Coach Barney Cotton said. "Our goal as a coaching staff is to provide a great bowl experience and put this team in position for success in the Holiday Bowl. This team has outstanding character and leadership, and we would like nothing more than to send our seniors out with a second straight bowl victory and a 10-win season."

Nebraska's appearance in the Holiday Bowl will mark its fourth trip to the San Diego game, including three in the past six years. Nebraska is 1-2 in the Holiday Bowl, defeating Arizona in the 2009 game, while losing to Arizona in the 1998 Holiday Bowl and to Washington in 2010.

The trip to the Holiday Bowl is Nebraska's 51st all-time bowl appearance, the third-most bowl appearances of any school in the country. The 2014 season marks the seventh straight season with a bowl trip for Nebraska.

"We are excited to celebrate our 51st bowl appearance with a trip to San Diego for the Holiday Bowl," University of Nebraska Director of Athletics Shawn Eichorst said. "The Holiday Bowl is a wonderful new partner for the Big Ten Conference, and our student-athletes, coaches, staff and fans are excited to travel to the West Coast. I know they will have a wonderful experience in San Diego. The University of Southern California is an outstanding institution, has an excellent football program and will be a great matchup for our team."

The matchup with USC marks the fifth all-time meeting between two of college football's most storied programs, and the first ever in a bowl game. USC holds a 3-0-1 all-time edge in the series, most recently defeating Nebraska in 2006 and 2007 in a home-and-home series. USC also defeated Nebraska in 1969, and the schools played to a tie in the 1970 season.

USC will enter the Holiday Bowl with an 8-4 overall record, including a 6-3 mark in Pac-12 Conference play. The Trojans are ranked 24th in the Associated Press Poll and the College Football Playoff rankings, and are just outside of the top 25 in the USA Today Coaches Poll. Three of USC's four losses were by six or fewer points, and the Trojans are coming off a 49-14 win over Notre Dame in their regular-season finale.

Coach Steve Sarkisian is in his first season at the helm of the USC program, after running the Washington program prior to moving to Los Angeles. The 2014 Trojans feature an explosive passing offense, averaging nearly 300 yards per game to rank 15th in the nation. USC also ranks in the top 30 in total offense and scoring offense. Defensively, the Trojans are tough against the run, and also rank among the nation's leaders in turnover margin.

Tickets for the Holiday Bowl are on sale to the public now at Huskers.com. Beginning Monday morning tickets can also be purchased by calling the Nebraska Athletic Ticket Office at 1-800-8-BIG RED. Fans can purchase tickets by using VISA, MasterCard or Discover. Holiday Bowl tickets range in price from $75 to $120, and Nebraska will receive an allotment of 6,000 tickets for the game.

Tickets and Husker Huddle

Related Links Purchase Your Bowl Tickets Purchase Your Huddle Tickets 2015 Season Ticket Request List

Ticket Information

Tickets for the Holiday Bowl are on sale to the public now at Huskers.com. Beginning Monday morning tickets can also be purchased by calling the Nebraska Athletic Ticket Office at 1-800-8-BIG RED. Fans can purchase tickets by using Visa, MasterCard or Discover. Holiday Bowl tickets range in price from $75 to $120, and Nebraska will receive an allotment of 6,000 tickets for the game. Tickets sold to the public in Nebraska's section will be sold on a first-come, first-served basis (no donor priority considered).

Donors and season ticket holders had the opportunity to take part in a bowl game ticket pre-order period before tickets were made available to the general public. During this time, tickets were assigned based on demand, priority points and receipt of the request by the deadline. Payment via credit card for tickets ordered during this period was processed on December 8, and tickets will be delivered via FedEx 3-Day Delivery on the week of December 15.

Husker Huddle Information

There is no better way to start your pregame bowl experience than at the Husker Huddle with the best college football fans! The Huddle will provide fun for all ages, featuring appearances by Nebraska dignitaries and former players, face painting for kids and the young at heart, and more. The Cornhusker Marching Band, the NU Spirit Squad, and Herbie Husker will supply plenty of Big Red spirit!

The Husker Sports Network pre-game show with Matt Davison, Lane Grindle and Greg Sharpe will be broadcasting LIVE from the Huddle, so you can hear all the latest Husker news and analysis before kickoff!

Location:
The Power Party Area
Just 50 steps west of Qualcomm Stadium!

Time:
Saturday, December 27
1 p.m. - 4 p.m. PST
Kickoff is at 5 p.m. PST

Cost:
Adults - $50 // includes buffet
Children ages 10 & under - $30 // includes buffet
Infants ages 2 & under - FREE
Cash bar available

San Diego Travel Guide

Related Links Travel with the Nebraska Alumni AssociationHoliday Bowl Travel Guide San Diego Visitor's Guide

Travel Package

Join the Nebraska Alumni Association on the official University of Nebraska Holiday Bowl trip, or at the pre-game Husker Huddle. Travel packages and events are open to all Husker alumni and fans. Learn more about travel package options, amenities and pricing.

About San Diego

Bordered by the Pacific Ocean to the west, the Anza-Borrego Desert and the Laguna Mountains to the east, and Mexico to the south, the diverse neighborhoods of San Diego are spread out over 4,200 square miles, offering endless opportunities for exploration and activities. Spend a day relaxing in one of the many beach communities, then hiking in the east San Diego County mountains the next. Explore the urban neighborhoods of San Diego's downtown, from the iconic Gaslamp District to the eclectic community of Hillcrest. Visit the quaint and charming island town of Coronado or the picturesque village of La Jolla. San Diego's regions are so unique and diverse; there are plenty of options to discover something new each time you visit.

Below are brief descriptions of San Diego's unique and vibrant regions:

Coronado

Just across the bridge from downtown and San Diego's Big Bay, Coronado's stunning beaches offer gentle surf and sparkling mica sand. With a quaint small town charm and an array of outdoor activities, Coronado is the perfect destination for family vacations and romantic getaways. Stay at the historic Hotel del Coronado, or at any of the local resorts offering unique and upscale accommodations. Enjoy a day of shopping along the vibrant main street of Orange Avenue, golf at the 18-hole public course, rent a sailboat for a day on the bay or explore the island by bike along the 16 miles of boardwalk. Whatever you decide to do, you'll find an experience that is a world apart when visiting Coronado.

Learn more about Coronado, Ca. Downtown San Diego

The heart of every city lives in its downtown, and San Diego is no exception. Located only minutes from the airport, San Diego's thriving downtown districts, including the historic Gaslamp Quarter, offer a plethora of options for accommodations, activities, dining, shopping and cultural attractions, all within walkable city blocks. Take a stroll along the Embarcadero and grab lunch at Seaport Village before you climb aboard the USS Midway Aircraft Carrier Museum. If a moving sea vessel is more your flavor, hop on a harbor cruise or sailing excursion. Catch the trolley for a quick ride to Balboa Park and the world-famous San Diego Zoo or Old Town San Diego. And when the sun goes down, the city's Gaslamp Quarter comes alive as it takes center stage in San Diego's happening nightlife scene.

Learn more about San Diego's Downtown community East County

Explore unique vacation experiences in San Diego's East County - from the La Mesa foothills to the mountains of Julian, East County's vast expanses offer a playground of entertainment. Las Vegas style gaming is available at Indian casinos that also offer world-class golf, spa services and shopping. For the outdoor adventurer seeking thrills in the arid terrain, the rocky foothills and sage- and chaparral-lined canyons provide a scenic backdrop for hiking, biking and climbing. Trek the largest state park in California - the 600,000-acre Anza Borrego State Park. Or venture up to the Palomar Observatory for incredible views of surrounding vistas. Meander through backcountry, quaint diners and other hidden treasures along the historic Highway 94 or nostalgic Highway 80, once dubbed the "Broadway of America." And don't miss a trip to Julian with historic gold mine tours for the kids and the best apple pie in California.

Learn more about San Diego's East County region Gaslamp Quarter

The beating heart of San Diego's downtown rests in the Gaslamp Quarter, comprised of 16 ½ square blocks in the city's central core. With a colorful array of restaurants, nightclubs, art galleries and boutiques, you will find plenty of things to do on foot. During the day, the Gaslamp Quarter is a great place for families. Visit the New Children's Museum or explore the historic Victorian architecture preserved throughout the district. Shop at Horton Plaza or catch the Trolley to Balboa Park and the world-famous San Diego Zoo or Old Town. As night falls, the quarter transforms into a veritable adult playground as the sophisticated nightclub scene comes to life. From award-winning restaurant to happening dance clubs, jazz and rooftop bars, you'll find it in the Gaslamp Quarter.

Learn more about San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter Hillcrest

A true neighborhood of locals with a warm and welcoming spirit, Hillcrest is at the center of San Diego's LGBT (lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender) community. With an energy all its own, the main streets are lined with 1950's style storefronts, colorful awnings, one-of-a-kind boutiques, salons, great restaurants and many specialty food outlets. Hillcrest also sits adjacent to Balboa Park and the neighborhoods of North Park and South Park offering a more "local" San Diego experience including quaint restaurants and pubs, many offering craft beer on tap, boutiques and an uptown local vibe.

Learn more about the Hillcrest neighborhood in San Diego La Jolla

The coastal village of La Jolla, appropriately meaning “The Jewel” in Spanish, is one of the most popular and picturesque destinations in the world. With a dramatic coastline ideal for swimming, surfing, diving, kayaking, and snorkeling, La Jolla's beaches are just one of the features that make this village a highly desirable destination for visitors. La Jolla offers world-class shopping and dining experiences, from designer boutiques and art galleries, to critically acclaimed restaurants featuring celebrity chefs. La Jolla's cultural offerings include the renowned Birch Aquarium at Scripps, the Museum of Contemporary Art, and La Jolla Playhouse.

Learn more about the trendy community of La Jolla, Ca. Mission Bay and Beaches

The cool breezes, tranquil waters and soft sand beaches of Mission Bay attract aquatic recreational enthusiasts all year-long. As one of the largest water parks in the world, you can have your pick from a variety of activities including kayaking, paddle boarding, jet skiing, wind surfing, sailing, kite surfing and sport fishing. Families can find a whole day of fun at SeaWorld San Diego or Belmont Park. Places to stay are plentiful, as upscale resorts and family friendly hotels line the shores. Nightlife abounds in Mission, Ocean and Pacific Beach, where sandals are recommended at local dining and nightlife hot spots.

Learn more about San Diego's popular Mission Bay and Mission Beach neighborhoods Mission Valley and Old Town

Conveniently located just north of downtown and east of Mission Bay, Mission Valley offers a host of hotels and resorts that are minutes away from San Diego's top attractions and activities, including beaches, the Gaslamp Quarter, Balboa Park the San Diego Zoo and SeaWorld. Shopping options are plentiful in Mission Valley, with the upscale Fashion Valley mall, or the family friendly Mission Valley shopping centers, all located within the bustling and vibrant community.

For a truly historic experience, don't miss San Diego's Old Town, the site of the first Spanish settlement on the West Coast. With over 12 acres of Mexican lore and historical sites, there are plenty of attractions to explore including gift shops, museums, a theater and several carefully preserved or restored historic adobe and wooden buildings. Family friendly accommodations are available and for real authentic Mexican cuisine; try any of the restaurants that offer hand-made tortillas made right before your eyes.

Learn more about San Diego's Mission Valley and Old Town communities North County Coastal

North County Coastal beach communities embrace the quintessential San Diego beach lifestyle. With a laid back vibe and hang-ten spirit, visitors seeking an iconic Southern California experience can find local beaches and veritable surf towns along the coast. As you take the scenic drive up Coast Highway 101, from La Jolla to Oceanside, stop into each unique community rich with history, natural beauty, and gorgeous beachfront views. Have fun year around in Del Mar with a county fair, horse races and holiday activities. Bring the whole family for a day at Birch Aquarium in La Jolla or LEGOLAND and SEALIFE aquarium in Carlsbad. From breathtaking golf courses, historic missions and high-quality antique shops, to flower fields and world famous surf spots, the North County San Diego coastal are a “don't miss” area of San Diego.

Learn more about San Diego's North County Coastal region North County Inland

Natural luxury can be found in San Diego's North County Inland region. Resorts, spas, wineries and over 40 golf courses are spread throughout the majestic region, leaving visitors plenty of room to stretch out and relax. Families can find affordable and spacious accommodations, with the San Diego Zoo Safari Park, Palomar Mountain and Cleveland National Forest nearby. North County San Diego also offers an easy ½ way point between Disneyland to the North and SeaWorld, the San Diego Zoo and downtown San Diego to the South.

Learn more about San Diego's North County Inland region Point Loma, Harbor Island & Shelter Island

West of downtown San Diego, you'll find Point Loma, Harbor Island and Shelter Island, all of which offer great restaurants and a variety of accommodations. These areas feature picturesque marinas from which sportfishing excursions, whale watching tours and harbor cruises depart. A peninsula jutting into the sea, it's easy to think of Point Loma as a dead end - "land's end" in fact. But, as the site where San Diego was discovered in the first place, it seems more appropriate to consider Point Loma as a starting point - the start of a new land, a new dream, a new way of looking at things. And that's just the place to start your own exploration of San Diego, with a voyage around Point Loma, Harbor Island and Shelter Island.

Learn more about San Diego's Point Loma, Harbor Island & Shelter Island neighborhoods South Bay

Escape to San Diego's South Bay, San Diego's southern-most community adjacent to the Mexican border. Nature abounds at the Tijuana Estuary offering expansive trails for hiking, biking and bird watching. The Chula Vista Nature Center features a turtle lagoon, shark & ray exhibit native gardens and bird watching. For the golf enthusiast, try a round of 18 in courses cut out of the natural landscape. Nearby attractions include the new Aquatica SeaWorld Waterpark and the Olympic Training Center which offers free guided tours of the facility. South Bay offers great shopping at the Las Americas Premium Outlet center and authentic Mexican cuisine at any number of local restaurants. Just up the coast from South Bay is Silver Strand Beach and Coronado, featuring a host of upscale resorts and family friendly accommodations.

Learn more about San Diego's South Bay region

About the Bowl

Related Links Holiday Bowl Official Site Purchase Bowl Tickets

The Holiday Bowl was founded to give the Western Athletic Conference an automatic bowl bid after the Fiesta Bowl, which previously had a tie in with the game, ended its association with the WAC after Arizona and Arizona State (the latter of which served as the game's host) left the conference to join the Pacific-8 Conference in 1977. Thus, the Holiday Bowl inherited the Fiesta Bowl's former WAC ties and gave the conference's champion its automatic bid. For the first several years, the WAC champion played an at-large team in the Holiday Bowl. Beginning in 1986 and continuing until 1994, the Big Ten Conference was given the second bid provided it had enough bowl eligible teams.

Beginning in 1995, the Big Eight Conference replaced the Big Ten and has remained tied with the bowl as the conference expanded to become the Big 12. The WAC's automatic bid was split, with first choice given to the Cotton Bowl Classic in Dallas, and a team from the Pacific-10 Conference was added as the alternate pick (meaning that, if the WAC champion played in the Cotton Bowl, the Pac-10's team would play in the Holiday Bowl). The WAC ended its association with the Holiday Bowl after the 1997 playing, and the game has since become a permanent matchup between the Big 12 and now-Pac-12.

As of 2010, the Holiday Bowl matches the third place Pac-12 team and the 5th place Big 12 team. Previously, the matchup featured the second place Pac-12 team playing the third place Big 12 team, but the Alamo Bowl outbid the Holiday Bowl to feature that matchup.

According to Bruce Binkowski, the Holiday's executive director, average ticket prices for the Holiday Bowl would have had to have been increased from $60 to $100 to match the Alamo Bowl's offer of $3 million (the Holiday Bowl was only offering $2.35 million). The now-Pac-12 and Big 12 retained their contracts with the Holiday Bowl, however, and the 2010-2013 matchups pitted the #3 Pac-12 team against the #5 Big 12 team.

For 2014 and beyond, the Pac-12 and Big Ten Conferences will play in the Holiday Bowl. The #3 team in the Pac-12 will play the #4 team in the Big Ten.

Previous sponsors have included SeaWorld, Thrifty Car Rental, Chrysler Corporation (through its Plymouth brand), Culligan and Pacific Life. On October 8, 2013, National University signed on to replace Bridgepoint Education as the bowl's title sponsor.