2012 Russell Athletic Bowl picks and predictions

Virginia Tech may be considered the favorite for the Russell Athletic Bowl on Friday evening, but many think Rutgers will give the Hokies a fight.

Despite going just 6-6 this season, Virginia Tech is a 2½-point favorite at OddsShark. Rutgers went 9-3 this year.

Over at ESPN, Will Harris predicts the Hokies will handle the Scarlet Knights, 21-10. Harris writes that both teams have excellent defenses, but the Hokies get the advantage because of "positive momentum and a coaching advantage."

However, the experts at CBS Sports things Rutgers will come away with the win. Of the seven experts, five think the Scarlet Knights will win. Only Bruce Feldman and the "prediction machine" predict a win for the Hokies.

It will be a close game, predicts Joey Johnston at NBC Sports. Johnston thinks the Hokies will win by three points, 19-16. He said it would be considered an upset if Virginia Tech wins.

Kickoff is scheduled for 5:30 p.m. ET on Friday.