Overview/Matchup: Texas Tech's 2008 season is defining of the "don't lose late" notion that pervades college football. Because the Red Raiders got blown out by Oklahoma in the second to last week of the season -- their only loss of the year -- Mike Leach's team got squeezed out of the BCS and Graham Harrell didn't even get invited to New York City for the Heisman Trophy presentation. And their final reward? They get to play an Ole Miss whose 8-4 season hinges on a crucial win over Florida. They're a talented bunch, and Houston Nutt has done a good job, but if the Raiders' offense can come to life, this should be another pirate club victory.
Hotels: Built by St. Louis beer baron Adolphus Busch in 1912, The Adolphus is the place to stay for luxury travelers in Dallas. Every inch of the baroque-style property underwent a renovation in 1999 and it's still going toe-to-toe with the more modern downtown alternatives. Don't let the 1978 exterior or cheesy spherical tower fool you, the Hyatt Regency Dallas offers a great location with easy access to West End nightlife, recently renovated guestrooms and reasonable rates. Unfortunately there isn't much in the way of cheap accommodation near the Cotton Bowl, so your best bet is near the highway or the airport. With both of those factors in mind, we recommend the Super 8 Motel on Carpenter Freeway.
Although the Super 8 has very cheap rooms and is convenient to the highway and airport, it's still quite a trek from the stadium. All told the Cotton Bowl itself is almost 24 miles from DFW airport.
Restaurants: As for dining, if you need a celebratory steak, try Al Biernat's just north of downtown. They serve juicy steaks and prepare an excellent pan-seared sea bass. For a midrange meal, visit Primo's Bar & Grill in Uptown Dallas. The patio is great for people-watching and it's a favorite hangout for local chefs. Try the huevos rancheros or the grilled tacos. If you're looking for a cheap meal, head to the South Dallas Café. Conveniently located by the fair grounds and stadium, this Dallas institution serves some of the best soul food in the U.S. Additionally, any number of downtown, upscale Latin America restaurants offer high end brisket tacos.
Nightlife: For nightlife you should head to the West End area of downtown. Try the Petrus Lounge for great bar service, comfortable couches and rooftop views of the city. For a more traditional Texas experience, try Gilley's in the south area of downtown. It's one of the nation's great honky-tonks. You'll see everyone from Django Walker to bikini-clad bull riders.
Turkey Legs to Go: Cotton Bowl Travel Guide, Ole Miss vs. Texas Tech originally appeared on NCAA Football FanHouse on Wed, 17 Dec 2008 15:00:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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