First Down: Best bowl giveaways for players

LOCAL POWER RANKINGS WHO’S GENERATING BUZZ IN THE D.C. AREA?

FLIP SAUNDERS

An interesting tactic by the Wizards coach Tuesday night, calling out his team’s lack of defense. This ego-driven roster may respond by tuning him out.

BRIAN ORAKPO

One year, one Pro Bowl appearance for the Redskins linebacker. If he stays healthy, his inclusion could become a regular occurrence.

JASON CHIMERA

A good addition by the Capitals, whose forward group was in need of some snarl and scoring punch from players not on the first line.

MATT CAPPS

The Nationals’ new closer is part of a rebuilt bullpen that also includes setup man Brian Bruney. Whether they get a lot of work is the big question.

ED WANG

The Ashburn product and Virginia Tech left tackle will make his 38th and final start when the Hokies face Tennessee in the Chick-fil-A Bowl.

TWT FIVE BEST BOWL GIFT GIVEAWAYS FOR PLAYERS

1. Holiday — Flo TV personal television, Best Buy gift card, Tourneau watch, Sport-Tek sweatshirt and cap.

2. Music City — RCA HD camcorder, Fossil watch, Majestic fleece, New Era hat, Ogio Metro laptop pack.

3. Humanitarian — Sony gift card, Garmin GPS, parka, Nike apparel, Ogio Fugitive laptop pack, football.

4. Rose — Sharp 19-inch TV, Fossil watch, New Era hat, plaque, Ogio Fugitive laptop pack.

5. Sugar — Timely watch, New Era cap, Lane recliner, Ogio Politan laptop pack and gift cards from Sony, Apple, Trek, Garmin and Weber.

Source: Sporting News. The NCAA allows each gift pack to be valued at no more than $500.

THURSDAY’S BEST BET ON TELEVISION

Capitals prospect John Carlson leads the United States against Canada at the World Junior Hockey Championships. 8 p.m., NHL Network