AUSTIN – Gov. Rick Perry today placed a friendly wager with Georgia Gov. Sonny Perdue over the outcome of today’s Independence Bowl game between the Texas A&M University Aggies and the University of Georgia Bulldogs. 

“Georgia has a tremendous football program, but they’re going to find out the hard way just why Texas is the center of the football universe,” Gov. Perry said. “As an Aggie myself, you might say I’m biased, but I’ve seen this team grow each week under Coach Sherman, and I know the Aggies will take home a victory and send the Bulldogs back home to Georgia.”

Gov. Perdue offered a different point of view.

“In 2007, Governor Perry graciously flew the Georgia flag at the Texas Capitol after the Warner Robins Little Leaguers defeated Texas for the U.S. championship in route to their World Series title,” Gov. Perdue said. “Now in the Christmas Season, Gov. Perry is seeking to redeem himself with another wager. However, I am confident that Coach Richt and the Bulldogs will deliver for Georgia and the Atlanta Community Food Bank.”

In the spirit of friendly competition, Gov. Perry has wagered Mesquite Smoked Peppered Beef Tenderloin donated by the Perini Ranch Steakhouse in Buffalo Gap. When the Aggies beat the Bulldogs, Gov. Perry will donate the food from Georgia to Minnie’s Food Pantry in Plano.

The Independence Bowl takes place in Shreveport, La. This year’s game begins at 4 p.m. CDT.
Key Points
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

•Gov. Perry places friendly wager with Georgia Gov. Sonny Perdue
•Texas A&M and University of Georgia will face off in the Independence Bowl
•If A&M wins, food will be donated to Minnie's Food Pantry in Plano