Champs Sports Bowl

Dec. 28, 2007

Prediction: Purdue vs. Virginia

Big 10 no. 4 or 5 vs. ACC no. 4

Analysis:

If quarterback Curtis Painter can limit his interceptions, both he and Purdue should have a good year. He certainly has a good receiving corps to throw to lead by Dorien Bryant and last year's 87 receptions. A manageable non-conference schedule should set up Joe Tiller's club nicely for the Big 10 and post-season play.

Al Groh will finally get Virginia fans to get off his back and cut him some slack, at least until 2008. After a disappointing season last year, Virginia should have a resurgence of sorts led by a defense that returns 10 out of 11 starters from a year ago. The Cavaliers have many questions to be answered at the skill positions, but perhaps the best offensive line in the ACC could make things easier on them.