Music City Bowl: Tennessee vs. Purdue

Location: Nissan Stadium (Nashville)

Time: Dec. 30, 3 p.m. EST on ESPN

Teams: Tennessee (7–5) versus Purdue (8–4)

Line: Tennessee -3.5

Summary

It doesn't exactly feel like '98 in Knoxville, but Josh Heupel has this Tennessee program headed in the right direction. Tennessee fans, who've been hungry for a solid year for some time, won't hesitate to make the short trip to Nashville. This should prove to be a tough environment for the Boilermakers. Of course, Purdue has some impressive wins on their resume (including the banner wins over both Michigan State and Iowa, but neither of those came against what you'd call a "high-powered passing attack").

Both of these teams can score points in bunches, but we think Hendon Hooker and the rest of the Vols offense can sustain it throughout the game.

Our Pick

Tennessee in a shootout. -3.5 is a great line for a high-scoring game like this should be, as it likely won't come down to a field goal. The Volunteers have the X-factor on the defensive side of the ball with their improved pass rush, which will keep Purdue honest throughout the game.

The Score: Tennessee wins, 38-31