Minnesota at Virginia Tech

Minnesota has a terrific defense that finished ninth in the nation in yards allowed and 14th in points given up (19.1 per game). The offense has QB Max Brosmer (17 TDs , 5 INTs) and RB Darius Taylor (873 yards, 4.7 yards per carry). They match up well against a depleted Virginia Tech defense that loses five starters for this bowl, including two First-Team All-ACC players. Minnesota has close losses to No. 12 Michigan (27-24) and No. 4 Penn State (26-25) along with wins over No. 11 USC (24-17) and No. 24 Illinois (25-17). Virginia Tech QB Kyron Drones (10 TDs, 6 INTs) is injured so redshirt freshman Pop Watson (one TD, one interception) will start. The offense loses two starters on the line along with their top two wide receivers. Play Minnesota.