December 1st Sheet

Penn State at Virginia (+5.5) - 9:00am Pacific
The Cavaliers have had a dismal season this year, but have shown some life the last two weeks with the return of senior tailback Antwoine Womack.  Womack, was a first team all-ACC performer last year but was hurt in the first quarter of the very first game at Wisconsin in late August.  He returned two games ago and gave the team a boost in their stunning upset of Georgia Tech that snapped a 5 game losing streak.  Their following game against Virginia Tech, the Hokies turned 4 UVA turnovers into 24 points and won 31-17.  Now the Cavs have had two weeks off to prepare for their final game.  Womack, now at 100% and a senior dominated offensive line will have one last chance to go out with a bang against a Penn State defense that ranks last in the Big 10 allowing 208 yards per game on the ground.  With the rushing game finally going, look for the UVA offense to have a break out game and take pressure off the defense.

Penn State's defense also ranks last in the Big 10 in yards allowed per play at a whopping 6.0.  Their offense does not rank much better as they are second to last in the Big 10 in both total yards and scoring.  All five of the Nittany Lions wins this year have been in come from behind fashion.  Only two of their wins would have covered this 5.5 point spread and both of those were in Happy Valley.  This will be their 8th consecutive game without a BYE.  They are warn out and will run out of luck today.  Penn State should not be too upset at missing out on a minor bowl game in Texas. 

Earlier in the season we praised the youth and ability of the Virginia coaching staff.  They will definitely be up for this one.  Defensive coordinator Al Golden served at the same position last year at Penn State and offensive coordinator Bill Musgrave coached the same position at Penn State prior to his stint in the NFL with the Carolina Panthers.  In addition to their added motivation, their knowledge of the Penn State system and personnel will be a big advantage.  That and having a fresh team at this stage of the season makes having the extra BYE week even more important.  First year head coach Al Groh and senior RB Womack end their seasons on a positive note.  Virginia  1 UNIT

Weekly Recap

Virginia took over momentum of the game with a big fumble return for a touchdown early in the 2nd half.   We have now hit 9 of our last 10 college football plays!