The Boilermakers squandered a double-digit lead in a season-opening loss to Fresno State. But they bounced back with a 24-17 win last week in a weather-delayed game at Virginia Tech. The defense stepped up to hold the Hokies scoreless on six second-half possessions. Purdue outplayed Syracuse most of the way last year before losing on the final play. A balanced effort Saturday should be enough to avenge that loss against a Syracuse club that might be overvalued in the market.