By Garin Turner
The Purdue Boilermakers (2-7) will try to end a seven-game losing streak in dramatic fashion when they host the No. 1 Ohio State Buckeyes on Saturday at 1 p.m. ET on the Big Ten Network.
Last Game
Purdue came painfully close to a breakthrough win last week, falling 21-16 to No. 21 Michigan in a game that stayed tight throughout. The Boilermakers went into halftime tied 7-7 and pushed the Wolverines deep into the fourth quarter.
Quarterback Ryan Browne completed 19 of 24 passes for 133 yards and a touchdown, while running back Malachi Thomas rushed 15 times for 68 yards. Antonio Harris added 54 yards and a touchdown on 11 carries, and receiver Michael Jackson III caught six passes for 58 yards.
What’s at Stake
For Purdue, this game is about pride and perseverance. A win would mark its first Big Ten victory of the season and would stand as one of the biggest upsets in program history.
For Ohio State, the stakes are far higher. The Buckeyes are sitting atop the national rankings and control their own path to the College Football Playoff. A stumble in West Lafayette wouldn’t necessarily eliminate them—but it would tighten the margin for error considerably.
What to Watch For
Purdue has a surprising knack for stunning elite opponents—especially the Buckeyes. The Boilermakers have beaten ranked Ohio State teams eight times, and four of those upsets came when the Buckeyes were ranked in the Top Five.
Could another upset be brewing? Head coach Ryan Walters’ squad may lean on creative play-calling and a few trick plays to keep Ohio State guessing. For the Buckeyes, discipline and execution will be key to avoiding another “Purdue Problem.”
Key Stats
Passing: Ryan Browne – 1,822 yards, 9 TD, 7 INT
Rushing: Malachi Thomas – 39 carries, 206 yards
(RB Devin Mockobee’s college career has ended due to ankle surgery.)
Receiving: Michael Jackson III – 50 receptions, 456 yards, 1 TD
Prediction
Purdue will fight early but Ohio State’s depth and offensive firepower should take over by halftime. Expect the Buckeyes to strike fast and leave no room for doubt.
Final Score: Ohio State 52, Purdue 14.
