Minnesota (3-1 overall, 0-1 B1G) at Purdue (2-2 overall, 0-1 B1G)
When: Saturday, 2:30 p.m. CT – West Lafayette, Ind.
Stadium: Ross-Ade Stadium (57,236)
TV/Radio: ESPN2, KFAN 100.3 FM
Coach: Jeff Brohm (1st season)
Spread: Purdue -4, o/u: 46½
INSIDE THE GAME
Boilermakers at a Glance
Purdue is looking to end a four-game losing streak to Minnesota. Luckily, most of the recent success against the Gophers has come at Ross-Ade Stadium, where they have won nine of the last 11 games in the matchup.
The Boilermakers are a perfect 15-for-15 inside the red zone this season. The majority of the scores (8) have come through the air.
Purdue seems to lack a go-to receiver but five different players have over 100 yards receiving. Jackson Anthrop leads the receiving corps with 18 receptions and four touchdowns while adding 157 yards.
Linebacker Ja’Whaun Bentley and safety Jacob Thieneman will be suspended for the first half of Satruday’s game. Both players were ejected for targeting against Michigan.
Coach Speak
“Coach Brohm is one of the best coaches in the country, always has been, One of the best offensive minds in the game. He’s really captivated Purdue, you can see it already.” – P.J. Fleck
“It is important to get an idea of what you’re good at and the things you’re not, either not do it as much or figure out a way to get better.” – Jeff Brohm
STORYLINE CENTRAL
Purdue coach’s son ready to Row The Boat? Andy Greder of the Pioneer Press writes how Jeff Brohm’s 12-year-old son has reached out to P.J. Fleck for advice on being a football coach.
Purduesports.com has an article and additional material memorializing the life and success of coaching icon Joe Tiller. The winningest coach in Purdue history passed away last Saturday.
Like many teams, including Minnesota, Purdue is dealing with numerous injuries to key players. Mike Carmen of the Journal and Courier details what players will miss Saturday’s game and if any are expected to return.
WHO WINS?
The Gophers Win If…
If the young defensive backs play well. Minnesota’s secondary has been ravaged by suspensions and injuries. What’s worse, they have very little experienced depth to replace the losses. P.J. Fleck mentioned in his weekly press conference that Purdue employs a vast and varied offensive attack. Expect the Boilermakers to test the eye discipline and communication of the youthful defensive backfield with numerous looks. Minnesota will need an elite performance from the back end of the defense on Saturday.
The Boilermakers Win If…
If they can run the ball effectively. Purdue has averaged 234 yards rushing in its two victories this season. In the losses, just over 40. The Boilermakers have to be encouraged after Minnesota was gashed last week by Maryland for over 260 yards on the ground.
“We’ve got to be a little more committed to running the ball,” Brohm said. “Our runners and our offensive line have to give us some plays. If you’re able to run the ball, you’re going to have a better chance.”