The matchup between the Purdue Boilermakers and the Oregon State Beavers on September 21, 2024, sets the stage for two teams aiming to rebound from recent setbacks. Purdue, under second-year head coach Ryan Walters, is 1-1 this season. They began with a dominant 49-0 win over Indiana State, showcasing an explosive offense led by quarterback Hudson Card, who threw for 273 yards and four touchdowns. However, their momentum took a hit in a lopsided 66-7 loss to Notre Dame, where their offense was stifled, and the defense allowed double-digit points in every quarter. Oregon State, coached by Trent Bray, has also experienced a mixed start to the season, standing at 2-1.

The Beavers started strong with a 38-15 win over Idaho State and a 21-0 shutout victory against San Diego State. However, they struggled against a high-powered Oregon team, ultimately falling 49-14 after being competitive in the first half. Quarterback Gevani McCoy has been a steady presence, throwing for 172 yards in the game against Oregon, while Anthony Hankerson contributed significantly on the ground. The game will likely be determined by which team can execute better offensively and limit mistakes. Purdue will need to regain their form by establishing a balanced attack and minimizing turnovers. Oregon State, meanwhile, must find a way to bounce back defensively after allowing significant yardage against Oregon. This matchup is expected to be closely contested, with both teams having something to prove.