The Purdue Boilermakers and Wisconsin Badgers will clash in a Big Ten matchup with both teams looking to turn around their seasons. Purdue enters the game with a 1-3 record, coming off a disappointing 28-10 loss to Nebraska. The Boilermakers have been inconsistent on offense, averaging just 21.8 points per game, which ranks 123rd nationally. Quarterback Hudson Card has shown potential, throwing for 627 yards and seven touchdowns, but he has struggled with turnovers, throwing four interceptions. Purdue’s rushing attack, led by Devin Mockobee, has been one of their few bright spots, averaging 149.8 rushing yards per game. Mockobee has rushed for 317 yards and is averaging a solid 6 yards per carry, but the team has struggled to sustain drives, converting just 35.4% of their third-down attempts.

Defensively, Purdue has been vulnerable, allowing 243.5 rushing yards per game, making them one of the weakest defenses in the nation against the run. Wisconsin, on the other hand, has had an underwhelming start to the season as well, sitting at 2-2. The Badgers have leaned heavily on their rushing attack, averaging 155.5 rushing yards per game. Running back Chez Mellusi leads the team with 232 yards and three touchdowns. However, the Badgers have also struggled offensively, averaging only 21.5 points per game, ranking 90th in offensive efficiency. The key to this game will be whether Purdue’s defense can find a way to contain Wisconsin’s rushing attack. If the Badgers can establish the run early, they should be able to control the game and keep Purdue’s offense off the field. Conversely, Purdue will need a strong performance from Card to keep the Badgers’ defense on its heels and avoid the turnovers that have plagued them in recent games.