The November 8, 2025 matchup between Ohio State and Purdue is one of those Big Ten showdowns that carries far more intrigue than the records might suggest. Ohio State enters the game undefeated and ranked near the top of every major poll, a team built on elite talent, balance, and a defense that has suffocated nearly every opponent this season. Head coach Ryan Day’s squad boasts one of the best point differentials in college football, averaging close to 40 points per game while giving up fewer than 12. The Buckeyes’ defense, under coordinator Jim Knowles, has been nothing short of dominant—allowing minimal explosive plays and thriving in both third-down and red-zone situations. Up front, defensive ends Jack Sawyer and JT Tuimoloau lead a relentless pass rush, while linebacker Cody Simon and safety Lathan Ransom anchor a unit that rarely misses assignments. The offense, meanwhile, continues to evolve under quarterback Devin Brown, who has matured into a confident distributor of the football. With wideouts like Carnell Tate and Jeremiah Smith emerging as dynamic weapons, the Buckeyes’ passing attack remains as dangerous as ever. Complementing that is a backfield featuring TreVeyon Henderson and Quinshon Judkins, a one-two punch capable of breaking games open behind an offensive line that has steadily improved in run blocking. Ohio State’s formula is simple but brutally effective: suffocate opponents defensively, win field position, and then capitalize with explosive yet controlled offense.

Purdue, however, enters this matchup with a chance to play spoiler—a role it has famously embraced before, having upset several top-ranked teams at home over the years. Under second-year head coach Ryan Walters, the Boilermakers have leaned on physicality and balance, with quarterback Hudson Card leading an offense that can move the ball when given time to operate. Running back Devin Mockobee has been the heartbeat of the attack, averaging close to 5 yards per carry, and his ability to churn out tough yards could be pivotal against Ohio State’s fast, disciplined defense. Purdue’s passing game has flashed potential, with Card connecting frequently with wide receivers TJ Sheffield and Deion Burks, but turnovers and protection issues have derailed promising drives throughout the season. Defensively, the Boilermakers will have their hands full, but they’ve shown flashes of toughness under Walters, particularly in containing the run and creating pressure from multiple fronts. For Purdue to keep this game close, it must limit explosive plays, sustain long drives, and capitalize on field position whenever possible. Ohio State’s biggest challenge might be focus and consistency—Ross-Ade Stadium has been a trap for elite teams before, and any early mistakes could embolden a Purdue team that thrives on chaos. From a betting perspective, this matchup could tilt toward a lower-scoring, grind-it-out affair if Purdue can slow tempo and convert early downs. However, if Ohio State’s defense continues its dominant form, the Buckeyes could wear down the Boilermakers by the second half and pull away. Expect the first half to be competitive before Ohio State’s depth, speed, and defensive execution take over in a statement road win.

Get live CFB odds and precise AI CFB picks, predictions, and cover probabilities.