Nebraska Cornhuskers vs
Purdue BoilermakersPredictions & Preview

Nebraska Cornhuskers Favored to Defeat Struggling Purdue Boilermakers in Big Ten Showdown

The Nebraska Cornhuskers are looking to bounce back after a tough loss to Illinois, dropping them out of the Top 25 rankings. True freshman quarterback Dylan Raiola has been a standout performer for the team, leading the resurgence under head coach Matt Rhule. On the other hand, the Purdue Boilermakers have struggled, with their only win coming against an FCS opponent. The upcoming clash between these two teams will mark the 13th meeting in a series tied at 6-6 since Nebraska joined the Big Ten. Nebraska is the betting favorite at -10 for this matchup.

Betting Odds

• Moneyline: Cornhuskers -380 | Boilermakers +300
• Spread: Cornhuskers -10 (-110) | Boilermakers +10 (-110)
• Total: Over/Under 46.75 (-110)
• Based on the moneyline, the implied probability that Nebraska will win straight-up is 79%.

Nebraska vs Purdue Stats

Nebraska Cornhuskers

The Huskers suffered another narrow defeat to a ranked team, continuing a trend of promising seasons derailed by crucial mistakes. True freshman quarterback Dylan Raiola showed signs of inexperience in critical moments during the game against Illinois. The Huskers' defense, once dominant, has shown vulnerabilities in recent games. Despite popular opinion on social media, Illinois is a strong team with potential, making the loss not a cause for embarrassment. Nebraska has realistic expectations of a 7-5 or 8-4 season with a bowl game in sight. Their upcoming game against Purdue poses a challenge, but not an insurmountable one. Nebraska is currently ranked 62nd in offense, 29th in defense, and has a 3-1 record this season.

Purdue Boilermakers Analysis

Purdue head coach Ryan Walters is addressing the criticisms and challenges his team is facing after two tough losses. Despite struggles on offense and defense, Walters remains focused on the task at hand as Purdue enters Big Ten play against Nebraska. The team's performance has led to a power ranking of 102, ranked 78th in offense and 116th in defense. Walters remains optimistic and is looking forward to potential improvements, including the return of Georgia transfer CB Nyland Green. The coach's primary focus is preparing his players for upcoming challenges and blocking out distractions from social media and outside chatter.

Purdue Struggles Continue as They Face Tough Matchup Against Nebraska

Purdue has encountered challenges early in the season, as evidenced by two significant losses. The team suffered a 66-7 defeat against Notre Dame and a 38-21 loss to Oregon State, revealing underlying issues in both their offensive and defensive strategies. Quarterback Hudson Card has struggled in recent games, with a completion rate of only 44%, two touchdowns, and three interceptions following a strong season opener. Purdue's passing offense, usually a point of strength, currently ranks 110th nationally. Their inability to generate momentum on offense, particularly against tougher opponents, is a cause for concern. Defensively, Purdue has allowed an average of 351.5 rushing yards in their last two games, placing them near the bottom in run defense at the national level. The team has yet to force a turnover this season, indicating a lack of playmakers capable of disrupting their opponents. Conversely, Nebraska, under the leadership of head coach Matt Rhule, sees this game as an opportunity to excel. With a defense that has demonstrated strength throughout the season, Nebraska is positioned to dictate the tempo of the game against a struggling Purdue offense. Led by true freshman QB Dylan Raiola, Nebraska possesses the tools needed to exploit Purdue's vulnerable secondary and dominate their rushing defense. Notably, Nebraska has a 3-1-0 record against the spread this season, while Purdue sits at 0-2 ATS against FBS teams.

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