Northwestern Wildcats vs. Purdue Boilermakers: Preview and Predictions for November 2, 2024

The Northwestern Wildcats (3-5, 1-4 Big Ten) are set to face off against the Purdue Boilermakers (1-6, 0-4 Big Ten) on Saturday, November 2, 2024, at Ross-Ade Stadium in West Lafayette, Indiana. The game is scheduled to kick off at 12:00 p.m. ET and will be broadcast on the Big Ten Network.

Both teams are struggling this season, with Northwestern coming off a 40-14 road loss to Iowa and Purdue fresh from a 35-0 defeat to Oregon. Despite their recent performances, Northwestern is listed as a 1-point road favorite in this matchup.

Purdue, currently on a six-game losing streak, recently parted ways with offensive coordinator Graham Harrell and replaced him with Jason Simmons. The Boilermakers have one of the worst offenses in the country, ranking 118th in scoring, while their defense has been equally challenged, allowing an average of 38.4 points per game.

Northwestern, though not faring much better offensively, has a significantly stronger defense, allowing just 22.1 points per game. The Wildcats are looking to break their own skid, having lost four of their last five games, including consecutive defeats by 20 or more points.

Key players to watch include Purdue’s running back Devin Mockobee, who has been a bright spot in an otherwise struggling offense, and Northwestern’s quarterback Jack Lausch, who needs to improve his performance to help the Wildcats’ offense get back on track. The return of Josh Thompson to the Wildcats’ offensive line could also be crucial in providing Lausch more time to operate.

Predictions for the game suggest a low-scoring affair, with many analysts recommending taking the under due to the conservative play expected from both teams. The total points prediction is set at under 46.5, reflecting the offensive struggles of both squads.

This matchup could be pivotal for both teams, especially for Purdue, which faces a daunting schedule ahead with games against #4 Ohio State and #3 Penn State in the coming weeks. This game may be Purdue’s best chance to secure a conference win this season.