Purdue Aims for Fourth Straight Win Against Rutgers in Big Ten Showdown

PISCATAWAY, N.J. — The 20th-ranked Purdue Boilermakers are set to face Rutgers at Jersey Mike’s Arena on Thursday, aiming to extend their winning streak to four games and secure another crucial Big Ten road victory. The game, scheduled for 6 p.m. ET, will be broadcast on TV with Alex Faust and Bill Raftery on commentary.

Purdue (11-4, 3-1 Big Ten) has been on a roll, defeating Minnesota and Northwestern by significant margins in their last two games. The Boilermakers are led by their star player, who was recently named Big Ten Player of the Week after averaging 25.3 points and 9.7 assists during their three-game win streak. He has been a key factor in Purdue’s recent success, shooting 44% from beyond the arc.

Rutgers (8-7, 1-3 Big Ten), on the other hand, has struggled to find consistency this season despite boasting two of the top freshman prospects in the nation. Ace Bailey and Dylan Harper, averaging 21.1 and 19.1 points respectively, have been bright spots for the Scarlet Knights. However, their individual brilliance has not translated into team success, as Rutgers has lost three of its last four games, including a disappointing defeat to Wisconsin in their last home game.

Historically, Rutgers has been a tough opponent for Purdue, winning four straight games against the Boilermakers from 2020 to 2022. However, Purdue has turned the tide in recent matchups, winning four of the last five encounters, including a 68-60 victory at Jersey Mike’s Arena last season.

This season, Rutgers has struggled defensively, allowing an average of 75 points per game, a significant departure from their traditionally gritty and defensive-minded style under head coach Steve Pikiell. The Scarlet Knights rank 15th in the Big Ten in defensive efficiency and have been particularly vulnerable to opponents’ effective field goal percentage, which stands at 51%.

Purdue, meanwhile, has found its rhythm on both ends of the court. Their defense has been particularly impressive, with aggressive and relentless play that has stifled opponents. In their recent victory over Northwestern, the Boilermakers held the Wildcats to just 61 points, showcasing their ability to dominate defensively.

As both teams prepare for Thursday’s matchup, Purdue will look to continue their winning ways, while Rutgers hopes to rediscover the defensive intensity that has defined their program in recent years. With two of the nation’s top freshmen on display, the game promises to be a compelling battle between a surging Purdue team and a Rutgers squad searching for answers.