No. 20 Purdue Hosts Nebraska in Key Big Ten Showdown

No. 20 Purdue looks to extend its four-game winning streak as it hosts Nebraska in a pivotal Big Ten matchup Sunday at Mackey Arena. The Boilermakers (12-4, 4-1 Big Ten) are coming off an impressive 79-61 victory over Northwestern, while Nebraska (12-3, 2-2 Big Ten) seeks to rebound from a heartbreaking overtime loss to Iowa.

Purdue has been dominant during its winning streak, outscoring opponents by an average of 18.7 points. The team’s defense has been particularly stifling, holding opponents to just 59 points per game during this stretch. Assistant coach Paul Lusk credited the team’s improved discipline and toughness, saying, ‘Guys have bought in. They’ve done a good job of following the scouting report.’

Nebraska, led by senior wing Brice Williams, who averages 19.4 points per game, poses a significant challenge. The Cornhuskers boast the 14th-ranked defense in the nation, according to KenPom, and are known for their ability to disrupt opposing offenses. ‘They obviously beat us last year,’ Purdue head coach Matt Painter said. ‘I thought they were the tougher team last year, and normally the tougher teams win.’

Purdue’s recent lineup changes, including the insertion of true freshman C.J. Cox and Caleb Furst, have sparked the team’s resurgence. Furst, in particular, has made a significant impact defensively, averaging 7.8 points and 6.3 rebounds since Big Ten play resumed. However, the Boilermakers will need more from Trey Kaufman-Renn, who has struggled with foul trouble in recent games.

Nebraska, meanwhile, is looking to bounce back from its overtime loss to Iowa, which snapped a six-game winning streak. The Cornhuskers have been strong defensively but vulnerable to three-point shooting, with opponents generating more than 50% of their points from beyond the arc. Purdue, which ranks third nationally in assists per game (8.9), will look to exploit this weakness.

Sunday’s game marks a critical juncture for both teams as they vie for position in the competitive Big Ten standings. A win for Purdue would solidify its status as a conference contender, while Nebraska aims to secure a signature road victory to bolster its NCAA Tournament resume.