GAME BREAKDOWN
KEY MATCHUP: Wisconsin has been much better running the football than throwing it this season, but in either case Purdue will feel the absence of Jacob Thieneman keenly. The safety was a key part of the resurgent Boilermaker defense, and his loss to a shoulder injury reduces the already slim margin for error. In a sense, though, the biggest matchup is Purdue’s defense against itself. When it’s struggled this season, penalties and poor fundamentals have been a key factor. Neither issue can rear its head this weekend if the Boilermakers hope to win.
DRAFT SLANT
–RB D.J. Knox struggled against Minnesota last week, gaining 34 yards on 10 carries. He’ll be looking for redemption against Wisconsin as he takes the field this weekend on Senior Day.
ROSTER REPORT:
–S Jacob Thieneman suffered a shoulder injury in the loss to Minnesota. It’s unclear whether he will be able to return this season.
–QB Nick Sipe made his Purdue debut in the final moments of the loss to Minnesota. Whether he plays again likely depends on the situation. If starter David Blough gets hurt or struggles early in a situation where bowl eligibility is at stake, Elijah Sindelar will probably get the call if he’s medically cleared to play. If it’s another blowout, Sipe will probably play to preserve the possibility of a redshirt for Sindelar.
–QB Elijah Sindelar remains on the sidelines. With David Blough finishing up his college career, there’s a chance the coaching staff will hold Sindelar out of at least one more of the remaining games and seek a redshirt. He hasn’t played since the second week of the season against Eastern Michigan.
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