DraftKings · as of July 8, 2026
Northwestern defeated Purdue 19–0 to secure a comfortable win. Northwestern covered by 16.0; Game went Under by 28.5. The market closed at Northwestern -3.0 and the Blue Chip model made it Northwestern -10.3 - a gap of 7.3 points toward Northwestern, of which 6.5 points were beyond the model's measured factors. That was an information gap - the market pricing something the model does not carry - rather than a measured edge.
Purdue managed only 11 first downs and was shut out for the first time this season, with quarterback Ryan Browne exiting early due to a shoulder injury and backup Malachi Singleton throwing a key interception.
The Boilermakers committed eight penalties for 85 yards and two fumbles, continuing a pattern of mistakes that have contributed to their fifth straight loss and 13th consecutive conference defeat.
Purdue's ground game was limited, with Malachi Thomas leading the team with only 34 rushing yards, failing to establish any balance or control the clock against Northwestern's defense.
While the offense struggled, the defense held Northwestern to 19 points, but the unit was on the field for 38 minutes due to offensive inefficiency, limiting their ability to create stops.
Purdue hosts Rutgers next Saturday, needing to address offensive consistency and reduce penalties to snap their losing streak and improve their 0-4 conference record.
Northwestern rushed 50 times for 232 yards, controlling the clock for 38 minutes to Purdue's 22. This ground-and-pound approach sets the offensive identity and could be key against Nebraska's defense.
The Wildcats defense recorded a shutout, limiting Purdue to 11 first downs and forcing two fumbles (one lost). This unit's ability to stifle opponents and create turnovers will be crucial on the road at Nebraska.
Stone threw for 132 yards and 2 TDs on 11-of-26 passing, connecting with Griffin Wilde for a touchdown (Wilde's fourth straight game with a TD). While not high volume, his efficiency in the red zone and ability to hit big plays adds a necessary dimension to the offense.
Caleb Komolafe left with an upper-body injury in the third quarter, though coach Braun is optimistic he'll play next week. His 67 rushing yards were vital, and his availability is important for maintaining the run-heavy game plan against Nebraska.
Northwestern has won four straight, including a dramatic win at Penn State, and now sits at 5-2 (3-1 Big Ten). This confidence and resilience, especially in close games, could be a factor in a tough road environment at Nebraska.
At kickoff, conditions at Lanny and Sharon Martin Stadium were Partly cloudy, 70°F with winds of 5 mph. Weather is not expected to be a meaningful factor in this game. Historical weather data for this game is preserved in the panel alongside. Weather data is sourced from WeatherAPI.com.
Partly cloudy
70°F
| Measure | PurdueAway | NorthwesternHome |
|---|---|---|
| This week | 119 miles | 0 miles |
| Last week | 897 miles | 1,033 miles |
| Season total | 1,204 miles | 2,726 miles |
| Body clock | 15:00 | 14:00 |
| Rest | 7 days | 7 days |
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