DraftKings · as of July 8, 2026
Rutgers defeated Purdue 27–24 in a nail-biter. Rutgers covered by 5.5; Game went Under by 9.5. The market closed at Purdue -2.5 and the Blue Chip model made it Rutgers -3.0 - a gap of 5.5 points toward Rutgers, of which 4.5 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.
Rutgers secured its first Big Ten victory, improving to 4-4 overall and 1-4 in conference play, which could boost team morale and momentum heading into a tough matchup against No. 23 Illinois.
KJ Duff had a breakout performance with 241 receiving yards on six catches, including a 72-yard touchdown. This suggests Rutgers' passing attack can be a major threat, especially if Ian Strong returns from injury.
Despite being sacked five times, Kaliakmanis threw for 359 yards and two total touchdowns (one passing, one rushing). His ability to perform under duress will be critical against Illinois' defense.
Raymond rushed for 116 yards and a touchdown on 29 carries, providing balance to the offense. This ground game could help control the clock and keep Illinois' offense off the field.
Rutgers forced a crucial fumble late in the game and converted it into a game-winning field goal. The defense's ability to create turnovers and special teams' reliability under pressure will be key against Illinois.
Purdue took a 27-24 lead with 4:43 left, but allowed Rutgers to tie the game with 1:06 remaining. On the ensuing drive, QB Ryan Browne caught his own pass and fumbled at his own 30 with 59 seconds left, leading to Rutgers' game-winning field goal.
Purdue was outgained 543-345 and converted only 1 of 9 third downs. The team used a two-quarterback system with Ryan Browne (11/20, 117 yards) and Malachi Singleton (2/3, 2 TDs), which may continue against Michigan.
Rutgers' KJ Duff had 241 receiving yards on six catches, including a 72-yard TD. This highlights a weakness in Purdue's secondary that Michigan could exploit.
Despite the loss, Purdue showed fight by taking a late lead and converting both fourth-down attempts. However, poor third-down efficiency and a critical turnover cost them the game.
At kickoff, conditions at Ross-Ade Stadium were Cloudy, 55°F with winds of 11 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.
Cloudy
55°F
| Measure | RutgersAway | PurdueHome |
|---|---|---|
| This week | 656 miles | 0 miles |
| Last week | Home game | 237 miles |
| Season total | 7,439 miles | 1,323 miles |
| Body clock | 12:00 | 12:00 |
| Rest | 7 days | 7 days |
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