Purdue and Ball State: New Coaches, Fresh Start

Key Takeaways

• Purdue welcomes new head coach Barry Odom after a 1-11 season.
• Ball State faces uncertainty at quarterback and key roster adjustments.
• Home advantage and spread history favor Purdue, with a projected 31–10 win.

Purdue is aiming for a turnaround under new head coach Barry Odom, bringing fresh energy after last year’s 1-11 record. With running back Devin Mockobee and a revamped defense led by transfer Kydran Jenkins, the Boilermakers look better positioned to cover the spread at home — where they’ve historically dominated Indiana rivals.

Ball State enters with uncertainty under coach Mike Uremovich, as quarterbacks Kiael Kelly and Walter Taylor battle for the starting role. The Cardinals’ inconsistency on the road and struggles covering spreads against non-conference opponents add to their challenge.

With Purdue’s strategic upgrades and strong home edge, oddsmakers lean toward a convincing Boilermakers win, projecting a 31–10 scoreline.