Salukis at Ross–Ade: Purdue Preps for Feisty FCS Foe
College Football | Saturday, Sept. 6 • 7:30 p.m. • BTN
Purdue (1–0) welcomes FCS No. 14/15 Southern Illinois (1–0) in a classic “don’t-blink” September trap test. The Salukis have a history of biting FBS opponents (wins over Northern Illinois in 2023 and Northwestern in 2022) and tuned up with a 49–3 opener, forcing five turnovers while posting 386 yards and no giveaways.
SIU snapshot:
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QB DJ Williams returned from injury and was sharp: 18-for-24, 227 yards, 3 TD, plus a rushing score.
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Defense under DC Lee Pronschinske throttled the run (60 rush yds allowed), lived in the backfield (Dwight/Wingate sacks), and grabbed two INTs—one a pick-six (Obadein).
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The Dawgs jumped from No. 20 to No. 14 (Stats Perform) and No. 20 to No. 15 (AFCA Coaches) after Week 1.
Boilermaker brief:
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QB Ryan Browne piloted a 31–0 debut win: 311 pass yds, 2 TD, plus a rushing TD; explosives to Arhmad Branch and Michael Jackson III showcased Barry Odom’s vertical intent.
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The defense pitched a shutout; now the challenge is finishing tackles in space vs. SIU’s rhythm RPOs and quick perimeter game.
What swings it:
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Early down success: If Purdue keeps SIU behind the chains, the Salukis’ shot menu shrinks.
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Ball security: The Salukis feast on mistakes; Purdue’s clean opener (0 turnovers) must travel.
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Special teams hidden yards: Short fields tilt outcomes in FCS-FBS upsets—flip coverage, steal possessions.
The last time these programs met (2014), Purdue held serve. Expect the Boilers to lean on pass pro and red-zone physicality to keep the kettle whistling into USC week.