BLOOMINGTON — Purdue football fans can now look ahead with optimism, as the 2024 season has drawn to a close.
Following a challenging season, the Boilermakers endured a tough final game, suffering a 66-0 defeat to the 10th-ranked Indiana at Memorial Stadium. With the conclusion of this season, Purdue can now begin to strategize for the 2025 campaign.
The statistics from the first half of the season highlight the difficulties faced by Purdue, as they were shut out in the first half for the fifth time this season and failed to score a touchdown in the first quarter throughout their 11 games against FBS opponents. The team was outscored 104-13 in the first quarter and 236-53 in the first halves of all their games, with Indiana leading 28-0 at halftime on Saturday.
The second half did not show significant improvement, even with a new quarterback stepping in. A fumbled handoff on the very first play from scrimmage led to a field goal for Indiana, further extending the deficit. Indiana’s dominance included a fake punt that gained 18 yards while leading 38-0 late in the third quarter. Purdue’s offense struggled to reach even 100 total yards, and the team turned the ball over four times.
As speculation about head coach Ryan Walters’ future continues to swirl, particularly as frustrations mount within the fanbase due to the team’s performance, the Boilermakers faced additional challenges regarding recruiting. This week, they lost three commitments from their 2025 recruiting class, bringing the total to eight decommitments.
Despite the disappointments of the 2024 season, there remains hope for rejuvenation in 2025. With a focus on re-establishing team morale and improving recruitment strategies, Purdue can aspire to turn the tide in the upcoming season.
Comment: While this season has been marked by struggles, the end can often signify a new beginning. With strategic changes and a clear focus on recruitment, Purdue fans can find optimism for the future.