BLOOMINGTON — Purdue football fans have reached the end of a challenging season as the 2024 campaign concludes with a significant 66-0 defeat against the 10th-ranked Indiana at Memorial Stadium. This loss allows the Boilermakers to shift their focus towards the 2025 season.
The dire statistics from the first half highlight the struggles that contributed to Purdue’s disappointing 1-11 record. For the fifth time this season, the Boilermakers were shut out in the first half. In fact, they ended the 2024 season without a single first-quarter touchdown against any of their 11 FBS opponents. Overall, Purdue was outscored 104-13 in the opening quarter and 236-53 in the first half. By halftime on Saturday, Indiana led 28-0.
The second half did not provide any relief, even with a change at quarterback. A fumbled handoff during the first play resulted in Indiana recovering the ball, subsequently leading to a field goal. Indiana’s relentless offense continued, including a surprising fake punt conversion late in the third quarter even while leading 38-0. The Boilermakers struggled throughout the game, failing to accumulate even 100 total yards and committing four turnovers.
The future of head coach Ryan Walters has come into question amid this challenging season. As losses mounted, vocal frustrations from fans intensified—especially as the team had to contend with several decommitments from their 2025 recruiting class, currently totaling eight.
However, this period of hardship could also mark a turning point for the program. With a fresh start on the horizon in 2025, there lies potential for revitalization. Coaches and players alike can learn from this season’s trials, paving the way towards improvement and renewed enthusiasm for the Boilermaker faithful. As the offseason begins, all eyes will be on how the team addresses these significant challenges moving forward.
In summary, while the 2024 season was undoubtedly disappointing for Purdue football, it opens up the opportunity for reevaluation, strategy shifts, and a renewed commitment to rebuilding the program in 2025. Fans can look forward to potential changes that may bring a brighter future for Boilermaker football.