Purdue vs. Ball State opens the season with an Indiana showdown
In-state rivals Purdue and Ball State square off to kick off Week 1 of the college football season, taking place at Ross-Ade Stadium in West Lafayette, Indiana. The matchup is set for Saturday, August 30, with a 9 a.m. Pacific kickoff (12 p.m. Eastern, 10 a.m. Mountain). The game will be broadcast on the Big Ten Network and can also be streamed live on demand.
Key details
– When: Kickoff at 9 a.m. PT / 12 p.m. ET (10 a.m. MT) on Saturday, August 30
– Where: Ross-Ade Stadium, West Lafayette, IN
– TV: Big Ten Network
– Live streaming: Several options are available to watch without traditional cable, including DirecTV STREAM (free trial) and Sling (promotional offers and affordable plans)
– Betting odds:
– Moneyline: Purdue -750, Ball State +475
– Point spread: Purdue -14.5, Ball State +14.5
– Over/Under: 61.5
What to watch
– This opener presents Purdue aiming to start the season strong on its home field against a nearby rival, with the chance to set early momentum in the Big Ten slate.
– Ball State will look to pull an upset in a road test against a conference opponent—an opportunity to set the tone for the Cardinals’ season.
Why it matters
– The game marks the first meeting of the season for both programs and adds early within-state intrigue to the college football calendar.
– For Purdue, a solid performance at home could build confidence heading into a challenging schedule, while Ball State seeks to prove it can compete against a Big Ten opponent on the road.
Summary
– Purdue hosts Ball State in a Week 1 clash that will be broadcast on Big Ten Network and available via streaming services such as DirecTV STREAM and Sling. With Purdue favored and a substantial spread, the game gestures toward a Purdue opening-night performance, but college football’s early-season unpredictability means Ball State will have a chance to surprise.
Additional notes
– Check local listings or the network app for any schedule changes or regional blackout considerations.
– For fans wanting to avoid cable, the streaming options listed provide a path to watch the game live.