The Purdue Boilermakers picked up a win over the Western Michigan Broncos, but followed that up with an embarrassing 38-10 loss at Ross Ade Stadium to the Central Michigan Chippewas. Meanwhile, Purdue’s in-state rivals — the Notre Dame Fighting Irish — are 2-0 heading into Indianapolis after they laid the smack down on the Michigan Wolverines. Purdue is facing a big game this weekend considering it’s not only for the Shillelagh Trophy and their 86th meeting with the Irish, but it could set the tone for the rest of the season.
A win for the Boilers would give them a huge boost of confidence, but a loss would deflate the football team and make them wonder if they’re headed for another train wreck. A Boiler loss would also likely lead to questions whether Darrell Hazell is the right coach or if starting quarterback Danny Etling should be replaced by Austin Appleby.
The “Baby Boilers” — Purdue ranks seventh in the country in underclassmen and could start as many 15 this Saturday — are key to Purdue’s chances against Notre Dame. One of the Baby Boilers that this writer will be curious to see if Hazell puts into action is Appleby. Within minutes of his arrival into last Saturday’s otherwise lifeless Boilers offensive performance, he threw a touchdown. It would suit Hazell well if he has a quick trigger with Etlingon Saturday because the Boilers have to have this must-win game.
Purdue won their only game ever played on the 13th of September. Saturday’s game will be the first time that the Boilers will play in Lucas Oil Stadium. Fans can watch them battle it out for Indiana supremacy on NBC at 6:30 p.m. Central.
