Know Thy Opponent: Indiana State Sycamores (0-0) at Purdue Boilermakers (0-0)

Purdue will kick off the 2024 season with a familiar FCS opponent from Terre Haute. This game is 100% without a doubt a must-win for Ryan Walters and Purdue, mostly because the rest of their 2024 schedule is one of the toughest in the nation.

Let’s get to know the Sycamores.

Indiana State Sycamores (0-0)

2023 Record: 1-10

Series Record: Purdue 6-0

Last Purdue Win: 56-0, September 10th, 2022

Last Indiana State Win: None

Indiana State Head Coach: Curt Mallory (20-47 Career Record)

The 2023 Season for Indiana State:

The 2023 season for the Sycamores was a forgettable one, probably one they never really want to talk about again. Their only win came late in the season after starting 0-9, beating Western Illinois 27 to 6.

Aside from that, there has not been a lot for Sycamore fans to look forward to as they have not had a winning record since the 2018 Campaign. They only scored 13.45 points per game during the 2023 season, while allowing right at 30 points per game, again it was an abysmal season for Indiana State.

Now, they look to move forward, but it will be a process, as they are young on both sides of the football team again.

On offense, they return Kokomo native, Plez Lawrence, the speedster who rushed for over 500 yards last season, he will look to pace the offense, which is only bringing back four starters this season.

On defense, senior defensive back, JP Osafo will look to pace the secondary and lead a young defensive unit overall.

Game Outlook:

It will be a scorcher at Ross-Ade Stadium this weekend, with the highest reaching the low 90s, it could play a factor, and while Purdue is not that deep, they are much deeper than the Sycamores overall.

Way Too Early Prediction:

I would be shocked and disappointed if Purdue does not blow these guys out and pull away early. Look for the Boilers to win convincingly.

Purdue 45 Indiana State 7