Hoosiers Bounce Back Strong, Blow Out Boilermakers

© Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images

No. 10 Indiana cruised to a dominant 66-0 victory over Purdue on Nov. 30 at Memorial Stadium in Bloomington, Ind. The Hoosiers (11-1, 8-1 Big Ten Conference) showed no mercy in this blowout, as they overwhelmed the Boilermakers (1-11, 0-9) from the start. Senior QB Kurtis Rourke threw for multiple touchdowns, while senior RB Justice Ellison added to his season total with another score. The game was never in question, as Indiana proved once again why they belong among the top teams in the B1G.

Game Summary

Indiana left no doubt from the opening whistle, dominating Purdue in a lopsided contest that showcased the stark difference between the two teams. Ellison opened the scoring with a 2-yard touchdown run—his 10th of the season—setting the tone early. The Hoosiers' offense hit their stride in the second quarter, piling on three more touchdowns, including a dazzling 84-yard strike from Rourke to junior WR Elijah Sarratt. By halftime, the score was 28-0, and Purdue was down and outmatched. The Boilermakers’ inability to keep up was no surprise given their struggles this season.

Turning Point

Although the outcome isn’t surprising, early on, this level of domination wasn’t immediately evident. The Hoosiers led by only one score after the first quarter, and their offense hadn’t yet hit full stride. However, everything shifted in the second quarter when Rourke scrambled and connected with Elijah Sarratt for an 84-yard touchdown.

That play was the turning point—when Purdue’s hopes of regaining momentum vanished. From there, the Boilermakers had no path back into the game.

What It Means

While Indiana won't be heading to the B1G Championship game after No. Penn State's (10-1, 8-1) decisive win over Maryland (4-8, 1-8), the Hoosiers made a strong statement in their dominant victory over Purdue. Against an overmatched opponent, Indiana proved they are a cut above the rest of the conference. This win, though expected, adds another feather in their cap in the argument for College Football Playoff inclusion, furthering their case as a legitimate contender.