Four Things to Watch

Purdue’s players were salty after suffering a 41-10 loss last week at Minnesota. The offense couldn’t move the ball and the defense was ineffective. Then came the news that Louisville was looking for a new head coach, which meant all eyes turned to Purdue’s Jeff Brohm, who was born in Louisville and played quarterback for the Cardinals. Brohm on Thursday denied a report he has agreed to return home and take over the program. How will the speculation affect the Boilermakers? Tune in Saturday.

FOCUSED OR DISTRACTED?

CAN COAN LIFT UW’S PASSING GAME?

Jack Coan is set to make his second consecutive start and third overall in place of Alex Hornibrook (concussion). Coan completed 9 of 20 passes for 60 yards, with two interceptions and two fumbles, in the loss at Penn State. He was also sacked five times. The line must protect better and the receivers must get open, but Coan has to start hitting some throws, particularly on third down.

UW ENJOYS THE TRACK AT ROSS-ADE STADIUM:

Purdue’s defense allowed 265 rushing yards on 41 carries, an average of 6.5 yards per carry, in the loss to Minnesota. UW is No. 6 nationally in rushing in at 266.6 yards per game and the Badgers have averaged 241.1 rushing yards per game in their last seven trips to Ross-Ade Stadium, all victories.

Brohm’s offensive scheme is designed to stretch opposing defenses and get playmakers in space against single defenders. The Boilermakers have 15 runs of 20 yards or longer, including five touchdowns, and 39 pass plays of 20 yards or longer, including eight touchdowns. Freshman wide receiver Rondale Moore has 10 receptions of 20 yards or longer and two runs of 20 yards or longer.

PURDUE WILL STRESS UW’S DEFENSE: