Boilermakers Bring the Bucket Back to West Lafayette

Purdue ended its regular season on the highest possible note, defeating archrival Indiana 38-21 in a commanding performance to win back the Old Oaken Bucket. The Boilermakers controlled the game from start to finish, using a balanced offensive attack and a stout defensive effort to silence the home crowd in Bloomington. The victory was a satisfying conclusion to the season for Purdue, who reclaimed the coveted rivalry trophy after losing it the previous year.

The Boilermakers' offense set the tone early. Quarterback Hudson Card was efficient and effective, throwing for two touchdowns and avoiding costly mistakes. However, the star of the show was Purdue's rushing attack, led by running back Devin Mockobee. Mockobee gashed the Hoosiers' defense for over 150 yards and a touchdown, consistently breaking tackles and picking up crucial first downs. His physical running style wore down the Indiana front seven, opening up play-action opportunities for Card and the passing game.

Purdue's defense was equally impressive. They harassed Indiana quarterback Tayven Jackson all afternoon, forcing two interceptions and sacking him four times. The defensive line generated consistent pressure, and the secondary blanketed the Hoosiers' receivers, preventing any big plays downfield. The Boilermakers held Indiana's offense to just seven points in the first half, building a lead that proved to be insurmountable.

A Game of Control

Unlike many of the wild, high-scoring affairs of Rivalry Week, this game was about control, and Purdue had it. They dominated the time of possession, thanks to their successful ground game, and converted on key third downs to sustain long, clock-burning drives. This strategy kept Indiana's offense off the field and allowed the Purdue defense to stay fresh. Head coach Ryan Walters' game plan was executed to near perfection, as the Boilermakers played a clean, disciplined brand of football.

Indiana showed flashes of life in the second half, with running back Trent Howland finding the end zone twice to cut into the lead. However, every time the Hoosiers seemed to be gathering momentum, Purdue had an answer. A 50-yard touchdown pass from Card to receiver Deion Burks in the third quarter was a critical blow, quieting the crowd and re-establishing Purdue's dominance.

Rivalry Redemption

For Purdue's players and coaches, this win was about more than just finishing the season with a victory; it was about redemption. Losing the Old Oaken Bucket on their home field in 2024 was a painful experience, and the team was clearly motivated to right that wrong. "This one was personal," said linebacker Kydran Jenkins after the game. "We thought about it all year. To come into their house and take the Bucket back is a feeling I'll never forget."

The victory provides a significant boost for the Purdue program. While their 6-6 record means they are just bowl-eligible, finishing the season by beating their rival gives them a massive injection of positivity. It's a win that will resonate with the fanbase and help with recruiting as they head into the offseason.

Hoosiers' Struggles Continue

For Indiana, the loss was a disappointing end to a difficult season. The Hoosiers finished the year with a 4-8 record, failing to achieve bowl eligibility. Their offense struggled with consistency all season, and those issues were on full display against Purdue. While the team played hard, they were ultimately outmatched and outcoached. The loss raises questions about the direction of the program under head coach Curt Cignetti and what changes may be in store during the offseason.

As Purdue's players hoisted the Old Oaken Bucket and celebrated on their rival's field, the message was clear: the Bucket is back where it belongs. For the next year, bragging rights in the state of Indiana belong to the Boilermakers.