Purdue returns to Ross-Ade Stadium this Saturday, looking to take care of business against Maryland in an important Big Ten matchup. According to the latest Fan Duel Odds, the Boilermakers are approximately 5.5 -point favorites (-105). Maryland enters as a +176 moneyline underdog, while Purdue sits at -215. The opening betting line suggests that oddsmakers favor Purdue, but the Boilermakers still have plenty to prove on the field.
The over/under is currently set at 57.5 points, with both the over and
under carrying -110 odds. That number suggests FanDuel is anticipating a reasonably competitive contest with offensive production on both sides.
Purdue’s ability to establish its offense at home will be a major factor in determining whether this game goes over the projected total.
Maryland enters the matchup following a 20-17 loss to Illinois, while Purdue is coming off a 31-17 defeat against Penn State. Neither team is exactly riding a wave of momentum, making Saturday an important opportunity to get back in the win column.
Maryland has struggled defensively throughout the season, and Purdue will need to take advantage of that weakness.
The biggest question for Purdue is whether it can put together four complete quarters of football. The Boilermakers have had opportunities to compete in Big Ten games this season, but mistakes and inconsistent offensive execution have made winning difficult.
Playing at Ross-Ade should provide a boost, and this is a matchup Purdue should feel confident about. Maryland has struggled against stronger competition, and Purdue has a legitimate opportunity to control the game if it can establish the run and avoid costly turnovers.
Purdue has enough advantages in this matchup to come away with a much-needed victory. Maryland should be able to move the football enough to keep things interesting, but I like the Boilermakers to pull away in the second half.
I’ll take Purdue to win and cover the -5.5-point spread, with the final score prediction being Purdue 34, Maryland 24. I’ll also lean toward the over 57.5, as I expect both offenses to contribute to a game that finishes above the projected total.
