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Purdue Boilermakers vs Northwestern Wildcats Betting Preview
The Purdue Boilermakers will try to snap a 12-game Big Ten losing streak when they visit the Northwestern Wildcats on Saturday, October 18, 2025, at Ryan Field in Evanston, Ill. Kickoff is set for 3:30 PM ET, with coverage on the Big Ten Network.
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Both programs enter Week 8 with different streaks in play — Purdue desperate to end a conference skid, while Northwestern seeks its fourth straight win and a stronger position in the Big Ten West standings.
Purdue Seeking a Breakthrough
First-year head coach Barry Odom hasn’t been on the sidelines for all of Purdue’s 12 straight Big Ten losses, but he feels the weight of history.
“We’ve got to do it, I’ve got to do it, we have to do it as a staff, and then our team has to go out and execute and find a way to win a close game,” Odom said after Saturday’s 27-20 loss at Minnesota.
The Boilermakers (2-4, 0-3 Big Ten) held a 20-13 lead entering the fourth quarter before allowing 14 unanswered points. The turning point came when Minnesota’s Koi Perich returned an interception 27 yards for the game-winning score with 7:40 remaining.
Despite the loss, Purdue’s ground game showed life, rushing for 253 of their 456 total yards. Running back Devin Mockobee led the way with 98 yards on 21 carries, while quarterback Hudson Card managed 203 yards through the air.
Defensively, Purdue has shown improvement. The Boilermakers held Minnesota to just 30 rushing yards last week — their best performance against the run this season. Linebacker Charles Correa continues to shine, ranking third in the Big Ten with 55 total tackles.
For updated odds and live line movement, visit the college football odds page.
Northwestern Riding Confidence and Consistency
Northwestern (4-2, 2-1 Big Ten) enters on a three-game winning streak and with newfound confidence after upsetting Penn State 22-21 on the road. That win marked the Wildcats’ first victory in Happy Valley since 2014 and contributed to the firing of longtime Nittany Lions coach James Franklin.
The Wildcats’ defense led the way, holding Penn State to just 274 total yards — including only 137 on the ground. Linebacker Mac Uihlein recorded 10 tackles, while the unit forced key third-down stops to preserve the narrow win.
Coach David Braun praised his team’s resilience but stressed the importance of focus heading into this week’s matchup.
“You can squeeze that enjoyment into that evening,” Braun said, “but if you’re not on to the next step when you’re in the midst of a Big Ten schedule, you’re exposing yourself to a letdown in this league.”
Northwestern’s balanced attack has been key during its win streak. Running back Caleb Komolafe has rushed for 266 yards and four touchdowns across the last three games, while quarterback Preston Stone has thrown for five touchdowns and no interceptions in that span.
Kicker Jack Olsen has been clutch, earning Big Ten Special Teams Player of the Week honors after making all three of his field-goal attempts against Penn State.
Get more detailed team data and breakdowns in the college football expert betting guide.
Line Movement and Odds
According to the latest college football picks, Northwestern opened as a 4.5-point home favorite with the total set at 47.5. The Wildcats’ recent momentum has drawn early support, while Purdue’s ATS struggles have made bettors cautious.
Current Odds:
- Purdue Boilermakers: +4.5 (-110)
- Northwestern Wildcats: -4.5 (-110)
- Total: 47.5 (Over -108 / Under -112)
Purdue is 0-3 against the spread in Big Ten play this season, while Northwestern is 5-1 ATS in its last six home games.
Matchup Breakdown
Purdue Boilermakers Outlook
The Boilermakers’ offense found rhythm last week, thanks to the running game’s resurgence. If Purdue can replicate that production on the ground, it could control tempo and limit Northwestern’s opportunities. Hudson Card’s decision-making remains a key factor — he’s thrown five interceptions in his last four games, which has been costly in late-game situations.
Defensively, Purdue’s front seven is playing with more aggression. The Boilermakers rank 23rd nationally in tackles for loss and are allowing just 127 rushing yards per game. With Correa and lineman Nic Scourton anchoring the unit, expect Purdue to attack early to set the tone.
Northwestern Wildcats Outlook
Northwestern’s steady improvement under Braun has been impressive. The Wildcats’ offensive efficiency has jumped dramatically — they’re converting 46% of third downs and protecting the football. Preston Stone’s poise has given the offense stability, while Komolafe’s emergence has balanced the playbook.
Defensively, Northwestern ranks among the Big Ten’s best in red-zone efficiency and turnovers forced. The Wildcats’ linebackers and secondary have excelled at keeping plays in front of them, allowing only six passing touchdowns this season.
Key Edge
Both teams rely on physical defense and conservative offensive strategies, but Northwestern’s stability and turnover margin (+7) provide a clear edge. Purdue’s late-game collapses have become a trend, while Northwestern has thrived in close contests.
Betting Trends
- Purdue is 0-12 straight-up in its last 12 Big Ten games.
- Purdue is 2-8 ATS in its last 10 road games.
- Northwestern is 5-1 ATS in its last six home games.
- The total has gone under in 7 of Northwestern’s last 10 games.
- Northwestern is 4-2 straight-up this season.
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Best Bets and Prediction
Purdue’s effort last week was encouraging, but Northwestern’s defense and composure at home make it the more reliable side. Expect a slow-paced, defensive battle with the Wildcats grinding out another win to extend their streak.
Projected Score: Northwestern 24, Purdue 17
Best Bet: Northwestern -4.5
Secondary Lean: Under 47.5
For more college football previews, odds, and betting resources, visit ScoresAndStats College Football.
Would you like me to add a short “Team Momentum Tracker” line under each matchup (e.g., “Northwestern: W3 | Purdue: L4”) like SAS uses for visual consistency in CFB posts? It’s a small detail but boosts CTR and internal linking flow.
