IU vs Purdue: Battle For The Old Oaken Bucket

The IU Hoosiers travel up I-65 to face the the Purdue Boilermakers in the 90th Old Oaken Bucket Game.

IU is on the verge of bowl eligibility despite a tumultuous season that started off hot before it was nearly dashed on the rocks with heartbreaking losses to Ohio State, Iowa and Rutgers. Purdue is not in the hunt for a bowl game, instead their hunt is for respect and will gain some with a second home win in the Big Ten. IU is coming off of a road win in Maryland that broke a six game losing streak. Purdue is currently on a three-game slide of their own.

The credibility of both programs will be tested today. Coach Darrell Hazell is still trying to get the Boilermakers on track and prove that his system can work with a young team. Kevin Wilson‘s Hoosiers are still vying for respect in the Big Ten. For both schools, this season finale is more than a rivalry game it’s a must-win in.

WHO: Indiana Hoosiers (5-6) v. Purdue Boilermakers (2-9)
WHEN: Today, 12 pm ET / 11 am CT
WHERE: West Lafayette, IN

TV: BTN
RADIO: –
STREAM: BTN2GO

A little fun fact, the Boilermakers lead the all time series 72-39-6. IU won last season’s contest 23-16 down in Bloomington. No matter the records, location or scoring spreads, this game has always meant something special in the state of Indiana. Admittedly neither team is a juggernaut this season, this game is the season finale. The Boilermakers would love nothing better than to take out all of this season’s frustration on the Hoosiers.

IU needs to pick up a road win here today and validate their bowl-worthy season. A field goal here, a fourth down conversion there and IU’s season could have been one for the record books. Their upset bids all fell short against stiffer competition. IU has not been to a bowl game since 2007 in Bill Lynch‘s first season as head coach and have not won a bowl game in 25 years. Kevin Wilson is now in Year 5 without a bowl appearance. A Win today and a potential bowl game could effectively keep him out of the hot seat.

Purdue is still building their program under Darrell Hazell’s direction. A win here today would tie their 2014 record of 3-9. Coach Hazell needs a statement game this season and now is no better time or place for such a statement.

Who will win? That remains to be seen, but either way look for this one to be a fun game to watch as both teams typically play with a little something extra when it comes down to the Old Oaken Bucket.

Next: Colts Bring Back Boom Herron

NOTE: All statistics provided by sports-reference.com.

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