Purdue University secures a decisive, scoreless victory over Ball State, thanks to Ryan Browne's contributions.
Ball State Struggles in Opening Game Under New Coach
The Ball State Cardinals faced a tough challenge in their first game under new head coach Mike Uremovich, falling to the Purdue Boilermakers 31-0 on Saturday.
Arhmad Branch was one of the bright spots for the Cardinals, recording three catches in the game and amassing 101 receiving yards. However, Ball State's offensive struggles were evident as they managed only 203 yards from scrimmage in the contest.
Quarterback Kiael Kelly struggled, absorbing four sacks and completing just 10 of 16 passes for 87 yards. The Cardinals' offense also stalled out on two good drives in the second half.
Purdue, on the other hand, matched its win total from last year with the victory. The Boilermakers' defense played a key role in stalling out Ball State's rallies in the second half, avoiding turnovers in their first game under coach Barry Odom.
Ryan Browne had a standout performance for Purdue, throwing for 311 yards and accounting for three touchdowns. His 14-yard touchdown pass to Michael Jackson III increased the lead to 28-0 with 4:40 remaining in the third quarter.
A 91-yard drive ended with Devin Mockobee's touchdown run, and he also scored a 4-yard touchdown for the Boilermakers. Purdue's defense was also stingy, committing only three penalties in the game.
Kicker Carson Holmer missed field goal attempts from 45 and 29 yards away, but a 28-yard field goal by Spencer Porath capped the scoring at the 9:59 mark of the fourth quarter.
Despite the lopsided score, Ball State's new coach Uremovich will no doubt be looking to build on the positive performances of players like Arhmad Branch and work to improve the team's offensive struggles moving forward.
Read also:
- Lu Shiow-yen's Challenging Position as Chair of the Chinese Nationalist Party (KMT) Under Scrutiny in Donovan's Analysis
- Tough choices on August 13, 2025 for those born under Aquarius? Consider the advantages and disadvantages to gain guidance
- Microbiome's Impact on Emotional States, Judgement, and Mental Health Conditions
- Restaurant staff allegedly requires Minnesota teenager to validate her gender for bathroom access.
