Purdue vs Maryland: Boilers Open as Home Favorites

WEST LAFAYETTE, INDIANA - OCTOBER 16: Purdue Boilermakers head coach Barry Odom directs his team during a match against the Washington Huskies at Ross-Ade Stadium on October 16, 2026. (Photo by Justin Casterline/Getty Images) | Getty Images The Boilermakers head to Ross-Ade Stadium this Saturday to face Maryland in a crucial Big Ten game.

According to the latest Fan Duel Odds, Purdue is favored by 5.5 points (-105), while Maryland is an underdog at +176. Purdue's odds are -215. The projected point total for the game is 57.5, with both the over and under carrying -110 odds, suggesting a competitive contest with offensive contributions from both sides. Both teams are coming off losses, with Maryland falling 20-17 to Illinois and Purdue suffering a 31-17 defeat to Penn State.

Neither team is riding a wave of momentum, making Saturday an important opportunity to turn things around. Maryland has had defensive struggles throughout the season, giving Purdue an opportunity to exploit that weakness. For Purdue, the question is whether it can execute four complete quarters of football. While Purdue has had chances to compete this season, mistakes and inconsistent offensive performance have made winning difficult.

Playing at home should provide a morale boost, and Purdue should feel confident about this matchup. Maryland has had trouble against tougher competition, and Purdue has a legitimate chance to control the game if it can establish the run game and avoid costly turnovers. Purdue has enough advantages to secure a much-needed victory.

Maryland will likely move the ball enough to keep the game interesting, but I believe the Boilermakers will pull away in the second half. I am taking Purdue to win and cover the -5.5-point spread, with a predicted final score of Purdue 34, Maryland 24. I also anticipate the over 57.5, as I expect both offenses to contribute to a game that finishes above the projected total.