Purdue’s 2025 season came to a crashing halt Friday night with a 56-3 loss to rival Indiana - a brutal exclamation point on a year that saw the Boilermakers finish 2-10 overall and 0-9 in Big Ten play. The loss marked Purdue’s 10th straight to close out the season, wrapping up a campaign that left more questions than answers in West Lafayette.
For first-year head coach Barry Odom, this wasn’t the debut anyone had in mind. The rebuild is clearly on, and it starts with a defense that struggled across the board.
Let’s break down where things stand on that side of the ball - not just in terms of what went wrong, but what needs to happen next.
Defensive Breakdown: Where the Numbers Hurt
Purdue’s defense didn’t just have a rough year - it was statistically one of the worst in the country. The Boilermakers ranked near the bottom nationally in just about every major defensive category:
- Scoring Defense: 31.8 points per game (T-116 nationally, T-16 in the Big Ten)
- Rushing Defense: 181.8 yards allowed per game (112th nationally, last in the Big Ten)
- Passing Defense: 241.7 yards allowed per game (106th nationally, 18th in the Big Ten)
- Total Defense: 423.5 yards per game (121st nationally, 17th in the Big Ten)
- Opponent Third Down Conversions: 43.45% (110th nationally, 16th in the Big Ten)
- Yards Per Play Allowed: 6.57 (dead last nationally at 133rd, 17th in the Big Ten)
In short, this unit couldn’t get off the field, couldn’t stop the run, and couldn’t contain the pass. It’s the kind of statistical profile that screams for a full-scale overhaul - and that’s exactly what Purdue is facing heading into the offseason.
Defensive Line: Some Stability Inside, Urgent Need on the Edge
There’s at least a foundation to work with up front. Jamarrion Harkless, Demeco Kennedy, Ian Jeffries, and TJ Lindsey are all expected back, giving Purdue a solid core of interior linemen to build around. That group held its own at times and should provide some consistency heading into 2026.
But the edge? That’s a different story.
CJ Nunnally, Purdue’s top pass-rusher, is gone. And in today’s game, if you can’t pressure the quarterback, you’re going to get torched - especially in a conference that’s only getting deeper and more dynamic offensively.
Purdue has to be aggressive in the transfer portal here. This is where NIL money needs to be spent.
Think premium pass-rusher - someone who can step in and make an impact from Day 1.
Linebackers: A Promising Piece Returns, But Depth is a Concern
Charles Correa is expected back, and that’s a big plus. He showed real flashes this season and looks like a guy who can anchor the middle of the defense.
But replacing Mani Powell won’t be easy. He was a key presence, and his absence will be felt.
Alex Sanford had moments, but the question is whether he’s ready to take on a bigger role. Sanders Ellis needs to take a leap in development - plain and simple.
This is another area where Purdue would be wise to hit the portal. Ideally, they bring in a proven veteran to start alongside Correa, plus a depth piece or two that can contribute right away.
Secondary: A Leaky Back End That Needs a Full Reset
The numbers don’t lie - Purdue’s secondary was a major liability all season long. Opposing quarterbacks had their way, and the pass defense finished 106th in the country. That’s not going to cut it in the Big Ten, especially with teams like Ohio State, Michigan, and now USC and Washington bringing high-powered passing attacks.
There are a few building blocks. Hudauri Hines finished the year strong at corner and looks like he could be part of the future.
Smiley Bradford made some splash plays and seems ready to take on a bigger role at safety. Vi’Naz Cobb, a true freshman, got some valuable reps and could develop into a contributor.
But the losses are significant. Purdue is parting ways with a core safety group that included Tahj Ra-El, Myles Slusher, and Hershey McLaurin - three veterans who logged serious snaps. That’s a lot of experience walking out the door.
Expect Purdue to be aggressive in the portal here too. They’ll need multiple additions - both at corner and safety - to stabilize a unit that simply couldn’t hold up this year.
What’s Next?
For Purdue, the offseason is going to be all about retooling the defense. The numbers make it clear: this group needs help - and fast.
The good news? There are some young pieces to build around.
The bad news? They’ll need a lot more than that to climb out of the Big Ten basement.
The transfer portal is open, and Purdue has to treat it like a lifeline. Defensive coordinator hire, player development, and smart portal additions will all be critical in Year 2 under Barry Odom.
Because after a 2-10 season and a winless conference slate, the only way to go is up - but the climb won’t be easy.