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Big Ten Predictions: Week 9 picks against the spread

By Barry Leonard Jr.

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Oct 24, 2015; Lincoln, NE, USA; Nebraska Cornhuskers tight end Cethan Carter (11) gains yards after a catch against the Northwestern Wildcats at Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Steven Branscombe-USA TODAY Sports

  • Date: Saturday, October 31, 2015
  • Time: 12:00 PM Eastern
  • Location: West Lafayette, IN
  • TV Channel: ESPNU
  • Spread: Nebraska -10.5
  • Over/Under Total: 57.5

This game matches two teams that have really struggled this year. Purdue has once again found its usual place in the Big Ten basement and Nebraska has seen its high hopes for success fade away.

The Cornhuskers are 1-3 in the conference after being upset at home last week by Northwestern by a mere two points. It was yet another heartbreaking loss for the ‘Huskers, who have lost five games this year by a combined total of 13 points.

Nebraska’s five losses are already its most since 2007.

The defense has been bad for Nebraska and currently ranks 91st in total defense, giving up over 420 yards a game. Because of the defense, it’s been up to quarterback Tommy Armstrong Jr. and the offense to keep Nebraska in games.

Armstrong Jr. threw for 291 yards with a touchdown and an interception last week. The running game was virtually nonexistent, putting pressure on the passing attack.

While things have been bad for the Cornhuskers, it’s been even worse for Purdue.

The Boilermakers have just one win this year and that came over FCS foe Indiana State. They are in the middle of a five-game losing streak and have struggled to score points. Aside from a surprise three-point loss to Michigan State, Purdue has been an easy win for Big Ten opponents. Purdue currently ranks 102nd in scoring offense and 102nd in total offense.

It hasn’t been good on defense either for the Boilermakers, as they have given up an average of 428 yards a game.

This matchup on Saturday could be ugly, with both teams playing some bad football. Nebraska does have the more talented roster and the better offense. The Cornhuskers should be able to put up points, but their poor defense could allow Purdue to be in the game for a while.

In the end, Nebraska will be too much. I felt confident the Cornhuskers would cover last week against Northwestern and I got burned. However, I have a short memory and like the Cornhuskers to cover the Boilermakers this week.

Next: Illinois at Penn State

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