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GoldandBlack.com Predictions: Purdue's trip to Michigan

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Purdue's Ross-Ade Stadium
Purdue's Ross-Ade Stadium

Again this season, GoldandBlack.com shares its willy-nilly predictions and half-baked takes in advance of each of Purdue’s football games.

Scarred by years of predicting uncompetitive games and understanding of the modern gambling climate — please, bet responsibly and leave the damn athletes alone on social media, losers — we are incorporating BetMGM spreads into our predictions this season.

GoldandBlack.com members, share your predictions, no matter how stupid and inane, at Knucklehead Central.

TOM DIENHART, GOLDANDBLACK.COM FOOTBALL REPORTER

Purdue’s hill to success is about to get much steeper in November playing a schedule that would even buckle the knees of Nick Saban. But you won’t see Barry Odom sweat. His sleeves are rolled up. And, Purdue may actually have a chance to make this game competitive vs. a Michigan squad whose offense is a work in progress.
My biggest question: Can Purdue get any traction vs. a rugged Wolverine defense which is without a doubt the strength of Michigan?
Most important player: LB Mani Powell. The defensive stalwart needs to get after Wolverine true freshman QB Bryce Underwood, who can be rattled. It the Boilers can force some turnovers as a result, they could throw a scare into Michigan if it’s a low-scoring game.
Prediction: Michigan 35, Purdue 10

ALAN KARPICK, GOLDANDBLACK.COM CHIEF EXECUTIVE

Contrary to conventional wisdom, Purdue has much to play for in November, starting with its trip to the Big House. Retaining the right players will be paramount for coach Barry Odom in the offseason, and he will learn a lot about the guys he has and their character over the five Saturdays in November (including the bye week).
My biggest question: Will Purdue compete to the final whistle?
My most important player: Purdue’s defensive line. It must slow Michigan’s run game, no easy task.
Prediction: Michigan 35, Purdue 12

DUB JELLISON, GOLDANDBLACK.COM FOOTBALL REPORTER

Ann Arbor is rarely a kind place to opposing teams and even more rare when you’re Purdue, in the midst of a six-game skid heading into Saturday. Purdue is going to need everything to go right to have a chance in this game, and that is against a Michigan team that isn’t as strong as years past.
My biggest question: Can Purdue find offensive success consistently enough to keep up with the Wolverines? The Boilermaker attack has had its moments, but has not been consistent enough to get over the top.
My most important player: Charles Correa and Mani Powell. Michigan has a potent ground game that the offense runs though. If Purdue wants to stop it, Correa and Powell will be the reason why.
Prediction: Michigan 30, Purdue 14

JORDAN JONES, GOLDANDBLACK.COM DITCH-DIGGER

Well, it’s November. We knew this month would present a monumental challenge, and it’s only looked tougher as the season has progressed. Purdue has won in Ann Arbor just once since 1966.
My biggest question: Can Purdue put pressure on Michigan with a fast start? 
My most important player: Ryan Browne. Purdue’s passing game struggled in each of the last two games. Michigan’s defense’s vulnerabilities lie against the pass. Is Browne able to take advantage?
Prediction:  Michigan 28, Purdue 10

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