Dominate the trenches, leverage explosive plays, and maintain discipline. Discover Michigan's keys to outmaneuvering Purdue and securing a decisive home victory.
What Michigan Needs to Do to Beat Purdue at Home
When Michigan hosts Purdue this weekend, the Wolverines will look to keep their winning ways going and maintain momentum heading into the heart of Big Ten play. While Purdue’s record may not be eye-catching, the Boilermakers have enough weapons to make this matchup interesting. For Michigan, the formula is clear — execute, stay disciplined, and control the pace from start to finish.
The top priority for Michigan will be controlling the line of scrimmage, something that has been a hallmark under head coach Sherrone Moore. Offensive coordinator Chip Lindsey has brought a balanced approach, and that balance will be vital against a Purdue front that likes to create pressure. True freshman quarterback Bryce Underwood has shown impressive poise and accuracy, but the Wolverines must keep him upright and comfortable. That starts with the offensive line and the running game, led by Justice Haynes. If Michigan can establish the run early, it will open up play-action opportunities and force Purdue to defend the entire field.
Purdue’s defense has struggled at times against explosive plays, especially through the air. That gives Michigan a chance to attack with tight ends and slot receivers. Veteran leaders like Max Bredeson and Marlin Klein can play major roles as reliable targets and physical blockers in the run game. Expect the Wolverines to use motion, shifts, and different formations to confuse Purdue’s defense and create mismatches across the field.
Defensively, Michigan will look to apply pressure and control Purdue’s passing game. Defensive coordinator Wink Martindale will rely on his front seven to collapse the pocket and keep Purdue’s quarterback from getting comfortable. Edge rusher Derrick Moore has been a force off the edge, and his ability to generate pressure could be the difference. Inside, linebacker Ernest Hausmann’s tackling and leadership are critical to slowing down Purdue’s run game and keeping their offense behind the chains.
In the secondary, Michigan’s focus will be on discipline and communication. Safety Rod Moore provides stability and experience on the back end, while younger players like Jayden Sanders are stepping up as versatile contributors. Keeping plays in front of them and limiting deep shots will be key. Michigan’s defense has built its reputation on forcing opponents to earn every yard — that mentality must continue against a Purdue team capable of hitting quick-strike passes.
Special teams could also have a major impact. Michigan prides itself on winning the “hidden yardage” battle — clean execution on punts, kick coverage, and field goals often separates good teams from great ones. At home, the Wolverines can’t afford mental errors or costly penalties that give Purdue extra opportunities.
Ultimately, Michigan doesn’t need to reinvent its identity to win this game. The Wolverines simply need to do what they’ve done all year — dominate the trenches, play complementary football, protect the ball, and stay disciplined. If they execute with the focus and physicality that has defined this team under Moore, Michigan should have the upper hand from the opening kickoff to the final whistle.