With his second year of fall practice underway, Purdue football coach Ryan Walters admits there is much that is different than a year ago.
“Looking back to where we were at this point a year ago, it’s not close. It’s night and day difference. Obviously, a lot of new faces, but even the guys we got returning, they look different. They’re more confident, more comfortable. Staff understands what’s expected, and what’s the routine,” Walters told the media this week after the first practice.
A season ago, Walters led Purdue football to a 4-8 campaign, and while the record was not what anyone hoped for, the Boilermakers did knock off rival Indiana for the Old Oaken Bucket for the third consecutive season.
During the offseason and now with fall camp underway, there will be plenty of competition on the field for a team that looks to contend in a new Big Ten Conference and qualify for a bowl berth.
On offense, Purdue football will lean heavily on quarterback Hudson Card to guide the Boilermakers, something that excites Walters.
“Hudson is the starter, and guys are rallying around him. Obviously, his talent speaks for itself. The reps behind him are getting spread around to see who we can count on to go win us a game if need be,” Walters said.
Defensively, the second year head coach notes Purdue football has to do “everything” better this season.
“I think we were disruptive and got sacks, takeaways and tackles for losses, but gave up too many yards, especially through the air. Too many explosive plays. So, we’ve got to get better at everything,” Walters said.
Another area of emphasis for the Boilermakers this fall camp is special teams, especially kicking, according to Walters.
“I thought our punt coverage, punt return, kick return, kickoff were decent. We will chart everything and the guy that we will roll out there Aug. 31 will be a guy that wants a job,” Walters said.
Purdue football opens the season Aug. 31 at Ross-Ade Stadium against Indiana State.
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