Minnesota Golden Gophers vs Purdue Boilermakers Predictions

Minnesota has the stronger record

Minnesota enters Ross-Ade Stadium at 4-1 overall and 2-0 in the Big Ten, compared with Purdue's 2-3 record and 1-1 conference mark, according to Yahoo Sports / Indianapolis Star. That gap supports Minnesota as the likely winner and the SPF price of -142 on the Golden Gophers, but records alone are not enough to justify laying 2.5 points on the road.

Absences limit the betting case

Yahoo Sports / Indianapolis Star reports that Minnesota will be without quarterback Michael Merdinger, running back Ryan Estrada, receivers Donielle Hayes and Hayden Moore, and offensive linemen Brett Carroll, Jaden Ball and Ashton Beers. Purdue's reported absences include defensive backs Mister Clark and Raderrion Daniels, tight end Kylan Fox and offensive lineman Joey Tanona. The players' expected roles and the starting lineups are not confirmed, so the effect of those absences cannot be measured reliably.

West Lafayette broadcaster WLFI TV 18 forecasts scattered showers Saturday night, although the heaviest rain is expected south and east of the city. With no season statistics or recent results available to show how either team matches up, neither Minnesota -2.5 nor Purdue +2.5 has enough factual support. The pick is Minnesota to win, but the wager is a pass.