Injuries could affect Boilers in rivalry game

Purdue to face off against Indiana on Saturday

WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. - Purdue football will be without two key players when it faces rival Indiana on Saturday (noon ET, FS1). Quarterback Aidan O'Connell and wide receiver Charlie Jones are both out with injuries, according to coach Jeff Brohm.

O'Connell injured his shoulder in Purdue's win over Maryland last week

O'Connell is the Boilermakers' leading passer this season, with 2,002 yards and 17 touchdowns. He also has seven interceptions. Jones is Purdue's leading receiver, with 38 catches for 479 yards and four touchdowns.

Jack Plummer will start at quarterback for Purdue

In O'Connell's absence, Jack Plummer will start at quarterback for Purdue. Plummer has started three games this season, completing 58.1% of his passes for 650 yards and four touchdowns with three interceptions.

Purdue is a 6.5-point favorite over Indiana in Saturday's game. The Boilermakers are 6-4 this season, while the Hoosiers are 4-6.

Injuries could be a factor in the outcome of the game

The injuries to O'Connell and Jones could be a factor in the outcome of the game. Plummer is a capable quarterback, but he is not as experienced as O'Connell. And Jones is Purdue's best receiver. His absence will be a big loss for the Boilermakers.

However, Purdue still has a lot of talent on its roster. The Boilermakers have a strong running game led by Devin Mockobee and King Doerue. And the defense is one of the best in the Big Ten.

The game is still very much up for grabs. But the injuries to O'Connell and Jones could make it more difficult for Purdue to win.