Countdown to kickoff: Minnesota at Purdue

Three items of interest heading into Saturday’s matchup at Ross-Ade Stadium:

• The status of backup quarterback Austin Appleby has been an important development this week. If Appleby isn’t available because of a deep thigh bruise – he suffered the injury Sept. 19 against Virginia Tech – it creates several potential scenarios. A lot depends on the circumstances, including how long Blough would be sidelined. Walk-on Aaron Banks will run the offense if Blough is out for a play or two. Every avenue will be explored to avoid burning freshman Elijah Sindelar’s redshirt, but Purdue has to try and win the game.

Minnesota at Purdue: Who has the edge?

• The Gophers are hurting. No, really. On Wednesday, 20 players were in no-contact practice jerseys, coach Jerry Kill told reporters. On Thursday, Kill announced Minnesota will be without eight starters Saturday. Even punt returner Craig James broke his leg in the loss to Northwestern. Quarterback Mitch Leidner has been banged up, but the junior will start. For the most part, the Boilermakers are healthy nearing the midway point but can they benefit from the Gophers’ injury situation?

• We’ve seen this scenario before. The Boilermakers have momentum after a close loss and now face a struggling opponent. Minnesota is dealing with numerous injuries and the offense is stagnant. Advantage Purdue right? Hold on. The timing seems to be right, but the Boilermakers and their fans have been down this road before. It hasn’t always ended well. Maybe Saturday is the moment it all changes for the better.

Minnesota at Purdue: A closer look

SATURDAY'S GAME

Minnesota (3-2, 0-1)

at Purdue (1-4, 0-1)

Time: 3:30 p.m.

TV: ESPNU

Radio: WAZY (96.5)

Tickets: Available at www.purduesports.com