8. Purdue Boilermakers - 17-5 (9-2 Big Ten)
After the big blowout win over Michigan, the Boilermakers had just one game to play this past week. But it was a big one, taking on rival Indiana. The Hoosiers have struggled in league play to the point where head coach Mike Woodson may very well be on the hot seat. But as in most rivalry matchups, anything can happen.
Even at home, Purdue had a battle on its hands. They were down nearly double-digits before a run allowed them to trail just 41-37 at the half. A run in the second half allowed Purdue to be up by 10 at one point before Indiana battled back to make it a one-possession game late. In the end, the home team survived and won 81-76.
As usual, Purdue’s Big 3 carried them on offense. Trey Kaufman-Renn had 23 points, while Fletcher Loyer chipped in with 15. But the star of the game was Braden Smith, who led all players with 24 points, seven assists, and six steals. Michigan State may be the best team in the Big Ten but it’s hard to say that Smith isn’t the best player.
The Boilermakers have two games in the upcoming week. They take on an Iowa squad that is desperate for a signature victory first. Then, Purdue comes back home to take on USC, who is in a similar situation.