Just one season after their national championship game appearance, the Purdue Boilermakers embarked on the 2024 - 25 season with high hopes. Projected to win the Big Ten conference and have the conference player of the year in Braden Smith, they faced a tough challenge against the red - hot Penn State Nittany Lions. Unfortunately for them, they were no match for the Nittany Lions' dominance.

Key to Victory: Defense and X - Factors

Defense - A Fortress

Penn State's defense was a force to be reckoned with. They forced 24 turnovers and held the Boilermakers to a dismal 8 - 21 from three-point range. This tenacious defense set the tone for the game and gave the Nittany Lions a significant advantage. On the other side of the ball, they scored an incredible 1.209 points per possession and got to the free throw line 32 times, making 28 of them. The Nittany Lions' defensive prowess was on full display, as they led for 32 : 24 of the 40 - minute game and held a 20 - plus point lead for most of the second half. At one point, they were up by a whopping 27 points.

Offensive Firepower

The Nittany Lions' offensive performance was equally impressive. Sophomore guard Freddie Dilione V knocked down a crucial kick - out three to give the team a 16 - point lead heading into the half. He finished with 14 points, three assists, three rebounds, and two steals. Puff Johnson also played a significant role, having to play serious minutes at the five position due to centers Yanic Konan Niederhauser and Kachi Nzeh getting in foul trouble. Johnson put up 13 points and held Purdue star Trey Kaufman - Renn four points under his average. His +/- of +18 showed his impact on the game.

Baldwin's Defensive Impact

Baldwin's defense was one of the biggest keys to victory for the Nittany Lions. He held Braden Smith, who averages 12.8 points and 9.1 assists this season, to just six points and five assists. His +/- of +26 on the game demonstrated his ability to shut down the opposing team's star player.

Impact of Foul Trouble

The foul trouble faced by Purdue's centers Yanic Konan Niederhauser and Kachi Nzeh forced Puff Johnson to step up and play significant minutes. His performance in these minutes was outstanding, highlighting the importance of depth and adaptability in a game.

Court Storming: A Sign of Victory

Nittany Lions fans stormed the court after the win, celebrating their team's hard - fought victory. It was the third court storm in two seasons under Mike Rhoades, following Penn State's upsets of Wisconsin and Illinois last season. This showed the passion and enthusiasm of the fan base and the significance of the win.

Upcoming Challenge: Rutgers

Coach Rhoades and the team will travel to New Brunswick, New Jersey, to take on a Rutgers squad led by NBA lottery draft pick prospects Ace Bailey and Dylan Harper. The Scarlet Knights are 5 - 3 on the season, with their three losses coming to Alabama, Texas A&M, and Kennesaw State. Tip - off is at 7 : 00 pm on Tuesday, December 10th, and will be streaming live on Peacock. This upcoming game will be another test for the Nittany Lions as they look to continue their winning streak.