The Purdue Boilermakers college football program represents Purdue University in the NCAA Division I Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS). The team is a member of the Big Ten Conference, one of the oldest and most prestigious conferences in college football. Founded in 1887, the Boilermakers have a rich history and tradition, contributing significantly to the sport over the decades.
Purdue plays its home games at Ross-Ade Stadium, located on the university’s campus in West Lafayette, Indiana. The stadium, named after alumni David E. Ross and George Ade, has a seating capacity of approximately 57,236 and provides an energetic and passionate environment for fans. Known for its unique and innovative architecture, Ross-Ade Stadium has been the site of many memorable moments in college football history.
The team's colors are black and gold, and their mascot, the Boilermaker Special, is a locomotive train that symbolizes the university's engineering heritage. The Boilermakers are renowned for their engineering and technology programs, which is reflected in the mascot's design.
Purdue has a storied football legacy, with numerous bowl appearances and conference championships. Over the years, they have produced many outstanding players who have gone on to have successful careers in the NFL. Some of the most notable alumni include quarterbacks Drew Brees, who holds numerous NFL records, and Bob Griese, a Pro Football Hall of Famer.
The Boilermakers have had intense rivalries, most notably with the Indiana Hoosiers, with whom they compete annually for the Old Oaken Bucket, and the Notre Dame Fighting Irish, in a series known as the Shillelagh Trophy rivalry. These games are highly anticipated events that draw large crowds and significant media attention.
The Purdue football program is also known for its innovative coaching, with many influential figures having led the team, including Joe Tiller, who popularized the spread offense at Purdue in the late 1990s and early 2000s.
Overall, the Purdue Boilermakers football program is a proud and integral part of the university's athletic tradition, known for its competitive spirit, passionate fan base, and contributions to the broader landscape of college football.