The Boilermakers had an opportunity for a game-winning drive, but fumbled that opportunity away and likely their shot at ending a Big Ten losing streak this season.

The Wildcats also reigned supreme on the defensive end, giving Purdue’s backcourt, which consisted of Braeden Smith, Fletcher Loyer, and C.J. Cox, major fits around the perimeter for the majority of the night. The Wildcats are back in action Thursday night as they welcome the Georgetown Hoyas to Rupp Arena in their exhibition finale.

The Rutgers receiver was seven yards ahead of the nearest Boilermaker when quarterback Athan Kaliakmanis ’ deep pass landed right in his hands, making for the easiest 30-yard sprint of his young college career.

Purdue quarterback Ryan Browne was injured in last weekend's loss to Northwestern. What's the latest on the Boilermakers' starting QB?

The Scarlet Knights are 3-4 (0-4 Big Ten). Rutgers has beaten Ohio, Miami (Ohio) and Norfolk State. They have lost to Iowa, Minnesota, Washington and Oregon. Quarterback Athan Kaliakmanis has thrown for 1,864 yards, 11 touchdowns and five interceptions in seven games. Antwan Raymond has rushed for 615 yards and nine scores.

Learn which TV channel or how to live stream the Purdue Boilermakers vs. Rutgers Scarlet Knights game, Saturday, Oct. 25.

The defense did not improve by leaps and bounds — “We made mistakes today, believe me,” Schiano admitted — but ultimately, the unit Rutgers poured so much energy into this week did enough to stifle Purdue in key moments, make a huge play when it mattered and play its part in the first Big Ten win of the season.

The Boilermakers showed improvement in critical areas Saturday, but a loss to Rutgers proved the rebuild before Barry Odom has gotten harder.