Luke Del Rio’s knee injury gave Austin Appleby an opportunity to start his first game since November 28, 2015. Appleby and the Purdue Boilermakers lost to Indiana 54-36 that day with Appleby throwing for 332 yards on 36-of-57 passing.
With Del Rio returning to practice last week and getting closer to a return, Appleby’s days as a starter are numbered but that won’t change his mindset or preparation.
“I think you always anticipate starting,” Appleby said Monday. “The preparation doesn’t change. I’m looking forward to a great week of practice, a great week of preparation.”
The fifth year graduate transfer has played adequately in his two starts, completing 63% (42-67) of his passes for 438 yards, three touchdowns, one interception and one fumble.