I was worried about this game. The Ball State Cardinals had that dangerous combination of experience at the mid-major level and a couple of high major transfers in K.J. Walton and Brachen Hazen. For a half, they were more than up to the task of keeping up with Purdue. Tayler Persons was on fire with 19 first half points and showed us why Matt Painter wanted him in West Lafayette. The 42-41 halftime lead had my call of upset alert looking smart.
Then the Boilers grew up.
We know Carsen Edwards is going to be dropping 25+ on fools on all season, but he seemed to be forcing things early.