Quarterback Bryce Underwood struggled, completing just 13 of 22 passes for 145 yards and throwing a costly red zone interception. He added 50 yards on the ground, but a fumble inside the five-yard line led to a Purdue touchback. The Wolverines’ passing attack was inconsistent, but their defense stepped up, limiting Purdue to short gains and forcing a key fumble.
Purdue’s Ryan Browne was efficient, completing 19 of 24 passes for 133 yards and a touchdown. Running back Antonio Harris tied the game at 7-7 in the second quarter with a short TD run, and kicker Spencer Porath added a 50-yard field goal to keep the Boilermakers within striking distance. In the fourth quarter, Browne connected with Malachi Thomas for a five-yard touchdown, narrowing Michigan’s lead to 21-16, but a failed two-point conversion left Purdue short.
Michigan’s defense, led by Ernest Hausmann (11 tackles), Derrick Moore (two sacks), and Rayshaun Benny, held strong in the closing minutes to seal the win. The Wolverines played without several key starters, including running back Justice Haynes and linebackers Jimmy Rolder and Cole Sullivan, due to injuries.
Despite the narrow margin, Michigan improved to 7-2 overall and 5-1 in the Big Ten, maintaining their conference title hopes. Purdue, meanwhile, fell to 2-7 (0-6 Big Ten), extending their losing streak. For more game details and highlights, visit Michigan 21-16 Purdue (Nov 1, 2025) Final Score and Jordan Marshall scores 3 TDs, Michigan tops Purdue in underwhelming performance.
Historically, Michigan has dominated this matchup, but Saturday’s result highlighted offensive issues that could pose problems as the season progresses. The Wolverines will need improved play from Underwood and continued production from Marshall as they look to stay in Big Ten title contention.