The game between Western Michigan and Purdue marks the earliest start in Boilermakers history. The Boilers and Broncos have something in common: both programs are coming off dismal 1-11 seasons. Coach Darrell Hazzell is going into his second year of coaching the Boilers football team.

Other news and notes:
The game can be watched on ESPNU and can be heard on Leerfield Sports with the voice of the Boilermakers Tim Newton along with Pete Quinn, while Kelly Kitchel will handle sideline duties.

This will be the second time that the Broncos and Boilers have met in the regular season. The Boilers have won 10-straight home openers at Ross Ade Stadium, the best streak in home opener history.

Most of Purdue’s starters come from Texas while others come from Florida. Just two starters come from Indiana.

Coach Hazell still doesn’t know who he will go with for kicking duties yet, so it should be interesting to hear how that battle turns out on Saturday against Western Michigan. It would make sense if he decides to go with a more experienced kicker.