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UCLA has run 75 times versus 45 passes and averages 245.5 rushing yards, using Wayne Knight, Anthony Woods and Jaivian Thomas plus 22 carries by Nico Iamaleava. The passing game is less established: Iamaleava has completed 63% with no touchdowns and two interceptions. The preview questions tackle pass protection despite stronger interior grades.
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UCLA has allowed 3.4 yards per rush, but the preview calls Purdue's Fame Ijeboi a stronger backfield test than its first two opponents. Pass-defense results have ranged from nearly 300 yards allowed to Cal to only 45 against San Diego State. Ta'Shawn James has two interceptions, and the defense has five sacks; the mixed opponent sample matters.
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Purdue has defended traditional rushing better than quarterback runs: Indiana State's Elijah Owens gained 60 rushing yards and Wake Forest's Gio Lopez had 59 and two touchdowns. That exposes a matchup concern against Iamaleava. Extra blitzers have helped the pass rush but risk coverage explosives; nickel Mister Clark's return remains unresolved after missing Wake Forest.
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More than 90 of Fame Ijeboi's 114 rushing yards against Wake Forest came after contact, highlighting limited help from Purdue's line. Travis Terrell Jr. and Jerrick Gibson remain secondary backs. Purdue has allowed five sacks; Ryan Browne mostly runs after pass plays break down rather than on designed calls, so his athleticism has not yet become a regular run-game component.
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Purdue's Ryan Browne is completing 77% and remains turnover-free, but red-zone passing still limits scoring. Waseem, Townsend, Morrissette and Magwood received most receiver snaps and targets against Wake Forest; slot receivers Waseem and Townsend total 25 catches for 277 yards. George Burhenn's unresolved health adds uncertainty to the receiving options at tight end.