Ad Disclosure
For the second time in two weeks, Purdue and Indiana mutually agree to call off Old Oaken Bucket game
Published:
For the first time in a century, Purdue and Indiana will not meet on the gridiron.
Tuesday morning, Purdue and Indiana released a statement deciding to mutually cancel Friday night’s rivalry showdown in Bloomington. The two teams were originally scheduled to play in Week 8, but the game was called off then, as well.
Ongoing issues with COVID-19 are the root cause behind the decision. The two athletic directors — Mike Bobinski (Purdue) and Scott Dolson (Indiana) — released a joint statement.
“Upon the advice of our medical professionals and in following the guidelines and protocols established for this season, we are not able to play Friday,” the statement read. “As we stated last week, we know the history and tradition of this great rivalry game and how much it means to our current students, alumni and fans. Both universities worked extremely hard in an effort to play, but at this time, it just isn’t possible. We are certainly disappointed that we cannot play in 2020, but look forward to seeing each other on the field next season and competing once again for the Old Oaken Bucket.”
Indiana will finish the season with a 6-1 record, with its lone loss to Ohio State. The Hoosiers defeated Penn State, Rutgers, Michigan, Maryland, Michigan State and Wisconsin, ending several droughts to schools.
Purdue started the year hot, winning its first two games. However, the Boilermakers have dropped four straight contests and will end the 2020 campaign with a 2-4 record.
Last season, Indiana defeated Purdue 44-41 in a thrilling overtime contest. The Boilers lead the Hoosiers in the all-time series 74-42-6.
Dustin grew up in the heart of Big Ten country and has been in sports media since 2010. He has been covering Big Ten football since 2014. You can follow him on Twitter: @SchutteCFB