IndyStar Purdue insider grades Purdue football's performance against Ball State, from the passing and rushing to the coaching to homework for next week.

WEST LAFAYETTE — The beginning of Purdue football under coach Barry Odom got off to a great start. Players talked of being able to "play loose" and confident postgame, and Odom noted the excitement of the first game.

The Boilermakers cruised to a 31-0 win over in-state rival Ball State , which debuted coach Mike Uremovich, a Purdue graduate .

It wasn't quite a 4.0 for the season opener report card. Here are my grades from the win.

Purdue football's passing offense stole the show

Can't ask for much better than the start. Ryan Browne and Arhmad Branch look like they may have a real connection upon which to build. More play

See Full Page