It was the prettiest of starts but once Purdue football took control, it leaned on its veteran running back and the offense lead on its overmatched opponent.

The Boilermakers won 34-17 over Southern Illinois on Saturday night at Ross-Ade Stadium. Purdue is 2-0 under a first-year coach for the first time since 1916 , Barry Odom etching his name next to Cleo O'Donnell.

Running back Devin Mockobee took over and rushed for 126 yards on 32 attempts (3.9 per) with two touchdowns out of the wildcat.

Here's how it happened: Insider: Likes, dislikes from Purdue football's win vs Southern Illinois: It was Devin Mockobee's day Expert MLB daily picks: Unique MLB betting insights only at USA TODAY Seriously! Barry Odom accomplished something no first-year Purdue football coach has

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