Purdue opened the season with a win over Ball State, but Barry Odom identified tackling as an area needing urgent attention. While the victory was a confidence boost, the team recognizes that consistent improvement on defense will be key to sustaining success.
Barry Odom Believes Purdue Needs to Improve in One Key Area After Week 1

Key Takeaways:
- Purdue started the season with a win over Ball State.
- Barry Odom highlights tackling as the crucial skill to refine.
- Defensive improvement is essential to Purdue’s overall growth.
- Coaches believe the team still has unfulfilled potential.
- How well the Boilermakers tackle could define their season ahead.
Introduction
Purdue’s football team kicked off the season with a promising result, defeating Ball State in Week 1. Despite the win, coaches and players alike recognized that there is still significant room for improvement—particularly in one specific area.
Barry Odom’s Perspective
In the aftermath of the victory, Barry Odom emphasized the importance of refining the team’s tackling. Speaking about the performance, Odom expressed that while a season-opening win is encouraging, it can also highlight weaknesses that need addressing. Though the coaching staff sees potential in the squad, Odom zeroed in on tackling technique as a focal point for Purdue’s defensive improvement.
The Focus on Tackling
Defense in college football rests heavily on solid tackling, a skill that can prevent big plays and shift momentum. Armed with enthusiasm following their first win, the Boilermakers hope to build on their successes by consistently bringing down ball carriers. Odom’s assessment underscores how critical tackling is for a unit looking to make a mark throughout the season.
Coach and Team Response
While no detailed plan has been publicly outlined in the coverage, Odom’s comments suggest a renewed emphasis on tackling drills and fundamentals. The players appear to share this sentiment, aiming to translate coaching points into decisive action in upcoming practices and games.
Conclusion
Purdue’s Week 1 result is a positive start, but the season’s trajectory hinges on addressing areas for growth. As identified by Barry Odom, tackling represents both a fundamental skill and a clear opportunity for the Boilermakers to elevate their play. With the early victory in hand, the team now turns its attention to building a consistently sturdy defense—one tackle at a time.