Purdue’s Tommy McClelland made a lot of people “Boiler Up!” during his first-ever press conference as Boilermaker AD.
McClelland took a jab at Purdue’s rival, Indiana University. That’s the school that has the 2026 national football trophy in its cabinet. “If you’re not interested in winning championships,” McClelland said, “go to Indiana.” Yeah, that’s the school just won a national football championship.
Why in the world would the new leader use his first public statement to get himself in hot water? Hello! Besides, the Hoosiers have way bigger fish to fry than the dismal Boilermakers.
It’s yet another example that college football is neither what it used to be nor what it needs to be. Many athletes might be at school for maybe a year, if that. There’s no loyalty. Everyone’s looking for their next payday.
No blame; it’s the game. McClelland said as much during the press conference. In short, he needs resources. McClelland’s pitch to Boilermaker Nation: Boiler Up! Then, Pay Up!
For his sake, I hope it works, because he has no future in the stand-up business.
***************
Jon Hart is the author of Unfortunately, I was available.
