$9.3M buyout Ryan Walters faces critical situation as Purdue prepares for Michigan State 

Ryan Walters’ tenure at Purdue might be nearing its end, with uncertainty clouding his future. Following what has been an abysmal season with a 1-9 record, the Boilermakers are reportedly set to fire the coach if he loses the upcoming Week 13 game against Michigan State.

According to college football insider Pete Nakos of On3, Friday night’s game is pivotal for coach Ryan Walters’ future. Michigan State hasn't been impressive this season, with a 4-6 record, but are expected to enter the matchup in East Lansing as the favorites.

Now, in his second season at Purdue, Walters faces growing pressure to keep his job after a poor season. Should the Boilermakers decide to part ways with the coach after this season, the school will have to meet a potential $9.3 million buyout obligation.

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Ryan Walters expects a tough game against Michigan State

While his future continues to hang in the balance and a lot depends on the upcoming matchup, Ryan Walter doesn't expect things to be easy against the Spartans. The coach recognizes the potential of Jonathan Smith’s team and the threat they possess on both sides of the ball.

“From a defensive perspective, I got a lot of respect for their defensive coordinator and what he's done in this league,” Walter said. “They play sound and are disruptive up front. I think their defensive ends are athletic on the edge and try not to give up explosive plays.

“Offensively you hit it with the quarterback. I think it runs through him. Got a lot of potential there. Coach has done a good job with quarterbacks in the past, so he has continued to develop and continue to grow.”

Michigan State enters the matchup as the favorites, with nearly a two-touchdown edge over Purdue. The Spartans have also won eight of their last nine games against the Boilermakers, giving them some historical edge, but Purdue were victorious in their last game.

The game carries immense stakes for the Spartans, who must secure victories in their final two contests to achieve bowl eligibility. Jonathan Smith's first season in East Lansing hasn't gone as anticipated, but the coach will look to end the season on a high.

Purdue will need to stage an upset at Spartan Stadium on Friday night to help Ryan Walters keep his job. A win for the Boilermakers could also shift momentum, creating positive vibes ahead of the offseason, in preparation for the 2025 college football season.