WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. – Purdue Football began preparing for the 2023 season Tuesday evening with the first practice under Ryan Walters. The reigning Big Ten West Champions practiced inside the Mollenkopf Athletic Center, giving the new head coach his first opportunity to lead his Boilermakers on the field.
"Day one, obviously a lot of things to correct, but I liked the attitude and effort of the guys competing," said Walters. "I thought Coach Ro (Kiero Small) did a great job those first eight weeks getting them prepared to play football – the guys were in good shape for day one."
After three months on the job, Walters finally got to coach Purdue through a practice. It was something different as a new head coach, but 247Sports Defensive Coordinator of the Year was all smiles as he ran on the field prior to the start of practice.
"It's been fun," said Walters. "I'm still getting used to it and not being so centric to one side of the ball. It's good to be around the offense too, building relationships and seeing where we're at on that side."
With Walters leading the way, the Boilermakers have established three core pillars to define themselves every single day: tough, competitive and disciplined.
"If that is our identity, then we will be successful in the fall," said Walters.
Walters brought his unique and successful defense with him to West Lafayette. After preparing during the offseason, the defensive Boilermakers have enjoyed learning the system.
"It's the perfect defense to me," said senior safety Cam Allen. "We all love this scheme, and we're already invested in it."
When Purdue took the practice field for the first time in 2023, energy and enthusiasm radiated from the Boilermakers. The chemistry between players and coaches was evident as the team started to prepare for the upcoming fall.
"We've all really bought into Coach Walters' system," said linebacker Jacob Wahlberg. "The way he does things and the guys he's brought in, it's genuine, and we're excited for what's to come."
The Boilermakers will practice 15 times over the next month. All practices are closed to the public.
"Day one, obviously a lot of things to correct, but I liked the attitude and effort of the guys competing," said Walters. "I thought Coach Ro (Kiero Small) did a great job those first eight weeks getting them prepared to play football – the guys were in good shape for day one."
After three months on the job, Walters finally got to coach Purdue through a practice. It was something different as a new head coach, but 247Sports Defensive Coordinator of the Year was all smiles as he ran on the field prior to the start of practice.
"It's been fun," said Walters. "I'm still getting used to it and not being so centric to one side of the ball. It's good to be around the offense too, building relationships and seeing where we're at on that side."
And. Here. We. Go! pic.twitter.com/NhlhaUvICB
— Purdue Football (@BoilerFootball) March 21, 2023
With Walters leading the way, the Boilermakers have established three core pillars to define themselves every single day: tough, competitive and disciplined.
"If that is our identity, then we will be successful in the fall," said Walters.
Walters brought his unique and successful defense with him to West Lafayette. After preparing during the offseason, the defensive Boilermakers have enjoyed learning the system.
"It's the perfect defense to me," said senior safety Cam Allen. "We all love this scheme, and we're already invested in it."
When Purdue took the practice field for the first time in 2023, energy and enthusiasm radiated from the Boilermakers. The chemistry between players and coaches was evident as the team started to prepare for the upcoming fall.
"We've all really bought into Coach Walters' system," said linebacker Jacob Wahlberg. "The way he does things and the guys he's brought in, it's genuine, and we're excited for what's to come."
The Boilermakers will practice 15 times over the next month. All practices are closed to the public.
Fun being back on the field. pic.twitter.com/ho1J7OGq7X
— Purdue Football (@BoilerFootball) March 22, 2023