​Purdue AD Tommy McClelland takes a bizarre shot at Indiana originally appeared on The Sporting News.
Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.Purdue’s newest Athletics Director, Tommy McClelland, delivered his introductory press conference on Thursday. The former Rice University Vice President and Athletics Director will take over the Boilermakers’ program on January 1st of 2027. He’s already making headlines for a truly eyebrow-raising take.In his introductory press conference, McClelland took a shot at in-state rival Indiana. “We are here to win championships,” McClelland said on Thursday morning. “If you don’t want to win championships, go to Indiana.”NEW: Purdue AD Tommy McClelland in his introductory press conference:”We are here to win championships. If you don’t want to win championships, go to Indiana.”(via @BigTenNetwork)https://t.co/pwjsY4Axo9pic.twitter.com/nqIYR1ks8Q— On3 (@On3) August 6, 2026Instantly, the clip made its rounds on social media, with some pundits labeling it a questionable first impression, while others were quick to jump on the Boilermakers’ shortcomings over Indiana in recent years.Head-to-head, Purdue owns the all-time series at 77–44–6, and holds more conference titles over Indiana at eight Big Ten titles over Indiana’s three. But Indiana holds the only recognized national championship (2025) and has completely taken over the rivalry in the last two years. The last matchup between the two was 56- 3, with the Hoosiers.It’s what makes McClelland’s shot so bold, aiming it at the program that just put up 56 points against the Boilermakers and raised the national championship trophy. He may have handed Indiana all the motivation it needs. The two meet in Bloomington in late November; his introductory comment is sure to be a storyline then. “The future of Purdue athletics is incredibly bright,” said McClelland, “I am ready to get to work.”More College Football newsIllinois 2026 football scheduleMichigan 2026 football scheduleOhio State 2026 football scheduleIndiana 2026 football schedule