Boilermakers near bowl game

DALLAS, Texas WLFI) - Describing his interim head coaching experience as "awesome", Patrick Higgins led the Purdue football through a light but spirited one-hour practice Sunday on the outdoor practice field at Southern Methodist University.

Purdue will face Oklahoma State in the Heart of Dallas Bowl on New Year's Day at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Texas.

Higgins was named the Boilermakers interim head coach when Danny Hope was dismissed as Purdue head football coach on November 25.

"It''s been awesome. Who wouldn't enjoy it? How many people would love to be in this situation, if only for a month," Higgins said during a post-practice media interview session. "I get to coach at a Big Ten school, go to a bowl game on January 1, and be the guy on the sidelines. That's awesome. That's like a Christmas present. Hopefully, we get to unwrap it with a victory and have a great day."

The Boilermakers haven't played in over five weeks and are anxious to return to competition.

"We're just so anxious to play," said defensive tackle Bruce Gaston. "The buildup and suspense make it seem even longer."

One Boilermaker who will make his bowl game debut is wide receiver/running back/special teams player Danny Anthrop. The freshman has made a strong impression with his Purdue teammates after a sensational high school career at Central Catholic, where he was the star player on three Knights undefeated state championship teams.

"As far as football goes, he's advanced. He knows how to get open," said wide receiver Antavian Edison.

"I think a lot of it has to do with his brother (Purdue men's basketball player Dru Anthrop) is a student-athlete as well," added tight end Crosby Wright. "He's just grown up bleeding Black & Gold".

Anthrop has thoroughly enjoyed his first season with the Boilermakers.

"It's been awesome experience. I definitely didn't really expect what has happened this year," Anthrop said. "Especially thinking that I was going to redshirt this year."

Anthrop has been noticed by his coach for his team-first attitude.

"He's willing to do anything you want him to do," said Higgins.

The Boilermakers bowl game against the Cowboys will kick off at noon Eastern time on Tuesday, January 1.