For the first time in 359 days, Nebraska baseball got to play a game that mattered.
Not only that, but it was the first Big Ten Conference game under coach Will Bolt after the 2020 season ended during the non-conference slate due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
But just like Bolt’s predecessor, hitting with runners in scoring position was an issue, and one that kept the game close in the final stages.
The Huskers had a one-run lead three different times during the game and outhit Purdue 15-11. Those advantages meant little as Nebraska left 13 on base over the course of the game.
Tied at five going into the bottom of the inning, the Boilermakers strung together a single, a hit by pitch, a walk, then a sacrifice fly to walk-off the game 6-5.
The loss spoiled a career-day for Joe Acker at the plate, as he racked up three hits, including one home run, two RBIs, and scored two runs himself.
Max Anderson, the freshman from Millard West, put together one of the best debuts to a career with three hits, including a home run in his first at bat.
Cam Chick added a home run as well as part of his two hit effort.
Nebraska and Purdue will play a double-header Saturday before wrapping up the series from Round Rock, Texas, with a single game Sunday.