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GOLDANDBLACK EXPRESS • VOLUME 25, EXPRESS 11 • 1 intent on competing, more players intent on buying in to Hazell's sys- tems and expectations. Because of those realizations — and a couple of much-needed attitude adjustments among some in the group — the Boilermak- ers have been better in 2014 with this senior class leading the way from some key positions. There have been 12 seniors who have started at least once in 2014 enter- ing senior day on Saturday against Northwestern, and that includes the team's leader in rushing, receiv- ing, tackles and interceptions. Even more than the produc- tion, though, this class has brought BY STACY CLARDIE SClardie@GoldandBlack.com L ike most involved in a one-win season, Purdue's soon-to-be seniors were stewing after 2013 ended. And then they sat, one by one, with new Coach Darrell Hazell in the winter for "exit interviews." Ha- zell made it clear: If certain rules and standards weren't met, it didn't matter what class a player was, he'd get passed up. "He was really honest and re- ally demanding, but that's what we needed," senior captain Justin Sinz said of those meetings. "I think everyone finally realized, 'Man, if I don't do it the way they're expect- ing me or to the best of my ability, they'll find someone else.' " That sparked a general shift, one that ultimately started push- ing the program in the right direc- tion, one toward more players giv- ing consistent effort, more players TomCampbell Seniors Brandon Cottom, Raheem Mostert, Dolapo Macarthy and captain Justin Sinz have helped Purdue's program transition into the next phase of the rebuild by representing much of the senior class characteristics: Fight, effort and character. 0 Purdue opponents this season that had a sub-.500 record at the time of kickoff. Northwestern (4-6) will be the first. 1 Boilermakers' ranking in Big Ten in fumbles lost this season with four, tied with Michigan State. +4 Purdue's win total improvement from last year if it can win its last two games. Only 1997 (plus-6) has been better since World War II. 11/22 The Boilermakers have won seven in a row on this date, and are 12-4- 1 all time on Nov. 22. THE NUMBERS VOLUME 25, EX 11 • NOV. 20, 2014 Inside | Northwestern preview 9-13 Senior snippets 17–19 | Recruiting 35–37 Men's basketball starts 2-0 38-41 A 'Special' Class