Incumbent Etling fends off 2 challengers to keep Boilermakers starting QB job

FILE - In this Nov. 2, 2013, file photo, Purdue quarterback Danny Etling throws against Ohio State during the first half of an NCAA college football game in West Lafayette, Ind. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy, file) (The Associated Press)

FILE - In this Oct. 12, 2013, file photo, Purdue head coach Darrell Hazell concentrates on the action during the first half of an NCAA college football game, in West Lafayette, Ind. (AP Photo/Doug McSchooler, file) (The Associated Press)

WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. – Danny Etling will be Purdue's starting quarterback when Western Michigan visits Aug. 30.

Coach Darrell Hazell made the announcement Monday.

Etling, a sophomore, took over as the starter five games into last season and played his best football at the end of the season.

But the incumbent starter still had to fend off challenges from sophomore Austin Appleby and David Blough, who was considered one of the nation's top prep quarterbacks. Appleby is likely to serve as the backup, and Hazell said the coaches are discussing whether to redshirt Blough.