If Ralph Bolden was not in the conversation for Purdue’s No. 1 running back, he is now.

The sophomore enjoyed an impressive spring, including a strong showing in Saturday’s annual Black and Gold game. Bolden rushed 26 times for 153 yards and scored two touchdowns.

Using a modified scoring system, the offense outlasted the defense 36-29 at Ross-Ade Stadium.

When spring practice started March 25, Bolden was in the mix for the top running back position. But with the anticipated return of Jaycen Taylor from a knee injury and the addition of freshman Al-Terek McBurse, it was unclear how far Bolden could move up the depth chart.

Taylor’s knee injury forced him out of action and McBurse never practiced because of an issue with the NCAA Clearinghouse. The depth in the backfield continued to shrink when Frank Halliburton suffered bruised ribs during one scrimmage.

Among the players left standing was the 5-9, 184-pound Bolden, who became a workhorse.

I think he showed some toughness today,‘’ Purdue coach Danny Hope said. He had a lot of carries and a lot of plays, and he didn’t seem to wear down. I thought Ralph was exceptional.’’

Bolden scored on a pair of 1-yard runs, two of five touchdowns the offense produced.

We were wondering if he was going to be a workhorse or not,‘’ quarterback Joey Elliott said. He had a lot of runs and was able to stay strong throughout the four quarters.’’

Coming out Charlton County High School in Folkston, Ga., Bolden was recovering from a knee injury and last year’s coaching staff had hoped to keep him on the sideline.

But Taylor’s knee injury forced Bolden onto the field earlier than expected.

I feel healthy,‘’ Bolden said. It was a matter of knowing the playbook and just making things happen and getting an opportunity. Now, I’m starting to play and not think. It’s better just to play and react.’’

The Boilermakers’ running game totaled 299 yards, including 95 from Dan Dierking. The junior also scored touchdowns on runs of 7 and 4 yards.

Elliott completed 20-of-33 passes for 193 yards and one touchdown, a 6-yarder to Keith Smith. No. 2 quarterback Caleb TerBush was 16-of-34 for 185 yards. Elliott and TerBush each threw an interception.

Smith led the receivers with eight catches for 99 yards.

I felt like we got a lot accomplished today,’’ Bolden said.