Purdue 38 - #16 Iowa 36 - It’s Okay to Exhale Now

Purdue dominated for three quarters of football. They took a quick 7-0 lead on the first possession of the game. It seemed like they would never look back and would dominate the game. Then we reached the fourth quarter.

David Blough threw one of the worst interceptions you’ll ever see, his second of the game, that ultimately resulted in Iowa scoring a touchdown and taking a 36-35 lead. Iowa chose to go for two, because they inexplicably chased points earlier and missed a two point conversion, and missed leaving them up just one point instead of the three they should have been. That was the door Purdue needed. After trading punts Purdue got the ball back and was able to drive down into the redzone and milk the clock. As much as we all hate leaving a game in the legs of the kicker that’s exactly what happened. Purdue kicked what turned out to be a game winning field goal from 25 yards out to put them up 38-36. The ensuing kickoff was a group of wild throwbacks, fumbles, and tosses until the clock hit zero and Purdue gained their third victory over a ranked team in Ross-Ade this season.

There will be much more to come on this game but I would be remiss if I didn’t mention a couple things. TO THE BULLET POINTS!

• Terry Wright had the very best game of his career. He wound up with 146 yards and three touchdowns. What a day for the JUCO transfer. Purdue’s offense looked great for three quarters before stalling out but ultimately it was enough.
• That penalty of kick-catch interference followed by an extra 15 yards called on the sideline following this was absolutely absurd. There’s no way that’s what that rule is for.
• Purdue’s defense played a good game for the most part and stopped Iowa on big plays when it matters. Getting the ball back in the fourth quarter to get that game winning drive was obviously monumental.
• Purdue’s special teams struggled on kick and punt coverage. They get a pass though since special teams won the game with the field goal.
• Tyler Trent must now attend all Purdue home games. No exceptions and no excuses. We need you Tyler.

Purdue now sits at 5-4 with three games to go and just one needed to get to bowl eligibility for back to back seasons, a task that seemed unthinkable after the 0-3 start. Kudos to this coaching staff and the players for giving us all something to cheer for.