Hammer and Rails - Minnesota (3-0) at Purdue (1-2) Game CenterPurdue's Okayest Bloghttps://cdn.vox-cdn.com/community_logos/52787/Hammer_And_Rails_favicon..png2019-09-29T16:00:00-04:00http://www.hammerandrails.com/rss/stream/206436582019-09-29T16:00:00-04:002019-09-29T16:00:00-04:00The Whistlestop Tour: Week 5 of Big Ten Football
<figure>
<img alt="NCAA Football: Minnesota at Purdue" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/aCzC1wimBjkW09j9cVOLvgD0_WM=/0x0:3108x2072/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/65351442/usa_today_13432974.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Thomas J. Russo-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>The favorites roleld in almost every game.</p> <p id="EnAN0r">It was an awfully chalky week this week in the Big Ten. The favorites rolled in almost every game as we take a look at week 5:</p>
<p id="NGhjlH"><strong>Penn State 59, Maryland 0</strong></p>
<p id="fnZNrr">Goodness, Penn State was completely <a href="https://www.blackshoediaries.com/2019/9/27/20887672/penn-state-maryland-football-59-0-sean-clifford-kj-hamler-jan-johnson-jesse-luketa-ellis-brooks">unstoppable Friday night</a>:</p>
<blockquote><p id="S51gBU">Clifford and his 217.2 QB rating led the Nittany Lions, going 26 of 31 for 398 yards and three passing touchdowns, while rushing for 54 yards and another score. Hamler had 108 yards on six catches, including a touchdown, Bowers had 70 yards and a score, and <span><strong>Cam Sullivan-Brown</strong></span> contributed with five catches. Defensively, <span><strong>Castro-Fields</strong></span> and <span><strong>Johnson</strong></span> each had an interception, while <span><strong>Ellis Brooks</strong></span> had six tackles and 2.5 sacks in relief of Parsons.</p></blockquote>
<p id="rzDppD">Let me remind you that Maryland was ranked as <a href="https://www.testudotimes.com/maryland-terps-football/2019/9/27/20887644/maryland-football-penn-state-loss-defeat-final-score-recap-results-stats-no-12-52-0">recently as 2 weeks ago</a>:</p>
<blockquote>
<p id="gWnBzt">Going into its first Big Ten game of the season, Maryland football was set out to prove its <a href="https://www.testudotimes.com/maryland-terps-football/2019/9/14/20865781/no-21-maryland-football-ranked-loss-temple-final-score-stats-recap-mike-locksley"><strong>20-17 loss to Temple</strong></a> last time out was a fluke.</p>
<p id="SfTj01">Head coach Mike Locksley’s squad was looking to set a new tone against Penn State, showing it could at least put up a fight against the one of the conference’s powerhouses.</p>
<p id="uXoV1T">And quarterback <span>Josh Jackson</span> was hoping to get back in his groove, bringing the offense back to the dominance it showed in the first two games of the season.</p>
<p id="gutxPF">None of that happened in the Terps’ 59-0<strong> </strong>loss to the No. 12 Nittany Lions. It started ugly, got uglier and never got better.</p>
</blockquote>
<p id="PmqCsQ"></p>
<p id="tlBZN5"><strong>Ohio State 48, Nebraska 7</strong></p>
<p id="ow4rMC">There was no Big Ten West road game magic for the home team against the Buckeyes this year as Ohio State <a href="https://www.landgrantholyland.com/2019/9/28/20889096/ohio-state-football-nebraska-2019-final-score-recap">crushed the Cornhuskers</a>:</p>
<blockquote><p id="SGLlr8">Even though it was the first primetime matchup of the season for the <a href="https://www.landgrantholyland.com/"><strong>Ohio State Buckeyes</strong></a>, it was business as usual. Behind a 212-yard, three touchdown effort in the air from quarterback <span><strong>Justin Fields</strong></span>; and a 26 carry, 177-yard ground effort by running back <span><strong>J.K. Dobbins</strong></span>, the Bucks cruised to a 48-7 road victory against the <a href="https://www.cornnation.com/"><strong>Nebraska Cornhuskers</strong></a>.</p></blockquote>
<p id="Dn39cQ">For Nebraska, it was a chance to prove at home Scott Frost was “it”, and <a href="https://www.cornnation.com/2019/9/28/20889085/nebraska-7-ohio-state-48-recap-and-reaction-thread-huskers-buckeyes">it did not work out:</a></p>
<blockquote><p id="mBYQQt"><span><strong>Kade Warner</strong></span> sighting. <span><strong>Austin Allen</strong></span> sighting. Kanawai Noa. Martinez converts a fourth down. <span>Dedrick Mills</span> sets up first and goal. Buckeye backups are no match for us! (/sobs) Or maybe they are. Fourth and goal - Martinez falls down at the 12. No points. Nothing. Nada. Zip. Zilch.</p></blockquote>
<p id="ZGQSRH"><strong>Wisconsin 24, Northwestern 15</strong></p>
<p id="CVLXHy">The Badgers finally got slowed down a bit, <a href="https://www.buckys5thquarter.com/2019/9/28/20887772/wisconsin-northwestern-grading-the-badgers-paul-chryst-jack-dunn-special-teams-eric-burrell">but it was not enough for a loss</a>: </p>
<blockquote>
<p id="MWEcVc">Wisconsin’s defense scored more points than its offense. Need I say more?</p>
<p id="PiYXiZ">If I do, let’s go point by point. Northwestern’s pass defense strategy seemed to be the polar opposite of Michigan’s strategy last week. The Wildcats played more zone and picked its moments to blitz.</p>
<p id="tZucH2"><span><strong>Jack Coan</strong></span> was off today. Northwestern’s defense was determined to keep Wisconsin in front of them and come up to make the tackles. When that happens, the quarterback has to hit the short passes quickly and on target so the receivers can quickly transition downfield and earn some yards after the catch.</p>
</blockquote>
<p id="LWJ18N">The Wildcats had a strong day defensively, but it was <a href="https://www.insidenu.com/2019/9/28/20888782/stock-up-stock-down-northwestern-loss-wisconsin-mccall-hankwitz-playcalling-johnson-line">not enough to turn the tide</a>:</p>
<blockquote>
<p id="2jt52D">The Wildcats overcame their early season tackling woes and limited <span><strong>Jonathan Taylor</strong></span> to 119 yards and 4.6 yards per carry, both well below his per-game average, with some well-timed aggression. Northwestern was also supremely effective at limiting yards after catch, with some clutch play keeping Wisconsin from converting on third down throws that didn’t reach the sticks.</p>
<p id="R2bzXl">In their first three games this season, Northwestern struggled to consistently make tackles, with their defensive backs and sometimes their linebackers looking exposed in the open field, but today’s performance proved that the unit has gained plenty of confidence. Thanks to an aggressive Mike Hankwitz game plan and some key players getting the job done, this defense is starting to look every bit as fierce as they did in 2018.</p>
</blockquote>
<p id="kF3Ieb"><strong>Iowa 48, Middle Tennessee State 3</strong></p>
<p id="Iq5bjP">It is safe to say Iowa is better at <a href="https://www.blackheartgoldpants.com/2019/9/28/20888603/iowa-hawkeyes-middle-tennessee-state-kirk-ferentz-nate-stanley-mekhi-sargent-brian-ferentz-kinnick">football than Middle Tennessee State</a>:</p>
<blockquote>
<p id="hSTAi6">41-3... Should I just do the rest of the Wisconsin game? Let’s flip over to see what’s happening. Facing 3rd & 10 in Wisconsin territory, Hunter “Northwestern is the same as Clemson” <span>Johnson</span> drops back, gets hammered andddd PICK 6! LOLOLOL. Wisconsin’s back and running. Northwestern is still so bad. But the tape on how to beat Wisconsin might be out now. Harness JT. Make Coan beat you. Don’t throw picks.</p>
<p id="ikJYGH">Feels like that plays into Iowa’s hands quite well.</p>
</blockquote>
<p id="0JyGWG"><strong>Michigan 52, Rutgers 0</strong></p>
<p id="DPpIr3">The Wolverines were <a href="https://www.maizenbrew.com/football/2019/9/28/20888875/michigan-football-vs-rutgers-takeaways-shea-patterson-josh-gattis-joe-milton-jim-harbaugh">quite angry in this one</a>:</p>
<blockquote><p id="8Wy2oY">Michigan football hosted the <a href="https://www.onthebanks.com/"><strong>Rutgers Scarlet Knights</strong></a> on Saturday afternoon in Ann Arbor and destroyed the Big Ten’s doormat program by a score of 52-0 in a drubbing that quite frankly, they needed to have. This was a bad football team coming to town and staring question about their heart and their fight in the face, Michigan delivered its cleanest performance of the season to this point.</p></blockquote>
<p id="7RD7bi">It was more of the same for Rutgers, who has been shut out twice<a href="https://www.onthebanks.com/2019/9/28/20888672/rutgers-football-dominated-by-michigan-patterson-sitkowski-blackshear-fogg-singleton-hayes-avyoung"> in conference play so fa</a>r:</p>
<blockquote><p id="4APgg0">On Saturday at the Big House, The <a href="https://www.onthebanks.com/"><strong>Rutgers Scarlet Knights</strong></a> took on a <a href="https://www.maizenbrew.com/"><strong>Michigan Wolverines</strong></a> squad that was embarrassed at Wisconsin last week. As per usual, Rutgers won the coin toss and deferred. The Wolverines immediately marched down the field for a touchdown. After a Rutgers three and out where they punted on 4th and 1 from their own 31 yard line, Michigan marched down the field again. The home team moved the ball down the field fairly easily, but did face a few critical third downs they converted. Rutgers did themselves no favors with back to back penalties at one point at it was quickly 14-0.</p></blockquote>
<p id="aycFon"><strong>Michigan State 40, Indiana 31</strong></p>
<p id="3RWILY">The Spittoon stays in East Lansing, <a href="https://www.theonlycolors.com/2019/9/28/20889187/the-spartans-hang-on-against-the-hoosiers-40-31">as is right and proper</a>:</p>
<blockquote>
<p id="UjMeXk">Michigan State couldn’t get off the field or stop the Hoosiers from attacking them with short throws. The part of MSU’s team everyone relies on to make plays and save the day was nowhere to be found.</p>
<p id="C5HHEZ">Spartan nation was busy watching their team get picked apart by a redshirt freshmen quarterback in <span>Michael Penix Jr.</span> — who ended up finishing the game 33-for-42 with 286 yards passing and four touchdowns (one rushing and three through the air).</p>
</blockquote>
<p id="Vr6B0E">It also appears <a href="https://www.crimsonquarry.com/2019/9/28/20889042/indiana-hoosiers-football-michigan-state-football-recap-spit">as if #9Windiana is dead</a>:</p>
<blockquote><p id="RsfaS7">Three plays killed Indiana today. Early in the game, <span><strong>Bryant Fitzgerald</strong></span> dropped a sure pick six that would have completely changed the game early. In the second half, Michael Penix overthrowing <span><strong>Whop Philyor</strong></span> by centimeters on what would have been a sure touchdown. Then, a defensive holding on what would have been a turnover for Indiana extended Michigan State’s drive that ended in a field goal to make it a seven-point game.</p></blockquote>
<p id="BdHyrz"><strong>Minnesota 38, Purdue 31</strong></p>
<p id="ajy4ap">The Gophers had only one incompletion as <span>Tanner Morgan</span> <a href="https://www.thedailygopher.com/2019/9/28/20889047/minnesota-defeats-purdue-38-31">threw just one incompletion</a>:</p>
<blockquote>
<p id="owJVk8"><span>Tanner Morgan</span> was 21-22 for 396 yards and 4TD. This is peak good Tanner and I am here for it the rest of the season.</p>
<p id="CqVyN3"><span>Rashod Bateman</span> had six receptions for 177 yards and two TDs. His compatriots <span>Chris Autman-Bell</span> (3-97 and a TD) and <span>Tyler Johnson</span> (8-73 and a TD) showed why Minnesota has the best receiving corps in the Big Ten West.</p>
</blockquote>
<p id="iL5bh8"><strong>Non-Conference Opponents:</strong></p>
<p id="OIgxCM"><strong>Hawaii 54, Nevada 3 - </strong>The Wolf Pack could not slow down the Warriors at home. </p>
<p id="EbxVeb"><strong>Vanderbilt 24, Northern Illinois - </strong>Unlike Purdue, the Commodores <a href="https://www.anchorofgold.com/2019/9/28/20888730/vanderbilt-survives-northern-illinois-24-18-was-that-a-win">can beat</a> Northern Illinois.</p>
<p id="4WaRiu"><strong>TCU 51, Kansas 14 - </strong>The Horned Frogs <a href="https://www.frogsowar.com/2019/9/28/20888613/tcu-51-kansas-14-salty-frogs-defense-explosive-offense-dominates-kansas">got revenge</a> after losing to Kansas last year. </p>
<p id="rVnPD9"></p>
<p id="pEx6jP"></p>
https://www.hammerandrails.com/2019/9/29/20889337/week-5-big-ten-football-recapBoilerTMill2019-09-29T09:00:00-04:002019-09-29T09:00:00-04:00Minnesota 38, Purdue 31: In Tweets
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<img alt="NCAA Football: Minnesota at Purdue" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/raGKAy-e2REPw4vlqwb2kw6mt5s=/0x555:3905x3158/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/65349932/usa_today_13433193.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Thomas J. Russo-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>Not a lot this week, but there was still fun to be had on Twitter. </p> <p id="3Ta087">My apologies for this column sucking this week. The bad cell reception in Ross-Ade was somehow even worse this week, so I could barely keep up with anything going on outside of the stadium. It was almost like it was 2004 or something with no idea of what was going on elsewhere. </p>
<p id="auohsQ">So here is In Tweets:</p>
<div id="aD4kgQ">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Sindelar or not, this afternoon feels like a tipping point game for Purdue’s season. <br><br>Beat Minnesota and things can get back on track, especially with a manageable remaining home schedule. Lose and they’re staring 1-4 in the face with a trip to Happy Valley looming.</p>— Derek Schultz (@Schultz975) <a href="https://twitter.com/Schultz975/status/1177986220695195649?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 28, 2019</a>
</blockquote>
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<div id="Na2hUv">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Rondale Moore hurt. Needing to be helped off. <a href="https://t.co/7TLwMl3kzo">pic.twitter.com/7TLwMl3kzo</a></p>— Bryan Fischer (@BryanDFischer) <a href="https://twitter.com/BryanDFischer/status/1178039348857466880?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 28, 2019</a>
</blockquote>
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<div id="0kyQW9">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">obvi if it is a clavicle and an acl, purdue just went peak purdue and we're just not topping this, fam.</p>— Casey Bartley (@CaseyBartleyhr) <a href="https://twitter.com/CaseyBartleyhr/status/1178041001086242819?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 28, 2019</a>
</blockquote>
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<div id="eruaRo">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Purdue fans right now <a href="https://t.co/O47nUE8Huf">pic.twitter.com/O47nUE8Huf</a></p>— Danger Ballinger (@ballinger) <a href="https://twitter.com/ballinger/status/1178040759611559936?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 28, 2019</a>
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<div id="dF7yyT">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Starting a petition to expel Minnesota from the Big Ten for crimes against athlete knees</p>— Paul Branham (@BoilerPaulie) <a href="https://twitter.com/BoilerPaulie/status/1178045828264366080?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 28, 2019</a>
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<div id="ub3elr">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">This is the most Purdue scene I have ever seen</p>— Purdue ACL Tear Today? (@PU_Torn_ACL2Day) <a href="https://twitter.com/PU_Torn_ACL2Day/status/1178039634594541573?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 28, 2019</a>
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<div id="nQt9iv">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">With no Rondale, David Bell may become a star quickly.</p>— Tyler Trent Fan Account (@Holmes_y_Rails) <a href="https://twitter.com/Holmes_y_Rails/status/1178045631581036546?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 28, 2019</a>
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<div id="lyqDIl">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Purdue can have no nice things whatsoever.</p>— Michael Hartman (@FtWaynesFinest) <a href="https://twitter.com/FtWaynesFinest/status/1178048534056226816?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 28, 2019</a>
</blockquote>
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<div id="YnvdQ7">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Maybe we should call a Rabbi... it's almost the Jewish New Year.</p>— (((Disloyal to Nazis Cohen)) (@LRCIndy_MSW) <a href="https://twitter.com/LRCIndy_MSW/status/1178075517720891404?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 28, 2019</a>
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<div id="Gh7QIa">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Saw a lot of positives today. This team fought its ass off after Moore and Sindelar left. Probanly looming at a 4-8 season. But with a lot of fight for 2020.</p>— Travis Miller (@JustTMill) <a href="https://twitter.com/JustTMill/status/1178080792829943811?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 28, 2019</a>
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<div id="MeHyHu">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Brohm on struggles: We inherited a team with veterans that was ready to win. Now we have more young guys than we'd like. We have some young talent with a bright future. Not where we need to be in the trenches. Probably hurting us we missed on some grad transfers.</p>— Tom Dienhart (@TomDienhart1) <a href="https://twitter.com/TomDienhart1/status/1178085973877514240?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 28, 2019</a>
</blockquote>
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<div id="QJQ3gc">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Bailey<br>Sindelar<br>Neal<br>Moore<br>Worship<br>Fuller<br>McCann <a href="https://t.co/GoU1bkbYRw">pic.twitter.com/GoU1bkbYRw</a></p>— Yeet it, and forgeet it (@mattbo324) <a href="https://twitter.com/mattbo324/status/1178049229627039751?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 28, 2019</a>
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https://www.hammerandrails.com/2019/9/29/20889325/minnesota-38-purdue-31-twitter-recapBoilerTMill2019-09-28T13:30:00-04:002019-09-28T13:30:00-04:00Minnesota at Purdue: Game Thread & How to Watch
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<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/FFumRh8VrZOvkVmSiu-QX8jgIHk=/28x0:423x263/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/65346212/giphy.0.gif" />
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<p>VARMINTS!!!!</p> <p id="gYlK7U">Here come the Golden Gophers! Purdue is ready to start Big Ten play with an afternoon game against Minnesota. It is also probably a must-win for postseason hopes. most of the crew is at Ross-Ade with myself, Ledman, Chris, and Casey all at various points in the building. </p>
<p id="sLFrVr">Meanwhile, Dr. Juan is in Germany at Oktoberfest, lucky bastard. </p>
<ul>
<li id="y7bGfJ">
<strong>Opponent: </strong><a href="https://www.thedailygopher.com/"><strong>Minnesota Golden Gophers</strong></a>
</li>
<li id="rjDWcv">
<strong>Current Record: </strong>3-0, 0-0 Big Ten</li>
<li id="3FlNuD">
<strong>Stadium: </strong><a href="https://www.hammerandrails.com/football/2017/9/6/16228612/purdue-football-ross-ade-game-day-guide"><strong>Ross-Ade Stadium</strong></a>; Natural Grass; Capacity of<strong> </strong>57,236</li>
<li id="23UFsq">
<strong>Tickets: </strong>Starting at <a href="https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=66960X1516590&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.stubhub.com%2Fpurdue-boilermakers-football-tickets-purdue-boilermakers-football-west-lafayette-ross-ade-stadium-9-28-2019%2Fevent%2F103949686%2F%3Fsort%3Dprice%2Basc%26priceWithFees%3Dtrue&referrer=sbnation.com" rel="sponsored nofollow noopener" target="_blank"><strong>$21 on StubHub</strong></a>, Starting at <a href="https://www.anrdoezrs.net/links/8532386/type/am/sid/sbn/https://seatgeek.com/minnesota-golden-gophers-at-purdue-boilermakers-football-tickets/ncaa-football/2019-09-28-3-30-pm/4655621" rel="sponsored nofollow noopener" target="_blank"><strong>$23 on SeatGeek</strong></a> (fees included)</li>
<li id="MWeKgF">
<strong>TV and Kickoff:</strong> ESPN2, 3:30 PM EDT</li>
<li id="aqYHoX">
<strong>Online Streaming: </strong><a href="https://www.espn.com/watch/"><strong>Watch ESPN</strong></a>
</li>
<li id="JZ3v7M">
<strong>Satellite Radio: </strong>Sirius XM Channel 84</li>
<li id="ohjJsc">
<strong>Odds: </strong>Minnesota 1 point favorites</li>
<li id="C69Q4w">
<strong>All-Time Series: </strong>Minnesota leads series 38-33-3</li>
<li id="UVBFMM">
<strong>SB Nation Blog Representation: </strong><a href="https://www.thedailygopher.com/"><strong>The Daily Gopher</strong></a>
</li>
<li id="gShrso">
<strong>Weather Forecast: </strong><a href="https://www.wunderground.com/hourly/us/in/west-lafayette/40.43%2C-86.91/date/2019-9-28"><strong>Chance of showers before kickoff, highs in upper-70s and mostly cloudy skies</strong></a>
</li>
<li id="4uZRc2">
<strong>2018 Minnesota Record:</strong> 7-6, 3-6 Big Ten</li>
<li id="Rtezbh">
<strong>2018 Minnesota Postseason: </strong>Beat Georgia Tech 34-10 in the Quick Lane Bowl</li>
<li id="wh7ZSP">
<strong>Minnesota Head Coach: </strong>PJ Fleck, 3rd season at Minnesota with 15-13 record, 45-35 overall CFB record</li>
</ul>
<p id="1vlfFN"></p>
https://www.hammerandrails.com/2019/9/28/20885030/minnesota-purdue-game-thread-how-to-watchBoilerTMill2019-09-27T15:00:00-04:002019-09-27T15:00:00-04:00Friday Drankin’: Day Block Brewing Company
<figure>
<img alt="GERMANY-LIFESTYLE-OKTOBERFEST-BEER-FESTIVAL-CULTURE" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/nVC1pZmUUVM-Dc8VnoKusVf-ib4=/19x0:4549x3020/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/65338735/1169955126.jpg.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo credit should read TOBIAS SCHWARZ/AFP/Getty Images</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Minnesotans love their beer!</p> <p id="IJLLGG">Now that we are in conference season Friday Drankin’ is going to have to change slightly. For most of our opponents I already did a brewery in their respective cities last year. For example, I did <a href="https://www.hammerandrails.com/2018/11/9/18079276/friday-drankin-surly-brewing-review">Surly Brewing</a> last year for the Minnesota game. Fortunately, Big Ten schools love good beer and there are plenty of other breweries in Big Ten towns to explore. This year for Minnesota lets go on the other side of the river to Day Block Brewing Company. </p>
<p id="rJ3e6g"><a href="https://www.dayblockbrewing.com/"><strong>Day Block Brewing Company</strong></a></p>
<p id="mInuRz"><strong>1105 S. Washington Avenue</strong></p>
<p id="6UBu4N"><strong>Minneapolis, MN 55415</strong></p>
<p id="Vb7uvo">Day Block’s location in downtown Minneapolis combines two of the greatest things on earth: Pizza and Beer. It is located roughly two blocks from the new Vikings’ Stadium in the heart of downtown Minneapolis, and is just across the river from Minnesota’s TCF Bank Stadium. The building was built in 1883 in a former flour mill, so of course they have great pizza. They have some <a href="https://www.dayblockbrewing.com/eats/lunch-and-dinner#specialty-pizza-individual-for-the-table">great choices available</a> with a taco pizza, a Carolina barbecue pizza, and even a Beyond burger pizza that sounds interesting. </p>
<p id="sypIPO">Let’s get to the beer though. </p>
<p id="EFVDv5"><strong>Frank’s Red Ale – 5.4% ABV, 21 IBU - </strong>Our tribute to the history of the Day Block building, this amber-colored ale is balanced and refreshing with hints of toast and caramel. A slightly citrus hop flavor comes through toward the end, leaving a sweet finish.</p>
<p id="tLDSTg"><strong>Stadium Blonde – 4.4% ABV, 11 IBU - </strong>Golden Hue very approachable. Crisp fruity aroma with a slight bready mouth-feel and a slight hop character throughout.</p>
<p id="95FLQw"><strong>Happy Pils – 4.8% ABV, 30 IBU - </strong>Happy Pils is a clear crisp lager showcasing Huell Melon hops. These hops are unique in that they give off flavors reminiscent of honeydew melon or even strawberry. With an upfront kick of hops that doesn’t linger, finishing clean, this pilsner is definitely crushable and welcome at any party here in the Block.</p>
<p id="ojCaeE"><strong>Shandy Day – 4.2% ABV, 10 IBU - </strong>Cool down with the Shandy Day, a porch pounder, dock lounging shandy. This orange forward effervescent ale with a hint of almond will have you firing up the grill and putting on your boat shoes. All the juicy flavors without the bitter hop characters; this hazy shandy bucks the craze, but still leaves you wanting more.</p>
<p id="4DLKME">Those all sound really, really good, and they do have some seasonal and specialty beers that change all the time. This sounds like a great place to stop before a Vikings game and a worthy inclusion to Friday Drankin’.</p>
https://www.hammerandrails.com/2019/9/27/20886855/day-block-brewing-company-reviewBoilerTMill2019-09-27T11:55:00-04:002019-09-27T11:55:00-04:00Purdue vs. Minnesota Predictions
<figure>
<img alt="NCAA Football: Texas Christian at Purdue" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/WvTwLMH4228msS5hADnpnmfWdYw=/0x0:4535x3023/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/65336773/usa_today_13362437.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Marc Lebryk-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Does any optimism remain? </p> <p id="dja2ey"><strong>Jumbo Heroes (1-2) Says;</strong></p>
<p id="NAqGFi">Look, things didn’t go as planned last week. Like, at all. Instead Purdue looked like the <a href="https://youtu.be/h3y3gW2ZIhQ">Freshman team in D3</a> playing against the Varsity. We still don’t know if Sindelar is going to play, we don’t know anything about the RB situation, the defensive line and linebacking corps are depleted due to injury, the offensive line is like a sieve....what was I saying?</p>
<p id="otUyEu">I will be in attendance at this game. This will be my first game in Ross-Ade since I believe 2013. Let’s hope I have better luck than the most recent games I’ve been to which include when Maryland trounced Purdue and when Purdue lost to Notre Dame in Indianapolis. Purdue’s gotta figure something out but I just don’t know if they’e got the bodies to do it this week. I think a hard season gets harder. </p>
<p id="6KUOzF"><strong>Purdue 17</strong></p>
<p id="YgC1qY"><strong>Minnesota 31</strong></p>
<p id="hX5Y0T"><strong>Chris (2-1) Says:</strong></p>
<p id="kGQCwi">Oh good lord who knows. I mean, Minnesota stomped us last year. But this year their wins aren’t impressive at all. We still have the injury bug a little bit, and Minnesota has a big line. This is the tossiest of toss-ups, and in a lot of ways will tell us what direction the Boilers are headed. Unfortunately, I will be at the game, and the Boilermakers haven’t won with me present since 2007 at the Metrodome (side note about 2000s Gophers teams: imagine how many yards Laurence Maroney would run against our current D Line. Ouch.) Also can someone please GIF the amazing body slam of the Gopher RB (was it Maroney?) from that era? Anyway, Gophers take it 34-21.</p>
<p id="dcYnkT"><strong>Purdue 21</strong></p>
<p id="K3V3P9"><strong>Minnesota 34</strong></p>
<p id="YWBTRC"><strong>Juan (1-2) Says:</strong></p>
<p id="zOpU3o"><a href="https://youtu.be/S74rvpc6W60">I’ve got a bad feeling about this. </a></p>
<p id="whTJpw"><strong>Purdue 17</strong></p>
<p id="I5leFf"><strong>Minnesota 28</strong></p>
<p id="zqaSUh"><strong>Travis (1-2) Says:</strong></p>
<p id="X9vaSC">Does Sindelar play? Really, that is the difference right now between victory and defeat for Purdue. I have faith that jack Plummer will be a good quarterback in time, but I don’t think he is ready for the Big Ten. maybe I am wrong there and he surprises, but clearly Purdue’s best chance is with a healthy Sindelar. Minnesota has the players to do what TCU did and just run the ball all day on us. That is problematic. They also are the anti-Purdue in fourth quarters. </p>
<p id="qpTwxS"><strong>Purdue 24</strong></p>
<p id="u2N5lD"><strong>Minnesota 31</strong></p>
<p id="2e3l7t"><strong>Holmes (1-2) Says:</strong></p>
<p id="RkyNvp">Too many variables and injuries to say why. </p>
<p id="mq3v6G"><strong>Purdue 28</strong></p>
<p id="w8eTvT"><strong>Minnesota 27</strong></p>
<p id="P4L7d3"><strong>Kyle (1-2) Says: </strong></p>
<p id="KM6Z24">We go back to the same question as the TCU game, is Elijah going to play? If not - it probably won’t look very good again, as he can cover up a lot of this young team’s mistakes. </p>
<p id="3FlOgD">How do we stop the run? Minnesota nearly has 1700 pounds on their offensive line, including the right side of the line - the side they mostly run behind - where one guy is 6-6 350 and the other is 6-9 400. Will Purdue’s defensive speed help stop that? </p>
<p id="9vWpcY">I just have a gut feeling Elijah doesn’t play and I have no idea how we stop the run now that Markus Bailey is out and Lorenzo Neal is still on the mend. </p>
<p id="vyYdeZ"><strong>Purdue 24 </strong></p>
<p id="oKvo2s"><strong>Minnesota 31</strong></p>
https://www.hammerandrails.com/2019/9/27/20886330/purdue-vs-minnesota-predictionsjumboheroes2019-09-27T11:50:14-04:002019-09-27T11:50:14-04:00Week 5 College Football TV Schedule
<figure>
<img alt="NCAA Football: Nebraska at Illinois" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/ZOwL5KHFztq7peKO6a29YE2mG5E=/0x0:5303x3535/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/65336749/usa_today_13396538.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Patrick Gorski-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
</figure>
<p id="o0zNCi">Sorry about another delay. SB Nation didn’t get us the full schedules until today. Apologies if you wanted to watch the Navy/Memphis game.</p>
<div id="4wmiXz"><div data-anthem-component="table:8867580"></div></div>
<div id="WVmrq8"><div data-anthem-component="table:8867584"></div></div>
https://www.hammerandrails.com/2019/9/27/20887164/week-5-college-football-tv-scheduleJuan Crespo2019-09-27T08:45:56-04:002019-09-27T08:45:56-04:00Week 5 Big Ten Preview
<figure>
<img alt="NCAA Football: Miami (Ohio) at Ohio State" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/Jl9lOZ8GQfLn11-nQWG3-yjAoPI=/0x0:3100x2067/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/65334630/usa_today_13393570.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Joe Maiorana-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>It is the first full weekend of conference play. </p> <p id="nX7fI8">This is really the first full weekend of conference play and we get a new TV deal special on Friday night with our next two opponents after this week. Maryland and Penn State kick things off tonight in College Park. Most of the games this week have a pretty clear favorite, so if you like true chaos in the league race cheer for the underdogs.</p>
<p id="O43tC2"><strong>Friday</strong></p>
<p id="r1TJF3"><strong>#12 Penn State (3-0) at Maryland (2-1) 8pm, Fox Sports 1</strong></p>
<p id="otqt1H"><a href="https://www.blackshoediaries.com/2019/9/26/20870897/penn-state-nittany-lions-football-game-preview-maryland-terps-2019-friday-micah-parsons-kj-hamler"><strong>Black Shoe Diaries Preview</strong></a></p>
<p id="6TG5HT"><a href="https://www.testudotimes.com/maryland-terps-football/2019/9/25/20883808/maryland-football-penn-state-2019-game-mike-locksley-josh-jackson-program-series-offense"><strong>Testudo Times Preview</strong></a></p>
<p id="YvMGIM">As I said, Purdue plays each of these teams in the following two weeks. Maryland has looked a lot better than expected and was even briefly ranked before losing to Temple. Penn State has been okay, but they have long dominated this series. I think this one depends on which Maryland team shows up. The offensive juggernaut vs. Syracuse can get the win, the mistake-prone team against Temple probably loses. <strong>Penn State 34, Maryland 28</strong></p>
<p id="IUroFx"><strong>Saturday</strong></p>
<p id="JjEIcb"><strong>Northwestern (1-2, 0-1) at #8 Wisconsin (3-0, 1-0) Noon, ABC</strong></p>
<p id="dB1p1v"><a href="https://www.insidenu.com/2019/9/26/20882389/film-room-northwestern-wisconsin-jonathan-taylor-paddy-fisher-pat-fitzgerald-big-ten-cfb-preview"><strong>InsideNU Preview</strong></a></p>
<p id="poGvoa"><a href="https://www.buckys5thquarter.com/2019/9/26/20884550/wisconsin-badgers-football-interview-with-a-wildcat-northwestern-q-a-inside-nu"><strong>Bucky’s 5</strong><sup><strong>th</strong></sup><strong> Quarter Preview</strong></a></p>
<p id="Et9Trt">Northwestern has struggled offensively and Wisconsin has, statistically, one of the best defenses in the country so far. Oh, and they have that <span>Jonathan Taylor</span> guy who is pretty good. This one could get pretty ugly early unless Northwestern finds an offense. <strong>Wisconsin 45, Northwestern 14</strong></p>
<p id="3jidEI"><strong>Middle Tennessee State (1-2) at #14 Iowa (3-0) Noon, ESPN2</strong></p>
<p id="BzprBD"><a href="https://www.blackheartgoldpants.com/2019/9/27/20885524/iowa-hawkeye-football-opponent-preview-middle-tennessee-state-nate-stanley-epenesa-asher-ohara-bhgp"><strong>Black Heart Gold Pants Preview</strong></a></p>
<p id="GezWgu">This is basically a last tune-up game for the Hawkeyes before getting into the meat of conference play. I don’t think they will be tested. <strong>Iowa 38, Middle Tennessee State 14</strong></p>
<p id="jzBXeu"><strong>Rutgers (1-2) at #20 Michigan (2-1, 0-1) Noon, BTN</strong></p>
<p id="XrpHfP"><a href="https://www.onthebanks.com/2019/9/27/20883727/rutgers-football-game-4-preview-at-20-michigan-sitkowski-pacheco-blackshear-fogg-previlon-oneal"><strong>On the Banks Preview</strong></a></p>
<p id="f3THOV"><a href="https://www.maizenbrew.com/football/2019/9/26/20880911/michigan-wolverines-football-rutgers-scarlet-knights-behind-enemy-lines-blog-on-the-brinks"><strong>Maize N’ Brew Preview</strong></a></p>
<p id="35EMnY">Michigan has looked really, really bad on offense this season, but the cure for bad offense is playing Rutgers. Because the Wolverines were pantsed by Wisconsin last week there is all kinds of angst in Ann Arbor as another third place finish looks probable. The good news is that they won’t lose to Rutgers. It is not that bad yet. <strong>Michigan 31, Rutgers 7</strong></p>
<p id="oJp3Rh"><strong>Indiana (3-1, 0-1) at #25 Michigan State (3-1, 1-0) 3:30pm, BTN</strong></p>
<p id="fbtkoT"><a href="https://www.crimsonquarry.com/2019/9/25/20881817/cq-best-bets-week-five-spread-picks-totals-underdog-parlay"><strong>Crimson Quarry Preview</strong></a></p>
<p id="zyM3c4"><a href="https://www.theonlycolors.com/2019/9/26/20886312/the-3-2-1-preview-3-things-we-want-to-see-2-key-stats-1-best-bet-for-msu-football-vs-indiana"><strong>The Only Colors Preview</strong></a></p>
<p id="Ks78nE">If #9Windiana is a real thing the Hoosiers find a way to win this game. Fortunately, it is not a thing. Indiana has their own quarterback health issues and when they have played real teams so far the offense has done nothing. Michigan State isn’t exactly a world beater, but I still like the Spartans at home. <strong>Michigan State 24, Indiana 14</strong></p>
<p id="O6S7qT"><strong>Minnesota (3-0) at Purdue (1-2) 3:30pm, ESPN2</strong></p>
<p id="1RQvc4"><a href="https://www.thedailygopher.com/2019/9/26/20880281/minnesota-football-week-five-preview-purdue"><strong>The Daily Gopher Preview</strong></a></p>
<p id="mMunJw">Does Sindelar play? Really, that is the difference right now between victory and defeat for Purdue. I have faith that jack Plummer will be a good quarterback in time, but I don’t think he is ready for the Big Ten. maybe I am wrong there and he surprises, but clearly Purdue’s best chance is with a healthy Sindelar. Minnesota has the players to do what TCU did and just run the ball all day on us. That is problematic. They also are the anti-Purdue in fourth quarters.<strong> Minnesota 31, Purdue 24</strong></p>
<p id="bWvap8"><strong>#5 Ohio State (4-0, 1-0) at Nebraska (3-1, 1-0) 7:30pm, ABC</strong></p>
<p id="p5cM3I"><a href="https://www.landgrantholyland.com/2019/9/27/20886463/ohio-state-news-nebraska-2019-game-preview-and-prediction"><strong>Land-Grant Holyland Preview</strong></a></p>
<p id="IowriM"><a href="https://www.cornnation.com/2019/9/26/20880289/reviewing-an-2019-ohio-state-buckeye-football-team"><strong>Corn Nation Preview</strong></a></p>
<p id="DX5zg4">This is the GameDay game and the first real chance for Scott Frost to prove he can bring Nebraska back to prominence. The game is not being played in West Lafayette, however. In every other city for the past two year the Buckeyes have looked incredible. I am still not convinced Nebraska is that good, but they are better than last year. They still are not good enough to beat Ohio State. <strong>Ohio State 44, Nebraska 27</strong></p>
https://www.hammerandrails.com/2019/9/27/20886816/week-5-big-ten-football-how-to-watchBoilerTMill2019-09-26T18:30:15-04:002019-09-26T18:30:15-04:00Breaking Down The Gophers: The Run Game Could Be a Problem For Purdue
<figure>
<img alt="Georgia Southern v Minnesota" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/jG9vVgaa-hcvBWvNVEnjKsNPrLs=/0x0:5568x3712/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/65332137/1174896081.jpg.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Hannah Foslien/Getty Images</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>TCU gashed Purdue’s defense with their run game, look for Minnesota to go with the same game plan.</p> <p id="CawNvE">I watched some Minnesota tape so you don’t have to, and what I saw from their run game makes me nervous. </p>
<p id="swU48R">Expect them to use some of the same concepts TCU employed to try and gut the Boilermaker defense. I’m sure <span>Nick Holt</span> has been focusing on stopping the inside run in practice, but it comes down to the Purdue players ability to execute.</p>
<p id="Tuz61Z"><strong>TCU</strong></p>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt=" " data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/gRPZ64aSrcmDZGEFU15DTbWU3vQ=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/19235066/TCU_Run_1.gif">
</figure>
<p id="HEhvhg">You can see the missed tackle in the secondary clearly, and let’s lay it on the line, that was a horrible job of breaking down. No coach in America teaches the stop your feet and dive at ankles technique in the open field, but the line also got demolished on this play.</p>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt=" " data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/f1RC2OPHKx3n2KauRaLhZbzUdxU=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/19235800/TCU_Run_1_3.png">
</figure>
<p id="Vrgfqs">#58 <span>Branson Deen</span> is lined up outside the left tackle.</p>
<p id="E9AxUu">#46 Cornel Jones is lined up covering the B gap (gap between the DT and DE).</p>
<p id="Ztj2CJ">These two get worked on this play.</p>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt=" " data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/J2hXZpxI4Vl11XBpud1S5-D3mYE=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/19235801/TCU_Run_2_15.png">
</figure>
<p id="ILyruQ">The TCU LT invites <span>Deen</span> inside, letting Deen move across his face. Tackles usually don’t want this to happen....unless they are running this play.</p>
<p id="AfLmmQ">Jones in good shape. Deen has closed the B gap at least. Any run is going to have to go off tackle. Jones has to fill that lane.</p>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt=" " data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/iO3RfpLtuO__l0VFn9t59qqYSgU=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/19235804/TCU_Run_3_28.png">
</figure>
<p id="d5uj5x">Deen is no longer a participant in this play. TCU let him go inside and then sealed him to the inside.</p>
<p id="wU7e3d">Jones is outside, but he’s too far outside. TCU is pulling a guard around to pick him off. He can’t get sealed to the outside.</p>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt=" " data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/wCBkAsRwpmKZRgxeWnLHygOh-sY=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/19235813/TCU_Run_4_34.png">
</figure>
<p id="I0mP6P">Jones is now sealed outside and the rest of the offensive line has created a wall, sealing off 4 defensive linemen with 3 offensive linemen.</p>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt=" " data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/RjddqtFaYLO_8KJSEcyJvQgnvPM=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/19235875/TCU_Run_5_40.png">
</figure>
<p id="ZEkOhJ"><span>Holt</span> (nearest to the ball in the blue circle) does a decent job of sliding over but the defensive line being walled off by 3 offensive linemen leaves the right guard to engulf Holt. Purdue’s only hope at this point is Holt getting off the block, but he’s tiny and guard easily moves him out of the way.</p>
<p id="QdUWdw"><strong>Conclusion</strong></p>
<p id="uESxEH">The play is well blocked, but that’s going to happen. The main issue is Purdue’s 4 defensive linemen getting blocked by 3 TCU offensive linemen and both linebackers failing to get off the TCU blocks. Oh, and whatever the safety was attempting to do when he dove past the running back and slapped at his shoe strings.</p>
<p id="7dAOFg"><strong>Minnesota</strong></p>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt=" " data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/-RJtnQDGrMD9Xl4VPENjCEhpVwA=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/19235921/Minnestota_Inside_Run_2.gif">
</figure>
<p id="nSDYpj">This is a similar concept to the play TCU used to gash Purdue. Minnesota is running it out of a power formation, but they’re inviting the defensive end inside, sealing off the defensive line, and kicking out the linebacker. It’s the same idea.</p>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt=" " data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/aB-uXCMVHsY2ZBeU-edNFALDoHc=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/19235945/Minnesota_Run2_14.png">
</figure>
<p id="qM2Xa8">Just like TCU, Minnesota invites the defensive end inside, and then seals him. Instead of a pulling guard hunting down the linebacker, the Gophers use their tight end, who helped push the end inside and then moved on to the linebacker.</p>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt=" " data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/7VrzFG4KB9B0Kb9pYr00nlHiiZo=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/19235962/Minnesota_Run3_21.png">
</figure>
<p id="FGvASE">Fresno, unlike Purdue, does a decent job of getting off blocks. As the backside linebacker (orange triangle) beats the guard. You’ll also notice the safety (red triangle) stepping up to try and fill the hole.</p>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt=" " data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/j7W50_datTDXu5mKemhD8arW_pU=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/19235991/Minnesota_Run41_30.png">
</figure>
<p id="USJ0DB">Fresno’s front side linebacker (purple triangle) manages to get off his block, and the safety (red triangle) doesn’t whiff (unlike Purdue). The play is still good for 5 yards, but they manage to keep the Minnesota runner out of the end zone.</p>
<p id="Z91j77"><strong>Conclusion</strong></p>
<p id="glvAbi">Look for Minnesota to run this play, and plays with similar concepts to take advantage of Purdue’s young defensive ends. Purdue’s linebackers are going to have to get off blocks and the safeties can’t dive at ankles because Purdue’s line will get sealed off several times on Saturday.</p>
<p id="RR4pNM"><strong>TCU</strong></p>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt=" " data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/k3QX9mU8p6zEfeKaQUuEor0cWew=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/19236007/TCU_Run_2.gif">
</figure>
<p id="rkQjuk">On this long run, Purdue’s defensive tackle gets escorted out of the hole, the linebacker over pursues and gets burned by the cutback, and once again, the secondary can’t make a tackle.</p>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt=" " data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/uC7O_ylXbR2QKmzyf_8yTILysLE=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/19236062/TCU_Run10_0.png">
</figure>
<p id="Jrzzma">TCU victimized Purdue’s defensive tackles all game. I’ll confess, after Nevada I was begging <span>Nick Holt</span> to play more defensive tackles. Now I see why he didn’t. Purdue has 1 healthy, functional defense tackle. The other guys on the roster just aren’t good right now.</p>
<p id="zgQ0Uk">On this play, Purdue has <span>Lawrence Johnson</span> (blue box) at nose tackle and <span>Giovanni Reviere</span> (green box) a largish defensive end, playing 3 the technique defensive tackle.</p>
<p id="LU7MW6">Cornell Jones has the purple triangle and <span>Ben Holt</span> has the orange triangle.</p>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt=" " data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/UHWGM_Q0xnfjMaFXHlvQOV4FpHE=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/19236069/TCU_Run11_28.png">
</figure>
<p id="etnQYW">TCU ran the stretch play to death. On this play they threaten the stretch with the running back, but he’s always looking to cut back into the giant seam between the defensive tackles. The defensive tackles should be working in tandem, but they are stretched way too far apart.</p>
<p id="DerPs5">Luckily, it appears Jones is in a good spot to plug the hole and <span>Johnson</span> is crashing down the line after being totally ignored by the TCU linemen.</p>
<p id="hDaqcY">It appears Purdue is in decent shape to limit this play to a short gain.</p>
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<p id="l37fiI"><span>Johnson</span> (blue box) is still crashing down the line, in hopes of closing the gap.</p>
<p id="S7nVp2"><span>Reviere</span> (green box) is still pushed too far to the outside, but he too is trying to recover.</p>
<p id="iSmAEg">Jones (pink triangle), well, I’m not sure what he’s doing. My only assumption is that he’s keying on the fullback because instead of filling the gap between the defensive tackles, he’s stacked behind <span>Reviere</span>.</p>
<p id="WHzfM7"><span>Ben Holt</span> (orange triange) is getting blocking by a guard.</p>
<p id="zamFri">Once again TCU is blocking Purdue’s 4 defensive linemen with 3 offensive linemen.</p>
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<p id="Eep1eV">TCU’s running back dials up a burst of speed and it’s all over for the <span>Johnson</span>, Reviere, Jones trio.</p>
<p id="z3rCgS"><span>Johnson</span> takes out Reviere, and Jones is out of position and can only make a weak diving attempt as the TCU back blows past.</p>
<p id="EPxK6S">Holt is currently being eaten by a guard.</p>
<p id="JS6UNj">Notice the two TCU linemen (blue circle) wandering around down the field looking for someone to block. That’s a sure sign that the other team has no respect for your defensive line.</p>
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<p id="BEZ7DT">With the <span>Johnson</span>, Reviere, Jones trio all on the ground, 3 new Purdue challengers step up to try and take down the running back.</p>
<p id="1SFEYd">Holt (orange triangle) is still trying to disengage from his blocker. In theory he should be athletic enough to shed the guard this far down the field.</p>
<p id="t65GlS">#2, <span>Kenneth Major</span> (purple triangle) is now in the picture after hustling over from his corner back position to get into the play.</p>
<p id="ktSDEi">#27, <span>Navon Mosley</span> (red triangle)* is being totally ignored by both offensive lineman, who are focused on squishing Holt. He should be in position to make the stop.</p>
<p id="r6N0eb">*I can’t see the safeties number, but I’m pretty sure it’s <span>Mosley</span>, since you see the other safety flash into the picture in the next clip. If it’s not Navon, my apologies.</p>
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<p id="W0iOpg">The TCU running back hits the gas, and once again splits 2 defenders.</p>
<p id="ldL5ZY">Holt (orange triangle) is getting crushed by an offensive lineman.</p>
<p id="VXfCRW"><span>Major</span> (purple triangle) is attempting to....tickle the ball carrier...I’m not sure, but that’s not how I would go about trying to tackle someone running past me, but full credit for hustling into the play.</p>
<p id="7vT5XJ"><span>Mosley</span> (red triangle) is our last hope. It looks like he’s got a decent angle to limit the damage already inflicted on this run.</p>
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<p id="p6R28G">Welp, that’s not ideal.</p>
<p id="IRXz5n"><strong>Conclusion</strong></p>
<p id="tUfaUo">This play was a combination of poor positioning and poor tackling. The defensive tackles got pulled apart, the linebacker didn’t fill the gap, the other linebacker couldn’t get off a block, the corner offered a weak slap as the running back blew by him and the safety, well, I’m not even sure what he’s doing once again, but it’s not tackling.</p>
<p id="VH8yvv"><strong>Minnesota Attacking Defensive Tackles</strong></p>
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<p id="7oXmsu">Minnesota likes to operate from tighter formations than TCU, but they still get after your defensive tackles. This play in particular worries me from a Purdue perspective. Fresno does a decent job of making a tackle at the 2nd level, but Purdue, as seen above, doesn’t exactly excel at that skill.</p>
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<p id="OtmoDM">Minnesota loves to bring their slot receiver (blue) in motion and use him as an extra blocker on the edge to get a numerical advantage up front. On this play he is assigned to the linebacker (purple triangle)</p>
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<p id="INLsd9">It’s hard to tell with the mass of bodies, but Minnesota has defeated the Fresno State defensive tackles.</p>
<p id="NlUylR">The defensive tackle (green box) has been escorted up the field. When the offensive line lets you take the inside angle, it means they want you to take the inside angle. They don’t even have to block him, they just make sure he keeps heading the wrong direction.</p>
<p id="PHMYbX">They blow the other defensive tackle (blue circle) out of the hole with the double team. They have an extra lineman to get that job done because they’re using the wide receiver to kick out the linebacker.</p>
<p id="Eg8j57">The linebacker (purple triangle) beats the block, but the wide receiver slows him down enough to make him a step late. That’s the wide receivers job on this play. They’re not looking for pancake blocks, they just need the linebacker to slow down a step.</p>
<p id="IgN7mL">You will notice that the Fresno safety (orange triangle) is coming down hard. He’s unblocked and has to make the tackle.</p>
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<p id="tFgLdp">Oh, look, the safety (orange triangle) makes the tackle. That’s the difference between a 5 yard run and the running back popping out the other end for a big game.</p>
<p id="3nIX6Q"><strong>Conclusion</strong></p>
<p id="MsGpNz">All I’m looking for out of Purdue’s defensive tackles is to stay somewhat in the play and make the reads more difficult for the running back. Minnesota is going to run right at them and try to either get them out of position, or double team them out of the play. </p>
<p id="oN8M5I">It’s the defensive tackles job to keep the linebackers and safeties clean so they can make tackles. When the linebackers and safeties have an opportunity to make tackles, they have to wrap up and get the Gopher running backs on the ground.</p>
<p id="0QWZcE"> Minnesota is going to challenge Purdue to make tackles at the second level and I’m not confident in the Boilermakers ability to do that consistently enough to win the game.</p>
<p id="i4Sx3f"><strong>Overall</strong></p>
<p id="UH9Qtv">Minnesota is going to make Purdue prove they can stop the run with their front 6 or 7 (depending on the defense). If Purdue has to commit safeties into the box to stop the run, the Gophers will play action and beat Purdue over the top.</p>
<p id="gN6DfP">Purdue’s linebackers and defensive tackles are going to have to play much better against Minnesota than they played against TCU for the Boilermakers to have a chance. If Purdue can’t stop Minnesota from gaining 5 yards a carry. The Gophers will be more than happy to keep Purdue’s offense on the sideline along with their questionable defense while they grind out yards. If this happens Purdue’s defense will be done by the 2nd half and this game will get ugly. 5 yard runs will start turning into 30 yard runs like they did against TCU.</p>
<p id="0FTAvo">Note: I didn’t mention the in-line option TCU used to kill Purdue’s defensive tackles because I don’t see that in Minnesota’s play book. However, if Minnesota has that wrinkle, it’s going to be big trouble for Purdue.</p>
<p id="m5bmoT">TCU left whichever defensive tackle was playing next to Watt unblocked, and ran the option off in-line instead of outside the tackle. I wouldn’t be surprised to see Minnesota at least try that a few times. Purdue didn’t stop it once against TCU.</p>
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https://www.hammerandrails.com/2019/9/26/20885473/breaking-down-the-gophers-the-run-game-could-be-a-problem-for-purdueDrew Schneider