Purdue football faced another tough defeat on Saturday, falling to Northwestern in a closely contested overtime match that extended their losing streak to seven games with a score of 26-20. The Boilermakers were unable to capitalize on opportunities, particularly as they worked to overcome a significant 17-3 deficit late in the first half.
In a strategic shift, Purdue abandoned their mixed quarterback strategy early in the game, allowing Hudson Card to take the lead. Card’s performance during the 2-minute drill before halftime showcased his ability, as he drove the team to a touchdown that revitalized their chances. Meanwhile, the defense improved significantly after a shaky first half, holding Northwestern to just a field goal in the remaining quarters.
However, the game turned crucially in overtime when Coach Ryan Walters opted to go for it on a critical 4th-and-5. The decision did not pay off, as Purdue failed to convert, granting Northwestern the opportunity to score two plays later and clinch the victory.
Evaluating the team’s performance reveals challenges across various aspects. The offense received a C+ grade, reflecting a rhythm that felt inconsistent, particularly around the quarterback rotation. The offensive line struggled at times against the defense, despite a few adjustments to reduce penalties.
Defensively, the unit earned a C- after showing stark contrasts in performance. Initially, they were vulnerable against a Northwestern team that had been struggling offensively. However, they recovered in the second half, only to be undone by a breakdown in coverage during the crucial overtime.
Special teams also had their struggles, earning a C- for a risky kickoff reception that pressured Card to execute a long drive under duress. The coaching aspect received an F, tied to the decision-making process in critical situations that reflected the coaching staff’s inexperience.
Despite the disappointing overall performance, Hudson Card stood out as the game’s player, completing 21 of 31 passes for 267 yards and a touchdown, reaffirming his status as the team’s primary quarterback.
Looking ahead, Purdue has an opportunity to regroup and learn from this experience. With two weeks before their next game, the team can focus on building chemistry and addressing the issues that have led to this challenging stretch. With determination and the right adjustments, there’s hope that the Boilermakers can turn their season around.