CHAMPAIGN, Ill. – Purdue football demonstrated resilience in the second half for the first time in weeks, nearly pulling off an upset against No. 23 Illinois on Saturday.
After falling behind by 24 points at halftime, Purdue managed to take a lead with 1:27 remaining in regulation. However, Illinois equalized, and Purdue’s two-point conversion attempt after Illinois answered with a touchdown failed, resulting in a heartbreaking 50-49 overtime loss at Memorial Stadium. This performance could serve as a foundation for a Boilermaker team that has been struggling, as they prepare for a challenging schedule ahead.
Purdue’s offense received a B+ grade. The team was down 27-3 at halftime, largely due to Ryan Browne’s first start, which led to a one-dimensional offensive strategy. However, Browne’s performance improved significantly in the second half, as he completed 18 of 26 passes for 297 yards, threw three touchdowns, and rushed for 118 yards on 17 carries. The Boilermakers took a 43-40 advantage late in the fourth quarter, producing an offense capable of winning despite the outcome.
Defensively, Purdue earned a C-. The team generated some crucial moments, including Will Heldt’s scoop-and-score from a strip-sack by Nyland Green. This play, along with holding Illinois to a long field goal to start the second half, provided a glimpse of the complementary football that had been missing. Yet, the defense allowed too many explosive plays and struggled with tackling, which affected several crucial plays. The inability to prevent Illinois from advancing 53 yards in the final 34 seconds of regulation ultimately led to the game-tying field goal.
In terms of special teams, Purdue was marked with a C+. A significant error allowed a kickoff to be recovered by Illinois, contributing to the team’s 24-3 deficit at halftime. While Keeland Crimmins continued to punt well and Spencer Porath was reliable on short-range field goals, the special teams could not afford to gift opponents with easy scores. However, a successful onside kick did create a chance for the Boilermakers to win.
Purdue’s coaching received a B- grade. Coach Walters took greater control of the offensive strategy, yielding positive results. Nonetheless, there were questionable decisions, such as a failed fourth-and-1 pass call early on when the running game was effective and opting for a two-point conversion in a tight fourth-quarter situation. However, a well-executed reverse flea-flicker added to their progress.
The play of the game came when Leland Smith recovered an onside kick at the Illinois 43-yard line with 1:27 left in regulation, paving the way for Purdue’s go-ahead touchdown.
The standout player was Browne, who amassed 415 all-purpose yards, demonstrating strong decision-making and the ability to exploit big-play chances.