Now that the game wrap is done here are some of my first impressions from today's game:
- The defense was mostly fine. I say mostly because it gave up a lengthy 15 play drive and got burned for a big play, giving Nebraska 14 points, but for the most part it did enough to keep Purdue in the game. It recovered four fumbles, got a defensive touchdown, and gave the offense plenty of opportunities. If Purdue converts on the opening possession after the kickoff fumble and on the early second half fumble this is a very different game. Nic Scourton and Kydran Jenkins had a fantastic game on the ends. They have played well all year, but today was their best game, and Jenkins' fumble-six is a great reward.
- By comparison, the offense had maybe its worst game of the season. Hudson Card seemed indecisive all day and was intercepted twice. Nebraska hit its 73-yard TD pass immediately after his first pick, so that was a two-play sequence that was a huge difference in the game.
- Purdue continues to struggle mightily on field goal attempts. It is now just 3 of 10 on the season after Ben Freehill's attempt was blocked and returned for a touchdown in a huge play. Purdue had gotten the ball in the red zone after Dillon Thieneman forced a fumble, but it went backwards, much like the first possession, and a bobbled hold led to the block that was taken all the way back. It is not a guarantee Purdue wins if it gets a touchdown there, but it ended up being at least a 10-point swing.
- Devin Mockobee has to find a way to hold on to the football. He had his 8th fumble of the season today. He has shown he can still be very good running the ball, but Purdue is unable to rely on him to hold on to it right now.
- Deion Burks was quiet with a few drops and Purdue missed Abdur-Rahmaan Yaseen. Jayden Dixon-Veal had a nice game though and got his first career TD catch.
- Barring an absolute miracle next week in Ann Arbor Purdue will miss a bowl game. All is not lost, however. The finishing kick of Minnesota-Northwestern-Indiana presents three games where Purdue can be competitive and build for next year. The offense has a lot to work on. The defense has some real bright spots to build around. If Purdue can get at least two of its last three games it will be a great foundation for next year.
