West Lafayette, IN-The last time the Oregon Ducks visited West Lafayette was in 1979 for their first meeting with the Boilermakers. On Friday night, however, Ross-Ade Stadium felt like familiar territory for the Ducks.
Both teams entered the game after thrilling performances last week, but Oregon, now ranked #2 and new to the Big Ten, showed no signs of fatigue despite having a short week to prepare.
Oregon wasted no time, scoring on their first two possessions to secure a dominant 35-0 victory. Running back Jordan James punched in two early touchdowns in the opening quarter, setting the tone for the Ducks’ offense.
Purdue had flashes of brilliance, such as Kyndrich Breedlove’s interception before halftime, which gave the defense a spark, but it wasn’t enough to last four quarters. “I haven’t needed to, like, beg them to continue to play or continue to be bought in,” said Purdue head coach Ryan Walters.
Purdue’s offensive line and running back committee, led by Reggie Love III (11 carries, 93 yards), rushed for 208 total yards, showing glimpses of potential.
In his second career start, Ryan Browne stepped in for Hudson Card, who remains in concussion protocol, and while he struggled at times, he also made some notable plays, completing 9 of 19 passes for 93 yards, one interception, and contributing 48 rushing yards.
Oregon quarterback Dillon Gabriel continued his hot streak from last week’s win over Ohio State, throwing for 290 yards and two touchdowns, leading his team to a 21-0 halftime lead.
The Boilermakers fought hard but eventually gave up two fourth quarter touchdowns, including a spectacular 8-yard pass from Gabriel to Noah Whittington, who pinned the ball to his helmet, followed by a 2-yard rushing touchdown from Jay Harris.
Now 1-6 (0-4) in conference play, Purdue has a chance to rebound after their bye week with a home game against Northwestern, though tough matchups with Ohio State, Penn State, and Indiana loom. For Oregon, upcoming road battles against Michigan and Wisconsin will test their mettle, keeping Big Ten football as thrilling as ever!