David Bell makes impressive TD catch to give Purdue big lead at Iowa
David Bell is having a memorable day at Iowa in what is shaping up to be a memorable day for all Purdue faithful.
An upset is brewing in Iowa City, as the Boilermakers hold a 24-7 lead over the No. 2 Hawkeyes thanks to Bell’s first touchdown catch of the day. With just over 12 minutes remaining in the fourth quarter, quarterback Aidan O’Connell completed the 21-yard pass to Bell to take a 17-point advantage.
In total, Bell has 10 receptions for 227 yards. The 227 yards are the third-most by a receiver in Purdue history.
If Purdue can hold on and win, it will be their ninth victory over a top-two opponent. The eight they currently have is twice as many as any other school all-time.
The Boilermaker defense has exposed Iowa’s subpar offense that was previously doing just enough to stay in games and keep the Hawkeyes undefeated. Midway through the fourth quarter, Iowa has just 204 yards and 13 first downs. Purdue has dominated time of possession.
While one-loss teams have made the playoff in the past, Iowa’s showing on Saturday showed that they made not be able to compete at the national level if they do not find an offense.
Purdue successfully playing quarterback roulette
The Boilermakers have played three quarterbacks today, although O’Connell has taken the majority of the snaps.
He is 30-for-40 with 375 yards and three total touchdowns. O’Connell has -2 rushing yards on the day when sacks are factored in, but he has a 6-yard touchdown run.
Jack Plummer, who was the main quarterback in Purdue’s first four games, is 1-for-2 with three yards and five carries for 20 yards. Senior Austin Burton has not completed a pass, but he has three carries for 10 yards.
Perhaps most importantly for Purdue, the quarterbacks have taken care of the football, avoiding throwing interceptions. Iowa has 16 interceptions this season, the most in the FBS by four picks.