
On Saturday Oregon defeated Purdue 32-26 in double overtime. WOW that was a tough loss. I am on record in saying that Purdue would have a tough time with this Oregon team, and I am happy to say that I was not correct in my assessment. As great as the Boilers played for much of the game, it was sad to see this one slip away. Purdue had every chance to win this game, but they couldn't close out the Ducks.

Maybe the Boilers should have played a little more duck hunt when they were kids!
At halftime it looked like Purdue would walk away with a huge victory. Going into the 2nd quarter it was 20-3 in favor of the Boilers. At that point it seemed like Purdue couldn't be stopped and the Ducks' wings were clipped. Well that would prove to be wishful thinking. Purdue failed to score a single point in either the 2nd or third quarter. It wasn't until 7:30 left in the game that Purdue got back on the board. By then it was 23-20 Purdue. Oregon tied up the game with another field goal, leaving Purdue with the ball at the end of the game. Purdue drove down field and set up Chris Summers for a 44 yard field goal which missed right. After 2 field goals in the first OT Purdue took the field for the second OT and failed to score. Oregon marched on to the field and scored a TD quickly to end the hopes for Purdue's first victory over a ranked team in 15 tries.
THE GOOD:
- Kory Sheets played great! I have been saying for years that the Boilers needed to establish a run game, and boy did they. Sheets finished with 180 yards rushing, which is fantastic. I am "hoping" that Danny Hope's influence is already being felt. Danny was hired to bring toughness back to Purdue, and as the Offensive line coach it sure looked like he did.
- The defense played great. Again is seems like, the Boilers played with a bit more toughness and nastyness this week. If they can keep up this intensity level, they will be a solid unit.
- Justin Siller. Could this be my dream come true? I love the spread option attack, and Justin Siller sure seemed like he had the tools to pull it off. Having an athlete in the QB slot that can bring a running threat is a great addition.
- Team Toughness. The Defense, special teams, and offense all showed a good bit of toughness this week. Again I "Hope" this is a view of the future Boilers.
THE BAD:
- Curtis Painter. I have been on Painter’s side for the last two years, saying that I thought he was good enough to win. I am now officially off the band wagon. Yes he has all the skills and can make all the throws. He even ran for a few key yards last weekend. BUT he lacks the one thing you cannot teach, how to win. When the pressure is on he cannot perform. Brees had it, even Orton showed it now and then, that will to win and make something happen when the chips are down. Painter does not have it and I doubt that he will get it. I say put in Siller and let’s see what happens.
- Who is the go to guy in the passing game? No one really shined. I think the Boilers may really missed Bryant and Keller. It has only been 2 games, so I am not too concerned yet.
- Putting down the finishing blow. Where was it? I don’t know what happened but it was not there.
THE UGLY:

OK, that one’s in the books. It was a tough loss, but not a conference loss. We can still rebound and have a great season. The Chippewa’s of Central Michigan come in next week. This is a team we know all too well. Let’s hope we avoid the letdown from playing a team 3 times in 12 months.
GO BOILERS!!