BREAKING: Boilermakers Score Points

Yes, that headline is a bit sarcastic, but the Boilermakers made their way not only into the red zone today, but into the end zone a couple of times. Granted, one was in the final minute (again) but perhaps notable about that is that Austin Appleby got some fourth quarter snaps and tossed that last minute 44 yard TD to Danny Anthrop on fourth down (both Appleby and Anthrop are good dudes who have met b-dowd and little b-dowd on multiple occasions, so yes, we're biased here on those guys and we liked the spirit from the two of them after the TD).

Danny Etling had another tough day, going 15/28 for 145 yards and a TD. The Boilermakers wound up losing 38-14, yes, but were only down 14-7 at the half. Tiny, baby steps? Well, sure. But I don't think anyone from either fan base expected the Boilers to take down the Hawkeyes today. And perhaps this is a minor victory, but the Boilers managed to not lose by 30 again. (Wheeeeee!!)

And while yes, again, being a bit sarcastic here... but losing by 24 isn't as bad an outcome as could have happened when you consider the following:

--Iowa had 28 first downs to Purdue's 12.

--509 total yards to 266, in favor of the Hawkeyes

--Rushing yards favored Iowa, 318-53 (Mercy)

Purdue actually only held the ball for less than four fewer minutes than the Hawks and had more passing yards at 213-191. Appleby helped that out by going 5/6 for 68 yards in the fourth quarter, including the aforementioned TD pass.

Boilerdowd and Mrs. Boilerdowd were there in person today. So if you saw a guy about to get divorced for dragging his wife to a November Purdue football game, well, that was him. He'll be along later to give you the on-the-spot report since we know there's nothing you want more during a 1-8 season than double coverage of a game.