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Performance from Purdue’s Aidan O’Connell at Wrigley Field was one of historic proportions
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There have been some historic performances played in Wrigley Field, home of the Chicago Cubs. It is rare to see big-time football games with the exception of last night’s matchup between Purdue and Northwestern.
Purdue defeated Northwestern 32-14 on the road in a “neutral site.” Purdue senior quarterback Aidan O’Connell threw for 29-of-39 completions for 423 yards, 3 touchdowns, and a QBR of 88.5.
O’Connell became the first quarterback to throw for 400 yards in Wrigley Field since Chicago Bears quarterback Johnny Lujack (468 yards) in 1949. Lujacks’ 468 passing yards occurred in the Chicago Bears’ 52-21 win over the Chicago Cardinals on Dec. 11, 1949.
Here's a fun stat:@BoilerFootball's Aidan O'Connell (423) joins Johnny Lujack (468), of the Chicago Bears, as the only QBs, since 1940, to throw for 400 yards in a game at Wrigley Field. pic.twitter.com/HpL8OIctey
— Big Ten Network (@BigTenNetwork) November 21, 2021
O’Connell threw a touchdown in the second quarter and 2 in the third quarter. Purdue’s offense outgained Northwestern in total yards accounted for 473-to-303.
Purdue will finish the 2021 college football season next week at home versus Indiana (2-9; 0-8 in B1G play) in the battle for the Old Oaken Bucket Trophy.