Ad Disclosure
Not many walk-on, third-string quarterbacks get a chance to lead a B1G football team. Purdue’s Aiden O’Connell has been granted that opportunity each of the last two weekends, and he’s taken advantage.
Two weeks ago, O’Connell stepped in late in the game for an injured Jack Plummer, needing a late touchdown to get a win over Nebraska. O’Connell marched the Boilermakers down the field, scored on a trick play and led Purdue to a 31-27 victory over the Huskers.
On Saturday, O’Connell had the chance to start for the Boilermakers. Though there were some struggles throughout the day, the walk-on quarterback once again led his team down the field for a game-winning drive once again.
O’Connell got Purdue into field goal range with time running down and JD Dellinger booted the game-winning kick through the uprights. After the game, O’Connell was extremely emotional, getting his second-straight win at quarterback, this time by a 24-22 final.
Following the victory, the Purdue quarterback was sough after for a postgame interview. And it’s one that’s hard not to love.
Below is the video, as shared by Big Ten Network.
"A lot of people didn't expect me to be here…"
Aidan O'Connell spoke postgame after leading @BoilerFootball to a 24-22 win: pic.twitter.com/Y7F5nwdus6
— Purdue On BTN (@PurdueOnBTN) November 9, 2019
Dustin grew up in the heart of Big Ten country and has been in sports media since 2010. He has been covering Big Ten football since 2014. You can follow him on Twitter: @SchutteCFB