Rapid Reaction: Purdue stuns Minnesota during Gophers' homecoming with breakout game from RB Devin Mockobee
Final Score: Purdue 20, Minnesota 10
Brief Recap: After watching how Purdue upset Minnesota at home there’s only one question to ask. Are the “Spoilermakers” back? Purdue marched into Huntington Bank Stadium and came out with a win, ending Minnesota’s undefeated season and shaking up the B1G West title race.
The Minnesota offense struggled for most of the game without star running back Mohamed Ibrahim in the lineup. Ibrahim missed the game with a lower leg injury that he suffered against Michigan State.
Key Player: Devin Mockobee
Mockobee lead the way for Purdue on the ground. Mockobee eventually scored a touchdown that would put the game out of reach for Minnesota late in the fourth quarter. The Purdue RB finished the game with 100+ yards rushing and 1 touchdown to secure the upset victory for the Boilermakers.
Key Stat: Minnesota’s 3rd down conversation rate
While the Boilermakers also struggled on third down, the defense was able to do the same thing to Minnesota’s offense. While Ibrahim’s absence left a big hole in the Minnesota offense, the Golden Gophers didn’t help themselves out on third down conversions.
What it means for Purdue:
The Boilermakers got a much needed win after a 2-2 start. The Boilermakers have lost to Syracuse and Penn State in the season opener, but things are starting to look up for Jeff Brohm’s team. The race for the B1G West just got even tighter with one of the last undefeated teams falling.
What it means for Minnesota:
Fans got to see how badly this offense needs Ibrahim today. Ibrahim’s injury caused the Minnesota offense to get away from what they know and love. Fleck will be hoping that Ibrahim will be back sooner rather than later. On the bright side, this is Minnesota’s first loss. However, it’s not going to get any easier for the Golden Gophers who still have to play Penn State, Illinois, and Wisconsin.