Purdue Football: Boilermakers upset by EMU on last-second field goal

Purdue football fell on a game-winning field goal by Eastern Michigan in Week 2. The win was the Eagles’ second-ever victory over a Big Ten program.

Throughout their showdown on Saturday, Eastern Michigan and Purdue traded the lead back and forth in West Lafayette. The Boilermakers looked like they were finally in control of the game, though, when D.J. Knox burst through a hole and darted 45 yards for the go-ahead touchdown with just under seven minutes remaining in the contest.

But it wasn’t to be, as kismet and an inability to control the clock betrayed the Boilermakers. The defense came through big on the ensuing drive, as Kai Higgins intercepted Eastern Michigan quarterback Tyler Wiegers two plays after the Eagles got the ball back. Purdue failed to move the ball, and a botched 38-yard field goal attempt by Spencer Evans proved costly.

Up 19-17, Purdue left just under five minutes on the clock. Eastern Michigan embarked on a 15-play, 72-yard drive that culminated in the game winner. The Eagles were assisted by several Purdue penalties, but they methodically ground down the clock and set themselves up for a program-defining victory.

Chad Ryland, a freshman kicker attempting his first ever field goal attempt at the college level, drilled the 24-yard strike through the uprights as the clock went to zeroes. The successful kick put Eastern Michigan up 20-19 at the final whistle, ruining Purdue’s hopes of a home victory after last week’s four-point loss to Northwestern.

For Eastern Michigan, this heart-stopping victory earned them a statement win on their record. Not only are the Eagles positioned among the contenders in the MAC this season, but they are also a team to watch now in the Group of Five race for the automatic bid into a New Year’s Six bowl game.