Report card grades keep Purdue football held back in loss to Notre Dame

Purdue football faced a brutal defeat to Notre Dame in a game that left the Boilermakers struggling across the board. The third-ranked Irish dominated the match with a 49-10 victory, leaving Purdue grappling with a report card of failing grades in every aspect.

OFFENSE GRADE: F

Purdue's offense, which had shown improvement, was unable to break through Notre Dame's formidable defense. Quarterback Ryan Browne completed 64.3% of his passes but managed only 111 yards. The Boilermakers' ground game was non-existent, joining a long list of teams that couldn't make an impact against Notre Dame's defense. After a brief burst of activity from Purdue's second unit and a touchdown by Bisi Owens late in the game, Purdue's offense averaged a mere 3.2 yards per play.

DEFENSE GRADE: F

Notre Dame's defense was relentless, quickly establishing dominance. Within the first half, they racked up eight plays of 10 or more yards, with five of those delivering more than 20 yards. The Boilermakers' defense was so ineffective that they barely saw the Notre Dame punt team until the third quarter. Notre Dame's eagerness to exploit Purdue's defense was evident, as they took advantage of fourth-and-1 from their own 24-yard line.

Charles Correa's interception was the team's only bright spot, but it wasn't enough to salvage a dismal performance. The Irish concluded the game with 11 explosive plays, leaving Purdue's offense in tatters.

SPECIAL TEAMS GRADE: C

The fake punt failed to produce the desired effect, and Xavier Townsend's kickoff return of 16 yards was the team's most notable special teams contribution. A block in the back penalty further hindered Purdue's drive, as Jordan Faison managed just 16 yards on his return. Placekicker Jacobo Echeverria Lozano managed a 47-yard field goal, but it was not enough to offset the team's shortcomings. Dylan Drennan's 78-yard punt and an average of 52.2 yards per kick were the team's best special teams performances.

COACHING GRADE: F

Purdue's coaching efforts appeared promising early on, with a 12-play drive that stalled on a punt team's involvement. However, that drive ended at midfield, and the Boilermakers played mostly uninspired football after that. Barry Odom's assertion that results matter rang hollow as Purdue concluded the game with a 39-point loss, marking its third non-conference defeat of the season.

The game's actions, particularly the missed opportunities and lackluster execution, demonstrated that Notre Dame's superior performance had held back Purdue football.

MVP: Bryce Young

Bryce Young's performance was a pivotal factor in the Boilermakers' struggle. His inability to move the ball on the ground, compounded by a critical hit that led to Notre Dame's defensive touchdown, significantly contributed to the loss. Young's efforts, along with teammate Sam King's coverage, highlighted the frustration and challenges faced by Purdue's defense in containing Notre Dame's explosive offense.