Last year’s season opener against Northwestern was the first of a series of frustrating home losses that prevented Purdue’s season from going from good to great. The Boilers fell behind early 14-0, then Rondale Moore made his debut with two first quarter touchdowns. The Wildcats eventually moved back in front 31-17 at halftime and were shutout in the second half, but Purdue managed just 10 more points and lost 31-27 thanks to a late dumb penalty after making a key third down stop.
While that penalty officially ended the game, it is not like Purdue didn’t have its chances.