Oregon vs. Purdue College Football Week 8 Picks: Expect a High-Scoring Shootout

Oregon Won Epic Showdown With Ohio State

Dillon Gabriel threw two touchdown passes and added a crucial late rushing score to help Oregon edge Ohio State 32-31 on Saturday night.

Gabriel, in his first season with Oregon after transferring from Oklahoma,  completed 23 of 34 passes for 341 yards while also adding 32 rushing yards on four carries against Ohio State. Jordan James complemented the Ducks’ offense, rushing for 115 yards and a touchdown.

Gabriel’s 27-yard keeper early in the fourth quarter put Oregon ahead 29-28, but Ohio State responded with a methodical drive capped by Jayden Fielding’s 40-yard field goal, giving the Buckeyes a 31-29 lead with six minutes remaining.

Oregon’s next possession was aided by a key pass-interference penalty that brought them to Ohio State’s 9-yard line. The Ducks settled for Atticus Sappington’s 19-yard field goal, taking a 32-31 lead with 1:47 left on the clock.

Ohio State’s Will Howard connected with Emeka Egbuka for a 26-yard pass to edge closer to field goal range, but a costly offensive pass-interference penalty on freshman Jeremiah Smith pushed the Buckeyes back. On a crucial 3rd and 20 from the Oregon 38, Howard scrambled for 12 yards before sliding as time expired.

Purdue Fought Hard at Illinois

In a separate thriller, Luke Altmyer’s 25-yard touchdown pass to Pat Bryant in overtime and Dylan Rosiek’s sack on a two-point conversion attempt lifted Illinois to a 50-49 victory over Purdue on Saturday.

Purdue’s Ryan Browne, a redshirt freshman making his first career start with Hudson Card out due to a concussion, shined in the second half. Browne finished with 118 rushing yards on 17 carries and threw for 297 yards and three touchdowns, completing 18 of 26 passes after managing just nine passing yards in the first half.

Max Klare was his top target, hauling in six passes for 133 yards, while Devin Mockobee added 102 rushing yards on 11 carries.

Purdue, down 27-3 at halftime, mounted a stunning comeback. Browne hit Jahmal Edrine on a 53-yard touchdown, followed by Nyland Green’s sack of Altmyer that led to a fumble, which Will Heldt returned 16 yards for a score. A 62-yard pass from Browne to Klare on a double-reverse flea flicker set up a 24-yard field goal by Spencer Porath, cutting the deficit to 27-20.

Despite their rally, Purdue dropped their fifth straight game following a season-opening win over Indiana State.

Key Matchups

Oregon and Purdue are set for an intriguing clash, both coming off emotional games that could shape how this matchup unfolds. Gabriel’s command of the Ducks’ offense, combined with James’ dynamic ground game, will test Purdue’s defense, which has struggled but showed flashes of potential in their near-comeback at Illinois.

Purdue, led by Browne after his impressive debut, will look to continue their offensive momentum, but Oregon’s balanced attack poses a serious challenge.

Dillon Gabriel vs. Purdue’s Defense

Gabriel was excellent against Ohio State, throwing for over 340 yards and running for a critical touchdown. His ability to extend plays and attack defenses through the air will be Purdue’s main concern.

Purdue’s defense, led by standout efforts from players like Klare, has given up big plays, especially through the air, as evidenced in their loss to Illinois. If Gabriel can continue to connect on deep passes while keeping the defense off balance with his legs, Purdue’s secondary could struggle to keep up.

Jordan James vs. Purdue’s Front Seven

James has been a consistent force on the ground, rushing for over 100 yards against Ohio State. Purdue’s rush defense allowed over 100 yards on the ground against Illinois, and containing James will be essential if they want to avoid Oregon controlling the clock.

If Oregon’s offensive line can create space, James could be in for another big day, putting Purdue’s defense in a bind and forcing them to commit extra defenders to the box.

Ryan Browne vs. Oregon’s Defense

Browne showed poise in his first start for Purdue, throwing for nearly 300 yards and leading a charge in the second half against Illinois. His connection with Klare and Edrine could challenge Oregon’s defense, especially on big plays.

However, Oregon’s defensive front will likely bring more pressure than Illinois, forcing Browne to make quicker decisions. If Browne can remain composed and deliver under duress, Purdue could keep pace with Oregon’s high-powered offense.

Special Teams and Turnovers

Turnovers and special teams played pivotal roles in both teams’ recent games. Purdue’s fumble recovery touchdown helped spark their comeback, while Oregon’s late-game field goal secured their win. In a game where both offenses can put up points, a key turnover or special teams play could swing momentum.

Oregon’s discipline in these areas might give them a slight edge, but Purdue’s ability to capitalize on mistakes shouldn’t be overlooked.

The Pick

Purdue’s offense has shown it can rally, but Oregon’s balanced attack and experience at quarterback give the Ducks a noticeable edge. Gabriel’s versatility as a passer and runner will put pressure on Purdue’s defense all game long, while James’ ground game will keep them on their heels.

Browne and Purdue’s offense will make plays, especially through the air, but Oregon’s ability to control the tempo and capitalize on key defensive stops will make the difference in this contest.

Purdue’s offense will have its moments, but Oregon’s balance on both sides of the ball will allow them to pull away in the second half of what can be a high-scoring game.

College Football Pick: Over 58 (-120) at Bovada

Over 58 (-120)

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