The Oregon Ducks aim to keep their momentum going as they head to face the Purdue Boilermakers this Friday. Here’s our preview, which includes a prediction, using the best college football odds from the top sportsbooks.
NCAAF Pick: Over 58.5 (-110) at Bet365 (check our Bet365 Review)
Oregon vs. Purdue
Friday, October 18, 2024 – 08:00 PM ET at Ross-Ade Stadium
Oregon’s Thrilling Victory Over Ohio State
Dillon Gabriel showcased his dual-threat abilities, throwing two touchdowns and adding a key rushing score to help Oregon edge Ohio State 32-31 in an instant classic on Saturday.
Gabriel, in his first season with the Ducks after transferring from Oklahoma, completed 23 of 34 passes for 341 yards while also running for 32 yards on four carries. Jordan James provided balance to the offense, rushing for 115 yards and a touchdown.
Gabriel’s 27-yard rushing touchdown early in the fourth quarter gave Oregon a 29-28 lead, but Ohio State responded with a 40-yard field goal from Jayden Fielding, reclaiming a 31-29 advantage with six minutes left.
Oregon’s next drive was extended by a key pass-interference penalty that brought them to the Buckeyes’ 9-yard line, allowing Atticus Sappington to kick a 19-yard field goal, giving Oregon a 32-31 lead with 1:47 remaining.
Ohio State threatened late, as Will Howard connected with Emeka Egbuka for a 26-yard gain, but a critical offensive pass-interference penalty on freshman Jeremiah Smith pushed the Buckeyes back.
Howard’s scramble on 3rd and 20 gained just 12 yards as time expired, sealing the win for the Ducks.
Purdue’s Comeback Effort Falls Short Against Illinois
Purdue nearly pulled off a stunning comeback but ultimately fell 50-49 to Illinois in overtime on Saturday.
Ryan Browne, a redshirt freshman making his first start with Hudson Card sidelined by a concussion, impressed by throwing for 297 yards and three touchdowns while rushing for 118 yards on 17 carries.
After a rough first half in which he managed only nine passing yards, Browne rebounded to nearly lead his team to victory. Max Klare was his go-to receiver, hauling in six passes for 133 yards, while Devin Mockobee contributed 102 yards on 11 carries.
Down 27-3 at halftime, Purdue’s rally began with Browne’s 53-yard touchdown pass to Jahmal Edrine, followed by Nyland Green’s sack of Luke Altmyer, which caused a fumble that Will Heldt returned for a touchdown.
Browne later connected with Klare on a 62-yard pass, setting up a 24-yard field goal by Spencer Porath. Despite their efforts, Purdue’s comeback fell short, marking their fifth consecutive loss since their season-opening win.
Keys to the Game
Gabriel’s impressive performance against Ohio State, with over 340 passing yards and a crucial rushing touchdown, will be the main concern for Purdue’s defense.
Purdue has struggled with big plays, particularly through the air, as demonstrated by Illinois’ ability to move the ball in the second half.
If Gabriel can exploit Purdue’s secondary and add another dimension with his legs, the Boilermakers will have a difficult time containing him.
James has been a reliable force for the Ducks, rushing for over 100 yards against Ohio State. Purdue’s defense allowed significant yardage on the ground in their loss to Illinois, and stopping James will be critical to keeping Oregon’s offense from controlling the game.
If the Ducks’ offensive line can create running lanes, James could be in for another big performance, which could force Purdue to commit more players to stop the run, potentially opening up passing opportunities for Gabriel.
Browne’s ability to lead Purdue’s resurgence against Illinois in the second half was impressive, particularly his connection with Klare on key plays. However, Oregon’s defense will likely apply more pressure than Illinois did, challenging Browne to make quick decisions under duress. If Browne can maintain his composure and continue delivering big plays, Purdue’s offense will have a chance to keep up with Oregon’s potent attack.
Both teams have relied on special teams and key turnovers to swing momentum in recent games. Purdue’s fumble recovery touchdown against Illinois and Oregon’s late-game field goal against Ohio State highlight how crucial these aspects can be.
In a game where both offenses are capable of scoring quickly, a special teams play or turnover could be the deciding factor. Oregon’s ability to play disciplined football may give them a slight edge in this area, but Purdue’s opportunistic defense shouldn’t be discounted.
NCAAF Pick
While Purdue has shown it can rally, Oregon’s balanced offense and experience at quarterback make the Ducks the favorites in this matchup.
Gabriel’s ability to attack through the air and on the ground, combined with James’ consistent rushing production, will put a lot of pressure on Purdue’s defense. Browne and the Purdue offense will have their moments, especially in the passing game, but Oregon’s ability to control the tempo and capitalize on key defensive stops will be the difference.
Purdue’s offense will show resilience, but Oregon’s balance and Gabriel’s leadership will allow the Ducks to pull away in the second half of a high-scoring contest.
NCAAF Pick: Over 58.5 (-110) at Bet365
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