Fresno State vs. Purdue Short Report | Sep 2, 2023
Ross-Ade Stadium
West Lafayette, IN
Sep 2, 2023
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Game Recap
In an exhilarating season opener, the Fresno State Bulldogs triumphed over the Purdue Boilermakers with a final score of 39-35. The game was a seesaw battle, featuring dynamic performances from quarterbacks Mikey Keene of Fresno State and Hudson Card of Purdue. Key moments included Fresno State's defensive stands and explosive offensive drives, particularly in the fourth quarter.
Purdue's efforts were highlighted by a remarkable 98-yard kickoff return touchdown by Tyrone Tracy Jr., who also added a 1-yard rushing score. Despite leading multiple times, Purdue could not fend off Fresno State's late-game heroics. Erik Brooks clinched the victory with a 22-yard touchdown reception in the final minute. Fresno State's quarterback Mikey Keene completed 31 of 44 passes, amassing 366 yards and throwing four touchdowns. This thrilling contest sets a high bar for the season, as both teams displayed their offensive prowess early on.
Key Plays:
Deion Burks (Purdue Boilermakers)
Deion Burks kick-started Purdue's offense with an 84-yard touchdown reception, beating the Fresno State secondary and giving the Boilermakers an early 7-0 lead.
Erik Brooks (Fresno State Bulldogs)
Erik Brooks leveled the score with a 29-yard touchdown catch, showcasing his reliable hands and quick route running to make it 7-7.
Tyrone Tracy Jr. (Purdue Boilermakers)
Tyrone Tracy Jr. pushed Purdue back into the lead with a powerful 1-yard rush, capping off a methodical drive by the Boilermakers.
Jalen Moss (Fresno State Bulldogs)
Jalen Moss hauled in an 8-yard touchdown pass, weaving through defenders to tie the game once again for the Bulldogs.
Deion Burks (Purdue Boilermakers)
Burks struck again with a 17-yard touchdown reception, giving Purdue a 21-14 lead and showcasing his big-play ability.
Tyrone Tracy Jr. (Purdue Boilermakers)
Tyrone Tracy Jr. electrified the crowd with a 98-yard kickoff return touchdown, extending Purdue's lead and adding to his standout performance.
Jaelen Gill (Fresno State Bulldogs)
Jaelen Gill brought Fresno State back in striking distance with an 18-yard touchdown catch, followed by a crucial two-point conversion to make it 28-24.
Malik Sherrod (Fresno State Bulldogs)
Malik Sherrod's 1-yard touchdown run gave Fresno State its first lead of the game at 31-28, capitalizing on a strong defensive stand.
Devin Mockobee (Purdue Boilermakers)
Devin Mockobee catapulted Purdue back into the lead with an 11-yard touchdown rush, making it 35-31 and adding tension to the final minutes.
Erik Brooks (Fresno State Bulldogs)
Erik Brooks sealed the game with a clutch 22-yard touchdown catch with little over a minute remaining, securing Fresno State's thrilling 39-35 win.
Standout Players:
Mikey Keene (Fresno State Bulldogs, QB)
Mikey Keene orchestrated a masterful comeback for Fresno State, completing 31 of 44 passes for 366 yards and 4 touchdowns. His poise under pressure, particularly in the fourth quarter, was a difference-maker.
Erik Brooks (Fresno State Bulldogs, WR)
Erik Brooks was the game-changing receiver with 9 receptions for 170 yards and 2 touchdowns, including the pivotal game-winning catch in the final minute. His ability to create separation and make clutch catches was on full display.
Deion Burks (Purdue Boilermakers, WR)
Deion Burks showcased his explosive playmaking ability with 4 receptions totaling 152 yards and 2 touchdowns. His 84-yard touchdown set the tone early for Purdue.
Tyrone Tracy Jr. (Purdue Boilermakers, RB)
Tyrone Tracy Jr. was a dual threat, having a 98-yard kickoff return for a touchdown and adding a 1-yard rushing score. His versatility and scoring prowess kept Purdue in the game.
Hudson Card (Purdue Boilermakers, QB)
Hudson Card maintained Purdue's competitive edge by completing 17 of 30 passes for 254 yards and 2 touchdowns. His leadership and accuracy drove critical offensive plays.
Dillon Thieneman (Purdue Boilermakers, DB)
Dillon Thieneman anchored Purdue's defense with 9 solo tackles and an interception. His solid performance in the secondary was vital in limiting Fresno State's big plays.
References:
Fresno State Bulldogs vs. Purdue Boilermakers - Final Score - September 02, 2023 | FOX Sports
Football vs Fresno State on 9/2/2023 - Box Score - Purdue Boilermakers
Fresno State Bulldogs vs. Purdue Boilermakers Live Score and Stats - September 2, 2023 Gametracker - CBSSports.com
Purdue Falls to Fresno State in 2023 Season Opener - Purdue Boilermakers
Fresno State Athletics
Team
1
2
3
4
T
Fresno State Bulldogs
7
10
8
14
39
Purdue Boilermakers
7
14
7
7
35
