Statistically Speaking: Notre Dame Vs. Purdue

Notre Dame fans need treatment for hypertension. The last three games have been decided in the waning moments, with the the last two needing gifts from the opposing team to secure a victory. Against Michigan State, it was quarterback Kirk Cousins overthrowing a wide open Larry Caper in the back of the end zone followed by a poor pass on the next play that was intercepted by safety Kyle McCarthy. This week it was a head-scratching timeout from Purdue head coach Danny Hope that allowed quarterback Jimmy Clausen to avoid spiking the ball and run an extra play for the deciding score of the game. To be certain, it was a defining moment for the Irish signal caller. On the road in West Lafayette and without many key personnel, the Irish offense played well enough to win. The Irish defense was also improved, holding Purdue running back Ralph Bolden (second in rushing yards per game entering Saturday's contest) in check for the duration of the evening. Notre Dame dominated the time of ...