WEST LAFAYETTE, IN - SEPTEMBER 20: Tthe Purdue "All American" Marching Band before a game against the Central Michigan Chippewas at Ross-Ade Stadium on September 20, 2008 in West Lafayette, Indiana. (Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images)The Purdue Boilmakers made the defensive play of the game so far against Nebraska, despite trailing 34-20 going into the fourth quarter.
Just after halftime, Cornhuskers receiver Wan’Dale Robinson reeled in a catch underneath and started to make a move down the field. Robinson was looking for some chunk yardage, but Purdue safety Marvin Grant had other plans.
Grant made an incredible one-on-one, open-field tackle. The receiver lowered his helmet into Grant, popping his helmet off. The tough defender was unfazed, picking up Robinson and slowly walking him back down the field.
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The play before the whistle was outstanding, but the restraint by the safety after the whistle was equally impressive. The broadcaster on the call for Big Ten Network noted the composure of Grant as he set Robinson down after the play was blown dead. Many players in that position would’ve gone the WWE, body slam route.
Unfortunately for Purdue, this was one of few bright spots in their defensive play so far. The Boilmakers got off to a rough start, allowing Nebraska to pile on 17 points in the first quarter alone. And this is coming from a 1-4 team that’s only scored 30+ points one other time this season.
After struggling all year, Cornhuskers quarterback Adrian Martinez has seemed to find his rhythm on Saturday. The junior QB has thrown 18/23 for 170 yards and a touchdown so far.
A large chunk of those completions were reeled in by none other than the recipient of the incredible third-quarter tackle. Wan’Dale Robinson has had a prolific game so far, collecting seven receptions for 98 yards.
Nebraska currently has the ball and a 14-point lead over Purdue at the start of the final frame.
