WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. - Six former Boilermakers suited up in week 10 of the 2023-24 NFL season. Representing their alma mater with pride, these players showcased leadership and tenacity that have become synonymous with Purdue football.
In a close matchup against the New York Jets, Las Vegas Raiders rookie quarterback Aidan O'Connell exhibited precision passing, strategic decision-making, and a strong command of the field. After throwing an interception in the first quarter, O'Connell kept his poise and bounced back to complete 16-of-27 passing attempts for 153 yards and one touchdown. He also tacked on two rushing attempts for three yards, leading the Raiders to a 16-12 victory on Sunday Night Football. O'Connell received recognition for his gritty performance by receiving a game ball as NBC's "Player of the Game".
With this win O'Connell became the first Raiders rookie quarterback to ever win back-to-back starts, improving to 2-0 since the team named him the starter and putting the Raiders back in the playoff hunt. His performance not only impressed fans but also solidified his place as a rising star at the next level.
While on a bye week, Kansas City Chiefs defensive end George Karlaftis came back home to West Lafayette, Indiana where he served as the honorary captain for Saturday's home game against Minnesota.
Other Boilermakers in the NFL
• Rondale Moore (Arizona) – Eight targets, five receptions, 43 receiving yards vs. Atlanta
• Derrick Barnes (Detroit) – Five tackles, three solo vs. Los Angeles Chargers
• Payne Durham (Tampa Bay) – Played 11 offensive snaps and three special teams snaps vs. Tennessee
• Markus Bailey (Cincinnati) – One special teams tackle, played 66% of special teams snaps vs. Houston
• Dennis Kelly (New York Jets) – Played four special teams snaps vs. Las Vegas
• Jalen Graham (San Francisco) – Inactive
• David Bell (Cleveland) – Inactive
• Ja'Whaun Bentley (New England) – Inactive
• Charlie Jones (Cincinnati) – Injured Reserve
• Corey Trice (Pittsburgh) – Injured Reserve
• George Karlaftis (Kansas City) – Bye
• Raheem Mostert (Miami) – Bye
• Brycen Hopkins (Los Angeles Rams) – Bye
• David Blough (Detroit) – Practice Squad
• Reese Taylor (Denver) – Signed to Practice Squad
In a close matchup against the New York Jets, Las Vegas Raiders rookie quarterback Aidan O'Connell exhibited precision passing, strategic decision-making, and a strong command of the field. After throwing an interception in the first quarter, O'Connell kept his poise and bounced back to complete 16-of-27 passing attempts for 153 yards and one touchdown. He also tacked on two rushing attempts for three yards, leading the Raiders to a 16-12 victory on Sunday Night Football. O'Connell received recognition for his gritty performance by receiving a game ball as NBC's "Player of the Game".
The game-winning TD pass. @Raiders 2-0 since AOC took over as starting QB!#ProBoilers pic.twitter.com/E9oCbE0yFG
— Purdue Football (@BoilerFootball) November 13, 2023
With this win O'Connell became the first Raiders rookie quarterback to ever win back-to-back starts, improving to 2-0 since the team named him the starter and putting the Raiders back in the playoff hunt. His performance not only impressed fans but also solidified his place as a rising star at the next level.
While on a bye week, Kansas City Chiefs defensive end George Karlaftis came back home to West Lafayette, Indiana where he served as the honorary captain for Saturday's home game against Minnesota.
Other Boilermakers in the NFL
• Rondale Moore (Arizona) – Eight targets, five receptions, 43 receiving yards vs. Atlanta
• Derrick Barnes (Detroit) – Five tackles, three solo vs. Los Angeles Chargers
• Payne Durham (Tampa Bay) – Played 11 offensive snaps and three special teams snaps vs. Tennessee
• Markus Bailey (Cincinnati) – One special teams tackle, played 66% of special teams snaps vs. Houston
• Dennis Kelly (New York Jets) – Played four special teams snaps vs. Las Vegas
• Jalen Graham (San Francisco) – Inactive
• David Bell (Cleveland) – Inactive
• Ja'Whaun Bentley (New England) – Inactive
• Charlie Jones (Cincinnati) – Injured Reserve
• Corey Trice (Pittsburgh) – Injured Reserve
• George Karlaftis (Kansas City) – Bye
• Raheem Mostert (Miami) – Bye
• Brycen Hopkins (Los Angeles Rams) – Bye
• David Blough (Detroit) – Practice Squad
• Reese Taylor (Denver) – Signed to Practice Squad