Purdue is a big favorite over FAU in Week 4, but the betting line and total are dropping – for good reason.
Purdue quarterback Aidan O'Connell is a game-time decision this Saturday, confirmed by Action Network's own Brett McMurphy.
The Boilermakers' signal caller suffered an injury in last week's loss to Syracuse, forcing head coach Jeff Brohm to use either grad transfer Austin Burton, Michael Alaimo or freshman Brady Allen this weekend.
This is a critical injury for the Boilermakers. O'Connell's a seasoned vet with an even 1,000 passing yards in 2022, good for top-five nationally.
But just how much would O'Connell's absence affect Purdue's game plan vs. Florida Atlantic?
College football analyst Stuckey breaks it down below.
How Aidan O'Connell's Injury Impacts Purdue vs. FAU
Purdue opened as high as -20.5, while the over/under peaked at 61.5 throughout the week.
Both are on their way down following the news.
The Boilermakers dropped to a consensus price of -17.5 Thursday, with the total as low as 58.5 at both Caesars and FanDuel.
Now we're seeing -16.5's and 57.5's around the market, respectively.
"I imagine they start with Burton, who is more of an RPO, dual-threat guy," Stuckey said.
"I'm not sure how much that will work with a complete 180 in game-plan; but also, FAU probably didn't prepare for that, either.
"If Burton doesn't pan out, they'd likely go to Alaimo, who is more of a pro-style quarterback that fits the system better; I doubt they'd burn the redshirt of Allen, their-highly touted freshman."
What also can't be understated is O'Connell's rhythm and comfort within the Purdue offense.
He's formed an immediate connection with Iowa transfer receiver Charlie Jones, who's been unlocked in Brohm's pass-happy offense to the tune of the second-most receiving yards (474) and touchdowns (5) in the whole country.
"O'Connell is so accurate and has the timing down pat in this offense, not to mention his insane chemistry with Jones, which makes sense since they grew up together," Stuckey said.
"FAU did at least see an RPO attack last week [versus UCF] but got absolutely clobbered."
