14 News, The Tri-State's News and Weather Leader-Boiler dad proud of son both on and off field

Boiler dad proud of son both on and off field

Posted by Sarah Harlan - email

EVANSVILLE, IN (WFIE) - At a school known for producing top-notch quarterbacks, Joey Elliott is making the most of his first season as starting quarterback for the Purdue Boilermakers.

The former Evansville Harrison standout leads the Big Ten Conference in passing yards per game, total offense and 14 touchdown passes.  

For Elliott and the Boilers, their frustrating season made a sharp u-turn last Saturday when Purdue upset previously seventh-ranked Ohio 26-18.

Elliott threw for 281 yards and two touchdowns in Purdue's first win over a ranked team since 2003.

It was a colossal win for Purdue, and for Joey.

It was the biggest thrill of his career so far.

Someone who witnessed the monumental game in person was Joey's proud father, John Elliott.

"As soon as the game was over with, unbeknownst to me, I was sitting on the third row, he ran up into the stands, gave me a big hug and told me he loved me," John said. "Makes it all worth it, right? Sports is great. I mean, the success he's had on the field, but the success he's had off the field. He's going to graduate from Purdue this December with a degree. He's been all-academic Big Ten three-years running. He's well liked on campus. When you go to the volleyball game the lady taking the tickets says, 'Oh you're Joey's dad. We just love that guy.'"

Even though the Boilers have only two wins in seven starts, and are one and two in the conference, they have to be pretty confident heading into this Saturday's home game with Illinois.

With a little luck, Purdue could rattle off five or six wins, either of which would make them Bowl eligible.

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