Oregon Ducks Triumph Over Boise State in Season Opener

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No. 2 Oregon narrowly avoided an upset in their first game of the 2026 college football season. Faced with unranked Boise State, the Ducks were tied at 27-27 in the fourth quarter. A crucial 62-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Dante Moore to wide receiver Dakorien Moore sealed the Ducks’ victory.

Oregon emerged victorious with a 34-27 win, extending their home streak against nonconference opponents to 39 games. This remains the longest active streak in the country.

Diverse Performances and Key Moments

Quarterback Dante Moore played a pivotal role, seeking out open receivers from the pocket during the game against Boise State. The opponent’s quarterback, Maddux Madsen, completed 181 passing yards and threw three touchdowns, building on a successful prior season with 2,334 yards and 18 touchdowns.

Boise State recently joined the revamped Pac-12 Conference, following a 9-5 season in the Mountain West. The Broncos scored first with Madsen finding Cam Bates on a 13-yard pass at the end of an 11-play drive. Oregon responded with Jordon Davison’s 1-yard dive in the second quarter.

Following Evan Stewart’s punt mishap, Boise State capitalized with Sire Gaines catching a 37-yard pass for a touchdown. Canaan Moore’s 29-yard field goal extended the lead just before halftime. However, Oregon came back with Dante Moore’s 27-yard pass to Jamari Johnson, making it 17-14 at the break.

“We needed to focus on executing our plays,” Dante Moore commented after the game.

Clutch Plays in the Final Half

Gage Hurych added a 26-yard field goal for Oregon. The Ducks then took the lead with Jeremiah McClellan’s 8-yard touchdown catch. Boise State tied it again with Madsen’s 7-yard pass to Matt Wagner.

In the fourth quarter, Hurych and Canaan Moore exchanged field goals, setting the stage for Dakorien Moore’s game-winning touchdown. The Ducks maintained focus and composure, securing their victory.

Future Battles

Oregon will visit Stillwater next week to clash with Oklahoma State. Meanwhile, Boise State prepares to host Memphis in Week 2.