On Saturday afternoon, the #3 ranked Oregon Ducks narrowly avoided a major upset against the unranked Idaho Vandals. The game opened with a strong defensive display from the Ducks, who quickly forced the Vandals into a three-and-out. This was swiftly followed by a methodical drive down the field. It culminated in an early touchdown on a flat route to standout receiver Tez Johnson, marking Oregon’s first score of the new season.
Photo Cred: USA Today
The rest of the first quarter saw limited action, with the only notable play being a sack by Jordan Burch. The momentum shifted when new transfer Brandon Johnson made a pivotal interception in the end zone. This clutch play energized the Ducks, allowing them to open up their running game and find Tez Johnson for additional receiving yards. Jordan James then capped off the drive with a touchdown run, pushing the score to 14-0.
Despite a lackluster first half where they struggled to put any points on the board, the Vandals came roaring back in the second half. A beautifully executed double flea-flicker play resulted in a touchdown reception by tight end Jake Cox. Undeterred, Oregon running back Noah Whittington showcased his skill on the next drive. He sliced through the Vandals’ defense and advancing the Ducks into the red zone. However, a holding penalty on 3rd and 13 forced Oregon to settle for a field goal, adding to their lead.
As the game moved into the fourth quarter, Idaho’s offense began to find its rhythm. Receiver Mark Hamper made a brilliant catch to set up a drive. It was further advanced by a screen play from running back Elijah Cummings. Quarterback Jake Layne then completed a short scamper into the end zone closing the gap to just three points with a touchdown. Though they struggled throughout the game, particularly with their offensive line, the Ducks showed they could rise to the occasion when it mattered most.
Postgame, Oregon Head Coach Dan Lanning reflected on the team’s underwhelming performance, stating, “It was different from what we anticipated. Give credit to Idaho. We didn’t hit some of the explosive plays we thought we would. We need to be a team that can generate big plays, and we weren’t able to do that today.”
Photo Cred: SI
Jordan James delivered a series of impressive runs, setting up Tez Johnson’s second touchdown of the game, which brought the score to 24-14 with 5:36 remaining on the clock. In the game’s critical moments, the Oregon defense stepped up remarkably. Matayo Uigaleleilei delivered a crucial sack on Jake Layne, creating a long third down that Idaho failed to convert. After the Ducks’ offense couldn’t run out the clock and had to give the ball back to Idaho, cornerback Nikko Reed made a spectacular circus interception to seal the victory for Oregon.
