Oregon Survives a Scary Game Against Boise State.
EUGENE, Ore — Oregon took off with second-half scoring and some defensive production late to defeat Boise State 34-27 Saturday in their 2026 college football opener at Autzen Stadium.
The Ducks escaped with a victory against a scrappy Broncos squad in a showdown of emerging programs. Winning edge-of-the-field production, strength at the line of scrimmage, and fourth-quarter efficiency determined the matchup.
Boise State jumped ahead late in the first quarter on a rushing touchdown by running back Sire Gaines off tackle to cap a long drive and give the Broncos a 7-0 lead.
The Ducks answered on their next drive. Oregon quarterback Dante Moore connected with wide receiver Evan Stewart along the sideline for 38 yards to set up Jordon Davison’s short touchdown run to tie the game at 7-all just before the first quarter expired.
Boise State retook the lead midway through the second quarter. Broncos quarterback Maddux Madsen scrambled and threw a touchdown pass from 15 yards out to tight end Matt Wagner. After another lengthy Oregon drive, Gage Hurych kicked a field goal to cut the lead to 14-10 going into halftime.
Midway through the third quarter, the Ducks took the lead for the first time on Moore’s 42-yard touchdown pass to freshman receiver Dakorien Moore. Boise State narrowed the lead with a Colton Boomer field goal, but Oregon running back Dierre Hill Jr.’s touchdown run late in the quarter gave the Ducks a 24-17 lead.
Early in the fourth quarter, Boise State would fight back. The Broncos tied the game 24-24 off a Dylan Riley rushing touchdown. Oregon responded with a drive of their own as Hurych booted a field goal. The Ducks then went on a game-clinching touchdown drive highlighted by Davison’s second rushing score of the day to make the score 34-24.
The Broncos cut the lead to seven after another field goal, but Oregon knocked away the next kick to run out the clock and pick up the win.
Edge defender Matayo Uiagalelei led all Oregon defenders with six tackles and added two second-half sacks. Oregon moves to 1-0 and will travel to Boone Pickens Stadium next week to take on Oklahoma State. Boise State drops to 0-1.
Image Credit: USA Today
