If one were inclined to argue, there was ample opportunity to label Friday night's clash between the No. 6 Oregon Ducks and No. 16 Oregon State Beavers as the most pivotal game in Dan Lanning's fledgling coaching career. With a shot at the Pac-12 Championship and the chance to keep their College Football Playoff dreams alive, Lanning's squad needed a standout performance, especially against a rival, a feat he had yet to achieve in Eugene.
Fortunately for Duck enthusiasts, all these boxes were emphatically checked in a resounding 31-7 victory at Autzen Stadium, leaving no room for doubt about the superior team. The payoff? Lanning, in his second year at the helm, now earns the opportunity to lead his team in what could be the most significant game of his career, a rematch against the Washington Huskies, the sole team that handed the Ducks a defeat this season.
While delving into the forthcoming clash is tempting, let's first dissect the noteworthy aspects of this potentially final Civil War in quite some time, as no future matchups are currently scheduled.
Here are my key takeaways from the matchup: It was anticipated that Bo Nix needed a standout performance to make a Heisman statement, given the dwindling opportunities. He delivered, completing 33-of-40 passes for 367 yards and 2 TDs, with an additional 31 yards and a rushing TD. Beyond the impressive stats, it was Nix's pivotal play just before halftime, orchestrating a 78-yard drive in 40 seconds, capped by a spectacular 41-yard cross-body throw to Troy Franklin, that defined the game's momentum shift.
Oregon's defense once again showcased its prowess by stifling Oregon State's potent rushing attack, holding them to a mere 53 yards on the ground, well below their season average. This marked a stark contrast to the previous season's matchup, where the Ducks allowed a massive fourth-quarter comeback fueled by 19 consecutive running plays.
The Ducks set the tone early, embarking on a 15-play scoring drive that consumed over half of the first quarter, asserting their physicality and toughness. Despite the possession time evening out in the end, the early dominance allowed Oregon to establish its game plan and assert control.
Special teams, particularly the performance of kicker Camden Lewis, raised concerns for Oregon fans. Lewis missed a 34-yard field goal, his sixth miss in the last 10 attempts, and kicked a kickoff out of bounds for the sixth time this season. The lack of a change suggests that, despite fan apprehensions, Lewis remains the best option available.
Troy Franklin continued his impressive season by breaking the Oregon record for most career receiving touchdowns, now totaling 25. His achievements were acknowledged by former greats, emphasizing the significance of his contributions.
Defensive lineman Jordan Burch's impact, despite modest statistics, was crucial, constantly pressuring the opposing quarterback and earning the fourth-best defensive grade in the game, according to Pro Football Focus.
A moment of controversy occurred when Bucky Irving's run, where only his hand touched the ground, was called down. Although it didn't impact the eventual outcome, it prompted frustration among Oregon fans, recalling past contentious calls.
Dan Lanning's significant win broke a streak of losses against rivals, showcasing his ability to rise to the occasion. The upcoming rematch against Washington provides another opportunity to solidify his standing.
Wide receivers Tez Johnson and Troy Franklin continued their elite partnership, combining for 20 catches and 265 yards, potentially marking the first time Oregon finishes the year with two 1,000-yard receivers in almost 30 years.
Injury concerns loom in the secondary, with Jahlil Florence on crutches, but Dontae Manning's standout performance provides some reassurance.
The plight of Oregon State was highlighted, with reports of head coach Jonathan Smith potentially leaving for Michigan State, adding to the uncertainty surrounding the program's future.
The upcoming rematch with Washington in Las Vegas for the Pac-12 Championship carries immense stakes, possibly determining a College Football Playoff spot and the Heisman Trophy recipient. It could also mark the last Pac-12 game ever played, adding historical significance to the matchup.
