In a thrilling matchup that showcased resilience and determination, the top-ranked Oregon Ducks edged out the Wisconsin Badgers with a narrow 16-13 victory. The game, held at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison, Wisconsin, saw Oregon trailing as the fourth quarter began, with the Ducks yet to find the end zone.
Oregon faced a critical fourth-and-9 situation, prompting coach Dan Lanning to make a pivotal decision instead of opting for a punt. He placed his confidence in quarterback Dillon Gabriel, who demonstrated his Heisman Trophy credentials by improvising when his receivers were covered. Gabriel scrambled to the left and managed to deliver a precise pass to tight end Terrance Ferguson, setting up Oregon’s only touchdown three plays later.
This win marks an impressive feat for the Ducks, who have now secured three victories this season after being down by at least six points in the fourth quarter. Oregon is also just the seventh team in the history of the AP Poll to start a season 11-0 with three wins decided by three points or fewer. Previously, they had secured close wins against both Boise State and Ohio State.
Gabriel praised his team’s resilience, stating, “It’s hard to win. Big plays need to happen in big moments.” He passed for 219 yards during the game, showcasing his skill under pressure. However, the Ducks had their struggles, facing interceptions and settling for field goals during the first half, leaving the Badgers to lead 13-6 heading into the final quarter.
Wisconsin had hoped for their first victory over a No. 1 team since 2010, bolstered by a strong rushing performance from running back Tawee Walker, who rushed for 97 yards. But the Ducks found their stride after Wisconsin’s “Jump Around” tradition played, the same song they had practiced with all week.
After Gabriel executed a smart play on the fourth down, Oregon would go on to score their game-winning field goal, with kicker Atticus Sappington making a successful 24-yard attempt with just over two minutes left on the clock. The Ducks’ defense stepped up, forcing a turnover on downs and another interception on Wisconsin’s last drive to seal the win.
Looking ahead, the Ducks will enjoy a bye week before taking on Washington in their final regular-season game on November 30. A win in that matchup could secure Oregon the top seed in the College Football Playoff with a potential subsequent victory in the Big Ten Championship.
Coach Lanning expressed confidence in his team’s ability to handle high-pressure situations, asserting, “We can handle critical moments… at some point, that experience is going to pay off for us.”
This victory not only highlights the Ducks’ prowess but also showcases their fighting spirit, promising an exciting conclusion to the season as they aim for success in the playoffs.