Oregon Ducks Secure Victory in Season Opener Against Boise State

No. 2 Oregon Ducks faced unexpected challenges in their 2026 college football season opener on Saturday against Boise State. Although predicted to win easily, the Ducks were tied 27-27 in the fourth quarter.

Dakorien Moore made a critical play, catching a 62-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Dante Moore to secure Oregon’s lead. This score was decisive, ending the game at 34-27 in favor of Oregon. The win also extended Oregon’s home winning streak against nonconference teams to 39 games, the longest active streak nationally.

Game Highlights

Oregon quarterback Dante Moore (5) focused on finding open receivers. He played a key role in outmaneuvering the Boise State defense.

Boise State’s quarterback, Maddux Madsen, gained 181 passing yards and made three touchdowns. Despite the loss, his performance showed great potential, building on his last season’s 2,334 yards and 18 touchdowns.

Boise State, entering the newly-formed Pac-12 Conference, had a previous record of 9-5 in the Mountain West. The Broncos started strong with Madsen’s scoring pass to Cam Bates on the first series, concluding an 11-play drive.

In response, Oregon knotted the score with Jordon Davison’s 1-yard touchdown in the second quarter. Boise State regained the advantage after Evan Stewart’s muffed punt allowed Sire Gaines to score from a 37-yard reception. Canaan Moore then increased the lead with a 29-yard field goal. Oregon narrowed the gap to 17-14 at halftime with a 27-yard touchdown pass from Dante Moore to Jamari Johnson.

Key Plays in Second Half

Gage Hurych’s 26-yard field goal helped Oregon take the lead with Jeremiah McClellan’s 8-yard touchdown catch. Boise State equalized before the third quarter ended with Maddux Madsen’s 7-yard pass to Matt Wagner.

In the final quarter, Hurych and Canaan Moore exchanged field goals. Dakorien Moore’s spectacular touchdown reception settled the score.

Oregon’s next game is against Oklahoma State in Stillwater, while Boise State will face Memphis at home in Week 2.