Oregon Narrowly Escapes Boise State in Week 1 of 2026 Season

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The Oregon Ducks narrowly came away with a victory in Week 1 over the Boise State Broncos. Oregon came into the game as major favorites, as the second-ranked team in the country, but it ended much closer than they would've liked.

The Ducks trailed 17-14 at halftime, and the game remained tight throughout the second half, with Oregon escaping with a 34-27 victory.

The Ducks made several self-inflicted mistakes, including a muffed punt by Evan Stewart, which led to a 38-yard score by Boise State's Sire Gaines one play later. Oregon also had 10 penalties, and their defense didn't wake up until late in the game. 

Star quarterback Dante Moore and the offense struggled to get going early, but got hot at the end of the game. Moore completed 28 of 37 passes for 378 yards, three touchdowns, and no interceptions.

He proved to be the efficient, Heisman Trophy-caliber player that was expected entering the 2026 season.

Moore spread the ball out to his top weapons, with Jeremiah McClellan catching six passes for 150 yards and a touchdown, Dakorien Moore hauling in six receptions for 93 yards and a touchdown, Stewart adding eight receptions for 72 yards, and tight end Jamari Johnson catching four passes for 57 yards and a touchdown.

In the run game, Jordon Davidson led the way with 90 yards and a touchdown on 11 carries. The offense showcased its explosiveness and potential in the second half, but will need to clean up the penalties moving forward.

On defense, the Ducks have a ton of work to do after allowing the Broncos to march up and down the field. Boise State quarterback Maddux Madsen completed 15 of 26 passes for 181 yards, three touchdowns, and zero interceptions.

Oregon's defensive line got pressure on Madsen late in the game with Matayo Uiagalelei, Bear Alexander, and Teitum Tuioti posting sacks.

The Ducks have National Championship aspirations, and this is not a great start to the season. While they came away with the win, they were very sloppy, and it was much closer than it should've been.

Dan Lanning and Oregon will need to be much sharper as they head into their Week 2 matchup against Oklahoma State.

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