(NewsUSD) – No. 1 Oregon Wins 16–13 After Surviving a Wisconsin Scare
Oregon’s undefeated season nearly came to a shocking halt Saturday evening, but the No. 1 Ducks managed to hold off Wisconsin in a nail-biting 16-13 win at Camp Randall Stadium. The victory keeps Oregon’s College Football Playoff hopes alive and secures a spot in the Big Ten Championship Game.
The Ducks faced a major test on the road, with Wisconsin pushing them to the brink in the final minutes. After Oregon failed to convert on a fourth-and-4 deep in Wisconsin territory, the Badgers had a chance to drive for the win or force overtime. However, quarterback Braedyn Locke’s pass was tipped at the line of scrimmage and intercepted by Oregon’s Matayo Uiagalelei, sealing the game for the Ducks.
Uiagalelei was a standout performer for Oregon, anchoring the defense with five tackles, one tackle for loss, one sack, and the game-saving interception. The Ducks’ defense was dominant throughout the night, holding Wisconsin to just 226 total yards, including only 96 passing yards.
Wisconsin had two chances late in the fourth quarter to pull off the upset. The first ended with a turnover on downs after the Badgers managed just one yard on three plays. On their second opportunity, Locke’s tipped pass ended their hopes.
Offensively, Oregon leaned on running back Jordan James, who rushed for 121 yards on 25 carries and scored the Ducks’ lone touchdown. Quarterback Dillon Gabriel struggled to find the end zone for the first time since 2022, though he managed the game effectively.
Despite the low-scoring affair, Oregon’s ability to grind out a tough win further cements its status as a playoff contender. This marks the Ducks’ best start to a season since 2010 when they went 12-0 before falling in the BCS National Championship Game.
Key Notes from the Game
- Oregon improved to 10-0 this season and 9-0 under coach Dan Lanning in games where it trailed against unranked opponents.
- Matayo Uiagalelei’s defensive heroics were the difference-maker, capping a stellar performance with his fourth-quarter interception.
- Wisconsin fell to 5-5 on the season and remains winless (0-5) when allowing more than 14 points in a game. The Badgers have now lost nine consecutive games against top-five opponents.
What’s Next for Oregon and Wisconsin
Oregon will enjoy a bye next week before returning to action on Nov. 30 in a rivalry showdown against Washington. A victory would complete a perfect 12-0 regular season and strengthen the Ducks’ case for the College Football Playoff.
For Wisconsin, the loss marks their third consecutive defeat, dropping them to 5-5 overall. The Badgers will look to rebound in their final games to secure bowl eligibility.
Final Score
No. 1 Oregon 16, Wisconsin 13
This Article Appeared on cbssports : Oregon vs. Wisconsin score: No. 1 Ducks rally late, close in on 2024 Big Ten Championship Game berth
