In a thrilling College Football Playoff opener, the No. 5 Oregon Ducks defeated No. 12 James Madison Dukes with a decisive score of 51-34 on Saturday night in Eugene, Oregon. Quarterback Dante Moore showcased an impressive performance, throwing four touchdown passes and rushing for another, propelling Oregon to a quarterfinal matchup against No. 4 Texas Tech on January 1, 2024.
This victory marks a significant milestone for the Ducks, who advanced in the playoffs for the first time since their last appearance in 2014 when they triumphed over Florida State in the Rose Bowl semifinal. Oregon, now boasting a record of 12-1, aims to continue its momentum. Meanwhile, James Madison’s loss leaves Group of Five teams with an unfortunate record of 0-4 in College Football Playoff games, following a similar fate for No. 11 Tulane, who fell 41-10 to No. 6 Mississippi earlier in the day.
The game kicked off with rapid energy as Moore connected with wide receiver Jamari Johnson for a 41-yard touchdown less than two minutes into the first quarter. Johnson’s remarkable catch, made with one hand, set the tone for Oregon’s offensive dominance. In response, James Madison managed to put points on the board with a 30-yard field goal from Morgan Suarez, but the Ducks quickly seized control of the game.
Oregon rattled off four consecutive touchdowns, building a commanding 34-6 lead by halftime. The Dukes’ strategy faltered as they deviated from their strong rushing game, which had ranked fifth in the nation for average yards per game before this matchup. Sun Belt Player of the Year Alonza Barnett III completed 23 of 48 passes, including a 47-yard touchdown pass to Nick DeGennaro early in the third quarter, but it was not enough to close the gap.
Following DeGennaro’s touchdown, Oregon responded swiftly with two touchdowns, including a second scoring play from wide receiver Malik Benson and a notable blocked punt that Jayden Limar recovered and returned 15 yards for another touchdown. Although James Madison managed to score the last three touchdowns, the outcome had already been determined.
Oregon’s victory extends its winning streak to seven games, following a previous loss to No. 1 Indiana on October 11. On the other hand, James Madison had entered the game on an impressive 11-game winning streak.
This playoff opener also featured the return of Oregon’s standout freshman wide receiver, Dakorien Moore, who had been sidelined due to a knee injury. His presence could provide the Ducks with an additional dynamic playmaker as they progress through the College Football Playoff.
Despite their achievements this season, James Madison’s run defense faced challenges against Oregon’s offense. The Dukes had previously ranked second in the nation for fewest rushing yards allowed per game, but they surrendered 201 yards on the ground in this game, including 150 before halftime.
As the Ducks prepare for their next challenge against Texas Tech, the excitement continues to build around their quest for playoff success.
