The No. 5 Oregon Ducks secured a decisive victory against No. 4 Texas Tech in the College Football Playoff quarterfinals, winning 23-0 at the Orange Bowl held in Miami on January 1, 2024. This shutout victory not only marked Oregon’s third playoff win in history but also advanced them to the semifinal round, where they will face either No. 1 Indiana or No. 9 Alabama.
Oregon, with a season record of 13-1, displayed a formidable defense that completely stifled Texas Tech’s offensive efforts. The Ducks’ defense allowed a mere 206 yards, significantly limiting the Red Raiders, who had entered the game averaging nearly 500 yards per game. Texas Tech’s quarterback, Behren Morton, struggled to find his rhythm, completing only 18 of 32 pass attempts for 137 yards.
Defensive Masterclass by Oregon
Oregon’s standout player was freshman cornerback Brandon Finney Jr., who was named the Orange Bowl’s Most Valuable Player. Finney Jr. made a significant impact with two interceptions and a fumble recovery, in addition to contributing six tackles—third-most on the team. His performance was instrumental in the Ducks forcing four turnovers throughout the game.
Linebacker Bryce Boettcher and safety Dillon Theineman also played crucial roles in the defensive effort, each recording 12 tackles. Theineman’s stats included a tackle-for-loss, while Boettcher forced a fumble. Together, they successfully neutralized Texas Tech’s attempts to gain momentum.
Oregon’s Offense Finds a Way
Although Oregon’s offense faced challenges against Texas Tech’s strong defense, they managed to accumulate 309 yards. Quarterback Dante Moore completed 26 of 33 passes for 234 yards but did not reach the end zone. The Ducks’ only turnovers came when linebacker Ben Roberts intercepted Moore.
Freshman running back Jordon Davison was the key to Oregon’s scoring, tallying both of the Ducks’ touchdowns. Davison’s first score came after a strip-sack by edge rusher Matayo Uiagalelei, which set up a six-yard run for the touchdown early in the third quarter. He later added a one-yard touchdown with just three minutes remaining, bringing his season total to 15 touchdowns.
The Ducks’ ground game was limited to just 64 yards, with Davison leading the team with 42 yards on 15 carries. Despite the offensive struggles, the team’s robust defense ensured that Oregon maintained control of the game.
Looking ahead, Oregon prepares for the College Football Playoff Semifinal, scheduled for January 9, 2024, at the Peach Bowl in Atlanta. The matchup will begin at 4:30 p.m. (PT). The Ducks’ opponent will be determined after the earlier game between No. 1 Indiana and No. 9 Alabama, which kicks off at 1 p.m. on New Year’s Day in the Rose Bowl.
This victory not only propels Oregon further in the playoffs but also solidifies their reputation as a strong contender for the College Football Playoff National Championship. With their defense on full display, the Ducks aim to continue their pursuit of college football glory.
