EUGENE, OR — Under rare Friday night lights in Eugene, the No. 8 Oregon Ducks (9–1) handily defeated the Minnesota Golden Gophers 42–13 as they continue their push for the College Football Playoff.
In the absence of star wide receivers Dakorien Moore and Gary Bryant Jr., and with the return of standout right tackle Alex Harkey, the Ducks relied on the run game to set the tone early. Oregon’s ground attack was led by senior running back Noah Whittington, who rushed 8 times for 72 yards and 1 touchdown. His most impressive moment came early in the second quarter, when he drove the pile five yards and broke free for a 40-yard touchdown, extending Oregon’s lead to 21–3.
Minnesota’s redshirt freshman quarterback Drake Lindsey has exceeded expectations this season as a pro-style passer with a strong arm. Oregon head coach Dan Lanning noted before the game that Lindsey has “the ability to make those throws. He gives his wideouts an opportunity to make a play down the field.”
Oregon’s secondary presented the toughest challenge of Lindsey’s young college career. He moved the Gophers downfield at times but struggled to capitalize in Oregon territory. Lindsey finished with a 59% completion rate, going 19/32 for 138 yards and 1 touchdown.
Dante Moore certainly benefited from the return of tight end Kenyon Sadiq, who hauled in 8 receptions for 96 yards and 1 touchdown. Even without two of his top receivers, Moore delivered one of the best performances of his career, finishing 27/30 for 306 yards and 2 touchdowns.
Speaking on Moore’s efficiency, Lanning made it a point to recognize the entire offense, stating, “There were some unbelievable catches that were made. That’s a great indicator of how the offense is operating, but it’s a team award. He can’t throw it and catch it.”
Oregon will stay home next week to host the No. 17 USC Trojans (7–2) in a matchup with major Big Ten implications.
