EUGENE, Or — Oregon used a blistering first half and timely stops after intermission to pull away from James Madison for a 51-34 victory Saturday night, earning a berth in the Orange Bowl.
The Ducks scored touchdowns on four of their first five possessions and never trailed, answering every push by the Dukes in a game that was closer than the final score for much of the second half. Oregon’s balance on offense and efficiency in the red zone proved decisive as it advanced to one of the New Year’s Six bowls.
Oregon built a 31-17 halftime lead behind a fast tempo and clean execution. The Ducks opened the scoring with a methodical drive capped by a short touchdown run, then struck quickly through the air on their next series. James Madison countered with a pair of scoring drives of its own, but Oregon responded with back-to-back touchdowns in the final eight minutes before the break to seize control.
James Madison made it interesting after halftime, trimming the margin to 34-27 midway through the third quarter. The Dukes mixed tempo and misdirection to keep Oregon’s defense off balance, converting third downs and finishing drives with precision. But Oregon answered immediately with a 75-yard touchdown march, restoring a two-score cushion and swinging momentum back to the home sideline.
From there, Oregon leaned on its depth and pace. A fourth-quarter interception set up a short field and a touchdown, and the Ducks added another score on a drive that chewed clock and showcased their physicality up front. James Madison continued to fight, adding a late touchdown, but Oregon closed the door with a time-consuming final possession.
Oregon finished with more than 500 yards of offense and limited mistakes, while James Madison matched the Ducks’ intensity but struggled to get the final stop it needed. The Ducks converted consistently in the red zone and won the turnover battle, two factors that loomed large as the game wore on.
“We talked all week about starting fast and responding when things get tight,” Oregon coach Dan Lanning said. “James Madison is a really well-coached team. They made us earn it, but our guys stayed aggressive and finished.”
The Ducks’ quarterback spread the ball around and kept the chains moving, while the running game provided balance and late control. Oregon’s defense bent at times but delivered key plays, including a third-quarter takeaway that halted a potential tying drive.
“Games like this come down to composure,” Oregon’s quarterback said. “They had answers, but we trusted our preparation and kept playing our game.”
James Madison closed its season with a strong showing against a playoff-caliber opponent, while Oregon turned the page toward Miami. With the win, the Ducks advanced to the Orange Bowl, carrying momentum and confidence into a national spotlight.
