In a jaw-dropping finale, Oregon’s undefeated season came to a shocking end as they fell to their Pac-12 rivals. The Ducks, poised to secure their spot among the nation’s elite, saw their perfect record shattered in the most unexpected manner.
Game Recap
– Final Score: 31-28
– Opponent: USC Trojans
– Location: Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum
– Key Stat: USC QB Caleb Williams’ game-winning 45-yard TD pass with 0:17 remaining
Turning Point
With just over two minutes left, Oregon quarterback Bo Nix led a 9-play, 75-yard drive, culminating in a tying touchdown. However, USC responded with a swift, 3-play, 75-yard march, capped by Williams’ decisive touchdown strike.
Oregon’s Reaction
– Coach Dan Lanning: “Proud of our team’s resilience, but we came up short.”
– QB Bo Nix: “Tough pill to swallow, but we’ll learn from this.”
– Players: “We’ll bounce back stronger.”
Implications
1. Pac-12 Standings: Oregon’s loss opens the door for USC, UCLA, and Washington to contend for the conference title.
2. College Football Playoff (CFP): The Ducks’ defeat complicates their CFP aspirations, allowing other top teams to gain ground.
3. National Championship: Oregon’s perfect season dreams are dashed, but they can still make a deep postseason run.
