The No. 6 Oregon Ducks playoff hopes are now looking very strong after a crucial victory. They beat rival Washington 26-14 on November 29, 2025, in a game that effectively clinched their spot in the College Football Playoff. The Oregon Ducks playoff journey has been a long time coming, and this hard-fought contest at Husky Stadium in Seattle was a testament to their resilience. Malik Benson made a game-defining play, scoring on a spectacular 64-yard touchdown reception late in the fourth quarter. This incredible score extended Oregon’s lead, sealing the win for the visiting Ducks and boosting their Oregon Ducks playoff chances significantly.
Benson’s Explosive Play Secures Oregon Ducks Playoff Berth
The game remained close for much of the afternoon. Washington had just cut the deficit to five points, putting pressure on Oregon. Facing a critical third-and-long situation, quarterback Dante Moore delivered a precise pass. He found wide receiver Malik Benson open over the middle. Benson then displayed his remarkable speed, outrunning defenders for the game-sealing touchdown. This play was a highlight reel moment, showcasing Benson’s impact for Oregon and his crucial contribution to their Oregon Ducks playoff aspirations. He finished with five catches for 102 yards, marking his first career 100-yard game.
Dante Moore Leads the Oregon Offense Toward the Oregon Ducks Playoff
Dante Moore guided the Oregon offense masterfully throughout the contest. He passed for 286 yards and threw one touchdown, adding a rushing touchdown in the second quarter. This performance was vital for the Oregon Ducks football team. It came amidst injuries to key receivers, yet Oregon navigated these absences with remarkable poise, a good sign for their potential Oregon Ducks playoff run.
Atticus Sappington’s Leg Powers Oregon Ducks Playoff Push
Kicker Atticus Sappington was also instrumental in the Oregon Ducks’ success. He made four field goals, including a career-long 51-yard attempt. This effort provided crucial points, keeping Oregon ahead throughout the game and solidifying their standing as a contender for the Oregon Ducks playoff. The special teams unit performed admirably, contributing significantly to the victory.
Oregon Football Defense Dominates Washington’s Offense
Oregon’s defense proved to be stout, limiting Washington’s offensive output. Quarterback Demond Williams Jr. struggled, passing for only 129 yards. The Oregon football defense also forced two interceptions and applied consistent pressure, frustrating Washington’s attack and preventing them from gaining momentum. This strong defensive showing is a key factor in their Oregon Ducks playoff positioning.
Resilience and Road Dominance Fuel Oregon Ducks Playoff Dreams
The victory highlighted Oregon’s resilience. They played without key wide receivers, testing the team’s depth. However, Oregon’s roster depth shone through. This win also extended an impressive streak: Oregon’s 12th consecutive true road victory. Coach Dan Lanning has built a strong program, and this consistent performance is a testament to his coaching. The team finished the regular season 11-1 and went 8-1 in Big Ten play. Ohio State’s win over Michigan meant Oregon would not play in the Big Ten Championship game, making this Oregon Ducks playoff qualification even more critical.
The Oregon Ducks Playoff Picture Takes Shape
With this pivotal win, Oregon is in prime position for the College Football Playoff. This marks their second consecutive CFP appearance, a significant achievement for the program. The Ducks are likely to host a first-round game, which would be a historic first. The CFP selection committee will announce final rankings soon. This latest news is significant for college sports news, signaling a strong trending team in the national sports landscape. Oregon’s performance has been consistently strong, and this victory solidifies their status as a top contender for the Oregon Ducks playoff.
