No. 2 Oregon faced a tough challenge in its 2026 college football season opener on Saturday. Despite being strong favorites, the Ducks were tied 27-27 with unranked Boise State in the fourth quarter. The game took a decisive turn when wide receiver Dakorien Moore caught a 62-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Dante Moore. This pivotal play ensured Oregon’s eventual 34-27 win, extending its home winning streak against nonconference teams to 39 games. This streak is the longest active one in the nation.
Oregon quarterback Dante Moore was a key player, searching for open receivers under pressure throughout the game. On the other side, Boise State quarterback Maddux Madsen threw for 181 yards and three touchdowns. His solid performance hinted at a strong season ahead, building on his 2,334 yards and 18 touchdowns from the previous year.
For Boise State, now part of the revamped Pac-12 Conference, the season started with a determined effort. Last year, the Broncos achieved a 9-5 record in the Mountain West. They took an early lead with Madsen’s 13-yard touchdown pass to Cam Bates after an 11-play drive. Oregon equalized in the second quarter with Jordon Davison’s 1-yard touchdown run.
An error on a muffed punt by Evan Stewart allowed Boise State to recover, leading to Sire Gaines scoring a 37-yard touchdown reception. Canaan Moore’s 29-yard field goal extended the Broncos’ lead shortly before halftime, but Oregon closed the gap with Dante Moore’s 27-yard touchdown pass to Jamari Johnson, making the score 17-14 at the break.
In the second half, Oregon moved ahead with Jeremiah McClellan’s 8-yard touchdown catch after Gage Hurych’s 26-yard field goal. Boise State equalized on Madsen’s 7-yard touchdown pass to Matt Wagner before the third quarter ended. The fourth quarter saw Hurych and Canaan Moore exchanging field goals prior to Dakorien Moore’s decisive touchdown.
Looking ahead, Oregon will travel to Stillwater for a game against Oklahoma State next week, while Boise State will host Memphis in their Week 2 matchup.