Oregon Ducks vs. Texas Tech Red Raiders (College Football Playoff Quarterfinal - Orange Bowl, January 1, 2026)
The No. 5 Oregon Ducks faced the No. 4 Texas Tech Red Raiders in a highly anticipated College Football Playoff quarterfinal at the Capital One Orange Bowl on January 1, 2026, at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida. Both teams entered with 12-1 records, showcasing elite offenses and defenses ranked among the top nationally.
Game Summary :
Oregon's defense dominated early, forcing multiple turnovers and limiting Texas Tech's explosive offense. Key highlights include:- Oregon struck first with a 50-yard field goal by Atticus Sappington, leading 3-0 after the opening drive.
- Ducks cornerback Brandon Finney Jr. recorded multiple interceptions, including one in the end zone to halt a Red Raiders drive.
- Linebacker Bryce Boettcher forced a fumble, leading to another field goal (39 yards) and a 6-0 halftime lead for Oregon.
- In the third quarter, edge rusher Matayo Uiagalelei stripped the ball from Texas Tech QB Behren Morton, setting up a touchdown run by RB Jordon Davison, extending the lead to 13-0.
- Texas Tech struggled offensively, with negative rushing yards on several drives and multiple three-and-outs. Their best opportunities ended in turnovers or failed fourth-down attempts.
Key Performances:
- Oregon QB Dante Moore: Efficient passing (completed most attempts for solid yardage) despite sacks; projected as a top 2026 NFL Draft pick.
- Oregon Defense: Multiple interceptions, forced fumbles, and stops on fourth down; standout players include Finney, Boettcher, and Uiagalelei.
- Texas Tech QB Behren Morton: Interceptions and pressure disrupted rhythm.
- Texas Tech RB duo (Cameron Dickey, J'Koby Williams): Flashes of big runs but overall contained.