STORY: Oregon Football Avoids Upset in 31-24 Victory over Fresno State

In the first game with fans in attendance since November 30th, 2019, #11 Oregon avoided a scare in a 31-24 win over Fresno State.

Oregon got off to an explosive start with forced fumbles by Kayvon Thibodeaux and Noah Sewell on back-to-back possessions, followed by short TD runs by CJ Verdell and Travis Dye. After two FGs of 33 and 39 yard FGs by Fresno State kicker Abraham Montano, Johnny Johnson III caught a 32 yard TD to put Oregon up 21-6 with 1:16 left to go in the half. With little time to work with, Fresno State QB Jake Haener marched down the field and hooked up with Jalen Cropper for a 17 yard TD to make it 21-13 at the half.

Fresno State’s momentum carried over to the second half as Haener rushed for a 2 yard TD and the Bulldogs then executed a two-point conversion to make it 21-21. Both teams traded FGs before Anthony Brown helped Oregon take the lead with an elusive 30-yard rush TD with 2:57 left to play. Oregon’s defense made several critical stops throughout the second half to secure the victory.

In this game, Oregon DE Kayvon Thibodeaux and LB Dru Mathis both went down with injuries. Oregon will be back in action next week for a long-anticipated matchup on the road against #4 Ohio State, kickoff at 9 am PST.

Final stats