The Oregon Ducks showcased a dominant defensive performance in their recent win, even with their vocal defensive leader, linebacker Jeffrey Bassa, playing minimal snaps. In his absence, Oregon native Bryce Boettcher stepped up in a major way, leading the team with 10 tackles and adding two pass breakups to his standout day. Boettcher’s play was instrumental in shutting down an Oregon State Beavers offense that had been averaging an impressive 237 rushing yards per game.
Aside from one scramble by Oregon State quarterback Gevani McCoy, who broke off a 37-yard run, the Ducks’ defense limited the Beavers’ rushing attack to minimal gains throughout the game. Oregon State’s two-headed backfield of Anthony Hankerson and Jam Griffin combined for only 84 rushing yards, far below their usual output. Despite Hankerson scoring both of the Beavers’ touchdowns in the first half, the duo averaged just 3.81 yards per carry, unable to keep their team competitive as the game wore on.
Oregon’s defense forced Oregon State to abandon the run game in the second half as the Ducks pulled away on the scoreboard. Hankerson, who had 12 carries in the first half, was limited to just three the rest of the game as the Beavers were forced to focus on passing. The Ducks’ defensive front, led by the strong play of the linebackers, stayed disciplined and gap sound, shutting down any chance of a comeback.
On the offensive side, Oregon’s line performed at an elite level, giving their backfield plenty of opportunities and maintaining control of the game. But it was the defense—and the linebacking corps in particular—that stole the show, flying to the ball and preventing Oregon State from gaining any meaningful momentum.
This dominant defensive performance, anchored by Boettcher’s breakout game, is a promising sign for the Ducks as they aim to return to elite status. If Oregon’s defense can continue playing at this high level, the Ducks could be serious contenders in both the Pac-12 and the national landscape. For Oregon fans, this win not only puts them in a strong position moving forward, but also gives them bragging rights over their in-state rivals for the rest of the season.
