The Oregon Ducks delivered a commanding performance against the Texas Tech Red Raiders, winning 23-0 in the College Football Playoff quarter-final at the Orange Bowl on January 4, 2024. This victory propels Oregon into the semi-finals, where they will face either the top-seeded Indiana or ninth-seeded Alabama on January 9, 2024.
Oregon, ranked fifth, showcased a dominant defense and efficient offense throughout the match. Key contributions came from Matayo Uiagalelei, who forced a crucial fumble, and Jordon Davison, who rushed for two touchdowns. Quarterback Dante Moore threw for 234 yards, while Atticus Sappington added three field goals to secure the victory.
Texas Tech, entering the game with a strong offensive reputation as the second-highest scoring team nationally, struggled to find their rhythm. The Red Raiders, who averaged 42.5 points per game, turned the ball over four times and failed on three fourth-down attempts. They managed only four three-and-outs, highlighting Oregon’s defensive prowess.
In the early stages of the third quarter, Uiagalelei’s defensive play shifted momentum when he stripped Texas Tech quarterback Behren Morton, allowing Oregon to capitalize on the turnover. Davison scored just moments later, extending Oregon’s lead to 13-0. Morton, who completed 18 of 32 passes for 137 yards, faced challenges throughout the game, including a red-zone interception in the fourth quarter.
Oregon’s defense continued to stifle Texas Tech’s efforts, halting a fourth-down attempt midway through the final period. Davison capped off the scoring with a one-yard touchdown plunge in the closing seconds of the game.
This match marks a notable trend in the expanded College Football Playoff format. Under the current 12-team structure, teams coming off first-round byes have now lost all six quarter-final matchups. In 2024, the likes of Boise State, Arizona State, Georgia, and Oregon faced elimination after receiving byes, a trend further cemented by Miami’s victory over Ohio State at the Cotton Bowl.
For Oregon, this shutout against a top-10 opponent is a historic achievement. It is the first time since 2012 that the Ducks have shut out an Associated Press top-10 team, despite having faced such opponents in 113 games. Following a previous defensive performance that raised concerns after a 51-34 win against James Madison, Oregon’s showing against Texas Tech provides a sense of reassurance moving forward.
As the Ducks prepare for the Peach Bowl, their performance against Texas Tech serves as a significant indicator of their capabilities and intentions in the ongoing College Football Playoff. The upcoming games will determine whether they can continue their impressive run toward the national championship game scheduled for January 19, 2024.
