Oregon Triumphs Over James Madison in High-Scoring College Football Playoff Thriller
The College Football Playoff matchup between No. 5 Oregon Ducks and No. 12 James Madison Dukes was an absolute rollercoaster. Both teams had their moments, but Oregon’s high-octane offense and relentless defense eventually pulled away, sealing a 51-34 win.
This victory sends the Ducks into the second round, where they’ll meet No. 4 Texas Tech in the Orange Bowl on January 1. There were just so many wild moments and standout performances—let’s try to unpack it all.
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Oregon’s Offensive Powerhouse
Oregon’s offense came out swinging, scoring on each of their first five possessions. The way they moved the ball—quick, confident, almost casual—was something to watch.
Dante Moore’s Stellar Performance
Quarterback Dante Moore really stole the show, tossing for 313 yards and four touchdowns. He even ran one in himself, just to show off a bit.
His chemistry with wide receiver Malik Benson stood out. Benson finished with five catches, 119 yards, and two touchdowns—hard not to notice a connection like that.
- Moore’s total yards: 313 passing, 1 rushing
- Benson’s total yards: 119 receiving
Key Plays and Turning Points
This game had its share of jaw-dropping moments. Both teams really put their skills—and nerves—on display.
First Half Dominance
Oregon wasted no time, opening with a four-play touchdown drive. Jamari Johnson made a ridiculous one-handed catch for a 41-yard score that set the tone.
Then Dierre Hill Jr. shrugged off a tackle and sprinted 56 yards for another touchdown. Not to be left out, Jeremiah McClellan hauled in a 20-yard touchdown pass from Moore before halftime.
- Opening drive: 41-yard TD by Jamari Johnson
- Second quarter: 56-yard TD run by Dierre Hill Jr.
- First half: 20-yard TD catch by Jeremiah McClellan
Special Teams Impact
Special teams made their presence felt, too. In the first half, Oregon blocked a JMU field goal attempt—huge momentum swing.
Later, Blake Purchase blocked a punt, and Jayden Limar scooped it up, racing it back for a touchdown. That pushed Oregon’s lead to 48-13 in the third quarter. Pretty demoralizing if you’re on the other side.
- Blocked field goal: First half
- Blocked punt return TD: Third quarter
James Madison’s Resilient Effort
James Madison, for their part, didn’t just roll over. The Dukes kept fighting, especially after halftime.
Second Half Surge
JMU came out strong in the second half. Nick DeGennaro caught a short pass and somehow turned it into a 47-yard touchdown—bit of a spark there.
They even pulled off a *Philly Special*, with tight end Lacota Dippre keeping the ball and running it in for a touchdown. Not your everyday play call.
The Dukes then strung together a 99-yard touchdown drive, capped by quarterback Alonza Barnett III running it in himself. That’s some grit.
- DeGennaro’s 47-yard TD: Early second half
- Dippre’s Philly Special TD: Third quarter
- Barnett’s rushing TD: Late second half
Standout Performances
Even with defensive issues, a few JMU players really shined. Quarterback Alonza Barnett III threw for 273 yards and two touchdowns—he kept them in it.
Running back Wayne Knight chipped in with 110 rushing yards. Not bad, considering the pressure.
- Barnett’s total yards: 273 passing
- Knight’s total yards: 110 rushing
Looking Ahead
So, Oregon moves on to face Texas Tech in the Orange Bowl. That’s going to be a real test—they’ll have to keep the offense humming and shore up the defense, no question.
James Madison’s run ends here, but honestly, they’ve got a lot to be proud of. That resilience and a few breakout performances? Not something you forget easily.
Key Matchup: Oregon vs. Texas Tech
The Orange Bowl game between Oregon and Texas Tech is shaping up to be a real nail-biter. Oregon’s offense, which can really light up the scoreboard, faces a tough challenge against Texas Tech’s defense.
On the other side, the Ducks’ defense will have their hands full. Texas Tech brings some explosive playmakers who can break a game wide open if you blink.
- Game date: January 1
- Location: Orange Bowl
If you’re after more info on the Oregon vs. James Madison game, or just want the latest on the College Football Playoff, check out the NCAA’s official update page.
