Oregon Outlasts USC in Physical Big Ten Showdown

Photo by by USA Today

11/22/25

Blog By Walker Johnson

EUGENE, OR — In a matchup that showcased the new-look Big Ten’s expanded landscape, Oregon secured a hard-fought victory over USC on Saturday. Behind timely offense, strong quarterback play, and a defense that clamped down in key moments, the Ducks earned an important late-season conference win that strengthens their position in the Big Ten race.

Oregon came out firing on its opening drive, using pace and balance to strike quickly. Their offense mixed perimeter runs with efficient passing to keep USC’s defense off balance, and the Ducks grabbed early momentum with the game’s first touchdown.

USC responded with composure. Their offense leaned on explosive plays, taking advantage of Oregon’s aggressive fronts and punching in a score to even the game. For much of the first half, the two former Pac-12 rivals traded blows, each landing big plays and pushing the tempo in a game that felt more like their old matchups—just now under the Big Ten banner.

Late in the second quarter, Oregon seized control. A sustained scoring drive, highlighted by accurate throws and a series of tough runs, pushed the Ducks back into the lead heading into halftime.

In the third quarter, USC mounted its strongest rally. A long, methodical drive resulted in a touchdown that cut the deficit, and the Trojans’ defense followed with a key stop that briefly shifted momentum. But Oregon answered with one of the game’s pivotal moments: a third-down sack that halted USC’s next possession and reignited the home crowd.

From there, Oregon began to dictate the game physically. Their offensive line wore down USC’s front, and the Ducks added another touchdown midway through the fourth quarter to create breathing room. USC tried to claw back late, but Oregon’s defense delivered consecutive stops to put the game out of reach.

Key Performers and stat lines

Oregon

• Dante Moore (QB): 257 passing yards, 2 touchdowns

• Noah Whittington (RB): 104 rushing yards, 1 touchdown

• Kenyon Sadiq (TE): 6 receptions, 72 yards, 2 touchdowns

• Malik Benson: Returned an 85-yard punt for a touchdown — a major momentum swing

• Oregon Team Total: 436 total yards on 71 plays

• Turnovers: 1

USC

• Jayden Maiava (QB): 306 passing yards, 3 touchdowns

• Makai Lemon (WR): 6 catches for 34 yards and 2 receiving touchdowns; also threw a touchdown

• Tanook Hines (WR): 6 receptions, 141 yards, 1 touchdown

• USC Team Total: 382 total yards

• Turnovers: 2

413’s Bottomline

In their new conference home, Oregon continues to prove it can win Big Ten–style games—physical, possession-driven battles that hinge on execution and toughness. This win not only boosts the Ducks’ postseason hopes but also reinforces their identity as one of the league’s most complete teams.

For USC, the flashes of offensive brilliance were overshadowed by inconsistency and difficulty winning in the trenches. The Trojans remain dangerous, but Saturday’s loss highlighted the challenges of adjusting to life in a deeper, more physical Big Ten.