Bo Nix Sep 24, 2022; Pullman, Washington, USA; Oregon Ducks quarterback Bo Nix (10) is chased out of the pocket by Washington State Cougars linebacker Francisco Mauigoa (51) in the first half at Gesa Field at Martin Stadium. Mandatory Credit: James Snook-USA TODAY Sports

No. 15 Oregon unleashed a furious comeback to stave off an upset bid by Washington State Saturday afternoon to escape with a 44-41 victory.

Ducks fans who’d spent the afternoon sharing their misery on Twitter changed their tone, but this was too close. As one Oregon fan noted, “the Oregon Ducks had absolutely no business winning that game.”

The Cougars (3-1) had the upper hand for most of this Pac-12 showdown, leading the Ducks 17-9 at halftime. They held a seemingly safe 34-22 lead with under four minutes remaining.

Then the Ducks came alive. Quarterback Bo Nix (seen above in the first half of this game) threw a one-yard TD pass to Cam McCormick to cut the lead to 34-29 at the 3:50 mark. After the Ducks defense forced a three-and-out on the Cougars’ next series, Nix found Troy Franklin for a 50-yard TD strike to put the Ducks up for good.

Linebacker Mase Funa sealed the win when he intercepted Cougars quarterback Cameron Ward and took the ball in for a score.

That’s 21 points scored in 2:48. Game.

Nix finished with 428 yards and three touchdowns through the air. And just like that, the Ducks improved to 3-1 and escape their Pac-12 opener. But while happy to escape with the victory, many Ducks fans were not pleased with how the team played for much of the game.

Still, a win is a win, no matter the circumstances.

[Photo from James Snook/USA Today Sports]

About Arthur Weinstein

Arthur spends his free time traveling around the U.S. to sporting events, state and national parks, and in search of great restaurants off the beaten path.