For the first time in five decades, Oregon will meet Northwestern on the football field. The last time the two programs clashed was in 1974, when the Wildcats edged the Ducks 14-10. The 2025 matchup arrives on a national stage, with FOX’s Big Noon Kickoff broadcasting from Evanston.
Oregon enters Week 3 riding momentum after opening the season with two dominant performances. The Ducks, ranked No. 4 in the AP poll, were projected to finish third in the Big Ten preseason media poll but have looked every bit the contender after routing Oklahoma State in Week 2.
Quarterback Dante Moore once again showcased why he earned the starting job. Against the Cowboys, the sophomore completed 16 of 21 passes for 266 yards and three touchdowns. He averaged 12.7 yards per attempt, highlighted by a 65-yard scoring strike to wide receiver Dakorien Moore.
Moore, who redshirted last season after transferring from UCLA, backed up Dillon Gabriel in 2024 before stepping into the lead role this fall.
Moore explained his approach after his Week 1 debut against Montana State.
“Having that next play focus,” he said. “An example was when I got the first down and I was excited and adrenaline was pumping. I was fatigued the next play because I was so tired and lost a lot of energy… but plays like that would happen, but you got to focus on to the next play.”
The Ducks’ defense also delivered against Oklahoma State, holding the Cowboys to 67 passing yards and 144 on the ground. Coordinator Tosh Lupoi’s group did not allow a touchdown.
Northwestern, meanwhile, defeated Western Illinois 42-7 last week. Quarterback Preston Stone led the way, while running back Cam Porter exited in the third quarter with an injury.