No. 8 Oregon returns home Friday night looking to build on a tough road win as it hosts Minnesota in a short-week matchup that carries major College Football Playoff implications.
The Ducks (8-1) survived a rain-soaked battle at Iowa last weekend, escaping with an 18-16 victory on Atticus Sappington’s game-winning field goal. The win reinforced Oregon’s identity as a physical, defense-driven contender, but the quick turnaround sets up a challenging test against a Minnesota team that has struggled offensively yet remains sound.
Minnesota (6-3) enters with one of the least productive offenses among Power Four teams, ranking 120th nationally in total yardage and 96th in scoring at 23.8 points per game. Redshirt freshman quarterback Drake Lindsey has shown flashes with his 6-foot-5 frame and strong arm, but the Golden Gophers have been inconsistent through the air and rank near the bottom of the FBS in rushing. Lindsey has not thrown a touchdown in nearly a month in three games.
The matchup favors an Oregon defense that leads the nation in pass defense (126.1 yards per game) and ranks sixth in scoring defense. With more rain expected Friday night, the Ducks are likely to again stack the box, similar to last week’s game plan against Iowa, forcing Minnesota to throw into one of college football’s best secondaries.
Oregon's offense continues to lean on a top-10 scoring attack powered by quarterback Dante Moore and a rushing game averaging 239.7 yards per contest. Minnesota’s defense, ranked 21st nationally, has kept the Gophers competitive despite their offensive limitations.
Kickoff at Autzen Stadium is set for 9 p.m. ET on FOX.
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