INDIANAPOLIS — Dillon Gabriel threw for four touchdowns as the top-ranked Oregon Ducks triumphed over the No. 3 Penn State Nittany Lions with a score of 45-37 in the Big Ten Championship on Saturday night. This victory not only secured Oregon a first-round bye but also positioned them as the likely number one seed in the upcoming College Football Playoff.
The Ducks, who completed the season undefeated at 13-0, had a narrow escape as they nearly squandered a 15-point advantage in the last four minutes of the game. The game reached a thrilling conclusion when Oregon intercepted Drew Allar’s pass with just 1:54 remaining, effectively ending Penn State’s hopes of a comeback on an eventful championship weekend.
Jordan James contributed significantly to the victory, running for two touchdowns, as Oregon clinched its first league title since 2020 after transitioning from the Pac-12 to the Big Ten this year. Penn State, despite its 11-2 record, is anticipated to join the new 12-team playoff field, although they saw their four-game winning streak come to an end.
The Nittany Lions missed an opportunity to narrow the gap in the fourth quarter when they failed to convert a crucial 2-point conversion, leaving the score at 38-30. Shortly after, Oregon extended its lead with a 12-yard touchdown run from James, capping off a successful 75-yard drive that put them ahead 45-30 with 7:28 still left on the clock.
Gabriel’s performance was impressive, completing 22 of 32 passes for 283 yards. He notably connected with Kenyon Sadiq for two touchdowns in the first half, contributing to a championship-game record total of 55 points scored by both teams. The previous record, set in 2012, stood at 52 points.
Sadiq’s contributions included two receptions, one of which showcased his athleticism as he leaped over a defender en route to his first touchdown. James had a solid outing with 87 rushing yards on 20 attempts, while Tez Johnson anchored the receiving corps with 11 catches for 181 yards and one touchdown.
On the other side, Allar completed 20 of 39 passes for 236 yards, throwing three touchdown passes but also two interceptions. Kaytron Allen was a standout in the Penn State rushing game with 124 yards on 14 carries and one touchdown. Nicolas Singleton also made a significant impact, rushing for 101 yards on 10 attempts and catching a touchdown pass. Tyler Warren added to the effort with seven receptions for 64 yards.
Overall, both teams allowed the highest point totals against them throughout the entire season, highlighting the intensity and competitiveness of the championship match.
