Thrilling Last-Minute Kick by Sappington Secures Victory for Ducks at Iowa – University of Oregon Athletics

Oregon Ducks Showing Grit in Tough Win Over Iowa

IOWA CITY, Iowa — The Oregon Ducks proved their toughness in a gritty showdown against Iowa, clinching a 18-16 victory with a last-minute field goal. Battling cold and wet conditions, the Ducks relied heavily on their run game but also made key plays in the pass game.

Kicker Atticus Sappington nailed his third field goal of the day as time ran out. This win marked the Ducks’ third in a row, keeping them in the hunt for a spot in the College Football Playoff. After a close battle, UO coach Dan Lanning remarked, “What an unbelievable game.”

With just under two minutes left, Iowa scored to take the lead. The Ducks responded with a swift 54-yard drive, ending with Sappington’s game-winning field goal from 39 yards. Sappington shared his mindset during that crucial moment: “Focus on the kick. Breathe. I was blessed to be in that position.”

Despite missing key players due to injuries, like tight end Kenyon Sadiq and linebacker Devon Jackson, Oregon’s defense stepped up. Jerry Mixon filled in for Jackson and led the team with 13 tackles, showcasing the depth and determination of the squad.

Oregon’s run game was impressive, rushing for 261 yards—the most Iowa has allowed since 2022. Noah Whittington led with 118 yards, while freshmen Jordon Davison and Dierre Hill Jr. contributed another 97 yards and a touchdown. Whittington praised the offensive line: “We’ve got the best O-line in the country. We ran the trenches today.”

The weather affected both teams. Iowa made mistakes early, misfiring on a snap that led to a safety for Oregon. The Ducks managed to score a touchdown early on, making it 9-0. As the game progressed, Sappington’s field goals helped Oregon maintain their lead at halftime, 12-7.

In the fourth quarter, Iowa fought back with a 58-yard field goal and a touchdown. A two-point conversion attempt was initially successful but was reversed upon review. This gave the Ducks an opening, and they capitalized by getting into field goal range again.

This game is a reminder of the Ducks’ resilience. As they face tougher games ahead in November, their ability to perform under pressure will be crucial.

With this victory, Oregon stays relevant in the competitive college football landscape. The team’s performance is a testament to their preparation and determination. Fans will be keen to see how they handle upcoming challenges.

For deeper analysis on college football statistics and team rankings, check out NCAA for comprehensive insights.

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