Oregon's defense delivered the decisive blow in this high-scoring Pac-12 battle, as Francisco Mauigoa's 95-yard interception return for a touchdown in the second quarter proved to be the difference-maker in the 44-41 result. Washington State's Cameron Ward kept the Cougars competitive throughout, leading multiple scoring drives and connecting with receivers like De'Zhaun Stribling for touchdowns, but Oregon's Bo Nix orchestrated a more balanced offensive attack that accumulated 624 total yards. The game remained tight into the fourth quarter with both teams trading touchdowns, but Oregon's final drive capped by Troy Franklin's 50-yard touchdown reception with Bo Nix's two-point conversion sealed the belt defense for the Ducks. Despite Washington State's valiant effort and superior passing yards, the turnover margin and Mauigoa's defensive touchdown proved decisive in a game that showcased two potent offenses.
Written by Claude from the box score and play-by-play on this page — a plain-English recap of the numbers below, not a substitute for them.