College Football31 min ago2 minute read

Raiola Leads Oregon Past Northwestern in 34-26 Comeback

Dylan Raiola threw three touchdown passes as Oregon overcame an early deficit to defeat Northwestern 34-26 in Eugene.

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Raiola steps up for Oregon

Dylan Raiola delivered a strong performance to lead Oregon past No. 20 Northwestern 34-26 on Saturday in Eugene. Making his second consecutive start with Dante Moore ruled out for the season, Raiola completed 22 of 31 passes for 336 yards and three touchdowns.

The win brought the Ducks to 5-3 overall and 3-2 in Big Ten play. Northwestern fell to 6-2 overall and 3-2 in conference play after letting their early lead slip away.

Ducks overcome early deficit

Northwestern took control early in the game, building a 10-0 advantage in the first quarter. Wildcats quarterback Aidan Chiles led the early push, completing 22 of 38 passes for 281 yards and one touchdown. Chiles also made plays on the ground, rushing for 93 yards and a touchdown late in the second quarter. That rushing score was his 10th of the season.

Oregon cut into the lead right before the halftime break. Raiola connected with receiver Dakorien Moore on a 10-yard touchdown pass with 49 seconds remaining in the second quarter, pulling the Ducks within 20-13 at the half.

Fourth quarter rally secures win

The Ducks dealt with adversity when starting running back Jordon Davison left the game with an injury in the first half. Freshman Brandon Smith stepped up to lead the ground game, rushing for 82 yards.

Oregon rallied in the fourth quarter. Raiola found Jamari Johnson for a 17-yard touchdown pass. Smith then scored on a two-yard run on fourth and goal to put Oregon ahead for the first time at 27-23.

Raiola extended the lead with a 75-yard touchdown pass to Moore. Moore ended the day with 128 receiving yards and two touchdowns to help secure the victory.

What it means for the next game

Iowa Hawkeyes at Northwestern Wildcats (College Football, Sat, 07 Nov): Northwestern Wildcats win 51%, Iowa Hawkeyes win 49%; projected score Northwestern Wildcats 23, Iowa Hawkeyes 20. Our safest pick: Northwestern +7.5.

Oregon Ducks at Ohio State Buckeyes (College Football, Sat, 07 Nov): Ohio State Buckeyes win 82%, Oregon Ducks win 18%; projected score Ohio State Buckeyes 31, Oregon Ducks 16. Our safest pick: Ohio State to win.