It wasn’t the cleanest performance you’ll ever see from Oregon, but when the dust settled, the Ducks did exactly what they needed to do: win. Against a Washington Huskies team that struggled to get anything going offensively, Oregon leaned on its defense and special teams to grind out a low-scoring victory that punched their ticket to the College Football Playoff.
This one won’t make the season highlight reel for explosive plays or offensive fireworks. Washington’s defense came to play, making life tough for Oregon’s offense all afternoon.
The Ducks moved the ball but couldn’t consistently finish drives, settling for field goals instead of touchdowns. But in a game where style points didn’t matter, execution did-and that’s where Atticus Sappington stepped in.
The sophomore kicker was nails. Called on four times to extend Oregon’s lead, he drilled all four field goal attempts with the kind of calm you want from your specialist in December football.
His biggest moment? A career-long 51-yarder that stretched the lead to 12 points and gave the Ducks some much-needed breathing room.
In a game where every point felt like gold, Sappington was Oregon’s most reliable scoring option.
It’s the second time this season he’s earned player of the game honors, and it’s well deserved. While kickers don’t always get the spotlight, Sappington’s impact has been undeniable.
Just a few weeks ago, he hit the game-winner against Iowa. Fast forward to this weekend, and he’s once again a central figure in Oregon’s path to the Playoff.
Now, with the postseason looming, the Ducks are in. And while the headlines may focus on the big names and flashy plays, don’t forget the guy with the golden leg who helped get them there. Sappington didn’t just show up-he delivered, and Oregon’s championship hopes are still alive because of it.