Eugene, Ore. — Oregon’s spring game ended with a burst of excitement, as Brock Thomas connected with Dakorien Moore on a 60-yard touchdown strike in the final seconds to give the Combat Ducks a 17-10 win over the Fighting Ducks at Autzen Stadium on April 25.
The late-game heroics brought energy to an otherwise low-key scrimmage, closing the book on Oregon’s 15 spring practices over the past six weeks. The Ducks now turn their attention to the 2026 season, which begins Sept. 5 at home against Boise State.
Even during the exhibition, reminders of Oregon’s pipeline to the next level were everywhere. In the second quarter, the stadium speakers played the NFL Draft theme as Malik Benson was selected in the sixth round. On the sideline, quarterback Dante Moore celebrated the moment enthusiastically, showing support for his former teammate while surrounded by current players and alumni now in the NFL.
Moore, who could be a top draft prospect himself in the near future, is at the center of a roster filled with emerging talent. The spring game served as both a checkpoint and a preview—highlighting the program’s growth under coach Dan Lanning while keeping focus on the ultimate goal of competing for a national championship.
Early on, the offense showed flashes of explosiveness. Moore led an opening drive that ended with a touchdown pass to tight end Jamari Johnson, while also building chemistry with Dakorien Moore, who later delivered the game-winning play. Their connection has clearly strengthened throughout the spring, culminating in the decisive moment late in the fourth quarter.
Another highlight came from quarterback Dylan Raiola, who fired a deep touchdown pass to Evan Stewart for 74 yards. It marked an emotional return for Stewart, who has been working back from a serious knee injury. He finished with four catches for 110 yards and a score, showing signs of returning to form.
Despite the offensive highlights, the defense controlled much of the game. The run game struggled to gain traction, and special teams had a mixed performance, including a missed long field goal and a pair of muffed punts. While those issues will require attention, they carry far less weight in a spring setting focused on development rather than results.
The atmosphere remained light throughout, with players and fans embracing the moment. After a quiet third quarter, the crowd joined in a spirited rendition of “Shout,” and players celebrated together at midfield following the final whistle.
In the end, the spring game offered a snapshot of a talented team still refining its identity. There were mistakes, big plays, and plenty of teaching moments—but also clear signs of a group building toward something bigger as the countdown to the fall continues.
