In a thrilling matchup between No. 2 Oregon and No. 4 Ohio State, the Ducks emerged victorious with a 32-31 win thanks to a strategic move that involved intentionally having 12 men on the field in the final moments of the game. Oregon coach Dan Lanning revealed that the team had practiced this scenario extensively and executed it perfectly when it mattered most. The tactic resulted in an illegal substitution penalty for Oregon, but it also caused crucial seconds to come off the clock, ultimately preventing Ohio State from attempting a game-winning field goal.
After Oregon took the lead with a field goal with just under two minutes remaining, Ohio State had an opportunity to drive down the field for a potential game-winning score. With the Buckeyes facing a third-and-25 situation from Oregon’s 43-yard line, the Ducks called a timeout with just 10 seconds left on the clock. Just before the ball was snapped, Oregon defensive back Dontae Manning entered the game, giving the Ducks an extra defender and leading to the penalty for having too many men on the field. Although Ohio State gained five yards from the penalty, they also lost valuable time, leaving them with just six seconds on the clock for their final play.
The intentional penalty and subsequent time management by Oregon proved to be crucial in securing the victory over Ohio State and moving up to the No. 2 spot in the AP Top 25 rankings. The Ducks’ strategic decision to have an extra defender on the field in a critical moment paid off, showcasing the team’s preparation and ability to capitalize on unique situations in college football. The win was a significant statement for Oregon early in the season and solidified their status as a top contender in the national rankings.
The Oregon defense’s ability to thwart Ohio State’s potential game-winning drive with a clever maneuver demonstrated the team’s resilience and composure under pressure. By purposely committing a penalty to disrupt the Buckeyes’ offensive rhythm and run down the clock, the Ducks showcased their strategic acumen and willingness to think outside the box in high-stakes situations. The victory over a top-ranked opponent further solidified Oregon’s status as a force to be reckoned with in college football this season.
Coach Dan Lanning’s leadership and decision-making in orchestrating the 12-man strategy in the closing moments of the game reflected his confidence in the team’s ability to execute under pressure. The calculated risk to intentionally have an extra player on the field paid off in a critical moment, showcasing Lanning’s trust in the players and their preparation for unique game scenarios. The win over Ohio State not only elevated Oregon’s position in the rankings but also established them as a team capable of making bold moves and coming out on top in tight contests.
Moving forward, Oregon’s victory over Ohio State and their strategic use of the 12-man tactic will serve as a testament to the team’s ability to adapt and innovate in challenging situations. The win showcased the Ducks’ resilience and determination to succeed against top competition, setting the stage for a promising season ahead. With their impressive performance against the Buckeyes, Oregon solidified their status as a team to watch in the college football landscape and demonstrated their readiness to compete at the highest level.
