2024 Big Ten Championship Game: Oregon clinches berth in first season of league membership
Ducks secure spot in inaugural title game with dominant win over Penn State
Oregon's high-powered offense and stout defense proved too much for Penn State in a 35-10 victory that clinched the Ducks a spot in the inaugural Big Ten Championship Game.
The game was never in doubt as Oregon controlled the line of scrimmage on both sides of the ball. The Ducks rushed for 250 yards and three touchdowns, while their defense held Penn State to just 10 points and forced three turnovers.
Quarterback Bo Nix led the way for Oregon, completing 18 of 25 passes for 275 yards and two touchdowns. He also ran for a touchdown, giving him three total touchdowns on the day.
Running back Bucky Irving was also a force for the Ducks, rushing for 135 yards and a touchdown on 20 carries. He also caught three passes for 30 yards.
Oregon's defense was led by linebacker Noah Sewell, who had 10 tackles, two sacks, and a forced fumble. Safety Bryan Addison also had a big day, intercepting two passes and returning one for a touchdown.
With the win, Oregon improves to 12-0 on the season and secures a spot in the Big Ten Championship Game. The Ducks will face the winner of the Michigan-Ohio State game, which will be played on November 26.
Oregon's impressive season
Oregon's berth in the Big Ten Championship Game is a culmination of a remarkable season for the Ducks.
After joining the Big Ten in the offseason, Oregon was picked to finish in the middle of the pack by most preseason polls.
However, the Ducks have exceeded expectations all season long, winning their first 12 games by an average of 26 points.
Oregon's success has been built on a balanced offense that ranks among the best in the country.
The Ducks are averaging over 40 points per game and have scored at least 35 points in every game this season.
Oregon's defense has also been impressive, allowing just 14.2 points per game.
The Ducks' path to the Big Ten Championship Game
Oregon's path to the Big Ten Championship Game was not easy.
The Ducks had to win their final two games of the regular season, including a road game against Penn State, to clinch a spot in the title game.
But Oregon rose to the challenge, winning both games in convincing fashion.
The Ducks will now face the winner of the Michigan-Ohio State game in the Big Ten Championship Game.
The game will be played on December 3 at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis.