Gabriel delivers as Oregon survives Ohio State in wild finish

Gabriel delivers as Oregon survives Ohio State in wild finish

Gabriel delivers as Oregon survives Ohio State in wild finish

EUGENE, Ore. — After leading Oregon to a thrilling 32-31 victory over Ohio State, quarterback Dillon Gabriel sat on the bench, unable to watch the Buckeyes' final drive. Minutes later, he was dancing with fans as Oregon celebrated a marquee win in the Big Ten showdown.


In his first major game since transferring to Oregon, Gabriel shone, completing 23 of 34 passes for 341 yards and two touchdowns, while adding a crucial rushing touchdown late in the fourth quarter. His performance not only secured the Ducks’ win but also put him back in the Heisman conversation.


"It was a dogfight, two heavyweights going at it," Gabriel said. "That's what college football is all about.


Oregon's final drive saw Gabriel complete five passes, setting up a 19-yard game-winning field goal by Atticus Sappington. Ohio State had one last chance but faltered after a critical penalty pushed them out of field goal range, sealing the Ducks' victory.


"Every time I looked in his eyes, he was composed," said Oregon coach Dan Lanning, praising Gabriel's leadership. Wide receiver Tez Johnson, who caught a 48-yard touchdown from Gabriel, added, "The poise he had the entire game was unbelievable."


The win puts Oregon (6-0) in a strong position for the Big Ten title and playoff races, marking a pivotal moment in Gabriel’s career. "I've loved every bit of this journey," Gabriel reflected. "But we know it's just a step in the right direction. Tomorrow, we’ve got to wake up and go earn it."