Indiana Stuns Oregon in Eugene — Hoosiers Win 30-20 in Top-10 Clash

October 12, 2025 admin

In a marquee Saturday showdown, No. 7 Indiana traveled to Autzen Stadium and pulled off a statement win over No. 3 Oregon, emerging victorious 30-20 in one of the biggest upsets of the season.

Early Drama & Momentum Swings

The game started fast and physical. Indiana’s defense made a splash early with a stop on fourth down, giving their offense momentum. Oregon responded with a sharp 44-yard touchdown strike from Dante Moore to Malik Benson, putting the Ducks on the board.

Indiana answered before the end of the first quarter. Roman Hemby punched in a rushing score, giving Indiana a 10-7 lead. The teams traded field goals in the second quarter, leaving Indiana ahead 13-10 at halftime thanks to a booming 58-yard kick from Brendan Franke.

Battle of the Trenches & Defensive Dominance

Oregon’s offense, normally potent, struggled all afternoon. The Ducks managed only 81 rushing yards and were held to 267 yards total offense. Meanwhile, Moore endured a rough day: six sacks, two interceptions, and just one passing touchdown

Indiana’s defense, especially in the second half, refused to let Oregon settle in. They forced errors, stretched Oregon’s drives, and made key conversions when it counted.

Turning Point in the Fourth

With the game tied or close heading into the final quarter, momentum tipped Indiana’s way. Oregon’s Brandon Finney intercepted Fernando Mendoza and returned it 35 yards for a touchdown, making it 20-20 with 12:42 remaining

But Mendoza answered decisively. On a clutch drive, he launched an 8-yard touchdown pass to Elijah Sarratt with 6:23 left, staking Indiana back in front.

Later, Oregon attempted a comeback but stumbled. Louis Moore picked off Moore’s pass, and Indiana’s defense held firm. Franke added a 22-yard field goal with 2:06 to go to seal the win.

Significance & Reflections

This victory marks Indiana’s first-ever road win over a top-5 ranked team.
Oregon’s home winning streak of 18 games at Autzen was snapped in surprising fashion
Indiana now has strong credentials in the Big Ten and remains undefeated, bolstering their playoff outlook.

Coach Curt Cignetti praised his team’s composure under pressure: “Our defense was tremendous in the second half … the offense made plays when they had to.”

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