Oregon Football: Ducks edge Michigan State in Redbox Bowl

Oregon football and Michigan State played a defensive duel in the Redbox Bowl. The Ducks survived the low-scoring showdown against the Spartans in Santa Clara.

Entering the Redbox Bowl at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, Oregon was emboldened by several bits of good news. They learned a few days before the bowl game that Justin Herbert would return for his senior season at quarterback in 2019.

Then, the morning of the Redbox Bowl, Ducks fans learned that Mario Cristobal would remain in Eugene after Manny Diaz was confirmed as the choice to replace Mark Richt at Miami. Even with his buyout, Cristobal looked like a possibility to take over at his alma mater. Instead, he will be back for another season with the Ducks as they look to reclaim the Pac-12 North.

They survived a tense low-scoring duel against Michigan State to claim the Redbox Bowl 7-6 on New Year’s Eve. Ending the 2018 season with their ninth victory, Oregon heads into the offseason with the momentum of three straight victories.

While Oregon obviously has reason for optimism, Michigan State fans also saw plenty to celebrate after the close defeat to the Ducks. Here are three things to take away from this year’s Redbox Bowl as both sides walk away from the Bay Area with reason to hope in 2019.