Oregon Football: 3 takeaways from comeback win over Washington State

Nov 14, 2020; Pullman, Washington, USA; Oregon Ducks running back Travis Dye (26) and Oregon Ducks offensive lineman Chris Randazzo (79) celebrate a touchdown against the Washington State Cougars in the second half at Martin Stadium. Oregon won 43-29. Mandatory Credit: James Snook-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 14, 2020; Pullman, Washington, USA; Oregon Ducks running back Travis Dye (26) and Oregon Ducks offensive lineman Chris Randazzo (79) celebrate a touchdown against the Washington State Cougars in the second half at Martin Stadium. Oregon won 43-29. Mandatory Credit: James Snook-USA TODAY Sports /
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PULLMAN, WASHINGTON – NOVEMBER 14: Quarterback Tyler Shough #12 of the Oregon Ducks throws a pass against Will Rodgers III #92 of the Washington State Cougars in the first half at Martin Stadium on November 14, 2020 in Pullman, Washington. (Photo by William Mancebo/Getty Images)
PULLMAN, WASHINGTON – NOVEMBER 14: Quarterback Tyler Shough #12 of the Oregon Ducks throws a pass against Will Rodgers III #92 of the Washington State Cougars in the first half at Martin Stadium on November 14, 2020 in Pullman, Washington. (Photo by William Mancebo/Getty Images) /

2. Oregon’s championship mettle matters

It was Oregon’s first win in Pullman, Wash. since 2014. The Ducks trailed 16-7 in the first half and looked out of sorts at several key moments early in the game.

But, the Ducks responded with a huge third quarter. Despite trailing 19-7 with 20 seconds remaining before halftime, Oregon did not flinch or get too frustrated. Instead, Shough’s 57-yard pass to Jaylon Redd set the Ducks up for a quick score before intermission — one that set the tone for the Ducks entering the third quarter.

If there were any doubts about Oregon entering tonight’s game, they can safely be put to rest for the moment. The Cardinal looked outmatched against the Ducks for much of the Pac-12’s opening weekend’s 35-14 loss, but most prognosticators weren’t predicting much for Stanford entering the 2020 football season.

Oregon doesn’t face USC or Arizona in the shortened 2020 regular season, so getting crucial road wins in convincing fashion may be important for the CFP Committee.