Oregon Ducks soar past Montana State Bobcats in season opener

EUGENE, Ore. (KATU) — The Oregon Ducks kicked off their 2025 College Football Season with a resounding 59-13 victory over the Montana State Bobcats, the reigning FCS runner-ups.

The Ducks, ranked No. 7, aimed to start strong and dispel any doubts from last season's opener, and they did just that.

Dante Moore, stepping into the spotlight after serving as Dillon Gabriel's understudy, led Oregon with 213 passing yards and three touchdowns.

"He was sharp. He knew where to go with the ball, was decisive with reads, was able to make some checks," said Oregon coach Dan Lanning. "I thought we had a simple plan and a plan we could execute at a high level. He went out there and executed it really well."

True freshman Jordon Davison made history by rushing for 26 yards and three touchdowns, becoming the first true freshman in Oregon history to score three rushing touchdowns in an opener, according to ESPN.

Malik Benson added to the Ducks' dominance with five receptions for 51 yards and a touchdown, helping build a commanding 38-3 lead by halftime.

Montana State's Justin Lamson, a transfer from Stanford, threw for 198 yards as the Bobcats sought to fill the gap left by former star quarterback Tommy Mellott.

Oregon set the tone early, scoring just 63 seconds into the game with Jayden Limar's 16-yard run. Moore connected with Kenyon Sadiq on a 20-yard pass to make it 14-0, and Atticus Sappington added a 23-yard field goal to extend the lead.

The Ducks will continue their home stand at Autzen Stadium next week as they welcome the Oklahoma State Cowboys.