The Oregon Ducks had a problem on defense in this game, getting bullied in the trenches for the first time all season. Penn State's offensive line generated a ton of push, opening up massive running lanes for their running back duo of Nicholas Singleton and Kaytron Allen to run through.
Fortunately for Oregon, their playmakers showed up as well, with the offense playing keep-away from Penn State late in the game while adding points to continue to pad their lead, eventually sealing their Big Ten Conference Championship in their first year in their new conference home.
Out in front of everybody was the Oregon Ducks top wide receiver, Tez Johnson, who showed just how explosive a playmaker he can be on the biggest of stages on his way to a Big Ten Championship-record 181 receiving yards to go along with 11 grabs and a touchdown. He was named the Big Ten Championship MVP for his incredible efforts.
What a move by Tez Johnson! pic.twitter.com/IIfYtOrYFf
— CBS Sports College Football (@CBSSportsCFB) December 8, 2024
When Johnson was injured earlier this season, it was clear there was an element to their offense that they were sorely missing. With him back and fully healthy, he showed on the biggest stage of the season that he is the go-to guy for the best team in college football.
Johnson is explosive, elusive, and creates massive amounts of space for himself. He and quarterback Dillon Gabriel have a special relationship on and off the field, and they have the ability and the chemistry to create problems for any team in college football.
With a first round bye locked up, Oregon will await the updated College Football Playoff ranks to find out who will be playing in the eight vs nine seed matchup, the winner of which they will meet in the second round. With Johnson and Gabriel linking up for big play after big play, they're showing that they have what it takes to reach their ultimate goal of the program's first national championship.
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