The intensity around Eugene is ramping up as we approach Saturday, when the Oregon Ducks will take the field to begin the 2026 season against the Boise State Broncos. While the Ducks are big favorites in the game, the Broncos are considered favorites to win the new-look Pac-12 and contend for a spot in the College Football Playoff.
Oregon and Boise State have always played tight games, but this will be the first game tape either roster puts out this season, so there is a sense of unknown heading into Week 1. The Ducks have plenty of returning talent and production as they seek a national championship run, while the Broncos have returners in key spots but lack starting experience elsewhere.
Despite the large point spread, this shouldn't be considered
the Week 1 rollover victory the Ducks have had in the past, including last season's 59-13 win over Montana State. A victory over Boise State to start the season could end up being a significant nonconference win that helps the Ducks' cause when resumes are compared later in the season to help set the College Football Playoff field.
Although the season is just beginning, let's dive into the numbers from last season with each team's projected starters and take a look at our first "Tale of the Tape" of the year. We will see if we can get a sense of how this game is going to play out on Saturday afternoon, and which team has the edge in different areas.
Dante Moore vs. Maddux Madsen
Edge: Oregon
This is a no-doubter. Dante Moore is a Heisman candidate and passed on a top-five pick in the NFL draft to return to Oregon for another season. His accuracy downfield makes him one of the nation's best passers, and he has spent the offseason working to improve on his play when under pressure. Maddux Madsen has only improved since his last trip to Autzen Stadium, and his running ability could be threatening, but Moore is the easy choice here.
Oregon RBs vs. Boise State RBs
Edge: Oregon
The freshmen duo from last season are now leading Oregon's backfield. Jordon Davison's powerful runs and Dierre Hill Jr.'s speed and pass-catching abilities give the Ducks a dynamic threat to utilize in all areas of the field. Boise State has a strong duo as well in Dylan Riley and Sire Gaines, both of whom serve as a change of pace to each other. The Broncos ran the ball well last season and carved the Ducks apart on the ground in 2024, so they will likely try to establish the run first. However, I'll still give the Ducks the edge here.
Oregon Pass-Catchers vs. Boise State Pass-Catchers
Edge: Oregon
This is probably the biggest gap in terms of talent and production in the matchup. The numbers above don't account for Evan Stewart, who missed all of last season with an injury, and Rasean Jones, a true freshman wideout who is expected to start. Still, Oregon has plenty of options in the passing game and spreads the ball around. The Ducks should feel good about any of their matchups out wide. Boise State, however, is replacing its top four receiving leaders from last season, so there isn't a ton of familiarity yet in the offense.
Oregon Defense vs. Boise State Defense
Edge: Oregon
The biggest difference here is the returning production. Oregon's defense returns a veteran front four led by Matayo Uiagalelei and Teitum Tuioti on the edge, and a young but experienced secondary that added the top safety in the transfer portal in Koi Perich. Boise State did an admirable job against the pass last season, but didn't face many potent passing attacks like Oregon's. Also, there are several new starters in the secondary who are getting their feet wet. The Broncos should be able to get some pressure on Moore, primarily from edge rusher Jayden Virgin-Morgan, but the Ducks are definitely the more well-rounded unit.
When Oregon Has the Ball
When Boise State Has the Ball
Who Has the Edge?
Lean: Oregon
From top to bottom, Oregon is the better football team. Now, that has been the case in many of the matchups throughout the history of this series, but the Broncos and Ducks have always played close games, as recently as 2024. However, I think this is probably the best roster in terms of talent the Ducks have ever had, and the defense could build on an elite season in 2025, while Moore gets another offseason to work with his receivers and build rapport.
The Ducks are at home, where they rarely fall, and I think Oregon's size and experience that some of Boise State's starters lack could wind up being the difference. I'll take the Ducks to win the day and do so comfortably.
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This article originally appeared on Ducks Wire: Oregon vs. Boise State position-by-position: Who has the edge?
