The No. 5 Oregon Ducks are set to battle the No. 1 Indiana Hoosiers in the College Football Playoff semifinals at the Peach Bowl, taking place in Atlanta, Georgia. This matchup is crucial, as it offers a chance for the victor to advance to the national championship game.
This encounter marks the second time this season that these two teams have faced off, with Indiana previously handing Oregon its only defeat, which was also the Ducks” first loss in the Big Ten Conference. However, in this playoff rematch, a significant statistic swings in favor of Oregon.
Historically, in the College Football Playoff, rematches have often favored the team that lost the first encounter. Out of the previous five rematches, four teams that won the initial game ended up losing the second match. Since their 30–20 loss to Indiana on October 11, the Ducks have been on a remarkable eight-game winning streak, defeating teams like James Madison and Texas Tech to secure their spot in the College Football Playoff Semifinals. This is Oregon”s first appearance at this stage since the 2014–15 season, marking only their second overall.
On the other hand, Indiana enters the Peach Bowl undefeated, having showcased a dominant performance in the Rose Bowl quarterfinals, defeating Alabama by a score of 38-3. Leading the Hoosiers is Fernando Mendoza, the Heisman Trophy winner, who is anticipated to be the first quarterback selected in the upcoming 2026 NFL Draft. Mendoza has amassed 3,172 passing yards this season, throwing for 36 touchdowns while only throwing six interceptions. His dual-threat capabilities are evident as he has also rushed for 256 yards and six touchdowns, presenting a significant challenge for Oregon”s defense, which must focus on containing him.
Indiana”s offensive strategy is further supported by a strong rushing attack featuring Roman Hemby and Kaelon Black. Hemby has led the team with over 1,000 rushing yards, while Black has been effective in the red zone, scoring eight rushing touchdowns. Moreover, Indiana”s defense has proven to be formidable, highlighted by their stellar showing against Alabama.
In their previous matchup, Indiana”s defense was able to sack Oregon quarterback Dante Moore six times, a statistic the Ducks are eager to improve upon in this rematch. Current betting lines from DraftKings Sportsbook list Oregon as a 3.5-point underdog against the Big Ten champions.
Oregon aims to put an end to Indiana”s impressive run under coach Curt Cignetti. A victory would not only send the Ducks to the College Football Playoff National Championship on January 19 against either No. 6 Ole Miss or No. 10 Miami but also mark their third trip to the title game.
In terms of player availability, Oregon will be without running backs Jordon Davison and Jayden Limar, as both are listed as “Out.” Consequently, the Ducks are expected to lean on veteran Noah Whittington and true freshman Dierre Hill Jr.. However, there is some good news for Oregon, as coach Dan Lanning confirmed that running back Jay Harris will be available to play against Indiana, despite being in the transfer portal.
Reflecting on the experience, Coach Lanning expressed his gratitude for being part of such a significant moment, sharing that his family was able to join him for this trip, adding a personal touch to the professional journey. “More than anything, just gratitude that I get to be a part of something like this,” Lanning remarked.
As the game approaches, fans are eagerly anticipating what promises to be an exciting showdown between the Ducks and Hoosiers.
