A yellow-out was in order for Oregon’s first conference home game as a Big Ten member. The Ducks certainly were not about to emphasize their green with Michigan State coming to town. Riding a two game losing streak, the Spartans needed a bounce back. However, this Friday night clash in Eugene had Autzen Stadium vibrating, and Oregon was not feeling empathetic.
Fans made their gameday pilgrimage across the Willamette River as the hoards of yellow grew more dense with Autzen drawing nearer. The sound of “Mighty Oregon” spilled from tailgating speakers and the pregame teamwalk. The setting sun foreshadowed a menacing atmosphere for the visiting Spartans as both teams took the field.
A sloppy start to the game gave way to QB Dillon Gabriel tossing a pair of touchdowns and the defense clamping down on the visitors from East Lansing. As the fans began to collectively sing “Shout” after the third quarter, it became evident that Autzen’s energy had claimed another victim. Four visits to Oregon, and Michigan State never experienced triumph. The Ducks have taken flight in their first season as a Big Ten member with conference and national titles within reach.
