Oregon Ducks Schedule: Non-Conference Game Ranked Among Best In College Football

Before the Oregon Ducks start Big Ten conference play, they have three non-conference matchups. These games will not only provide early-season excitement but also set the stage for the race to the 12-team College Football Playoff.

Bri Amaranthus | Jul 12, 2024

Sep 23, 2023; Eugene, Oregon, USA; Oregon Ducks head coach Dan Lanning (left) and Colorado Buffaloes head coach Deion Sanders hug after the game at Autzen Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Soobum Im-USA TODAY Sports / Soobum Im-USA TODAY Sports

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The upcoming college football season is set to feature some thrilling non-conference matchups that will play a crucial role in shaping the path to the College Football Playoff.

Before the Oregon Ducks start Big Ten conference play, Oregon's non-conference slate starts against Idaho on Saturday, Aug. 31, in Autzen Stadium with a 4:30 p.m. PDT kickoff on the Big Ten Network.

Then, Oregon hosts Boise State on Saturday, Sept. 7, in Autzen, kicking off at 7:00 p.m. on Peacock. The Ducks finish their non-conference schedule on the road against a familiar foe in Oregon State on Saturday, Sept. 14, in Reser Stadium. The in-state showdown is set for a 12:30 p.m. kickoff on FOX.

That Boise State game ranks as one of the best non-con games to watch this fall from George Wrighster, host of "The Unafraid Show".

Teams from the Big Ten, SEC, ACC, and Big 12 will clash, creating high-stakes games that could make or break their seasons. It's also a great opportunity for NFL scouts to get a first look at top-tier talent for the upcoming 2025 NFL Draft.

These games, featuring top-tier coaches like Georgia Bulldogs' Kirby Smart, Texas Longhorns' Steve Sarkisian, Oregon Ducks' Dan Lanning, Notre Dame's Marcus Freeman, and Colorado Buffaloes' Deion Sanders, will not only provide early-season excitement but also set the stage for the race to the 12-team College Football Playoff.

Oregon Ducks head coach Dan Lanning (left) and Colorado Buffaloes head coach Deion Sanders hug after the game at Autzen Stadi

The pressure is on for these coaches to deliver victories in these high-stakes encounters. Here are some of the most anticipated non-conference games featuring powerhouse programs and star-studded coaching staffs.

Coach Lanning is leading the Ducks into 2024 with a stacked roster that includes the best transfer portal class in the Big Ten and an incoming recruiting class that ranks No. 3 in the nation. Best not overlook Oregon's experienced veterans like receiver Tez Johnson, tight end Terrance Ferguson, defensive end Jordan Burch, and linebacker Jeffrey Bassa.

Stay up to date on all things Oregon Ducks by visiting Oregon Ducks on SI daily and following Oregon Ducks on SI on Facebook and X.

Published Jul 12, 2024

BRI AMARANTHUS

Bri Amaranthus is an Emmy-winning sports reporter with over 12 years of experience in television, radio, podcasting, and digital sports journalism. She has been with Sports Illustrated for four years, providing breaking news, exclusive interviews, and analysis on the NFL, college sports, and the NBA. Prior to joining SI, Bri hosted NBC Sports Northwest's prime-time television show, where she also served as the Oregon beat reporter and created content covering both the NBA and college sports. Throughout her career, Bri has achieved significant milestones, including covering major events like the NBA Finals, NFL playoffs, College Football Playoff, NCAA Basketball Tournament, NFL Draft, and the NFL Combine. She earned a D1 scholarship to play softball at the University of San Diego and won two state softball titles in high school in Oregon. In addition to her Emmy win for NBC's All-Star Coach special, she has received multiple Emmy nominations, highlighting her dedication and talent in sports journalism.