UPDATE: In a thrilling and emotional moment, Oregon linebacker Bryce Boettcher scored his first career touchdown during the Ducks’ 42-27 victory over USC at Autzen Stadium on November 11, 2023. This pivotal play came during a highly anticipated senior night, showcasing both Boettcher’s determination and the creativity of Oregon’s coaching staff.
Boettcher, who has been pushing for this opportunity all season, finally got his wish in the second quarter. After running back Noah Whittington was stopped just shy of the end zone, Boettcher stepped onto the field with three defensive teammates, ready to execute a specially designed play. With just 1:52 left in the first half, Boettcher took the snap and surged into the end zone, extending Oregon’s lead to 28-14.
“Excited to see what it looks like on film,” said Ducks’ head coach Dan Lanning. “I don’t know if anybody could have kept Bryce from getting into that end zone whenever we gave him that opportunity.” This moment not only highlighted Boettcher’s unique journey from a walk-on baseball player to a scoring linebacker but also underscored the unity and excitement within the Ducks’ team.
The formation was crafted specifically for this moment, placing Boettcher behind the center with quarterback Dante Moore to his left. Teammates Teitum Tuioti and A’Mauri Washington provided powerful blocks, leading Boettcher through USC’s defense. “It was scary,” Boettcher recalled. “I saw A’Mauri and Bear, and I was like, ‘I’m just gonna follow them. No one’s gonna touch me with those guys in front of me.’”
Teammate Matayo Uiagalelei expressed confidence in the play’s success, stating, “I think everybody had the confidence that there was no way it wasn’t going to be a touchdown.” The excitement on the sideline mirrored the anticipation of fans, many celebrating Boettcher’s long-awaited moment.
Boettcher had not scored a touchdown since his senior year at South Eugene High in 2020, and this score marked a significant personal milestone. He had visualized this moment, saying, “I was lying in bed every night and I was visualizing myself holding the ball, two hands, getting into the end zone.”
Whittington, who rushed for 104 yards and a touchdown, shared his happiness for Boettcher, stating, “I’m just happy we scored.” The camaraderie among players was palpable, with Boettcher thanking his coaches and teammates for their support.
Looking ahead, the question remains: will Boettcher see more carries in future games? “I think if we put the ball on the 1-yard line, I’m gonna go 99 to the house,” Boettcher proclaimed, showing his eagerness for more opportunities. Coach Lanning hinted at the possibility, “He’s gonna remind me that he’s 100% every time he carries the ball getting that touchdown. You might see it again.”
This unforgettable moment on senior night not only solidified Boettcher’s place in Oregon football history but also left fans eagerly anticipating what’s next for this dynamic player. The Ducks (10-1, 7-1 Big Ten) continue to build momentum as they chase their goals this season.