Malik Benson brings Autzen crowd to its feet with electric punt return

In a big game, a timely special teams play can make all the difference.

Senior Malik Benson provided a huge boost for the Ducks, using his 10.4 speed to field a line drive punt at the Oregon 15, picking up a couple of clean blocks, cutting up the right sideline and zooming 85 yards for a touchdown and a 21-14 lead.

Benson's big return is Oregon's first return for a TD since Noah Whittington and Tez Johnson broke one each against Boise State in 2024.

Cornerback Ify Obidegwu capped that clutch play with another one on defense, ranging back into coverage to pick off a pass intended for Jakobi Lane.