SALT LAKE CITY — When Utah’s punt was blocked on Oregon’s 3-yard line with 8:20 left in the game, the Ducks thought the game was finally on their side.
Oregon quarterback Justin Herbert threw a touchdown and completed a 2-point conversion that sent the Ducks ahead of the Utes 25-22. Then Oregon went for a tailspin.
The Ducks were penalized for unsportsmanlike conduct on the ensuing kickoff, giving Utah an extra 15 yards to start its drive on the 40-yard line.
“We got a senseless penalty,” Oregon head coach Mario Cristobal said. “I was extremely upset about that because that gave them the ball at the 40-yard line.