O’Neil’s Four Scoring Passes Help Ducks Rip Portland St.

Although it was ranked among the top NCAA Division II teams in the nation, Portland State was no match for Division I Oregon and quarterback Danny O’Neil on Saturday.

“They looked good on film, but it ended up being easier than I thought,” O’Neil said after the Ducks routed the Vikings, 58-16, in the season opener for both teams.

“They just don’t play hard every down. I think they slacked off after a while when they realized that they were out of it.”

O’Neil passed for four touchdowns and 180 yards in only three quarters. Oregon led, 38-9, with 6:50 to play in the third quarter after leading at halftime, 28-9.

“We got what we wanted out of the game,” Oregon Coach Rich Brooks said. “We came away with the win.”

Oregon’s defense held Portland State to only 144 yards total offense and minus-11 yards rushing.

“When you don’t execute and the other team does, it’s going to be a long day no matter who you play,” Portland State Coach Tim Walsh said.