Wins Heisman Trophy
Mariota becomes the first Oregon Duck to win the Heisman Trophy. Mariota receives 90.92 percent of the possible points, the second-highest in Heisman history. Mariota:
I had to give thanks to so many people because where I am today, it’s all due to all those people. It’s hard not to get emotional. It’s been a long journey. My emotions got the best of me.
Wins Rose Bowl
The Oregon Ducks beat the Florida State Seminoles 59-20 in the Rose Bowl, the first College Football Playoff semifinal game. Oregon quarterback Marcus Mariota:
It’s incredible. I’m so proud of these guys right here. We’ve got one more to take care of.
Oregon, OH changes name
Oregon, Ohio changes its name temporarily to “Oregon, Ohio Buckeyes on the Bay, City of Duck Hunters” following a petition on change.org from Matt Squibb and Mark Rabbitt, who ask that the town show support for the Ohio State Buckeyes against the Oregon Ducks in the College Football Playoff National Championship. City proclamation:
Whereas, the City of Oregon officially adopted its name in 1838 as Oregon Township which happens to be 21 years before the State of Oregon received its statehood in 1859. And The City of Oregon has been petitioned by residents of the city to make it clear that we are not associated with Oregon University Ducks Football.
Bucks vs. Ducks
The Ohio State Buckeyes face the Oregon Ducks in the first ever College Football Playoff National Championship. Ohio State coach Urban Meyer:
We know Oregon. I’ll probably be able to call Oregon’s plays because we study them and they study us. There’s a mutual respect.