2000 Oregon Ducks

The 2000 season (10-2) is often cited as the beginning of Oregon's emergence as a national program. Joey Harrington's first year starting, combined with Bellotti's coaching and Nike's growing investment, put Oregon on the map. They beat Texas 35-30 in the Holiday Bowl. See all coaching eras.

Yes. Oregon beat Texas 35-30 in the Holiday Bowl to cap a 10-2 season. Joey Harrington threw for 350 yards. It was a signature win that helped recruit the players who would fuel the 2001 Fiesta Bowl run. See the greatest games in Oregon history.

Joey Harrington was Oregon's starting quarterback in 2000, his first year as the full-time starter. He threw for approximately 2,694 yards and 20 TDs, establishing himself as one of the best QBs in the Pac-10. He would go on to become a Heisman candidate in 2001. See Oregon players in the NFL.

Oregon's biggest win was beating Texas 35-30 in the Holiday Bowl. They also beat USC and Washington during the regular season. The 10-2 record was the best at Oregon since 1995. See all Oregon rivalries.

Oregon finished the 2000 season ranked in the top 10 in most polls after their 10-2 record and Holiday Bowl win over Texas. It set the stage for the program's rise to national prominence in 2001. See the full Oregon timeline.