The Marcus Mariota Era Enters With a Bang

EUGENE -- Redshirt freshman Marcus Mariota proved the Oregon coaching staff's decision to start him by throwing for 216 yards on a 19-for-23 passing effort that resulted in three touchdowns. Oregon went into halftime leading 50-10.

Marcus Mariota was razor-sharp in the first half hitting virtually any receiver he chose and his favorite target was De'Anthony Thomas who had four receptions for 44 yards and two touchdowns. Thomas also had 64 yards of rushing and a touchdown run of 33 yards. Josh Huff also scored on a 4-yard reception.

Senior running back Kenjon Barner had two touchdowns from his 66 yards of rushing. Freshman Byron Marshall also scored his first touchdown in his career on 1-yard charge into the endzone.

Arkansas State kicked a 43-yard field goal by Brian Davis. Quarterback Ryan Aplin hit senior wide receiver Julian Jones for 73-yard scoring play that culminated the scoring for the half.