Oregon vs. Oregon State Rivalry: Why the Civil War Game Isn’t Dead, Just Changing

The announcement that the annual Oregon vs. Oregon State football game, affectionately (or perhaps not so affectionately) known as the Civil War, will pause after the 2025 season sent shockwaves through the Pacific Northwest. For over a century, this rivalry has been a constant, a fixture on the college football landscape. But amidst the conference realignment chaos, many wondered if the game was truly gone forever.

Fear not, Beaver and Duck fans! While the Pac-12 as we know it is crumbling, the Civil War game is not dead. It’s simply evolving. The two universities have committed to continuing the rivalry, albeit on a non-conference basis, starting in 2027.

Why the Pause? Conference Realignment and Scheduling Complexities

The primary reason for the pause is, of course, conference realignment. Oregon is heading to the Big Ten, while Oregon State is left in a significantly diminished Pac-12 (or what’s left of it). Reconstructing their football schedules to accommodate a non-conference game against a team in a completely different conference presents significant logistical hurdles. The 2026 season provides a buffer for both programs to adjust, secure non-conference opponents, and strategically plan for the future of the rivalry.

What the Future Holds: A Renewed, Possibly Even Fiercer, Rivalry

Many speculate that the change to a non-conference game might actually increase the intensity of the Civil War. Without the pressure of conference standings and potential playoff implications directly tied to the game, the focus shifts purely to bragging rights and state pride. This could lead to even more creative coaching strategies, riskier play calls, and an all-out battle for dominance on the field.

Furthermore, the absence of conference ties could make the game more accessible to national audiences. A high-profile non-conference rivalry game between two well-established programs like Oregon and Oregon State is a valuable television property, attracting viewers beyond the immediate fanbase.

So, while the Civil War game may be taking a temporary hiatus, its future looks bright. Expect a renewed, and potentially even fiercer, rivalry to resume in 2027, continuing a tradition that has captivated generations of Oregonians. The Beaver-Duck battle is far from over.