Oregon State University and the University of Oregon have sealed a four‑game football series that will kick off in 2028, marking the latest chapter in a rivalry that dates back more than a hundred meetings. The agreement, announced on Tuesday, schedules contests on September 16, 2028, September 15, 2029, August 30, 2031 and September 11, 2032, each set to showcase the best of Pacific Northwest college football.
A rivalry reborn
The two schools have faced each other 129 times, a tally that places the series among the most played in the Football Bowl Subdivision. While the bulk of those contests have traditionally taken place in November, recent years have seen a shift toward earlier dates, with only three of the last meetings occurring outside the traditional month.
This new arrangement not only restores the frequency of the matchup but also introduces a fresh slate of venues and dates, including a return to Corvallis and Eugene, the home cities of the respective campuses. The schedule reflects a deliberate effort to balance competitive fairness with logistical considerations for fans and broadcasters alike.
Corporate partners lend their names
The series will be presented by a coalition of regional sponsors, including Safeway‑Albertsons, PacificSource Health Plans, Your Local Toyota Dealers and First Interstate Bank. Their involvement underscores the economic and cultural significance of college athletics in Oregon, tying community commerce to the excitement of the gridiron.
Beyond the financial backing, the partnership highlights a broader trend of corporate investment in collegiate sports, where local businesses seek to align their brands with the passion of college football fans. The sponsorship package includes promotional activations, ticket giveaways and joint marketing campaigns that will extend the reach of each game beyond the stadium.
Looking ahead
For the universities, the agreement represents more than a contractual obligation; it is a celebration of shared history and a promise of future competition that will engage alumni, students and residents across the state. As the 2028 kickoff approaches, anticipation builds for a series that could redefine the rhythm of college football in the Pacific Northwest for the next decade.