Oregon Duck turns to cardboard cutout for Boise State entrance
Oregon’s mascot entered the 2026 season opener with a cardboard version of itself, apparently reducing the risk of another head-loss incident.
The Oregon Duck mascot used a cardboard Oregon Duck cutout during Oregon’s 2026 season opener against Boise State, according to Fox Sports.
The cutout was propped up by the mascot as the Oregon Ducks prepared to take the field. Fox Sports reported that the arrangement may have helped keep the mascot’s head in place, although it did not establish that preventing a head-loss incident was the deliberate purpose.
The Oregon Duck has built a reputation for elaborate entrances, including ziplining into the stadium, using “Mission Impossible” music and appearing as Michael Jordan before dunking on and destroying a children’s basketball hoop.
The mascot has also previously lost its head during entrances, including during a stampede of Oregon players running on to the field. The Boise State opener, described by Fox Sports as a close game with less spectacle, produced a more restrained piece of entrance theatre.
Oregon’s next listed home game is against Portland State on 18 September. The team’s Week 2 fixture is away against Oklahoma State.
