On Sept. 10, Charlie Kirk, was shot at a Utah college event. He was an Oregon Ducks’ fan. At just 31, he had attended the Ducks’ thrilling 32-31 win over OSU in 2024 and often “built his events around their game times,” according to Outkick’s Clay Travis. Kirk’s passion for the Ducks was on full display, filling social media with cheers and updates. Now, as Dan Lanning’s Oregon pulls off another stunning upset, his wife, Erika Kirk, can’t help but celebrate. She shares his love for the team, honoring his memory.

“My goodness, did he love the Oregon Ducks,” said Erika on Sept. 12. “He’d want me to say ‘Go Ducks,’ so I have to since they play on Saturday. So, go Ducks.” This season, Oregon has stayed perfect at 5-0, and its latest triumph came in dramatic fashion. The Ducks battled through two overtimes to claim a thrilling 30-24 win over PSU in what may now be called, Unhappy Valley. Following that, Erika couldn’t contain her excitement, posting: “LET’S GO DUCKS!!” It’s a celebration of a legacy, passion, and a team that keeps making magic on the field. But not only Ducks, the Illinois native was a devoted fan of the MLB’s Chicago Cubs too. But what makes Erika’s celebration even more special?

It is the memory of her late husband, who had planned to attend Saturday’s matchup before tragedy struck. HC Dan Lanning, who only recently learned of Kirk’s fandom, called the shooting “evil” and a heartbreaking reminder of how life can be taken too soon. “Life matters, and I think we’ve lost sight of that,” said Lanning, reflecting on the senseless violence and the chilling reality that children are now discussing tragedy in schools and churches. But how did Oregon pull off the win?

The game came down to overtime. PSU struck first, with Kaytron Allen punching in a 4-yard TD. But Oregon answered with grit. QB Dante Moore scrambled, connected with Jayden Limar, and sneaked a shovel pass to Jamari Johnson for the TD, sending the game into a second OT. In the second OT, Moore delivered a clutch catch-and-run to Gary Bryant to tie it 24-24. And then the Ducks’ defense sealed the win when Dillon Thieneman intercepted Drew Allar, giving Oregon a thrilling road victory over PSU. Now, while Oregon celebrates on the field, fans flock in huge numbers for Charlie Kirk’s ‘FREEDOM’ T-shirts.

Charlie Kirk’s T-shirt turned into the must-have item of the game

On Saturday, Beaver Stadium’s parking lot turned into a sea of fans paying tribute to the late Charlie Kirk. Hundreds lined up for a “FREEDOM” T-shirt celebrating the TPUSA founder and conservative activist, waving flags and chanting “USA!” as the line stretched for blocks. The giveaway, timed with the Oregon vs. PSU game, highlighted how his passion for football and influence on supporters continues to resonate. But the real showstopper?

Turning Point USA unveiled plans to give away 5,000 shirts, with Benny Johnson explaining on Will Cain Country that the effort was a tribute to Kirk’s legacy. “In honor of Charlie Kirk, we’re taking the fight to the arena he loved most, college football,” he said. In addition, the shirts altered PSU’s whiteout tradition, transforming the student section into a wave of Charlie Kirk freedom gear.

Dan Lanning further reflected on Kirk’s tragedy, highlighting the unity and respect he values in his own locker room. “You walk in that locker room, and you’ve got guys of all races, backgrounds, and religions, and a team that genuinely cares for each other. I wish the world could take a page from that,” said Lanning. The T-shirt giveaway and whiteout tribute merged CFB tradition with a heartfelt celebration, honoring Kirk’s life and lasting impact on supporters alike.