As the transfer portal window slams shut and spring football fades into memory, the 2025 college football season enters the scene. With unresolved quarterback battles and depth charts forming, our early power rankings may give you a glimpse of what’s to come.
Among the competing teams, the Oregon Ducks had one of the best seasons: they secured a 13-0 regular season, a Big Ten title, and the No. 3 position on College Football Network’s 1-136 Power Rankings. However, despite their high position, experts are skeptical about Oregon’s prospects, mainly due to the loss of Heisman candidate quarterback Dillon Gabriel. With a talented roster and a favorable schedule, can the Ducks prove the doubters wrong?
Oregon Ducks Have Everything On Their Side But May Still Get Overlooked
Oregon’s 2024 campaign was a masterclass under coach Dan Lanning. They managed a 13-0 regular season and a Big Ten championship. Quarterback Dillon Gabriel threw for 2,371 yards and 18 touchdowns, orchestrating an offense that ranked among the nation’s best. However, a 41-21 Rose Bowl loss to Ohio State exposed some weaknesses in the Ducks’ lines, which has become a significant concern as they face a severe roster overhaul.
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Key departures include Gabriel, running back Jordan James, wide receiver Tez Johnson, tight end Terrance Ferguson, and most of the starting offensive line and secondary. Now, the weight of expectation has fallen on sophomore quarterback Dante Moore, a former five-star recruit who transferred from UCLA.
Moore, who studied under Gabriel last season, is expected to lead an offense strengthened by five-star freshman wide receiver Dakorien Moore (no relation), who is ranked the No. 1 wide receiver in the 2025 class by 247Sports.
Experts believe Dakorien Moore has the potential to push the Ducks higher than No. 8. With the amazing showing during the spring season, the trust has become more solid. In addition to the Moores, the Ducks will also depend on Noah Whittington and highly praised freshman Jordan Washington.
Defensively, sophomores like Matayo Uiagalelei and Aydin Breland anchor a young but talented unit. Yet, with only two returning starters in the front seven and none in the secondary, a lack of experience could be a hurdle. Besides this new but promising lineup, the Ducks have a very manageable schedule this season.
KEEP READING: Oregon Football 2025 Projected Depth Chart: Dante Moore, Austin Novosad Neck and Neck for Ducks QB1 Ahead of the Season
However, in the end, the doubts about the Ducks run this season are well placed. Nevertheless, history proves that Ducks have come on top and proved everyone wrong when doubted and overlooked. For example, during last year’s preseason, when the Ducks were underestimated, they stormed to an undefeated regular season. Lanning’s staff, including offensive coordinator Will Stein and defensive coordinator Tosh Lupoi, has a track record of giving their best under pressure.
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