Curiously, the Ducks‘ extraordinary campaign wasn’t enough to get them into the Big Ten Championship next weekend, but as the saying goes, every cloud has a silver lining.

Malik Benson, one of the most dynamic receivers in Dante Moore’s offense, spoke to the media after the Huskies’ victory and sent a warning to their rivals, noting that the rest period ahead will only serve to make their team even stronger.

“Getting some rest is gonna be good for my guys. But it’s gonna be scary once we get all of our guys back,” the WR said via Rob Moseley. Next weekend, Dan Lanning will be able to give his players some rest and focus clearly on the start of the CFP.

Ducks set their sights on the upcoming Playoffs

The Oregon Ducks’ objective for the College Football Playoff is clear: win the first-round game and advance toward the National Championship. The Ducks are projected to land a seed between No. 5, No. 6, or No. 7, guaranteeing them a massive home-field advantage at Autzen Stadium for the opening round.

They will likely face the No. 10, No. 11, or No. 12 seed, which could be anything from a tough ACC champion to the highest-ranked Group of Five team. For Head Coach Dan Lanning’s squad, the focus isn’t on the opponent, but on capitalizing on the chance to win a CFP game in Eugene and proving they are legitimate title contenders.

Who will play in the Big Ten Championship Game?

The 2025 Big Ten Football Championship Game will feature the Ohio State Buckeyes against the Indiana Hoosiers. The game will be played on Saturday, December 6, 2025, at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis.

It wasn’t easy by any means. In fact, the final 18-16 score ultimately reflects just how hard Dan Lanning’s team had to work to overcome this tough challenge. Moore knew he would need all of his teammates, and he made that clear in postgame comments.

The talented quarterback took time to speak with the press after the game, emphasizing teamwork over his individual performance as the key to securing victories in College Football.

“As a quarterback you obviously always want to throw the ball and throw for five touchdowns or whatever it is, but when you against Big Ten team, especially Iowa, it’s always going to be a tough game, and the offense is always going to be at its best when the run-game is there.

“We did a great job in the run-game, there were a lot of runs that were hit and we did a great job. In general, I mean as a quarterback, a win is a win, and as a team, a win is a win. So it doesn’t matter if I threw for 500 yards or zero yards, it’s just whatever we’ve got to do to get it done.“

The game-decider

With just a handful of seconds left on the clock and his team trailing by a point, Moore connected with his receiver on a surgical pass, setting up a clutch kick that ultimately gave his team the three points.

“Dante was lights-out in that drive. It reminds me of what we do in practice. We put our guys in a lot of scenarios like that. I don’t ever give them a minute and 51, I don’t ever give them that much time to execute that same situation. So they were able to do it quick,” Dan Lanning said.

The final stretch of the season

The high-powered Oregon Ducks, firmly in the College Football Playoff conversation, are facing a make-or-break final stretch that will define their season.

The Ducks must protect their home field in Eugene against both the Minnesota Golden Gophers and a formidable, ranked USC Trojans squad. The following week, they travel for the season-ending rivalry showdown against the Washington Huskies in Seattle.

With their ranking positioning them right on the edge of the final CFP spots, Oregon understands that three wins are essential—particularly a dominant victory over rival Washington—to secure its place in the four-team tournament and contend for a National Championship.

An injury during practice sidelined Dakorien Moore for the game against the Iowa Hawkeyes, and many speculated that it could keep him out for the remainder of the season, including potential playoff games.

However, according to the latest reports, one of Lanning’s top players could return sooner than expected, as it was finally confirmed that his injury is not season-ending.

“Source tells @On3sports that Oregon WR Dakorien Moore is not believed to be done for the year, a source tells @On3sports @mzenitz first,” the insider Pete Nakos reported via his X official account.

Moore’s stellar season

The sensational season by true freshman wide receiver Dakorien Moore has come to a screeching halt due to injury, leaving a massive void in the Oregon offense. Through just eight games, the Ducks‘ star receiver was an instant impact player, leading the team with 28 receptions and 443 receiving yards.

His spectacular playmaking ability earned him the trust of the coaching staff and made him quarterback Dante Moore’s top target. With three receiving touchdowns (tied for third on the team), Moore’s production was critical to Oregon’s success, and his immediate absence tests the depth of the entire receiving corps.

Reaching the Playoffs

The Oregon Ducks are staring down a daunting, defining gauntlet as they make their final push for a spot in the expanded College Football Playoff. Ranked No. 9 in the initial CFP poll, the Ducks know their resume requires immediate upgrades.

The final four weeks present a trio of ranked challenges, starting with a must-win road trip to No. 20 Iowa. That high-stakes run is immediately followed by home battles against No. 19 USC and a season-ending rivalry clash at No. 23 Washington.

For Coach Dan Lanning’s squad, control of the Big Ten and a shot at the National Championship will be determined by whether they can navigate this treacherous path and prove they belong among the nation’s elite.

While their upcoming opponent isn’t having the best of seasons, a unique challenge awaits Dan Lanning and his coaching staff: Wisconsin has yet to confirm who will be their starting quarterback, leaving it uncertain how the Ducks will approach this dilemma.

When asked by the press about this issue, Lanning was clear, confirming that the team will prepare as thoroughly as possible, analyzing every possible scenario they might face on the field.

“Yeah, you’ve got to prepare for all of them,” the HC said via On3.com. “And then they’re all a little bit different, right? There’s a little bit more of a run game with 18 [Danny O’Neil]. It’s a little bit different offense with each, but they do have an identity with what they try to do regardless of who is in there. So we’ve just got to be aware of which guy is on the field and what it looks like.”

The Badgers’ unsettled QB situation

Luke Fickell had a clear vision for his team’s strategy this season; however, the early injury to Billy Edwards Jr. forced an unexpected change of plans. Regarding the knee issue his starter suffered, the head coach addressed his recovery situation.

“I don’t know that,” Fickell said. “We didn’t do nearly as much with him later in the week. You know, that’s one of those things. As we get to Tuesday, we’re trying to say that’s, don’t do too much, and then figure out where we are on Tuesday. So we don’t know right now.

“We’re hoping that it’s better, and we have to continue to figure that out. That’s one of those things he said, What can make a change and give you a change? Well, that could be one, but just don’t know when he is going to be available.”

When and where the Ducks will take on the Badgers

The No. 6 Oregon Ducks will face the Wisconsin Badgers this Saturday, October 25, in a Big Ten showdown. The game will be played at Autzen Stadium in Eugene, Oregon, with kickoff slated for 4:00 p.m. PT (7:00 p.m. ET).

Gabriel had a strong season in Eugene before entering the NFL Draft, with many even projecting him to be selected by a team much earlier than what ultimately happened.

In a recent conversation with the media, Lanning spoke about his former player’s selection as the next starter for the Browns, revealing that he still keeps in touch with several of his former players to this day.

“I’m excited for Dillon,” Lanning said. “He’s a guy that works extremely hard, and I know he won’t take it for granted. He still has done an unbelievable job of staying connected with our players here. Pretty awesome for a guy that’s moved on in the next phase of his life, that still touches base with our team.

“But I’m excited for him, excited for his opportunity. I know he’ll make the absolute best of it.”

Gabriel’s time in Eugene

Dillon Gabriel‘s single season in Eugene was nothing short of historic. The veteran quarterback delivered a masterclass for the Oregon Ducks, posting a career-high 3,857 passing yards with 30 touchdowns and a staggering 72.9% completion rate.

His brilliant campaign cemented his NCAA legacy, finishing his collegiate career as the FBS all-time leader in total touchdowns, a phenomenal close to one of the most productive careers college football has ever seen.

Moore wants to follow in Gabriel’s footsteps

After apprenticing under Dillon Gabriel, Oregon’s new QB1, Dante Moore, is focused on building on the Ducks’ winning tradition. Moore, who has been openly vocal about learning Gabriel’s detailed preparation process, is now leading the high-powered offense, aiming to replicate the senior’s success that included a Big Ten Championship and a College Football Playoff berth.

Much was made in the lead-up to this game about how the environment would impact the visiting team. With thousands of fans packing the stadium for the traditional White Out, the atmosphere was electric — but in the end, it proved to be little more than a footnote.

Following the 30–24 victory and amid the postgame celebrations, Lanning posted an interesting four-word message on his official Instagram account — a clear reference to Mo Bamba, the song traditionally used by Penn State during events like this.

“My Favorite New Song,” the young but experienced head coach shared through his official account, @coachdanlanning.

Lanning shares his thoughts after the win

It was well known that this could be a turning point in the Ducks’ season, and Dan Lanning made sure his players understood that. They responded accordingly — and delivered in exceptional fashion.

“I think that’s the best game I’ve ever been a part of, regardless of who won that game, unbelievable back and forth,” Lanning said postgame.

“Penn State is a damn good football team. They figured out some stuff there against us at the end. I think we both scored two touchdowns in the second half, just an unbelievable back and forth.”

Dante Moore is destined for greatness

Dillon Gabriel’s departure to the NFL left a major question mark in Eugene about how his successor would perform this College Football season. Dante Moore was chosen to take the reins — and the head coach knows he made the right call without a doubt.

“I think we have the best quarterback in college football,” Lanning said. “Anybody watch that game? That guy’s composure, his poise…tells you a little bit about that guy.”

While their latest win over Oregon State made it clear that this team is all-in on an aggressive offensive approach, the upcoming challenge against Penn State will be a completely different test from anything they’ve faced so far.

Lanning, no stranger to big-time challenges in this league, spoke to the media this week and addressed the atmosphere awaiting his team this weekend. He acknowledged that this matchup will likely be one of the toughest and most evenly contested games they’ve faced so far.

“They’re really talented. Schematically, as challenging as anybody we’ll play,” the HC told Olivia Cleary of KEZI 9 News. “It’ll be a real challenge, but one we’re excited to attack.”

“I feel good about our team. I really like our team. This will be a good environment for us to go play in,” he also said, per Erik Skopil of 247 Sports. “We’re going to be playing people who have a lot of talent as well and a good scheme on both sides of the ball. It will be a real challenge for us.”

Facing a hostile crowd

The Ducks‘ journey next weekend will be anything but easy—especially once the first snap kicks off their showdown with the Nittany Lions. The home crowd at Beaver Stadium is expected to be a major factor, and Dan Lanning has been preparing his team for exactly that.

During his recent press conference, the young but experienced head coach shared some insight into how he’s been preparing for what lies ahead.

“It’ll play a couple times,” he said via Basic Blues Nation on X. “We’ll do everything we can to be ready for that environment, for sure… I don’t love that song.” Lanning made specific mention of blasting Mo Bamba at full volume during practice this week—a tactic aimed at simulating the deafening noise his team will face on the road.

What’s next for the Ducks?

• @ Penn State, September 27
• vs Indiana, October 11
• @ Rutgers, October 18
• vs Wisconsin, October 25
• @ Iowa, November 8

With a 34–14 final score, the Ducks secured a convincing win in their Big Ten opener. Balance and solidity across all units proved to be the defining traits in yet another strong showing from Lanning’s squad.

However, the young yet experienced head coach didn’t walk away from the game with the best of feelings — something he made clear during his postgame remarks to the press.

“I’ve got a little sour taste in my mouth with the way we ended,” Lanning told FOX Sports’ Jenny Taft. “We’ve got to win the fourth quarter. But ultimately, I saw some good players to some stuff we can build off of.”

Following their trip to Illinois, the Ducks will return to Eugene on September 20 to host their longtime rival, the Oregon State Beavers.

The reliable Dante Moore

Once again, Dante Moore proved to be one of the key factors behind another Oregon victory. Head coach Dan Lanning knows exactly the kind of quarterback he has in Moore — and he’s confident the young signal-caller will continue to bring plenty of success to the team.

“It’s unbelievably high, right? We go with the quarterback,” Lanning said. “We’ve got a really good one here.”

One of the highest-upside quarterbacks in his class finished the game completing 16 of his 20 passes for one touchdown and one interception.

What’s next for the Ducks?

With the goal of keeping their momentum going this college football season, here are the upcoming games on the schedule for the Oregon Ducks:

• vs Oregon State, September 20
• @ Penn State, September 27
• vs Indiana, October 11
• @ Rutgers, October 18
• vs Wisconsin, October 25

The quarterback competition in Eugene also includes Dante Moore, who many viewed as the frontrunner to start in Week 1. However, nothing has been decided yet, and the head coach is still taking his time before making an official announcement.

Far from taking his foot off the gas, Novosad continues to give his all in every practice, openly acknowledging that he still has plenty to improve if he wants to take control of the offense next weekend.

“Yeah, I think the drive and focus (doesn’t) change, but the execution has to increase,” the talented QB said via On3.com.

“And I think, you know, at the end of the day, like I said, when you’re in, are you helping move the offense? Like can you take easy completions, do your job, you know, read the right guy, those things, pre snap and post snap decisions have to be you know, executed at a high level, and I think that’s what kind of changes.”

Lanning’s final decision

While Dan Lanning has yet to make his final decision on who will be the Ducks’ starting quarterback this NCAAF season, the young but experienced head coach has expressed satisfaction with what he’s seen so far from both Dante Moore, Austin Novosad, and the rest of the quarterback room.

“I’m excited about the growth of everybody in our quarterback room,” he stated to the press. “For me, it’s can they operate the offense at a high level? I think if you go back and look at the moments where those guys first got here and you say ‘we should’ve made this check but we didn’t’ or ‘we shouldn’t have adjusted to this and didn’t.

“It’s just the way you use your cadence to command the offense and the way you break a huddle. All those areas have been a big improvement, and then a couple of plays hit and all of a sudden everybody’s confidence goes up.”

Back in the spotlight

After a stellar 2024-25 campaign that saw the Oregon Ducks finish with a 13-1 record and a Big Ten Conference title, expectations are sky-high as they look to build on their success. The team, which reached the College Football Playoff semifinals before a narrow loss to eventual champions Ohio State, returns a talented core ready to make another run.

Quarterback Dillon Gabriel’s departure leaves a major void, but the team’s potent offense will now be led by incoming transfer and five-star recruit Dante Moore. With a robust returning cast on both sides of the ball, including standout linebacker Jestin Jacobs and a strong offensive line, Oregon is a top contender to not only repeat as Big Ten champions, but to finally break through and reach the national championship game.

Both Dante Moore and Austin Novosad are among the top contenders to lead the team in Game 1 against Montana State, with Moore perhaps having the edge based on what he’s shown during training camp.

Despite the tight competition, Novosad made it clear to the media that he’s confident in the work he’s put in and believes his chances should be seriously considered in the short term.

“I think I’ve gone out there and executed the offense and done the best that I can,” Novosad said. “So, I feel confident.”

The debate remains unresolved

While Dan Lanning has yet to officially name his starting quarterback for Week 1, many believe that although Dante Moore appears to have the edge, Austin Novosad should at least be given consideration for some snaps.

“I think that’s the expectation right now, as you look at Oregon, (Moore’s) obviously been in the program,” the insider Pete Thamel said on Friday’s episode of The Pat McAfee Show.

“They paid him a lot of money to be the backup last year. But it wouldn’t surprise me if we do see some real snaps from (backup) Austin Novosad this year. Really talented young guy coming in. I would think that Dante Moore is ahead there right now, but I don’t know if it’s a hammer-lock on the job.”

The first challenges for the Ducks

• vs Montana State, August 30
• vs Oklahoma State, September 6
• @ Northwestern, September 13
• vs Oregon State, September 20
• @ Penn State, September 27

Now with more experience and a full season under their belt, the team from Eugene is aiming to make another big statement—this time, with better luck in the Playoffs.

During a recent media session, the young but battle-tested head coach spoke about the new challenge ahead and made it clear that his team won’t back down—no matter how tough the competition may be.

“I get asked that question every year and for me it’s always the same,” Lanning said at Oregon Media Day. “What’s the best version of us? If we’re playing our best version of football… if we’re being the best we can possibly be then that’s something I’m excited about. The results kind of take care of themselves. What’s our goal? I mean we have high standards. We came [to the Big Ten] to win championships.”

He also added: “Obviously we got an opportunity to taste that last year with the Big Ten Championship, but we want to win them all. Not just some of them. But, that’s also not football. That’s not very common because it’s hard to do. So, biggest goal is to be uncommon. That’s doing things other people can’t do and figuring out what we need to do to get there.”

Staying relevant over the years

2022 was the year the Ducks decided to bet on youth and talent, handing the reins of the program in Eugene to Dan Lanning. The head coach did not disappoint—posting a 35-6 record and proving that age is just a number. His ability to develop players has been evident from the start.

“Well I think everything in football is about learning different ways to say the same thing over and over again,” Lanning said. “You’ve got to make sure it’s interesting and exciting for your team. Ultimately winning football is winning football and that’s been really consistent. What’s the new run scheme in the league that we haven’t seen? That’s what’s different.”

“What’s gonna change is ‘how are we gonna do it?’ So I think the goals are consistently the same,” he also added. “There are some of those goals that we have hit in the past and some that we haven’t. That tells you quickly that this is an area that we want to attack. This is something we’ve got to do better this season. Ultimately, a lot of it’s the same. The process of getting there may be a little bit different but the process in itself is also the same.”