The 2025 Oregon Ducks enter their second season in the Big Ten with sky-high expectations. After a perfect 13-0 regular season and a Big Ten championship in 2024, the Ducks are no longer a surprise; they are a national title contender. Despite losing key talent to the NFL, head coach Dan Lanning and his staff have reloaded through the transfer portal and recruiting, setting the stage for a run at a second consecutive conference title and a spot in the College Football Playoff. The biggest question for the Ducks this year is whether they can replicate their success with new faces in key positions.
Top Storylines
- Dante Moore’s Development: With former quarterback Dillon Gabriel now in the NFL, the starting job falls to Dante Moore. Moore has been with the program for a year and has learned the system, but he will have to prove he can lead the offense in big-time games. His success, or lack thereof, will determine the ceiling of the Ducks’ offense.
- Physicality in the Trenches: Oregon’s first season in the Big Ten was a success, but the physical nature of the conference tested the team’s depth, particularly on the offensive and defensive lines. Lanning has prioritized bringing in talent in the trenches, with key transfers like DT Bear Alexander on defense and LT Isaiah World on offense. How well this rebuilt front holds up will be a major factor, especially in late-season games.
- The Big Ten Title Repeat: The Ducks successfully won the Big Ten in their first year. The challenge now is to do it again. With a tough road slate and a number of strong teams looking to knock them off, Oregon will have a target on its back. Repeating as conference champions would solidify their place as a new powerhouse in the league.
Key Players to Watch
- Dante Moore, QB: The redshirt sophomore quarterback is now the face of the offense. He has the arm talent and mobility to thrive in the Ducks’ system, but he will need to show consistency and leadership.
- Dakorien Moore, WR: The freshman five-star wide receiver is expected to be an immediate impact player. He has elite speed and playmaking ability and will give Dante Moore a dynamic deep threat.
- Bear Alexander, DL: A transfer from USC, Alexander is a disruptive force on the defensive line. He brings experience and athleticism to the Ducks’ front seven, which will be crucial in stopping the run and pressuring quarterbacks in the Big Ten.
- Kenyon Sadiq and Jamari Johnson, TEs: The Ducks have arguably the best tight end duo in the country. Both Sadiq and Johnson are athletic, reliable targets who can create mismatches all over the field, providing a critical safety valve for Moore.
Key Games
- at Penn State (September 27th): This is a rematch of the 2024 Big Ten Championship game and will be a huge early-season test for both teams. A win in Happy Valley would be a massive statement for the Ducks and a crucial step toward another Big Ten title.
- vs. USC (November 22nd): The rivalry returns to Autzen Stadium with both teams firmly planted in the Big Ten. This game will have conference title implications and will serve as a key opportunity for the Ducks to defend their home turf against a talented, confident opponent.
- at Washington (November 29th): The rivalry continues at the end of the regular season in Seattle. After the Huskies’ national championship run in 2023 and the Ducks’ conference championship in 2024, this game will likely be a high-stakes, high-intensity showdown between two of the Big Ten’s newest heavyweights.
Final Prediction
The Ducks have a loaded roster and an elite coaching staff. While the schedule is tough, the team’s home-field advantage and talent will be enough to navigate the season. I predict they will be able to manage one loss but will still have a shot at a conference championship and should secure a bid to the College Football Playoff.
Final Record: 11-1 Loss to: Penn State Wins over: The rest of the schedule, including an early-season win over Oklahoma State, a home victory over USC, and a late-season rivalry win at Washington.
Want more Big 10 coverage? Here is a preview of the Big 10 season based on Vegas’ projected win totals. More Big 10 previews: Minnesota, Michigan, Nebraska, Illinois, Michigan State, Northwestern, Iowa, UCLA, USC, Maryland, Rutgers, Washington and Wisconsin.
