The Oregon Ducks have made a strategic move to bolster their quarterback development by hiring Steve Calhoun, a highly respected quarterback coach who previously worked with the Green Bay Packers, to coach their quarterback, Dillon Gabriel. This decision signals Oregon’s strong commitment to enhancing its offensive game, particularly at the quarterback position, as they look ahead to the 2025 college football season. Calhoun’s arrival marks a new chapter in the Ducks’ efforts to compete at the highest level in the Pac-12 Conference and beyond.
Steve Calhoun brings a wealth of experience to Oregon, having worked closely with quarterbacks in the NFL, including Green Bay Packers’ signal-caller Jordan Love. Calhoun has earned a reputation as a quarterback guru, developing a reputation for helping quarterbacks refine their mechanics, decision-making, and ability to perform under pressure.
He has spent years coaching and mentoring quarterbacks, including Love, who he helped develop into the promising talent now starting for the Packers. Calhoun’s extensive coaching background, particularly in working with quarterbacks at the highest level, is expected to provide Dillon Gabriel with expert guidance as he prepares for a critical season in his career.
Dillon Gabriel, who transferred to Oregon from the University of Central Florida (UCF), enters the season as one of the most highly regarded quarterbacks in college football. Gabriel is known for his strong arm, mobility, and football IQ, but he still has areas in his game that require refinement to reach his full potential. With Calhoun’s expertise, Gabriel will be able to work on improving his throwing mechanics, footwork, and overall consistency. Calhoun’s reputation for developing quarterbacks who can read defenses and make quick, confident decisions will be invaluable for Gabriel, as these are key components of success in Oregon’s fast-paced offensive system.
Calhoun’s coaching philosophy focuses on more than just physical skills. His holistic approach takes into account a quarterback’s mental preparation and ability to manage pressure in high-stakes situations. Having worked with quarterbacks in both college and the NFL, Calhoun is known for his ability to break down complex concepts into actionable steps that help quarterbacks improve their performance in both practice and games. His influence on Gabriel will extend beyond mere technical adjustments, helping him develop a more confident and composed approach to the game.
Oregon head coach Dan Lanning and the Ducks’ staff understand that quarterback play is crucial to the team’s success. With Dillon Gabriel’s potential and Calhoun’s expertise, the Ducks are positioning themselves to excel offensively. The decision to hire Calhoun comes as part of a broader strategy to ensure that Oregon remains competitive in one of the toughest college football conferences. With Calhoun’s guidance, Gabriel will be able to further hone his skills and maximize his impact on the field, providing the Ducks with the leadership they need from their quarterback.
In conclusion, Steve Calhoun’s hiring is a significant development for the Oregon Ducks. His extensive experience, particularly in coaching quarterbacks like Jordan Love, makes him an ideal fit to work with Dillon Gabriel. By bringing in such an experienced and successful coach, the Ducks are sending a clear message about their ambitions for the upcoming season and their investment in developing a top-tier quarterback to lead their offense.