Oregon Football Faces Heavy Pressure as Big Ten Target in 2025 Season
Every team in the Big Ten will be aiming to knock off Oregon this fall — including reigning national champion Ohio State.
After capturing the Big Ten title in their debut season, the Ducks now have a target on their backs with 17 other teams eager to claim the crown.
Oregon enters the 2025 season with sky-high expectations. A stacked defense, a new quarterback in former five-star Dante Moore, and a strong recruiting class — highlighted by Kobe Bryant’s nephew, safety Jett Washington — have energized the fanbase. But can it all result in Oregon finally bringing home a long-coveted national title?
Dante Moore Poised to Outshine Dillon Gabriel
Dante Moore brings a higher ceiling than his predecessor, Dillon Gabriel, who finished as a Heisman finalist. The former five-star recruit, transferring from UCLA, has studied under Gabriel and is now ready to take control.
Offensive coordinator Will Stein will tap into Moore’s arm talent and mobility within Oregon’s up-tempo, RPO-heavy scheme — perfectly suited for Moore’s skill set. Once compared to Dak Prescott in high school, Moore has the tools to become Oregon’s next elite QB.
Freshman WR Dakorien Moore Will Make Immediate Impact
Moore isn’t the only exciting new face in Eugene. Five-star freshman wide receiver Dakorien Moore — a former LSU commit — is expected to contribute right away. With Tez Johnson gone, Moore brings elite run-after-catch ability and deep-threat potential that the Ducks will look to unleash early.
Matayo Uiagalelei Will Earn NFL Buzz
On defense, Oregon edge rusher Matayo Uiagalelei will draw NFL attention after a breakout 2024 campaign that featured 10.5 sacks. The 6’5″, 270-pound defender has the size, strength, and versatility to line up across the defensive front and could rise into top-10 draft consideration if he continues to progress, especially against the run.
Oregon Will Contend—But Fall Short of a Repeat
With a strong returning core, Oregon will remain in the Big Ten title picture. However, they’ll face stiffer competition from powerhouses like Ohio State, Michigan, and Penn State — along with dark-horse USC, who made major offseason upgrades.
Expect the Ducks to start 4-0 before a loss to Penn State. They’ll bounce back with a win over Indiana and enter a Nov. 22 showdown with USC with major playoff implications. Oregon’s likely ceiling is a 10-2 record — good enough for a strong bowl game, but short of another Big Ten title in a much deeper conference this fall.