Issuu

THURSDAY, AUG. 27, 2026

PRE-SEASON EDITION

THE

STANDARD

IS SET

How the 2026 Ducks mirror Dan Lanning’s growth.

2026-2027 SEASON GAME SCHEDULE PG. 7 PRO DUCKS MAKING NOISE IN THE NFL PRESEASON PG. 10

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GAMEDAY GAMEDAY, The Daily Emerald’s football edition, is published by Emerald Media Group, Inc., the independent nonprofit news company at the University of Oregon founded in 1900. EMERALD MEDIA GROUP 1395 University St., rm. 302 Eugene, OR 97403 541.346.5511 | dailyemerald.com

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(ON THE COVER) Dan Lanning leads his team out onto the field as the Duck fans who made the trip to Indianapolis cheer them on. The No. 1 ranked Oregon Ducks took on the No. 4 Penn State Nittany Lions on Dec. 7, 2024, at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, IN. (Jonathan Suni/Emerald)

(RIGHT) Fireworks explode above Autzen Stadium as the Oregon team runs out from their tunnel. The No. 5 University of Oregon Ducks demolished the No. 12 James Madison University Dukes 51-34 in the first round of the College Football Playoff at Autzen Stadium in Eugene, Ore., on Dec 20, 2025. (Saj Sundaram/Emerald)

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CAN THUNDER AND LIGHTNING STRIKE AGAIN? After a breakthrough first season, what can teammates Jordon Davison and Dierre Hill Jr. do this season? By Rowan Shea Sports Writer

It’s incredible when a team can have a standout freshman with the skills and talent to disrupt any defense. It’s almost unheard of when they have two who can do it. To have those teammates be as close as Dierre Hill Jr. and Jordon Davison creates a force to be reckoned with. The connection between the two running backs has been flourishing since the beginning of last season. In August, their shared nickname of Thunder and Lightning was given to them by then offensive coordinator Will Stein. Just a few months later in October, before the game against the Wisconsin Badgers, Hill referred to his relationship with Davison: “It’s really like a brother-brother situation,” Hill said. “I would call him my brother.” The duo was a terrific one-two punch for the Ducks last season. Davison played in 14 games, had 667 total yards and 15 touchdowns, while Hill played in 15 games, had

Oregon Ducks running back Jordon Davison (0) celebrates after scoring a touchdown. The University of Oregon Ducks took on the University of WisconsinMadison Badgers at Autzen Stadium on Oct. 25, 2025. (Saj Sundaram/Emerald)

656 yards and 5 touchdowns. They did that while being on the same team as other weapons like Noah Whittington, Dakorien Moore and Kenyon Sadiq. In 2026, the Ducks’ backfield will look a little different. The biggest blow is the loss of Whittington, who has taken his talents to the Lone Star State for the Houston Texans. Jayden Limar also left the Ducks to join the Washington Huskies. Thanks to those changes, Davison and Hill are now the headliners of the running back position for the Ducks. Both will have to lead the position group and help mentor the younger players coming into the program. “Being able to help the guys with any questions they have, it just makes me feel good to know that I can answer those for them,” Hill said. “It shows that I’ve grown in that aspect of the game.” With more time spent in the program, the two will be leaned on as leaders of the team. They have proven themselves on the field in their first season, and should continue to improve in year two, but to make the leap into

a much-valued cog in the machine, they need to become leaders players can lean on. The Ducks have five of the top 10, 2025 Big Ten rush defenses on the docket for the 2026 season: Ohio State, Washington, Michigan, Illinois and Northwestern, but based on last season’s numbers, Washington and Ohio State are the only two teams the Ducks will face this season that may have an answer for Thunder and Lightning. Last season, Washington held the Ducks to just 106 rushing yards, with Hill racking up 29 yards and Davison 24 yards. Neither got in the end zone. Ohio State, who the Ducks did not face, was the second-best defense against the rush in the Big Ten behind Indiana. If Hill and Davison can produce at the same quality they did last season, the running back position for Oregon will be just fine, but if they can turn up the dial and take a step forward in 2026, there is no stopping the duo or, for that matter, the Oregon offense.

Oregon Ducks running back Dierre Hill Jr. (23) during warm ups. The No. 5 University of Oregon Ducks took on the No. 1 Indiana University Hoosiers in the third round of the College Football Playoff at the Peach Bowl held at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Ga. on Jan 9, 2026. (Saj Sundaram/Emerald)

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KRASNOWSKI: WHO’S NEXT?

Predicting Oregon football’s next breakout stars.

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2026 FOOTBALL GAME SCHEDULE 9/5 BOISE STATE

AUTZEN STADIUM STRIPE OUT

9/12 OKLAHOMA STATE STILLWATER, OK WEAR GREEN

By Joe Krasnowski Sports Editor

We are just a few weeks out from the kickoff of Oregon football’s fifth season under Dan Lanning, which means every player on every team in the country is “in the best shape of their lives” while “going about their business” amid a “competitive training camp.” You get the gist. All fans can do now is speculate. Now, allow us to do the same.

9/18 PORTLAND STATE AUTZEN STADIUM WEAR GREEN

AYDIN BRELAND A former five-star, Breland has matured within Lanning’s defensive system for two full seasons. Breland enters the season as the third most experienced returning interior D-lineman on the roster, and Lanning and Co. need him to realize his potential coming out of high school.

9/26 USC

LOS ANGELES, CA WEAR WHITE

10/10 UCLA

AUTZEN STADIUM WEAR BLACK

10/17 NEBRASKA

NASIR WYATT A player the former sports editor, Jack Lazarus, nicknamed the “Third and Nas” for Wyatt’s affinity for making plays on third down; I fully expect the 6-foot-2, 245-pound edge rusher to make a difference more consistently in 2026. Wyatt totaled 4.0 tackles for loss, 3.0 sacks and a forced fumble as a true freshman and was notably a “money down” specialist. With seniors Teitum Tuioti and Matayo Uiagalelei at edge rusher, coaches have hinted at Wyatt seeing time at inside linebacker in 2026. “Without getting into too much detail, Nas is the Swiss Army, and I think the biggest thing he’s done is he’s really enhanced his football intelligence,” Oregon edge coach Kam Araghi said. “He’s wanting to know the ins and outs of every single defense.”

AUTZEN STADIUM WEAR GREEN

GATLIN BAIR Speed. Always. Plays. Bair ran 10.15 in the 100 meters as a junior in high school and will join the Ducks after serving an LDS mission. Considering 2026 will be Bair’s first camp of any kind with Oregon, his role could be limited at times. However, speed is an unteachable trait, and I’d expect him to turn heads late in the season as well as on special teams. “Gatlin’s really fast. Like, that’s not a secret. He’s got the track times to prove it,” offensive coordinator Drew Mehringer said. “I think that, you know, there’s definitely some rust that has to get knocked off for him… Yeah, I mean, he didn’t forget how to run, you know? He can definitely do that.”

10/24 ILLINOIS

CHAMPAIGN, IL WEAR YELLOW

10/31 NORTHWESTERN AUTZEN STADIUM WEAR BLACK

11/7 OHIO STATE

COLUMBUS, OH WEAR GREEN

11/14 MICHIGAN

AUTZEN STADIUM WEAR GREEN

FOX CRADER Crader’s status as an every-week dependable starter is one of the more underlying stories from the offseason that could propel or halt Oregon’s championship ambitions. For all of Dante Moore’s poise, Evan Stewart’s health and Uiagalelei’s force, little will matter if the Ducks cannot protect the passer in the postseason. Crader becoming a reliable option at tackle is imperative for Lanning’s team.

BAILEY ETTRIDGE More of a vibes-based decision here, a 28-year-old transfer punter from Australia who used to weld has serious fandom potential. Think something along the lines of the “Caucasian Collision Unit” with a down under spin. From all reports, the Nevada punter can kick the ball pretty darn well too. “It’s clear that Bailey is in the lead,” special teams coach Joe Lorig said. “It’s not a secret. He knows that. The other players know that. But the other players are pushing every single day to make him better.”

11/20 MICHIGAN STATE EAST LANSING, MI WEAR YELLOW

11/28 WASHINGTON

AUTZEN STADIUM WEAR BLACK

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IN YEAR FIVE, DAN LANNING’S STANDARD IS SELF-SUSTAINING After overcoming doubts about their experience in 2025, the Ducks’ continuity sets them apart from other 2026 contenders. By Henry Light Sports Associate Editor

In the bowels of a temporary stadium in Evanston, after securing a comfortable 34-14 Week 3 win over Northwestern, Dan Lanning held his 2025 roster to the standards that helped them answer early questions about their inexperience. “I thought we lacked a little killer instinct at the end, and our standards can’t change,” Lanning said instantly upon stepping to the podium on Sept. 13, 2025. Any talk about “standards” could be written off as coachspeak; however, Lanning holds his players accountable through detailed note-taking, goal-setting methods and thoughtful mantras. Those exercises allowed his fourth-year roster to recover from the sloppy win over the Wildcats with a 41-7 demolition of its in-state rivals, and a double-overtime slugfest in Happy Valley. The roster that prompted reasonable preseason questions about its reliance on freshmen and transfers instead displayed a new level of organization for its head coach, allowing its talent to show through instantly. While the team overcame the negative connotations of a rebuilding season, it came out with the biggest perk – continuity. Lanning’s 2026 roster features experienced true sophomores flying out of the backfield and presenting open targets for an NFL lottery-quality quarterback, to go with a defensive front that forewent the NFL draft to pursue unfinished business and personal growth. Thanks to their mix of experienced underclassmen and returning NFL talent, the 2026 Ducks are the most player-led team of Lanning’s tenure, making his standards self-sustaining. “We had a lot of young talent last year and certainly a lot of talent,” Lanning said at 2026 media day. “That being said, talking to our team recently, I said, ‘Raise your hand if you’re new,’ and there’s still a lot of new faces in that room. It’s

going to be about that experience and those young guys and new guys leaning on the people that have been here before.” Up and down the roster, Oregon features standard setters who will use their experience in the program to lead players above and below them on the depth chart, not to mention the downstream effects of practicing against some of the best players in the nation. “My teammates just took me under their wing, like Stew, J-Mac, DK – they made sure that I was on top of my stuff,” University of Alabama at Birmingham transfer Iverson Hooks said. “They made sure that I wouldn’t make the same mistakes that a freshman would make, and they just keep pushing me every day.” The transfers who joined the Ducks last season were frequently tasked with leading their new program, while the fifth-year wide receiver, Hooks, has been welcomed by junior Jeremiah McClellan and sophomore Dakorien Moore in 2026. Oregon’s continuity at nearly every position allows Lanning and his position coaches to utilize players whom they’ve learned to coach over several years in Eugene. “I’ve done this for three years, so I’m just able to one, pour into the younger guys and two, understand my body and understand what I have to do to get ready for the season,” senior outside linebacker Teitum Tuioti said. “I think Coach Love and all the strength staff and all the coaches did a great job of kind of pushing us, but also allowing us to make it a player-led thing, and allowing us to shape our own off-seasons.” The Ducks’ defensive line is perhaps the best example of their experience, with Tuioti, A’Mauri Washington, Matayo Uiagalelei and Bear Alexander passing up NFL opportunities to form an elite defensive front. Washington and Alexander garnered attention in July for squatting 855 pounds in videos posted on social media. At media day, Washington first clarified that he’s hit the mark off-camera in the past, before echoing Tuioti’s sentiment of

feeling comfortable preparing for their fourth season at Oregon. “I feel like in the league you don’t really see guys squatting that much. They’ve got to take care of their bodies more, so I just wanted to get my last chance doing it,” Washington said. “It’s like, just have fun while we out here, man, cause we only get so many times to do this.” Further down the depth chart, the Ducks have highly-touted recruits waiting in the wings and developing behind players who are bound for the NFL as soon as this time next year. The player-led nature of the 2026 Ducks will have untold benefits for the program’s future. “We had a lot of young players that were able to contribute, and that’s because we gave them an avenue to go make an impact,” Lanning said. “Right now it’s about how fast we can find people that are above the line, that can play abovethe-line football, and once we find that, those are guys that we have to figure out a way to get involved.” Oregon has crashed out of the College Football Playoff two seasons in a row by scores that didn’t reflect the talent advantage of its opponents. The lessons learned by Lanning and the players who suffered one or both of those defeats have built a level of experience that should give the Ducks a new advantage against the nation’s top teams. “I feel like we had the team to do it. I still think about it now,” sophomore running back Dierre Hill Jr. said of the Peach Bowl loss to Indiana. “Big brother Noah Whittington – that was really the saddest thing. He was my big brother his senior year. I knew he was headed off to the NFL after that game. I just wanted to help him get a ring before we probably never play with each other again.” The Ducks come into another season feeling like they have the team to do it, but for most starters on both sides of the ball and Lanning himself, that feeling is backed up by necessary development time in college football. (BELOW) Dan Lanning hypes his Ducks up during team stretches as he looks to get his team in the right mindset before the start of the game. The Oregon Ducks travel up to Corvallis to face their in-state rival the Oregon State Beavers on Sept. 14th, 2024. (Jonathan Suni/Emerald)

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PREPARE FOR THE

QUACK ATTACK!

Oregon Duck football games that fans should look forward to this coming 2026-27 season. By Bel Perez Sports Writer

Oregon Ducks fans have a lot to look forward to this coming season. With many highly anticipated games ahead, these are the games that Ducks fans should have circled on their calendars.

FIND THE DUCKS IN THE SKIES! WEEK 1 VS. BOISE STATE BRONCOS

This game against the Boise State University Broncos marks the start of it all. A new season and a new chance for the Ducks to proclaim their dominance. Starting Sept. 5, fans should be excited to see the Ducks back in action as the Ducks take on the Broncos once again. Being Boise State’s first year in the Pac-12 Conference, the Broncos are looking to make their mark. This year, the Broncos are fortunate to have many crucial returning leaders, including senior quarterback Maddux Madsen as well as some key transfer additions like junior linebacker Logan Brantley from the University of Kansas. With the experience and other additions, they are projected to be a strong team in their conference. As for the game, it should be an exciting home opener. Their last matchup on Sept. 7, 2024, was a heart-racing game in which the Ducks took down the Broncos 37-34 on a last-second field goal. This game should feel like a memory to fans, and the competition that lies within should be nothing short of exhilarating.

BATTLE OF THE BEASTS

WEEK 10 @ OHIO STATE BUCKEYES The Ducks are set to face off against the No. 1-ranked Ohio State Buckeyes at Ohio Stadium on Nov. 7. A key matchup as the world will get to see the top two-ranked teams face off in one of the most crucial games of the season. As both teams seek a slot in the College Football Playoff, this game could potentially have a lot riding on it when the time finally comes.

With an aggressive offseason, Ohio State added many transfer players from prestigious football schools like LSU, Alabama and others. As for their quarterback, frontman Julian Sayin is projected to have another high-performing season. Sayin put up 3,610 passing yards with a completion percentage of 77% last season, and the Buckeyes will be a real test for the Ducks. A rematch from the 2025 Rose Bowl, this will be the first time these two teams have seen each other in over a year. Both are teams looking to be the frontrunners in the Big Ten; the winner of this game could gain a great advantage over the rest of the conference.

THANKFUL FOR THE RIVALRY

WEEK 13 VS. WASHINGTON HUSKIES During Thanksgiving weekend, the Ducks are home to play in a classic rivalry against the Washington Huskies. With the last 10 games going an even five wins and five losses against the Huskies, it’s a fun perspective to look at this game as a “tie-breaker.” Washington is always a fun game for fans to look forward to, especially because of all the history behind it. Going 8-4 last season, the Huskies are looking to improve their play from the last few years. After an incredibly strong attempt to summit the National Championship in 2024, the Huskies had a quick player turnover, leaving them with a few seasons of adjustment. Now that last year’s young roster has some experience under their belt, their upcoming season gives them a great shot to make their way back to the College Football Playoffs. With two experienced and up-and-coming teams looking to be the best from the Pacific Northwest, the game ahead will be exciting for all. Be thankful for an original matchup on Thanksgiving weekend, but hopefully, fans can become even more thankful with a Ducks win! (ABOVE) Fans of the Oregon Ducks sing along to “Shout,” the Ducks third-quarter tradition. The No. 5 University of Oregon Ducks demolished the No. 12 James Madison University Dukes 51-34 in the first round of the College Football Playoff at Autzen Stadium in Eugene, Ore., on Dec 20, 2025. (Saj Sundaram/Emerald) (RIGHT) The Oregon Duck runs out the tunnel just ahead of the team before the start of the game. The No. 5 University of Oregon Ducks lost 22-56 to the No. 1 Indiana University Hoosiers in the third round of the College Football Playoff at the Peach Bowl held at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Ga. on Jan 9, 2026. (Saj Sundaram/Emerald)

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PRO DUCKS MAKING NOISE IN THE NFL PRESEASON

Benson, Boettcher and Canady all vying for playing time. By Colin Ernst Sports Writer

Seven Oregon Ducks players had their dreams come true this April, hearing their names called during the NFL Draft. This marks the fourth consecutive year the program has had at least six players drafted. So, let’s take a look at three former Ducks who you may see balling on Sundays very soon.

MALIK BENSON Benson is already showing the Las Vegas coaches and staff that their 6th-round pick was spent wisely. He made splashes earlier in June at the Raiders’ mandatory minicamp, and has continued to rise. Competing for the WR 3 spot alongside Dont’e Thornton Jr. and Jack Bech, Benson has been getting more reps with the first-team offense, Levi Edwards of the Raiders’ official site reports. He has even turned the head of a 15-year quarterback veteran, Kirk Cousins: “I really like our sixth-round pick, Malik Benson,” Cousins told ESPN’s Dan Graziano (per CBS Sports). In the Raiders’ preseason debut, a 27-14 loss to the Cardinals on Aug. 13, Benson played 20 snaps and caught two passes for 26 yards – he also returned a kickoff for 21 yards. A solid outing for your first real NFL playing time. Week two’s matchup against the Texans proved to be more challenging for the rookie. Benson caught just one of five targets for 18 yards on Thursday, when his limited

experience alongside fellow rookie quarterback Fernando Mendoza manifested itself. Benson remains in a great position to solidify himself as Vegas’s WR3 of the future, and he’ll look to reaffirm his abilities in next Thursday’s preseason finale against the 49ers.

BRYCE BOETTCHER Eugene’s hometown hero was drafted just hours before Malik Benson, and was in attendance for the Oregon Spring Game. The Indianapolis Colts secured Bryce Boettcher, a 2025 Butkus Award semifinalist, with the 135th pick. Boettcher opened his preseason debut with a pop. In the first quarter of the Colts’ first preseason matchup against the New England Patriots, Boettcher sliced through the offensive line untouched and laid a massive hit on the New England running back. Boettcher ended the game with three total tackles in 34 defensive snaps. In his second preseason game, rotating in alongside fellow rookie CJ Allen, Boettcher racked up four tackles in a routing from the Atlanta Falcons. Boettcher is currently listed as the Colts’ 3rd-string weakside linebacker, competing behind Akeem Davis-Gaither and Jaylon Carlies.

JADON CANADY Drafted by the Kansas City Chiefs with the 109th overall pick, Canady has found the opportune time to sneak into an important role for his team. The Chiefs parted ways with their star cornerback Trent McDuffie this off-season, alongside exits from cornerback Jaylen Watson and safety Bryan Cook. As the team shuffles around personnel

to shore up those gaps, the nickel back position is up for grabs, and Canady is working to fill it. “Doing the skills that are needed for Coach Spags’s defense, like certain types of drops or certain blitz patterns,” Canady said when asked how he was transitioning from offseason workouts to team camp, “really keying in on what Coach Spags wants from me.” In his first preseason game against the Los Angeles Rams, Canady did not start, yet he still recorded four tackles (three solo) in 23 defensive snaps. His second outing against the Buccaneers yielded similar results. Rotating in after the starters, Canady secured another three tackles (two solo). In his first preseason game against the Los Angeles Rams, Canady did not start, yet he still recorded four tackles (3 solo) in 23 defensive snaps. His second outing against the Buccaneers yielded similar results. Rotating in after the starters, Canady secured another three tackles (2 solo).

(LEFT) Oregon Ducks wide receiver Malik Benson (4) jogs into the end zone, scoring a 64 yard touchdown. The No. 4 University of Oregon Ducks defeated the University of Washington Huskies 26-14 at Husky Stadium in Seattle on Nov. 29, 2025, securing a College Football Playoff first round game. (CENTER) Oregon Ducks linebacker Bryce Boettcher (28) races to sack Washington Huskies quarterback Demond Williams Jr. (2). The No. 6 University of Oregon Ducks took on the University of Washington Huskies at Husky Stadium in Seattle on Nov. 29, 2025. (RIGHT) Oregon Ducks defensive back Jadon Canady (22) takes a break before the start of the play. The No. 5 University of Oregon Ducks lost 22-56 to the No. 1 Indiana University Hoosiers in the third round of the College Football Playoff at the Peach Bowl held at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Ga. on Jan. 9, 2026. (Saj Sundaram/Emerald)

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Sponsored by Comcast

Same-Day WiFi Means One Less Thing for Students to Worry About

Back-to-school season is around the corner for the University of Oregon, and for students planning to live off campus that means getting a new home set up (and connected) fast. For students living off campus, reliable Internet access is critical for coursework, communication and entertainment, but it often needs to be arranged independently.

An industry first from a major wired Internet provider, SameDay WiFi is a simple plug-and-play setup and ensures students are ready from day one. How it works is simple. Students sign up for Xfinity Internet, WiFi equipment can either be picked up at a Xfinity store, or for eligible customers in Eugene, delivered to their home, and they’re up and running — all in one day. Sign Up: Sign up for Xfinity Internet at Xfinity.com. Eligible customers select same-day Gateway delivery during checkout. Set Up: An Xfinity Gateway is delivered directly to their doorstep within hours. Customers can simply plug-and-play their device to get up and running. Start Up: Customers self-install and activate service in minutes through the Xfinity app. Immediately connect devices, personalize their WiFi settings, and manage your home network.

This back-to-school season, Xfinity is making it easier to get connected with Same-Day WiFi in Eugene, allowing eligible new customers to sign up and get online that very same day; either through home delivery, where available, or by picking up equipment at the Eugene Xfinity store. Eligible university students living off campus can also take advantage of a special offer featuring 1 Gig speeds for $45 per month for one year, plus Peacock Premium and a $200 virtual prepaid Mastercard.

“In a world where almost everything is instant, home Internet shouldn’t be an exception,” said Eric Jagher, senior vice president and general manager of connectivity. “With Xfinity’s Same-Day WiFi we’re giving customers access to the nation’s fastest, most reliable connectivity the moment they need it.” Whether they’re submitting an assignment five minutes before it’s due, interviewing for that dream internship, streaming the big game, or sharing WiFi with a house full of roommates, Xfinity student plans are built to keep up with college life. Don’t miss out on same-day WiFi and student offers from Xfinity. Learn more at xfinity.com/student and get started today!

Learn more at xfinity.com/student or stop by to speak to Xfinity at UO Parent & Family Marketplace on September 24 and 25.

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THE NEXT WAVE: FRESHMEN WHO COULD MAKE AN IMPACT FOR OREGON IN 2026 Oregon’s 2026 freshman class brings elite talent and high expectations as newcomers compete for a chance to make an impact on one of college football’s top teams. By Hannah Hiiva Sports Writer

At a top-performing program like Oregon, ranked No. 2 in the nation, it can be difficult for freshmen to get their foot in the door. But several newcomers are ready to put in the work and make an impact in 2026. A new wave of freshmen has stepped onto Autzen turf, bringing elite talent, high expectations and the opportunity to earn their place on one of the nation’s top teams. Kendre Harrison, a five-star prospect from Reidsville, North Carolina, is one to look out for. Standing at 6-foot-7, he is one of the top tight ends entering their first year at the collegiate level. Now, Harrison is ready to begin the next chapter of his career, trading in his high school uniform for Oregon green and yellow as he takes the field wearing No. 18. Harrison’s high school production shows he can play; ESPN ranked him No. 1 at tight end and No. 15 nationally. During his 2025 senior season at Reidsville High School, he caught 57 passes for 928 yards and 20 touchdowns. He was also a powerhouse on defense, recording 60 tackles and 4.5 sacks. Not only is he talented on the football field, he has also performed well on the basketball court. During his high

school career, he surpassed 1,000 career points and 1,000 career rebounds. He’s not just a football recruit who also happened to play basketball; he is a very notable multisport athlete. Another five-star recruit, Jalen Lott, will be suiting up this season for the Oregon Ducks. During his senior season at Panther Creek High School in Texas, Lott caught 87 passes for 1,276 yards and 20 touchdowns. Lott has big-play ability and is another multi-sport athlete; he was a standout track-and-field athlete, winning the Texas 4A long-jump championship as a high school freshman and going on to earn a Texas 4A silver medal in both the high jump and long jump. Now Lott will bring his talent and athleticism to Oregon, where he will wear No. 10. With his speed and ability to make big plays, Lott has the opportunity to become another young weapon for Oregon’s offense. Another notable addition to the Oregon offense is Immanuel Iheanacho, an offensive lineman from Baltimore, Maryland. At 6-foot-6 and 365 pounds, he is another 5-star recruit who has proven to be a reliable lineman. Iheanacho was one of the top offensive linemen in the 2026 recruiting class and joins the Oregon Ducks after a senior season in which he did not allow a single sack. Now wearing No. 79 for the Ducks, Iheanacho will look to bring

his experience to an Oregon offensive line that will challenge him to earn his place among the nation’s best. Oregon also welcomes another five-star recruit by the name of Jett Washington, a defensive back from Nevada ranked as the No. 1 overall player in Nevada by 247Sports. Now wearing No. 24 for the Ducks, Washington will have the opportunity to prove himself at the collegiate level. The Ducks also introduce several other talented newcomers such as running back Tradarian Ball, wide receiver Gatlin Bair, edge rusher Anthony Jones Jr. and defensive back Davon Benjamin. Each brings a different skill set to a team filled with high expectations. With so many talented playmakers joining the roster this season, Oregon’s freshmen will have plenty to prove as they compete for playing time. While earning a role on one of the nation’s best teams will not be an easy feat, this group has the talent, athleticism, and potential to make a name for themselves in college football. (ABOVE) Led by Oregon Ducks head coach Dan Lanning and wide receiver Dakorien Moore (1), the team runs out of their tunnel. The No. 5 University of Oregon Ducks demolished the No. 12 James Madison University Dukes 51-34 in the first round of the College Football Playoff at Autzen Stadium in Eugene, Ore., on Dec. 20, 2025. (Saj Sundaram/Emerald)

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SECOND YEAR STARS STEP INTO BIGGER ROLES

How last year’s talented freshmen will shape the team in year two.

DIERRE HILL JR. - RUNNING BACK

By Max Koebel Senior Sports Writer

Hill’s best game came in Week 3 against Northwestern, where he rushed for 94 yards and a touchdown. He also shined in Oregon’s first-round playoff game against James Madison University, where he recorded 76 rushing yards, 40 receiving yards and a touchdown. Hill finished the season with 75 carries for 656 yards and five touchdowns along with 16 receptions for 137 yards.

The 2025 Oregon football team was loaded with true freshman talent. Head coach Dan Lanning was asked several times throughout the season about his decision to give so many young guys the green light, and his response remained similar. “That’s a great thing to highlight,” Lanning said of his players’ youth. “I don’t know that any of us knew last season at this point… they played a lot on ability. Now they’re getting the opportunity to play on what they know using the intelligence they have, the year in the system, and now going into year two, we expect really big things.” Here are a few players to look out for in 2026-27.

BRANDON FINNEY JR. - CORNERBACK Finney proved himself to be not only the top cornerback on the team, but one of the best cornerbacks in all of College Football. He truly broke out early in the fourth quarter of their Week 7 matchup against the Indiana Hoosiers. Quarterback Fernando Mendoza threw a pass over the middle, and Finney jumped in front of the intended target at the last second to pick off the pass and returned it 35 yards into the corner of the end zone for a game-tying pick-six. He had a fumble recovery and two interceptions, one of which came in the end zone in the Orange Bowl where Texas Tech University finished the game scoreless and Finney was named Defensive MVP.

(Saj Sundaram/Emerald) Oregon Ducks wide receiver Dakorien Moore (1) smiles for a photo after the game concludes. The University of Oregon Ducks took on the University of Wisconsin-Madison Badgers at Autzen Stadium on Oct. 25, 2025, with the Ducks beating the Badgers 21-7.

JORDON DAVISON - RUNNING BACK The running back position was one of the biggest question marks for Oregon entering last season. Players like Noah Whittington, Jayden Limar, Makhi Hughes and Jay Harris all had experience, and it was unclear who would see the field the most. By the end of the season, it was Davison who found himself seeing the most carries as a freshman. He played in every game except the Peach Bowl after he suffered a collarbone injury and finished the season with 113 carries for 667 yards and 15 touchdowns.

(Katie Poluyansky/Emerald) Oregon Ducks running back Dierre Hill Jr. (23) runs out of the tunnel before a game against the USC Trojans at Autzen Stadium in Eugene, Ore., on Nov. 22, 2025.

NASIR WYATT - LINEBACKER One of Wyatt’s biggest moments came in Week 13 against USC, where he nearly had a sack, but quarterback Jayden Maiava just got off a blind throw as he was hit, which was intercepted by Oregon defensive back Ify Obidegwu. Wyatt finished the season with 11 tackles in just seven games and will likely be more involved this year. Now that last year’s rising stars have a year of experience under their belts, it will be up to them to step up as leaders and light the path for the next group of talented freshmen.

(Saj Sundaram/Emerald) Oregon Ducks defensive back Brandon Finney Jr. (4) celebrates after blocking a pass to Washington Huskies wide receiver Dezmen Roebuck (81). The No. 4 University of Oregon Ducks defeated the University of Washington Huskies 26-14 at Husky Stadium in Seattle, Wash. on Nov. 29, 2025, securing a College Football Playoff first round game.

DAKORIEN MOORE - WIDE RECEIVER Less than two minutes into Oregon’s Week 2 matchup against Oklahoma State University, Dante Moore threw a deep ball to a wide-open Dakorien Moore along the sideline, who broke a tackle and cut back across the middle of the field for 30 more yards to finish off the 65-yard touchdown. Dakorien Moore missed the second half of the regular season due to injury and was very limited when he returned for the playoffs, but that was not before he established himself as a top receiver on Oregon’s roster. In 11 games, he finished the season with 497 receiving yards, 49 rushing yards, and four touchdowns.

(Saj Sundaram/Emerald) Oregon Ducks running back Jordon Davison (0) celebrates his touchdown, flapping his hands in the air like a duck. On Sept. 27, 2025, the University of Oregon Ducks played the Penn State University Nittany Lions at Beaver Stadium in State College, Pa.

(Anna Liv Myklebust/Emerald) Oregon Ducks linebacker Nasir Wyatt (32) warms up before the start of the Oregon vs. Indiana game. On Oct. 11, 2025 the University of Oregon Ducks played the Indiana University Hoosiers at Autzen Stadium in Eugene, Ore. The Hoosiers defeated the Ducks 30-20.

T H U R S D A Y , A U G . 2 7, 2 0 2 6

A Montana State player dodges incoming Oregon Ducks defensive back Jadon Canady (22), sending Canady to the ground. (Saj Sundaram/Emerald)

GAMEDAY

MINNESOTA

PENN STA RESULTS

The Ducks offensive line huddles together. (Julia Massa/Emerald)

11.15.2025

AUTZEN STADIUM

Former Ducks qu Makaia appear on

PAGE 15

The Ducks run out of the tunnel before the start of the game. (Saj Sundaram/Emerald)

Key Players DIERRE

HILL JR. + Running Back (#23)

FOR A CO

RUSHING YARDS AND 12 RECEIVING

Oregon Ducks running backs Dierre Hill Jr. (23) (Above) Jordan Davison (0) (Below) celebrate after scoring respective touchdowns.

42 13

(Saj Sundaram/Emerald)

OREGON MINNESOTA CFP NO. 8

1 RUSHI 1 REC TOU

"That was easily the loudest stadium I have ever been to. It seemed like the entire crowd desperately needed to prove something to the Ducks and world. Words can't describe 111,000 fans screaming their heads off. In the end, only "Fire Franklin" could be heard from the Nittany Lion faithful." - Jack Lazarus, Sports Editor

Oregon Ducks tight end Kenyon Sadiq (18) celebrates his second-quarter touchdown. The University of Oregon Ducks defeated the University of Minnesota Golden Gophers 42-13 in a Friday night matchup at Autzen Stadium in Eugene, Ore. on Nov. 14, 2025. (Julia Massa/Emerald)

(RIGHT) The Penn State University Nittany Lion holds up a “Stadium Pulse” sign, as seen in EA’s "College Football" video game series. (Saj Sundaram/Emerald)

WASHINGT RESULTS

Key Player ATTICUS

RELIVE OREGON’S 2025 SEASON TODAY

SAPINGTON

Oregon’s senior kick memories for the him make four kick 51 yards against Wa rewrote — at least i of a loss two years as he watched his ca sail through from

Kicker (#36)

Oregon Ducks wide receiver Gary Bryant Jr. (2) and Indiana Hoosiers defensive back Devan Boykin (12). (Anna Liv Myklebust/Emerald)

"I can conﬁdently say that I was the happiest Oregon student in Autzen Stadium on Oct. 11. While I would have loved to upload the version of my recap that was coming together after Brandon Finney Jr’s pick-six, nothing could have ruined my ﬁrst time experiencing “Shout” from high above the away sideline."

- Joe Kr

Spor

4-4 ON F

Henry Light

A FOURT

Sports Writer

dailyemerald.com

Oregon Ducks linebacker Jerry Mixon (54) tackles Indiana Hoosiers quarterback Fernando Mendoza (15). (Anna Liv Myklebust/Emerald)

52-Y

FIELD

Oregon Ducks quarterback Dante Moore (5) runs the ball past Indiana players. (Anna Liv Myklebust/Emerald)

The crowd that had roared back to life began losing numbers, and the Ducks’ comeback hopes were critically damaged. Ten plays later, with Oregon chasing the game, Dante Moore threw another pick — this time to Isaiah Jones — and the game was all-but-over.

MARKED A C Oregon kicker Atticus Sappington (36) points to the sky. (Tyler Graham/Emerald)

DAN LANNING S

FIRST W

- Henry Light,

HUS STAD

Sports Writer

JORDAN DAVISON:

8 CARRIES 59 YARDS

BRYCE BOETTCHER:

11 TACKLES

– THE FIRST FOR THE

(LEFT) Oregon Ducks linebacker Jerry Mixon (54) tackles Indiana Hoosiers quarterback Fernando Mendoza (15). (Anna Liv Myklebust/Emerald)

(LEFT) Oregon Head coach Dan Lanning shakes Oregon fa

Section 6: Indiana

MINNESO

KENYON SADIQ:

8 CATCHES 96 YARDS

RESULTS

AND ONE TOUCHDOWN

"There’s nothing more surreal in student journalism than being a reporter at Autzen Stadium. The views from the press box are stunning. Standing on the sideline as the game is ﬁnishing up almost feels like you’re part of the action, especially when we ran across the ﬁeld with the players the moment the clock hit zero. Finally, discussing the game with Dan Lanning and some of the key players presented a rare opportunity that I will carry for years to come."

Key Player DANTE

MOORE Quarterback (#5)

Max Koebel Sports Writer

Oregon tight end Kenyon Sadiq (18) lays out for a catch. (Corey Hoffman/Emerald)

NOAH WHITTINGTON

8 CARRIES 72 YARDS

AND ONE TOUCHDOWN

Oregon quarterback Dante Moore (5) looks for an open pass. (Corey Hoffman/Emerald)

After a three-and-out from the Minnesota offense, the Ducks took the ball back and went 66 yards on four plays. It ended with a 39yard run by Davison where he ran through the middle of the defensive line and cut around the safeties to find the end zone for his second score of the game. - Max Koebel, Sports Writer

27-30

306 PASSING YARDS

2 TOUCHDOWNS

Oregon wide receiver Jeremiah McClellan (11) attempts to break a tackle by Minnesota Golden Gophers defensive back Jai’Onte’ McMillan (24). (Julia Massa/Emerald)

Ducks quarterback Dante Moore (5) throws th

DANTE M

MARCUS

2012 R

FOR SINGLE-GAME C

WITH

Oregon Ducks tight end Jamari Johnson (9) and teammates celebrate a first-half touchdown. (Corey Hoffman/Emerald)

Oregon quarterback Dante Moore (5) and head coach Dan Lanning talk to the media after the game. (Corey Hoffman/Emerald)

Oregon running back Jordon Davison (0) runs the ball to the endzone. (Julia Massa/Emerald)

IN THE MIN

Section 10: Minnesota

INDIANA

A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF

Indiana Hoosiers football players celebrate with their fans after beating the Oregon Ducks 30-20. (Anna Liv Myklebust/Emerald)

Oregon Ducks tight end Kenyon Sadiq (18) celebrates a touchdown. (Saj Sundaram/Emerald)

KENYON SADIQ

6 CATCHES 72 YARDS

AND TWO TOUCHDOWNS

NOAH WHITTINGTON

19 CARRIES 104 YARDS

AND ONE TOUCHDOWN

10.11.2025

AUTZEN STADIUM

30 OREGON 20

INDIANA AP. NO. 7

AP. NO. 3

Oregon dominated in the trenches, overcoming an injury to center Iapani Laloulu to score on three of its first four possessions. Only adding another highlight reel play on a day full of them was a wildcat formation touchdown run by Boettcher, a linebacker, which capped off a drive that included five penalties, a missed kick and a touchdown respotted to the one-yard line. - Joe Krasnowski,

Oregon Ducks quarterback Dante Moore (5) prepares to throw the ball. The University of Oregon Ducks were defeated by the Indiana University Hoosiers 30-20 at Autzen Stadium in Eugene, Ore. on Oct. 11, 2025. (Anna Liv Myklebust/Emerald)

Sports Writer

Oregon Ducks offensive linemen Charlie Pickard (70) and Alex Harkey (71) celebrate running back Noah Whittington’s (6) touchdown. (Saj Sundaram/Emerald)

Oregon t zone for a

Oregon Ducks wide receiver Malik Benson (4) falls as USC Trojans cornerback