Football

Oregon Ducks Poised for Playoff Push in 2026

Coach Dan Lanning and Heisman hopeful Dante Moore lead a veteran squad eyeing a historic run

A New Era for the Ducks

The Oregon Ducks enter the upcoming season with lofty expectations, predicted to finish second in the Big Ten yet still regarded as one of the top College Football Playoff candidates. Coach Dan Lanning has emphasized that this year's roster brings a depth of experience that was absent in the previous, younger squad, setting the stage for a more mature campaign.

At the heart of the offense is quarterback Dante Moore, a Heisman contender who threw for 3,565 yards, 30 touchdowns and 10 interceptions in 2025 while completing 72 percent of his passes. Lanning has repeatedly praised Moore's leadership, maturity and self‑awareness, noting that the quarterback's growth has become a cornerstone of the locker room culture.

The Ducks' offseason program has taken them beyond the familiar confines of Eugene. From scaling Spencer Butte to conducting beach workouts along the Oregon coast, the team has embraced a variety of training environments. A recent trip to Tokyo added a coaching clinic and youth camp, further broadening the program's reach and reinforcing its commitment to player development.

Fall camp is slated to begin next week, and the buzz surrounding the squad is palpable. High expectations have been set by both the coaching staff and the players themselves, who are focused on a process‑driven approach. The ultimate goal is clear: to build on past lessons, avoid previous playoff heartbreaks, and ultimately chase history.

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