Preseason Honors Spotlight Emerging Talent
The Big Ten Conference unveiled its preseason honorees for the 2026 football season, naming a dozen standout players who are expected to shape the narrative across the league. Oregon’s representation includes quarterback Dante Moore and safety Koi Perich, both of whom are generating early Heisman chatter.
Moore’s 2025 performance was nothing short of spectacular. He threw for over 3,565 yards and 30 touchdowns, completing 72% of his passes and guiding Oregon to a 13‑2 record. Analysts are already positioning him as a top contender for the Heisman Trophy and a prime prospect for the NFL draft.
Safety Koi Perich brings a wealth of experience from Minnesota, where he earned two all‑Big Ten honors and recorded 128 tackles, six interceptions and 5.5 tackles‑for‑loss. His transfer to Oregon is viewed as a strategic upgrade, as he is expected to replace Dillon Theineman and inject versatility into the Ducks’ defensive front.
The upcoming season promises a fresh dynamic for Oregon’s defense, which will be reshaped around Perich’s skill set. Across the conference, teams are watching closely as the Ducks aim to sustain their recent success and contend for a championship.
Beyond individual accolades, the preseason recognitions reflect the Big Ten’s depth and the growing competitiveness of its programs. As the conference prepares for another year of high‑stakes matchups, the spotlight on rising stars like Moore and Perich adds an extra layer of intrigue for fans and analysts alike.