EUGENE — Oregon’s pivotal moment has come.
The Ducks showcased their potential as a national contender with a decisive 31-10 victory over Michigan State on Friday night. The Spartans, however, are still undergoing significant changes within their program. Head coach Jonathan Smith has his hands full in East Lansing. Therefore, Oregon’s commanding win serves more as a catalyst for lingering questions rather than a definitive statement.
“Finally,” Dan Lanning told reporters, “you guys can talk about it. We’re finally there.”
The anticipation builds…
Are the Ducks prepared for Ohio State?
Will the Ducks emerge victorious or will the Buckeyes take the game?
On Friday, Traeshon Holden made a remarkable catch while on his back, and Jordan James powered through defenders for 166 yards. Meanwhile, Jordan Burch showcased his strength by repeatedly taking down Aidan Chiles.
The atmosphere shifted as the student section began to clear out by the fourth quarter of Oregon’s Big Ten home opener. The Ducks nearly outgained Michigan State, racking up 477 yards compared to the Spartans’ 250. Fans started leaving before Michigan State managed to score midway through the final quarter.
Ducks fans were eager for what comes next.
And who could blame them?
Next weekend marks one of the most significant matchups in school history. Currently ranked No. 6 in the nation, the Ducks could improve their standing by next week. Assuming a win against Iowa on Saturday, the Buckeyes will be ranked no lower than No. 3.
This clash not only tests the 2024 Ducks and their national championship ambitions but also evaluates what Lanning has developed over the past three years in Eugene. It reflects his decision to firmly establish himself at Oregon, unlike his predecessors who treated it as a stepping stone.
A loss to Ohio State wouldn’t necessarily undermine everything Lanning has accomplished. There remains the potential for a rematch in the Big Ten championship game, along with a long future in the conference for the Ducks.
However, a victory would serve as a powerful affirmation of Oregon’s progress and the excitement surrounding their entrance into the Big Ten.
While it’s easy to exaggerate the significance of a single game, especially with the new 12-team playoff format allowing for recovery from setbacks, this matchup carries considerable weight.
Ohio State’s defense is currently allowing just 196.5 yards per game, with only Tennessee performing better. Meanwhile, the Buckeyes score an impressive average of 48.5 points per game, ranking fourth nationally.
Oregon enters this game with two dominant defensive performances behind them. Over the last two weeks, the Ducks have allowed only one offensive touchdown, which didn’t occur until they were well ahead in the game against Michigan State.
There was a recurring sentiment in the press box on Friday that Oregon has truly established itself in the Big Ten by winning through a strong running game and formidable defense.
During Michigan State’s opening drive, when they pushed to the Ducks’ 2-yard line, defensive tackle Jamaree Caldwell disrupted Chiles, the promising but inexperienced quarterback, forcing a fumble that was recovered by Burch.
Burch’s fumble recovery complemented his 2.5 sacks, making him an incredibly impactful player on defense. The Spartans’ offensive line struggled to contend with his presence.
“He’s been playing with great violence,” Lanning praised.
When quarterback Dillon Gabriel struggled, throwing two puzzling interceptions inside the 10-yard line in the first half, the Ducks defense stepped up, forcing two punts on a mere nine plays.
As the defense rallied, it proved sufficient against the Spartans. However, they must elevate their performance for the Buckeyes.
The Ducks experienced some setbacks in the early weeks of the season, narrowly defeating Idaho and Boise State, which did little to inspire confidence.
But if one were unaware of those earlier games and focused instead on Oregon’s recent performance, having limited Oregon State, UCLA, and Michigan State to a total of 14, 13, and 10 points respectively, it would seem they are poised for their toughest challenge yet.
Or at least as prepared as they can be.