Dante Moore's return ignites CFP hopes. ESPN projects Oregon at No. 2, but new coordinators and offensive line questions loom.
Oregon head coach Dan Lanning won his first game in the College Football Playoff with the program last season.
The Ducks cruised to a win over James Madison at home before shutting out Texas Tech 23-0 in the CFP quarterfinal at the Orange Bowl.
However, the season ended on a humbling note, losing 56-22 to Indiana at the CFP semifinal at the Orange Bowl.
The team got good news after the loss that quarterback Dante Moore would return for another year in Eugene. That should keep Oregon in contention for another run in the CFP.
The Ducks are loaded with talent at skilled positions on offense, and all over the defense, though there are concerns about the offensive line.
ESPN's Mark Schlabach recently released a top 25 prediction after spring practices this year. He projects Oregon at No. 2, but noted that challenges for the team could stem from coaching staff changes this offseason.
"After falling flat in the CFP for the second year in a row, the Ducks got an unexpected boost when quarterback Dante Moore -- a potential top pick in the NFL draft -- decided to return," Schlabach wrote. "They'll have two new coordinators after Will Stein and Tosh Lupoi left for head coaching jobs at Kentucky and Cal, respectively."
"Coach Dan Lanning promoted Drew Mehringer to offensive coordinator and Chris Hampton to defensive coordinator. The Ducks should be solid on defense after All-Big Ten selections A'Mauri Washington, Matayo Uiagalelei, and Teitum Tuioti decided to return, along with defensive tackle Bear Alexander. Perich was one of the best safeties in the FBS."
A strong defense could put Oregon in position to compete for a national title. The Ducks defense was inconsistent in the playoffs, struggling against JMU and Indiana but taking care of business against Texas Tech.
The offense sent six players to the NFL scouting combine in Indianapolis in February and March. But the Ducks appear capable of being able to reload on that side of the ball year in and year out.
For Oregon to win the national championship, Moore needs to be exceptional in 2026. He must learn how to deal with the pressure, as he'll face a challenging defense at some point in the playoffs.