Oregon Receives Concerning Big Ten Preseason Ranking

If the Oregon Ducks can't win the national title in 2026, it will seem like the program never will be able to climb that mountain.

With quarterback Dante Moore returning this fall, Oregon has a potential No. 1 pick on the roster at the sport's most important position. In addition to more, the Ducks are loaded in the backfield and at receiver. The defense is expected to be as good as last season, if not better. 

A team from the Big Ten has won the last three national championships, and there's a good possibility that trend will continue this year. Oregon is expected to face tough challenges from Ohio State and Indiana, two programs that ended their seasons in successive years.

Steven Lassan of Athlon Sports gave the Ducks a concerning ranking in comparison to Indiana and Ohio State. He ranked the Buckeyes No. 1 and the Hoosiers No. 2. 

Lassan thinks head coach Dan Lanning has enough on the roster to win a title, but notes there are issues with the offensive line and there is uncertainty with new coordinators.

"A line with three new starters and a new play-caller (Drew Mehringer) is the biggest concern on offense," he wrote. "Moore has plenty of help in the passing game with receivers Dakorien Moore, Iverson Hooks, Jeremiah McClellan, and Evan Stewart back, along with tight end Jamari Johnson.

"And on the ground, the one-two punch of Jordon Davison and Dierre Hill is among the best in the Big Ten. Oregon’s defense also has a new play-caller (Chris Hampton), but eight returning starters provides a strong foundation to prevent any major transition period. Outside of a road game at Ohio State on Nov. 7, the Ducks should be favored in all 11 of their other contests."

In order for Oregon to get over the hump, they're going to need to beat a big-time program in the CFP.  The matchup between Oregon and Ohio State will be a good measuring-stick contest for Lanning before the playoff.

It would be a disappointment for Oregon to finish No. 3 in the conference with this talented of a roster. But until proven otherwise, Lanning faces doubters.