The Associated Press released its preseason Top 25 college football poll on Tuesday, and the rankings highlight a notable achievement for the Big Ten. Ohio State earned the No. 1 slot with 40 first‑place votes, while Oregon secured the No. 2 position, receiving 14 first‑place votes. This marks only the second occasion in conference history that the Big Ten has occupied the top two spots in the preseason poll.
Key returnees fuel Oregon’s rise
Oregon’s climb to No. 2 is largely attributed to the return of quarterback Dante Moore, who chose to forego a potential early selection in the 2025 NFL Draft to play another season for the Ducks. Alongside Moore, the Ducks bring back a core of experienced players on both offense and defense.
On offense, running backs Jordon Davison and Dierre Hill Jr. return after combining for more than 1,300 rushing yards as freshmen backups last season. Wide receivers Dakorien Moore, Jeremiah McClellan and senior Evan Stewart are also back, with transfer receiver Iverson Hooks joining after a productive year at UAB (72 catches, 927 yards, seven touchdowns). Tight end Jamari Johnson is expected to see an expanded role following the departure of Kenyon Sadiq to the NFL.
Defensive stability and new additions
The defensive front remains largely intact, featuring interior linemen Bear Alexander and A’Mauri Washington anchoring the line. Linebackers Jerry Mixon and Devon Jackson will continue to benefit from the interior’s ability to draw double teams, freeing up edge rushers Matayo Uiagalelei and Teitum Tuioti. In the secondary, cornerbacks Brandon Finney Jr. and Ify Obidegwu return, while the Ducks add transfer safety Koi Perich from Minnesota to replace departing starter Dillon Thieneman.
Assistant coach commentary from a rival Big Ten program described Oregon’s roster as possibly “the best in college football,” noting the depth of returning talent on the defensive line and the back end, as well as the offensive continuity.
Coach Lanning’s outlook
Head coach Dan Lanning expressed optimism at the recent Big Ten Media Days, emphasizing the experience and leadership returning to the program. He highlighted quarterback Dante Moore’s growth, noting the player’s increased leadership off the field and his potential to drive the team’s success.
“We have a lot of experience returning,” Lanning said. “When our quarterback leads, the whole team follows. I’m excited to see how it all comes together this season.”
With the Ducks poised to start the season with a strong roster and seasoned leadership, fans in Eugene and across the nation will be watching to see if Oregon can live up to its high preseason ranking.
Original reporting: All Sports Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
