Slowly, the NCAAF season is approaching its final stretch, and the season’s surprise team, the Oregon Ducks, continue their dominant run, racking up wins week after week. This time, Dan Lanning‘s squad defeated Maryland in convincing fashion, securing their tenth straight victory and remaining undefeated.
After the game, where Oregon emerged victorious with a final score of 39-18, Lanning spoke with the press and made his feelings clear regarding what he saw on the field: “We didn’t play as well as we could, there’s no doubt about that,” he stated. This statement might surprise many, given the Ducks’ impressive performance, but Lanning believes there is always room for growth.
What’s curious is that, despite leaving no doubt about both the positive results and the team’s performance, the Ducks’ head coach insists it wasn’t their best game, and that there’s still room for improvement as the season progresses. “I don’t think our guys had a lack of prep. But we didn’t play as well as we can. I’d say every game this year I’ve felt like we’ve grown. This one, we’ve got some growing moments, so we’re going to learn from it,” Lanning said, emphasizing the importance of continuous improvement.
The record set by Dillon Gabriel
In the spotlight of this remarkable season is none other than Dillon Gabriel, the standout player of the Ducks. Not only did he shine in the victory over Maryland, but he also made history by setting an unprecedented record in College Football. Gabriel surpassed former Houston star Case Keenum for the most career total touchdowns in NCAAF history. His second touchdown, a pass to backup offensive lineman Gernorris Wilson, marked his 179th career touchdown, setting a new record.
“Definitely Gernorris (should get the ball). What a way to score. Proud of him, and what an interesting way to do it,” Gabriel remarked after the game. “He’s worked hard at that one. … It’s the relationships, the people, Gernorris catching that touchdown. Those are the things I’ll remember, not necessarily the record book,” he added, showcasing his humility and team spirit.
Oregon close to securing the No. 1 seed in the College Football Playoffs
As the Ducks continue their impressive run, they are now just two wins away from a Big Ten Championship Game berth in their first season as a member of the conference. After their solid performance against Maryland, Dillon Gabriel’s Ducks are eyeing a significant achievement.
Wisconsin and Washington are on the near horizon for the Oregon team. If they win those two games and the Big Ten title game, they would almost certainly secure the top spot in the Playoffs, giving them the advantage of starting with a Bye Week over their rivals. This is a tantalizing prospect for a team that has shown such resilience and skill throughout the season.
Considering how Dan Lanning’s squad is heading into the final stretch of the season, it’s unlikely that the top spot will slip away from them. Of the ten victories they’ve secured so far, eight have been by double-digit margins, with the exceptions of Boise State and Ohio. This kind of dominance not only boosts their confidence but also places them in a strong position for the playoffs.
In a season filled with excitement and unexpected twists, the Ducks have carved a niche for themselves as a formidable force in college football. Their ability to maintain focus and strive for improvement, even in victory, speaks volumes about their character and determination.
As the playoffs loom closer, fans are left wondering: Can the Ducks maintain their momentum? Will they continue to surprise everyone and make a deep run in the playoffs? With players like Gabriel leading the charge and Lanning at the helm, the possibilities seem endless.
The Oregon Ducks have not only captured the attention of college football fans but have also set the stage for a thrilling conclusion to the season. With records being shattered and a championship within reach, the excitement is palpable. As they prepare for their next challenges, one thing is certain: the Ducks are not just a team to watch—they are a team to remember.
