Gmtm Logo
SIGN UP
Gmtm Logo
ACTIVITIES
Download Our App
Sign in
Sign up

Are the Oregon Ducks (and Pac-12 Football) Back?

ByBryan Armetta

6 min read

Are the Oregon Ducks (and Pac-12 Football) Back?

Every so often, as in once a year, I look through my closet in an attempt to find old clothes that may have been forgotten about. Often, the process simply helps sort out what fits, what doesn't, and what needs to be gotten rid of. But every so often, I'll find a shirt that slipped through the cracks, that sweatshirt I loved in high school, or those pants I used to wear every weekend my freshman year of college.

The process is not so much about de-cluttering my wardrobe. Rather, it acts as a way of taking me back to a time and place I may not have even realized I missed.

In essence, watching the Oregon Ducks take down Ohio State in Columbus on September 11th was equivalent to that cozy sweatshirt from days gone by. The win, which wasn't even as close as the 35-28 final score may suggest, was perhaps the most important victory in about ten years for the Pac-12, college football's least respected Power 5 conference. More importantly, it meant that the Pac was back, or at least felt like it was. In-season implications aside, the alignment of the college football universe simply feels right when midnight madness matters.

The win vaulted Oregon into the top four early in the season's AP polling, and earned the program a level of respect they haven't had since the halcyon days of Chip Kelly and Marcus Mariota. To be fair, the Ducks haven't exactly been doormats since they lost the 2014 National Championship to Ohio State; it was only two years ago that they ranked 5th in the final AP Poll, boosted by a 28-27 Rose Bowl victory over Wisconsin.

However, for every high the past seven years has produced, there seems to have been an equal amount of lows. The end of the Mark Helfrich era, the oft-forgotten successor to Kelly, ended with a dismal 4-8 record. The following year, promising head coach Willie Taggart bolted before the end of the season to his dream job at Florida State (that worked out well). Even last year's pandemic-impacted season could be seen as a step back; the Ducks were shellacked 34-17 by Iowa State in the Fiesta Bowl.

The 2021 Ducks Are For Real...

Enthusiasm for Oregon, both on the field and on the recruiting trail, has not been unwarranted. They have been unquestionably better under Cristobal's watch compared to his two predecessors, and the future is bright. With all that being said, you could have been excused for not buying the hype coming from Eugene.

Clearly, Oregon's enigmatic nature made picking them to break out a risky proposition. Cristobal's teams have shown plenty of talent in the past, but their ability to win consistently, let alone against high-quality opponents, has never really been proven outside of the 2020 Rose Bowl. Prior to the win over OSU this year, the Ducks had a mediocre record of 6-8 vs. Top 25 opponents since 2017, including a 1-3 mark against those outside of the Pac-12. Therefore, despite being surrounded by unknowns, trendier choices to win the conference naturally emerged this offseason.

As the dust has settled on the first three weeks of an incredibly young campaign, any notions of Oregon not being the Pac-12's team to beat have been silenced. A dynamic offense led by running back C.J. Verdell, and his stellar backup Travis Dye, has gashed opposing defenses. At quarterback, Boston College transfer Anthony Brown has played smart, risk-averse football while mixing in some rushing ability of his own. A sturdy defense that has kept opponents to under 20 points a game is headlined by former five-star Kayvon Thibodeaux, a likely top pick in the 2022 NFL Draft.

As long as the big pieces on the Ducks offense stay healthy, which is not guaranteed, and the defense continues its solid play, it's hard to envision any of their remaining Pac-12 opponents slowing them down.

...But Who Can Challenge Them?

Competition is key to gaining legitimacy in the uber-exclusive, downright monopolized world of college football.

Therein lies the problem for the Pac-12 as a whole. Oregon may be en route to reclaiming its former elite status, but most other programs in the conference have been derailed this season. That presents a slim margin for error for the Ducks, even with a win over Ohio State on their resume.

USC, seen as the likeliest choice to win the Pac-12 South, suffered a humiliating 42-28 home loss to Stanford two weeks ago, prompting the firing of head coach Clay Helton. Arizona State started off strong at 2-0, but lost its way in Provo against BYU last weekend. Utah, Colorado, and Arizona have a combined 2-7 record.

Up north, Washington's two losses on the year were both equally humiliating; a season opening defeat against FCS Montana and a 31-10 rout at the hands of Michigan. Oregon State has shown some scrappiness this season, but their failure to beat Purdue makes national relevance unlikely for the Beavers. Cal and Washington State should continue to perpetuate in mediocrity, as they have for most of the past decade.

Stanford, often the chief protagonist in Oregon's once-annual quest for conference supremacy, has had an inconsistent season. The optimist may point towards two straight road wins, including their takedown of USC, as signs that the Cardinal are poised to challenge the Ducks for the Pac-12 North. The pessimist would mention an embarrassing season opener against Kansas State that saw their offense held to a paltry 233 yards on the day.

That leaves us with UCLA, helmed by who other than Chip Kelly. After destroying Hawaii, the Bruins went on to upset LSU at home, catapulting them to 13th in AP polling. Any good vibes were stifled last weekend when Fresno State came to the Rose Bowl and ran up and down the field on their way to a 40-37 win. Although Fresno State is a ranked team that proved their worth in a seven-point loss to Oregon earlier this season, it was an unquestionably bad loss for a UCLA team looking to take control of the Pac-12 South.

So, what is the Pac-12? Ultimately, it looks a lot like it has in most recent years: programs filled with promise, but ultimately crippled by inconsistency and a flat-out inability to perform at a high level against out of conference opponents. The difference this season lies in an Oregon squad that has the makings of a bonafide CFP contender. The diminished strength of its conference peers could be what vaults the Ducks to an undefeated season...or it could lead to their ruin with just one loss.

The Pac-12 isn't back just yet. Too many of its once-fearsome member schools have yet to truly put it together. Still, having one national power within its ranks is cause for celebration. With a contending Oregon comes increased attention, from both fans and recruits alike, that can have a trickle-down effect for the rest of the conference.

Now, the Ducks must fit into the musty old sweater that is title competition, while balancing the hopes and dreams of a Pac-12 starving for a shred of recognition on the national stage.

No pressure.

Are you an Athlete?

Create a free profile to access the largest network specifically designed to connect athletes to opportunities. Get started.

RELATED ARTICLES
Recruitment Roadmap: Essential Tips & Resources for Athletes

Recruitment Roadmap: Essential Tips & Resources for Athletes

Are you an aspiring athlete looking to take your sports career to the next level? Whether you dream...

ByTiffany Allen | Mon Jan 29 2024
The Recruiting Process Simplified: Tips for Athletes

The Recruiting Process Simplified: Tips for Athletes

Growing up, many athletes dream of hitting the game-winning shot. A stadium roaring with fans,...

ByTiffany Allen | Tue Jan 02 2024
GMTM Launches New Recruiting Education Course

GMTM Launches New Recruiting Education Course

“How do I get recruited?" This is a question we hear from athletes all the time at GMTM. We know...

ByTiffany Allen | Tue Dec 12 2023
Athlete Scholarships: Your Pathway to Success

Athlete Scholarships: Your Pathway to Success

Are you an athlete looking to unlock the path to your dreams with a college scholarship? Beyond...

ByTiffany Allen | Thu Dec 07 2023
Beyond NCSA Athletic Recruiting: Get Ahead in Your Journey

Beyond NCSA Athletic Recruiting: Get Ahead in Your Journey

Navigating the recruiting landscape in sports can be difficult and complex. If you're an athlete,...

ByTiffany Allen | Thu Nov 30 2023
What Do Coaches Want? Unlocking the Secrets of Athletic Recruitment for New Talent

What Do Coaches Want? Unlocking the Secrets of Athletic Recruitment for New Talent

Picture this: You're out on the field, giving your all, with the wind in your hair and the crowd's...

ByTiffany Allen | Mon Nov 20 2023
Recruiting in Sports: The Ultimate Step-by-Step Guide

Recruiting in Sports: The Ultimate Step-by-Step Guide

Are you an athlete looking to uncover the keys to success in sports recruiting? Unlock your...

ByTiffany Allen | Mon Nov 13 2023
How to Train for Football Combines & Camps

How to Train for Football Combines & Camps

The NFL combine is the ultimate opportunity for athletes to showcase themselves in front of NFL...

ByMathias Torp | Wed Nov 08 2023
5 Stages of College Recruiting Process

5 Stages of College Recruiting Process

The recruiting process can be compared to a funnel containing five specific stages. College coaches...

ByMathias Torp | Fri Nov 03 2023
Flag Football: Unlocking Your Path to Pro Sports

Flag Football: Unlocking Your Path to Pro Sports

Are you passionate about sports and dreaming of excelling in a new sport? Look no further than flag...

ByTiffany Allen | Fri Oct 13 2023
Recruiting for Football: The Ultimate Guide

Recruiting for Football: The Ultimate Guide

Are you a football coach or recruiter looking to build a winning team? Crucial for success on the...

ByTiffany Allen | Mon Sep 11 2023
AFFL Opens Talent ID Event For Upcoming Pro Tryouts In Dallas & Three Other Cities

AFFL Opens Talent ID Event For Upcoming Pro Tryouts In Dallas & Three Other Cities

The American Flag Football League is hosting an in-person tryout for male athletes interested in...

ByTiffany Allen | Thu Jun 29 2023
Sports Career Success: Tips for College and Pro Athletes

Sports Career Success: Tips for College and Pro Athletes

Sports come with a unique set of challenges and opportunities. As an athlete, pursuing a career in...

ByTiffany Allen | Wed Jun 21 2023
Volleyball Recruits: 10 Tips For Acing The College Recruiting Process

Volleyball Recruits: 10 Tips For Acing The College Recruiting Process

The college volleyball recruiting process can be intimidating for high school athletes, but with...

ByOVA Team Ontario | Fri Jun 02 2023
Learn How USA Football Selects The Flag Football National Team

Learn How USA Football Selects The Flag Football National Team

The sport of Flag Football has continued to grow in popularity in recent years. The introduction to...

ByTiffany Allen | Thu Jun 01 2023
4 GMTM Athletes Attend USA Football's National Team Trials

4 GMTM Athletes Attend USA Football's National Team Trials

March 10, 2023 - It’s a gray, rainy Friday morning in Charlotte, NC. We’re inside the Belk...

ByTiffany Allen | Thu Mar 16 2023
How Many Scholarships Does Each Collegiate Sport Offer?

How Many Scholarships Does Each Collegiate Sport Offer?

It's time to start applying for schools and begin your recruiting process. You have been working...

ByJohnathan Wright | Tue Feb 21 2023
Sports Injuries and Insurance: Four Facts Parents & Recruits Should Know

Sports Injuries and Insurance: Four Facts Parents & Recruits Should Know

Injuries are a major part of athletics, and a high percentage of student-athletes competing in NCAA...

ByScotty Jenkins | Tue Feb 07 2023
American Football: How To Play Professional Football In Another Country?

American Football: How To Play Professional Football In Another Country?

Yes, it is definitely possible to play American football overseas. However, this is not common...

ByScotty Jenkins | Thu Jan 26 2023
New XFL Draft Picks use GMTM to be seen by coaches and fans

New XFL Draft Picks use GMTM to be seen by coaches and fans

In just under a month, the XFL will be taking yet another crack at creating a competing...

ByScotty Jenkins | Fri Jan 20 2023
Recruiting Rankings: Should I Be Worried If I’m Not A Ranked Basketball Player?

Recruiting Rankings: Should I Be Worried If I’m Not A Ranked Basketball Player?

Getting ranked - it’s the ultimate goal and source of motivation for many basketball players across...

ByScotty Jenkins | Sun Dec 04 2022
"What Is A 5-Star Recruit?": Explaining how high school basketball prospect rankings work

"What Is A 5-Star Recruit?": Explaining how high school basketball prospect rankings work

High School basketball players like Bronny James are all over TV and social media nowadays, with...

ByScotty Jenkins | Thu Dec 01 2022
College Soccer: What is the difference between NCAA Division-I & NAIA?

College Soccer: What is the difference between NCAA Division-I & NAIA?

Many soccer athletes across the United States aspire to play their sport at the college level, and...

ByScotty Jenkins | Sat Nov 26 2022
College Volleyball: What Is The Timeline For A High School Recruit

College Volleyball: What Is The Timeline For A High School Recruit

Playing volleyball at the collegiate level is almost every single player's dream as a young...

ByScotty Jenkins | Thu Nov 24 2022
Baseball Recruiting: Tips For How To Find A Showcase Team

Baseball Recruiting: Tips For How To Find A Showcase Team

It isn’t always easy to find a team that’s the right fit for you. It wasn’t easy for me. Some guys...

ByScotty Jenkins | Wed Nov 23 2022
How To Improve Your Golf Game With A New Workout Routine

How To Improve Your Golf Game With A New Workout Routine

The potency of preparedness in winning all battles, from the most ferocious to the most trivial of...

ByScotty Jenkins | Tue Nov 22 2022
Which College Sports Mascots Are The Most Polarizing?

Which College Sports Mascots Are The Most Polarizing?

They’re one of the most crucial aspects to a college sports viewing experience. The players?...

ByAndrew Pistone | Mon Nov 21 2022
Five Ways To Boost Your Basketball Recruiting with Social Media

Five Ways To Boost Your Basketball Recruiting with Social Media

Instagram, Snapchat, LinkedIn, GMTM, TikTok, Twitter, YouTube, Facebook... Social media is a...

ByKeiwaine Hicks | Sat Nov 19 2022
Which High Schools In America Produce The Most Female College Athletes?

Which High Schools In America Produce The Most Female College Athletes?

It may come as no surprise to hear parents want what is best for their children. If parents have...

ByScotty Jenkins | Tue Nov 15 2022
How To Play Division-I College Football: Four Requirements For Every Athlete

How To Play Division-I College Football: Four Requirements For Every Athlete

It is no secret that it is often a young football athlete's dream to play their favorite sport at...

ByScotty Jenkins | Mon Nov 14 2022
Is playing Division-II college sports worth it?

Is playing Division-II college sports worth it?

Being a Division II collegiate athlete was one of the best experiences of my entire life. Having...

ByScotty Jenkins | Tue Nov 08 2022
Bucket List: Five More College Football Traditions You Need To See

Bucket List: Five More College Football Traditions You Need To See

Part two of some of the best division 1 college football game day traditions throughout the United...

ByScotty Jenkins | Sat Nov 05 2022
Five major benefits of playing at a large high school for hopeful recruits

Five major benefits of playing at a large high school for hopeful recruits

Quality of Competition Large high schools tend to have bigger athletic departments and budgets....

ByScotty Jenkins | Wed Nov 02 2022
Eight Football Athletes Using GMTM To Find Opportunities To Play

Eight Football Athletes Using GMTM To Find Opportunities To Play

There doesn't seem to be a clear start and finish to the football season anymore. In today’s day...

ByScotty Jenkins | Fri Oct 28 2022
What are College Football’s New Overtime Rules?

What are College Football’s New Overtime Rules?

In the 21st century, major sports have had to walk an interesting tightrope. They’ve had to balance...

ByAndrew Pistone | Mon Oct 24 2022
College Volleyball Recruiting: How Athletes Can Get Ahead Before High School

College Volleyball Recruiting: How Athletes Can Get Ahead Before High School

The first step in getting recruited by a college volleyball team is to take advantage of the...

ByScotty Jenkins | Sun Oct 23 2022
The Four Best Quarterbacks Turned Wide Receivers in NFL History

The Four Best Quarterbacks Turned Wide Receivers in NFL History

Playing quarterback may be the toughest job in professional sports, with just thirty-two jobs in...

ByBryan Armetta | Sun Oct 16 2022
Three Tell-Tale Signs You Are Ready For College Sports

Three Tell-Tale Signs You Are Ready For College Sports

Plenty of high school athletes think they have what it takes to play sports in college. However,...

ByBryan Armetta | Thu Oct 13 2022
USA Football Hosts Adult Flag Digital Combine To Discover National Team Athletes

USA Football Hosts Adult Flag Digital Combine To Discover National Team Athletes

This fall, USA Football is hosting a Digital Combine on...

ByScotty Jenkins | Wed Oct 12 2022
How Athletic Scholarships Work: A Quick Guide To Paying For College

How Athletic Scholarships Work: A Quick Guide To Paying For College

It is no secret that college is expensive, and as time goes on, the price continues to increase....

ByScotty Jenkins | Tue Oct 11 2022
Think you can play college football? Here’s what to expect in the recruiting process

Think you can play college football? Here’s what to expect in the recruiting process

Playing college football is a dream for many high schoolers but the recruiting process can be...

ByScotty Jenkins | Thu Oct 06 2022
College Football's "Dead Money": Why Fired Coaches Keep Getting Paid

College Football's "Dead Money": Why Fired Coaches Keep Getting Paid

We’re at the point in the college football calendar where teams are assessing whether they’d like...

ByAndrew Pistone | Wed Sep 28 2022
Soccer Recruiting: What College Coaches Look For In High School Recruits

Soccer Recruiting: What College Coaches Look For In High School Recruits

Realistically, soccer coaches and managers look out for different things in soccer players during...

ByScotty Jenkins | Wed Sep 28 2022
Volleyball Recruiting: Nine Questions For Recruits To Ask Volleyball Coaches

Volleyball Recruiting: Nine Questions For Recruits To Ask Volleyball Coaches

Finding a good college, team, coach, and place to spend four years of your life is important and...

ByRebekah Morris | Mon Sep 26 2022
College Football: Five Stars Who Could Have Benefitted Most from NIL Ruling

College Football: Five Stars Who Could Have Benefitted Most from NIL Ruling

The NCAA's Division I Board of Directors announced a new...

ByBryan Armetta | Sat Sep 24 2022
College Sports: How To Pick The Right School To Attend

College Sports: How To Pick The Right School To Attend

Picking the right college can be a tough task for any high school senior, but it can be a unique...

ByAlexis Peltzer-Harding | Fri Sep 23 2022
Where Is The Sport Of Lacrosse Most Popular?

Where Is The Sport Of Lacrosse Most Popular?

Lacrosse has long been known as an east coast sport in the United States, but has seen growth...

ByScotty Jenkins | Thu Sep 22 2022
What Does Redshirt Mean? And The Reasons Why Players Do It?

What Does Redshirt Mean? And The Reasons Why Players Do It?

Any athlete with a love for competition hates sitting on the sideline, but once he or she gets to...

ByCorey Roepken | Mon Sep 19 2022
What Every College Athlete Should Know Before Freshman Year Starts

What Every College Athlete Should Know Before Freshman Year Starts

The shift from high school to college is a big one. Throw playing a collegiate sport in and it can...

ByLily Ford | Sun Sep 18 2022
EA Sports To Create College Football Video Game With These Updates

EA Sports To Create College Football Video Game With These Updates

After FOX Sports released a documentary on Christmas Day chronicling the life and career of the...

ByAndrew Pistone | Sat Sep 17 2022