If you frequently use X, you’ve likely seen @TheOregonDuck ‘s posts outside various stadiums, pleading to get in. This attitude reflects the entire Ducks fanbase right now. The question is, why would a team that’s never won a title believe so passionately that this is their year?

QB Dillon Gabriel

Many consider Gabriel one of the best QBs in the nation. After transferring from Oklahoma, Gabriel ranked 4th in QBR (87.0) in 2023, throwing for over 3,600 yards. He maintained a five-to-one touchdown-to-interception ratio and even scored 12 TDs on the ground.

The future Sunday player was quick to commit to the Ducks after entering the portal, saying this;

“I think going through my third recruiting process, I know it’s a stressful time for anyone who’s transferred.” (Oregon Ducks on SI, “Was Oregon Ducks QB Dillon Gabriel…”)

Oregon must have felt like home for Gabriel to commit so soon. Like he said, it’s a fairly stressful process and to find somewhere where you fit in and can make a name for yourself must have been a weight lifted off his shoulders (Not that the 205lb QB was struggling to lift it).

Gabriel will lead the Ducks going into 2024. Although Oklahoma’s locker room wasn’t quite together, the blame doesn’t rest solely on the QB. He carried a Sooners team that lacked all-around support—a weakness not found in Oregon’s lineup. If he can bring everything together and build the necessary chemistry, he could secure both a playoff spot and a place in New York.

Another reason a high-profile Quarterback may commit so quickly is the coaching staff. Which brings us to our next point…

HC Dan Lanning

Dan Lanning built quite the resume for himself before coming to Oregon. He coached at Alabama during their 2016 National Title before becoming the Georgia Bulldogs LBs coach from 2019-21. That success has followed Lanning to Oregon, as he already holds a 22-5 record since taking the job.

Just last season, the Ducks finished the regular season 11-1, with their only loss coming to eventual National Runner-up and rival Washington. Achieving near perfection in just your second season as head coach is a feat that few in history can claim.

If Lanning is able to keep this success rolling forward into 2024 and build on it, there is nothing the Ducks can’t accomplish this season. They have all of the confidence in the world and just need to prioritize not “flying” too close to the sun.

The Entire Team is Bought In

Oregon’s entire offseason has mirrored 2023 Michigan’s rise. Players have confidently posted about how it’s their time to shine, while fans have boldly claimed that the Ducks now belong among college football’s elite blue bloods. This confidence isn’t unfounded, as Oregon has been on an unprecedented recruiting spree, rivaling the dominance Texas A&M displayed just a few years ago. They’ve secured top talent from across the country, further fueling the belief that they’re on the cusp of something special. With momentum building on and off the field, the Ducks are poised to make a serious run. If there was ever a time to be a Ducks fan, it’s now.

The entire team, coaching staff, and fanbase are fully bought in. When you combine this level of talent and commitment, the rest of college football should be on alert.

Oregon will can win a National title in 2024. Anything less would be unacceptable.