EUGENE, Ore. — Oregon has approached its inaugural season in the Big Ten with a no-nonsense attitude, eschewing any speculation about future outcomes. Quarterback Dillon Gabriel emphasizes that the team focuses on the present rather than crafting narratives about what is to come.
The Ducks’ philosophy has proven effective as they wrapped up the regular season with an impressive record of 12-0 (9-0 in Big Ten play), leading both the AP Top 25 and the College Football Playoff rankings. Their next challenge is the conference championship game in Indianapolis, where they will take on No. 3-ranked Penn State, which holds an 11-1 record (8-1 Big Ten, ranked No. 4 in the CFP).
“It’s a great accomplishment, but we really haven’t spent time discussing it. We focus on one week at a time and remain present,” Gabriel stated. “It’s a challenge not to look ahead, but for us, tomorrow is just a story yet to be told. We concentrate on where we currently stand.”
Oregon ended the regular season in style, defeating rival Washington 49-21 in a game that marked their 13th consecutive victory, dating back to the previous season. This streak is currently the longest in the nation.
After the game, head coach Dan Lanning reflected on the win, expressing his mindset: “Our goal is to continuously improve.”
The Ducks, who transitioned from the Pac-12 due to realignment, have demonstrated marked progress throughout the season by maintaining their focus on the immediate challenges. Initially, the team encountered difficulties with non-conference wins against Idaho and Boise State before resolving issues related to the offensive line. Following a dominant performance against Oregon State, Oregon secured critical victories over UCLA and Michigan State, culminating in a crucial 32-31 triumph over No. 2 Ohio State.
“There are numerous challenges in today’s college football landscape, but it begins within our locker room,” Lanning said. “Our players are committed and believe in what we are doing. The focus is on daily improvement, and that’s the kind of culture we have built.”
Having finished the season as the only undefeated team in the FBS, Oregon had already clinched its place in the conference title match prior to their game against Washington. Earlier that Saturday, Penn State dominated Maryland with a score of 44-7, and Ohio State’s narrow 13-10 defeat to Michigan allowed the Nittany Lions to secure their championship berth.
Oregon has faced Penn State only once before, during the 1995 Rose Bowl, where Penn State emerged victorious with a score of 38-20.
A victory in Saturday’s game would grant the Ducks a first-round bye in the newly expanded 12-team playoff format, positioning them favorably for the quarterfinals, likely in the Rose Bowl. Even in the event of a loss, Oregon is guaranteed a playoff spot.
As per their usual approach, Lanning remained grounded during a conference call with reporters, choosing not to contemplate future scenarios.
“Looking ahead is just fantasy at the moment,” he remarked. “I believe we are achieving what I expected from our team. Staying focused on the present is essential—our team is excelling at this by staying rooted in the now.”
