EUGENE, OR — The No. 1 Oregon Ducks annihilated the Illinois Fighting Illini 38-9 Saturday in an impressive display of skill and strategy. Oregon remains undefeated and showcased their star quarterback to the nation.
Quarterback Gabriel was brilliant, and threw for three touchdowns and rushed for another. Gabriel went 18-of-26 for 291 yards, and his contributions were instrumental in helping the Ducks rack up an eye-popping 527 yards of total offense. “I was just trying to stay locked in and execute the game plan. The guys around me made it simple,” Gabriel said post-game.
One of Gabriel’s main targets was Tez Johnson, who had six catches for 102 yards and a touchdown. The ability to make plays downfield was pivotal for Johnson in stretching the defense of Illinois. “Dillon did a good job of putting the ball exactly where it had to be, and I just had to catch it,” Johnson said of his quarterback’s performance.
The Ducks’ offense took little time to find a rhythm. In 2023, Oregon showed why it is a contender in the college football landscape with its mix of accurate passing, decisive running, and clever play-calling.
“Every week matters in its own right,” Gabriel said. “I think you’ve got to live that life of here and now. That’s easy to say and difficult to do.”
With the season winding down, the Ducks will try to keep steam en route to a title.
With this resounding victory, their expectations have been raised, and who knows what else this talented team may yet achieve?
The Ducks will head to The Big House known as Michigan Stadium and take on the Michigan Wolverines On Saturday November 2.
