It was a fun and exciting afternoon in Eugene as Oregon Duck fans packed Autzen Stadium, soaking up the sunshine and watching Dan Lanning’s revamped roster take the field for the annual spring game. With several players being selected in the 2025 NFL draft, the Ducks demonstrated what they had been working on during the offseason.
The defense dominated the scrimmage, except for a few big offensive plays. The final score read 24-20 in favor of the Fighting Ducks, but the most noteworthy stat was the 11 sacks from both defenses, along with a defensive touchdown.
Some expected stars, like Kenyon Sadiq, Dante Moore, and Kyler Kasper, stood out, but a few young players also made a name for themselves, including WR Dillon Gresham, QB Luke Moga, LB Jerry Mixon, and K Gage Hubrich. Here are the biggest takeaways from the game: 
Defensive Dominance
The defense was the story of the day. While the offense had its moments, it was the defense that controlled the action, racking up 11 sacks, intercepting a pass, and forcing a fumble returned for a touchdown by Blake Purchase.
Safety Aaron Flowers led the team with eight tackles, and LB Jerry Mixon had seven tackles. In total, 11 players recorded at least half a sack, and the two teams combined for 16 tackles for loss. The secondary also got in on the action with nine pass break-ups.
Given the defensive line’s strength and the offensive line’s makeup (composed of starters and backups), the defense’s dominance was expected.
Quarterback Battle
Heading into the scrimmage, Dante Moore was considered the frontrunner in the quarterback competition, followed by Austin Novosad and Luke Moga. After the spring game, this still seems to be the case.
All three quarterbacks performed well, with Moga having the standout day. The redshirt freshman completed 6-of-13 passes for 112 yards and one touchdown while also rushing for 11 yards. Moore completed 12-of-20 passes for 140 yards, while Novosad went 5-for-9 for 58 yards.
While none of the quarterbacks asserted themselves as the clear QB1, it appears Moore still holds the top spot, and any of the others will need a strong fall camp to unseat him.
Kenyon Sadiq’s Big Day
Kenyon Sadiq had an impressive performance, leading the team with seven catches for 102 yards. Offensive coordinator Will Stein had previously said they planned to get Sadiq the ball more this season, and Saturday’s game showed that plan in action. Sadiq’s playmaking ability was on full display, including hurdling a defender in the third quarter.
Dakorien Moore’s Impact
Freshman wide receiver Dakorien Moore, the No. 1 WR in the 2025 class, quickly made his mark in the spring game. On the first drive, Moore caught a 36-yard pass from Novosad, showing his ability to battle defenders and make tough catches.
With several talented offensive weapons at his disposal, Moore is sure to have a role in Oregon’s offense and could be a top target for whoever wins the QB job.
Dillon Gresham’s Breakout
Redshirt freshman WR Dillon Gresham turned heads with three catches for 96 yards and the only WR touchdown of the day. His 56-yard touchdown reception from Moga was the highlight, but he also made an impressive diving catch down the sideline. Gresham’s performance could mean he’s ready for a bigger role this season.
Gage Hubrich’s Kicking Performance
Freshman kicker Gage Hubrich made a statement during the spring game. He nailed two long field goals, one from 47 yards and another from 54 yards, both with plenty of distance. He also punted twice for 69 yards, with one punt downed inside the 20. While it’s still uncertain how Hubrich will perform in a real game, he has certainly made the kicker position a competition.
Injuries and Absences
While there weren’t many injuries or absences during warm-ups, the Ducks did miss a few potential starters. LB Devon Jackson and DL Aydin Breland were held out with injuries, with Breland in a walking boot. WR Evan Stewart also didn’t play despite being in full pads. CB Jahlil Florence, wearing a non-contact jersey due to a hand injury, was limited but still participated in the game.
Jerry Mixon and the Linebackers
With questions about depth at linebacker, particularly after Devon Jackson’s injury, the Ducks’ young linebackers impressed in the spring game. Jerry Mixon had seven tackles, one sack, and 2.5 tackles for loss. Other linebackers like Brayden Platt, Dylan Williams, and Kamar Mothudie also played well.
Coach Dan Lanning expressed confidence in the linebacker group and confirmed they wouldn’t be pursuing a transfer to add more depth to the position.
The Punting Issue
While Ross James has been one of the nation’s best punters, his performance on Saturday was disappointing. He averaged just 31 yards on three punts, with one going just 12 yards out of bounds. Lanning acknowledged the punting issue, joking about potentially seeking a transfer for the position.
