Oregon entered the first College Football Playoff rankings this week at No. 23 despite an uneven season and a tough road test ahead against Ohio State. The Ducks, coached by Dan Lanning, hold a 5-3 overall record and sit 3-2 in the Big Ten. Their spot in the 12-team playoff rankings places them just outside the bubble, with the expanded 24-team playoff expected to begin next season.
The rankings were revealed live on ESPN on Tuesday. Oregon’s inclusion came after a win over Northwestern, which helped build some momentum before they travel to face No. 12 Ohio State this Saturday. The Buckeyes have a 6-2 record overall and 4-1 in conference play. This matchup was originally billed as a heavyweight clash between the preseason No. 1 and No. 2 teams in the AP poll, but both programs have stumbled through a chaotic season.
Ohio State’s latest setback came with a road loss to No. 20 USC, which has shaken their position somewhat in the playoff race. Meanwhile, after their win over Northwestern, the Ducks hope to prove they can disrupt the Buckeyes’ campaign. The Big Ten is well represented in the CFP rankings this week, with Iowa at No. 19, UCLA at No. 8, and Indiana at No. 4.
Oregon’s path to the postseason has been bumpy. The Ducks have lost three games already but remain competitive in conference play. Their upcoming game against Ohio State will be a significant challenge, testing their ability to compete against one of the conference frontrunners in a hostile environment.
On the local front, Oregon is preparing to host Eastern Washington, with predictions and odds already circulating as fans anticipate the matchup. The program also recently secured a commitment from a local long snapping prospect, adding depth to the roster. Early expert predictions on the Oregon-Ohio State game have surfaced, focused on whether the Ducks can spoil the Buckeyes’ hopes of securing a College Football Playoff spot.
The ranking reflects Oregon’s potential despite their inconsistent results. The Ducks find themselves on the edge of the playoff picture, looking to build on their recent win while facing a difficult opponent in Ohio State. The game will be a meaningful test for Dan Lanning’s squad as they try to climb the standings and make a late-season push.
According to Yahoo Sports.
