The Oregon Ducks are grappling with their quarterback situation following their loss to the Ohio State Buckeyes, 41-21, during the Rose Bowl on New Year's Day. This defeat marked the end of their 2024 season and sparked some significant shifts within the program.
Just days after this disappointing finish, five-star quarterback commit Jaron-Keawe Sagapolutele caught many off-guard by announcing his decision to enter the transfer portal. Sagapolutele had participated in practices leading up to the Rose Bowl but decided to weigh his options, leaving the Ducks fans anxious about their quarterback prospects for the coming seasons.
With Sagapolutele's exit, the spotlight now shines on Dante Moore, who many believe is set to take over as the starting quarterback for the Ducks in 2025. Moore, who previously signed with UCLA before transferring back to Oregon, is considered by teammates to be more than capable of leading the team. Wide receiver Tez Johnson has voiced particularly high expectations for Moore, declaring at the Rose Bowl media day, "He’ll be a Heisman finalist next year, 100%. It’s something you haven’t seen yet. That boy can throw the ball like no other. I’ve never seen nothing like it."
Johnson's enthusiastic endorsement not only expresses confidence but also highlights the potential Moore has shown during practices and preparations. Moore, who spent the previous season backing up Heisman finalist Dillon Gabriel, may finally have his time to step up and lead the Ducks next year. His limited on-field experience includes throwing just eight passes this past season, preserving his redshirt year but still ramping up anticipation for what he could achieve under center.
The backup quarterback's prowess is already apparent; Johnson reinforces his belief by stating, "He is so ready. He is so ready to play." Johnson went on to note how even when the second-string players were put on the field during practice, they looked just as polished as the starters. This level of preparation and competency has left teammates feeling optimistic heading toward the 2025 season.
Sagapolutele’s transfer has been somewhat of a loss; reports indicate he was aiming to start as a true freshman, but upon joining the team and practicing alongside Moore, he recognized the challenge of competing against someone already marked as the potential starter. A source close to the program confirmed this sentiment, emphasizing how Moore's early readiness has set the stage for his ascendency within the team. The Ducks are now tasked with filling the void left by Sagapolutele as they look for quarterbacks, aiming to build depth within the position.
Even though the transfer portal is inevitably changing dynamics within college football, players are drifting to new opportunities. Ten four-star quarterbacks have already entered the 2025 transfer portal, but many of them have already secured commitments. With options dwindling, the Ducks have to stay open to alternatives, even though many believe Dante Moore will step up as the anticipated starter for the upcoming season.
One option visible on the horizon is former UNLV quarterback Matthew Sluka. Rated as a three-star transfer and ranked 15th among quarterbacks who have entered the portal, Sluka’s experience and performance could prove beneficial if Oregon decides to pursue him. Another potential candidate is Mark Gronowski, who boasts impressive statistics and has also entered the portal. With Gronowski winning two FCS National Championships, he carries substantial momentum as he moves forward.
Though it’s likely Moore will be at the helm when the season kicks off, there remains uncertainty as he competes against Austin Novosad, as well as incoming freshmen and potential late-entry transfers. Even without needing to look at the transfer portal, the Ducks have Moreno, Luke Moga, and freshman Akili Smith Jr. breaking ground for the years to come. Fans have plenty to be excited about with the talent already within the program’s grasp.
With the strong foundation laid out by dynamic recruits and hopeful expectations, not to mention teammate support for Moore’s abilities, many believe the Ducks are on the cusp of maintaining their competitive status. Time will tell how the situation develops and how well Moore can capitalize on his opportunities, but Johnson's words resonate: the promise of the Ducks' quarterback future remains bright.