Locked On Ducks - Daily Podcast On Oregon Ducks

GAUNTLET: Oregon’s 2026 Schedule Highlighted by Big 10 Battles at Ohio St, vs Michigan. Any Upside?

Jan 28, 2026
Oregon’s 2026 schedule is broken down with focus on brutal Big Ten road tests at Ohio State and a home clash with Michigan. The awkward nonconference order and an eight-game conference run get attention. Discussion centers on how the transfer portal and returning core players might help. Special teams and a looming kicking battle are highlighted as key X-factors.
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INSIGHT

Rough Nonconference Start

  • Oregon's 2026 schedule opens with tough nonconference games and an early Big Ten road test that removes easy tune-up opportunities.
  • Spencer McLaughlin warns that fewer early blowouts could make the season more precarious for ranking and momentum.
INSIGHT

November Gauntlet

  • November presents a brutal stretch with road Ohio State followed by home Michigan and other challenging league games.
  • McLaughlin calls that month likely the toughest stretch Oregon will face in 2026 and questions its timing.
INSIGHT

Big Ten Reputation Helps Playoff Case

  • The Big Ten's rising reputation makes a 10-2 Oregon more playoff-viable than in past years.
  • McLaughlin argues conference strength raises Oregon's margin for inclusion even with two losses.
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