Locked On Ducks - Daily Podcast On Oregon Ducks

Oregon Ducks, Dante Moore Avoid Indiana as Brutal Schedule TESTS Playoff Dreams Early in Big 10

Jan 29, 2026

A deep dive into Oregon’s brutal early Big Ten slate and how eight straight conference games will test playoff viability. Analysis of transfer additions beyond the headline names and which portal players could swing the season. A debate over freshman standouts with a pick for freshman of the year. Breakdown of key matchups, depth battles across the roster, and NFL fit for draft prospects.

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INSIGHT

Season Readiness Determined Early

Oregon's early schedule reveals readiness quickly because tough nonconference tests come fast.
Spencer McLaughlin says fans will know early if the Ducks can chase a national title.

INSIGHT

Dodging Indiana Eases Pressure

Avoiding Indiana is a significant schedule relief for Dante Moore and the Ducks.
Spencer McLaughlin ranks Indiana as his top Big Ten team entering 2026 and a dangerous matchup to dodge.

INSIGHT

Tough Schedule Helps Playoff Perception

A brutal schedule also helps Oregon avoid a weak-strength argument in playoff debates.
Spencer McLaughlin notes every opponent tests the Ducks, so perceptions of an easy slate won't be an issue.

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Oregon's schedule features 8 straight Big 10 games after its bye in early October. There are serious positives for the Ducks in a schedule that will test their entire team.

On today's episode of Locked On Ducks, Spencer McLaughlin discusses Oregon's transfer portal haul--its lowest ranked class in the Lanning era. Who will make a big impact besides the obvious names?

Oregon had an elite 2025 recruiting class that made a huge impact on the field during the season. Which player deserves the title of "freshman of the year" for the Ducks?

04:54 Oregon's Path to Playoffs

12:06 Oregon's Key Transfers Analysis

14:36 Evan Stewart's Role with Ducks

25:31 Oregon's Cornerback Performances Reviewed

28:01 Oregon Players and NFL Draft

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