Heisman hopeful Dillon Gabriel led No. 1 Oregon to a decisive 38-17 victory over Michigan on Saturday, showcasing his dual-threat capability with both a touchdown pass and a rushing score. This performance further solidified his status as a frontrunner for college football’s most prestigious award.
The Ducks (9-0, 6-0 Big Ten) capitalized on an early opportunity when Gabriel’s 2-yard pass to Evan Stewart was initially dropped but still resulted in a touchdown. Despite this stroke of luck, their unbeaten streak was more a testament to their solid gameplay than fortune.
The Wolverines (5-4, 3-3) briefly tied the game at 7-7 with a 7-yard touchdown pass from Davis Warren to Tyler Morris, following a fumble by backup returner Ryan Pellum on a punt return. However, they could not regain the lead and fell behind for the remainder of the match.
Oregon dominated the first half, amassing 304 yards of offense and taking a commanding 28-10 lead into halftime before their momentum began to wane.
Michigan had a chance to narrow the gap midway through the fourth quarter but faltered on a trick play that resulted in a turnover on downs at the Ducks’ 10-yard line, with receiver Semaj Morgan attempting to pass to backup quarterback Alex Orji.
Gabriel completed 22 of 34 passes for 294 yards and added a 23-yard touchdown run, extending Oregon’s lead to 18 points by halftime.
The Ducks faced a significant challenge when they lost their leading receiver and punt returner, Tez Johnson, to a shoulder injury in the first quarter. Johnson caught an 11-yard pass but was injured during the tackle, later returning to the sidelines in a sling.
Despite Johnson’s absence, who holds 64 receptions and ranks among the NCAA leaders with 649 receiving yards and eight touchdowns, the Ducks adapted well. Jordan James contributed significantly, rushing for 117 yards and scoring a touchdown with just 25 seconds left on the clock.
For Michigan, Warren completed 12 of 21 passes for 165 yards, throwing two touchdowns to Morgan and Peyton O’Leary. Colston Loveland emerged as a standout for the Wolverines, making seven receptions for a career-high 112 yards.
Takeaway
Oregon’s resilience in the face of Johnson’s injury was commendable. Traeshon Holden stepped up in his absence, matching a career-high with six catches and nearly doubling his previous record with 149 receiving yards.
Poll implications
Oregon is expected to maintain its top position in the AP Top 25 rankings following this victory.
Up next
Oregon will host Maryland next Saturday, while Michigan prepares to face No. 13 Indiana on the road.
