Oregon Ducks head coach Dan Lanning expressed his deep admiration for quarterback Dillon Gabriel following the team’s exciting 45-37 win over Penn State in the Big Ten Championship Game on Saturday night. Gabriel’s outstanding performance earned him high praise from his coach.
“He deserves everything that comes his way,” Lanning said, according to Zachary Neel on X (formerly Twitter).
Lanning’s words highlighted Gabriel’s crucial role in leading the Ducks to a perfect 13-0 season and securing their spot at the top of the College Football Playoff rankings. The sixth-year quarterback was instrumental in Oregon’s offensive success, completing 22 of 32 passes for 283 yards and four touchdowns.
Gabriel’s leadership shone in key moments, such as a 48-yard touchdown pass to Tez Johnson in the third quarter that pushed Oregon’s lead to 38-24. Although Gabriel’s chances of winning the Heisman are slim, with frontrunners like Colorado’s Travis Hunter and Boise State’s Ashton Jeanty, his remarkable consistency this season has all but ensured him an invitation to the ceremony.
Oregon secures the Number 1 seed in the College Football Playoff
Dillon Gabriel’s leadership on Saturday was a key factor in Oregon’s success, showcasing why he’s such an integral part of the team. While Gabriel earned much of the spotlight, wide receiver Tez Johnson also had a career-best performance, racking up 181 yards on 11 receptions and scoring an important touchdown.
Johnson’s ability to exploit Penn State’s secondary was vital in maintaining Oregon’s offensive momentum. The Ducks’ offensive balance was on full display, with running back Jordan James contributing a three-yard touchdown run to cap a lengthy 12-play drive in the fourth quarter. Oregon’s relentless attack ultimately proved too much for Penn State to stop.
With the victory, Oregon solidified its position as the No. 1 seed in the College Football Playoff. As the only undefeated team at the highest level of college football, their dominant season has made them a clear favorite heading into the postseason. They will face the winner of the No. 8 vs. No. 9 game in the Rose Bowl on New Year’s Day.
Despite the loss, Penn State remains a lock for the College Football Playoff, though there are still questions about their seeding.
The Nittany Lions’ inability to stop Oregon’s offense exposed ongoing challenges in high-stakes games, a recurring issue highlighted by head coach James Franklin’s record of just three wins in 22 games against top-10 opponents.
Lanning’s postgame comments reflected his confidence in Gabriel as the Ducks prepare for the postseason. “This guy deserves every single thing that comes his way,” Lanning said, capturing the essence of Gabriel’s impressive season. With Gabriel leading the charge, Oregon appears ready for a deep playoff run and a potential national championship.
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