Oregon Ducks Undefeated with Dante Moore as Rising Heisman Favorite

The No. 2 Oregon Ducks are 5-0 and have emerged as national contenders under Dan Lanning, who has built a “strength in numbers” culture emphasizing depth, discipline and consistency since his 2021 hire. Oregon pairs one of the nation’s most efficient offenses (about 503.8 yards and 46.6 points per game) with a top-10 defense allowing just 12.2 points and under 240 yards per game, fueled by balanced contributions from multiple receivers and rushers. Quarterback Dante Moore has grown into a Heisman-caliber leader, displaying calm, poise and clutch improvisation in the 30-24 overtime road win at Penn State — completing 29-of-39 for 248 yards and three touchdowns and making several critical third‑down throws. Lanning and his staff (including OC Will Stein and assistant QB coach Koa Ka’ai) have been credited with Moore’s development, and Lanning highlighted reciprocal leadership between Moore and RB Noah Whittington as key to the team’s preparation and resilience. Despite acknowledging Moore is “special,” Lanning has downplayed Heisman hype even as Moore sits in national award conversations (DraftKings +750; season totals cited) as the Ducks enter a bye week before facing No. 8 Indiana at Autzen Stadium on Oct. 11.