Oregon Football: 3 hot takes from huge upset win at No. 3 Ohio State

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Sep 11, 2021; Columbus, Ohio, USA; Oregon Ducks running back CJ Verdell (7) runs during the third quarter against the Ohio State Buckeyes at Ohio Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joseph Maiorana-USA TODAY Sports /

2. CJ Verdell is a legit Heisman candidate

People might laugh at this, but I truly believe that CJ Verdell is a legitimate Heisman Trophy candidate.

After a quiet Week 1 performance against Fresno State, Verdell bounced back to put up some wild numbers against the No. 3 team in the country on the road. He stepped up and helped lead the offense down the field numerous times and should get as much credit as anyone for helping the Ducks pull off the mammoth upset of the Buckeyes.

Verdell finished the day with 161 rushing yards and two touchdowns on just 20 carries and he caught three passes for 34 yards and crossed the goal-line again to give him 195 all-purpose yards on the afternoon with three touchdowns. He looked like a superstar.

Through two games, Verdell has rushed for 235 yards and three touchdowns while also catching four passes for 36 yards and a score. He shook off a poor opener with a dominant Week 2 performance.

It’s time to start giving Verdell respect as a legitimate Heisman candidate.

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