To go on the road and pick off a team as talented as Ohio State, it truly takes everyone to make an upset happen. On Saturday, Oregon got massive contributions from just about every player, along with the coaching staff, to help send a statement with the win over the Buckeyes. While Ohio State has an incredibly talented roster, the Ducks left no doubt about who's the better team, refusing to give an inch in any aspect of the game.
Stars like Dakorien Moore, Dierre Hill Jr., Jamari Johnson, Matayo Uiagalelei will get a lot of the shine, and rightfully so, but it took more than just the superstars to win the game. The Ducks don't win the game the way that they did without some stealth performances from players who don't get nearly enough love.
The 4 unsung heroes of Oregon's statement win over Ohio State
Oregon's cornerback trio
While Jeremiah Smith got rolling in garbage time; for most of this game, the Ducks' starting cornerback trio of Brandon Finney Jr., Na'eem Offord, and Ify Obidegwu erased Ohio State's big-play ability. The trio played a combined 117 coverage snaps, allowing just 88 yards on 13 catches without allowing a touchdown. The Ducks didn't allow Ohio State to get that big play that brought the crowd back into this game, and it's because the corners kept everything in front of them.
The entire offensive line
The offensive line has gotten a ton of blame when the offense has played poorly, but it may have been in part due to the offensive coordinator issues. The Ducks did not allow a sack in this game, despite the fact that the Buckeyes tried to bring a ton of pressure to speed Dylan Raiola up. With just 3.3 yards per carry on the ground, the Ducks would love to open better holes in the run game, but when you keep your quarterback clean, it goes a long way.
Devon Jackson - Linebacker
Jerry Mixon went down with an injury on the opening play, and while he ended up returning, Oregon needed Devon Jackson to show up. The speed of Jackson was critical in this game as he racked up 8 tackles to help put a lid on the explosive potential of this Ohio State offense. The trust the staff can place in Jackson to remain on the field regardless of the situation has made him an incredible asset as the unit has rounded into form.
Nasir Wyatt - Edge Rusher
Teitum Tuioti was carted off the field after the game, and if he's going to miss time, Oregon is going to need Nasir Wyatt to remain an elite player in a bigger role. Every week, Nasir Wyatt seemingly has the sack where he's shot out of a cannon and makes everyone look slow, and it helped with halting Ohio State's momentum in the first half. Wyatt continues to look better each week, and it's going to be so exciting to watch what the next year has in store for him.
NASIR WYATT SACKK ON 3RD DOWN pic.twitter.com/1bo1fPR62S
— FD (@flooduck) November 7, 2026
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