Week 6: vs. Michigan State – Oct. 5
In the teams’ first matchup since 2018 (a 7-6 victory for the Ducks), Oregon won’t be strangers to everyone on the field.
Oregon State’s former head coach Jonathan Smith is now running the Spartan’s show. Alongside Smith will be former Ducks cornerback coach Demetrice Martin.
While Michigan State has been able to rise in the recruiting ranks during the 2023-24 offseason, its roster doesn’t quite compare to that of Oregon. Head coach Dan Lanning is currently 1-1 against Smith but is hopeful, and likely, to improve that record next season.
Oregon State backup quarterback Aidan Chiles transferred to the Spartans’ program when his head coach made the move and is expected to make the start in 2024.
With Chiles’ knowledge of the game and experience within Smith’s program, the Michigan State offense should be in good hands. However, with a defense similar to the one that struggled to stop opponents last year, I don’t expect the Spartans to be able to stop the Ducks.
Oregon will move to a 6-0 record after defeating Michigan State 30-14.