In his first season with the Ducks, Jim Leavitt was working on turning the Oregon defense around after Brady Hoke's deplorable season with the team.
2017 saw a 7-6 overall finish for the Ducks and zero teams scored more than 49 points against Oregon's defense throughout the season.
The second season under Leavitt's leadership, Oregon improved to 9-4 overall and the Ducks held Michigan State to a minimal 6 points in the Redbox Bowl.
While the Ducks' offense lacked consistency throughout the two seasons, Leavitt's defensive units were dominant on the field.
Troy Dye, Jalen Jelks, Justin Hollins, and Jordan Scott were on national defensive award watch lists throughout the season including the Bednarik Award, the Outland Trophy, and the Butkus Award.