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The 4 overlooked Oregon standouts who helped deliver a statement win over Michigan

ByNicholas Rome
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Nov 14, 2026; Eugene, Oregon, USA; Oregon Ducks defensive back Jett Washington (24) celebrates with teammates during the second half after stopping an offensive drive by the Michigan Wolverines at Autzen Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Troy Wayrynen-Imagn Images
Nov 14, 2026; Eugene, Oregon, USA; Oregon Ducks defensive back Jett Washington (24) celebrates with teammates during the second half after stopping an offensive drive by the Michigan Wolverines at Autzen Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Troy Wayrynen-Imagn Images | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

It wasn't the prettiest game of the season, and at times you could certainly be frustrated, but the Oregon Ducks picked up a relatively easy win over Michigan on Saturday. The most any team scored on Michigan this season was 21 points, which Oregon accomplished in the 1st half while also passing on a field goal and dropping an easy touchdown. Aside from Savion Hiter's big rushing touchdown, Oregon limited the Wolverines offense the entire game.

Oregon handed the Wolverines their worst loss of the season, and while they aren't the Playoff contender everyone expected them to be, it's still an impressive win as the team continues to build momentum. While Dylan Raiola, Matayo Uiagalelei, Jeremiah McClellan, and Dierre Hill Jr. stuffed the stat sheet, 4 overlooked stars helped deliver the 3rd win in a row for Dan Lanning's Ducks.

The 4 unsung heroes from Oregon's win over Michigan

Da'Jaun Riggs - Running Back

Everyone in the running back room has been chipping in with Jordon Davison injured, and on Saturday that included Da'Jaun Riggs. While the Junior only got 2 touches in this game for 4 yards, he came through with what proved to be the game winning touchdown to put the Ducks up 14-0. Riggs has gotten his chance to start playing more over the last two weeks, and touches are going to continue to come his way if he proves to be a valuable 3rd down back.

Jett Washington - Safety

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The safety position has been a concern for the Ducks all season long, and on Saturday, freshman Jett Washington saw his playing time tick up. One of the biggest plays of the game came on 4th and goal with Michigan trailing by 14 as the Wolverines picked on the freshman, only for Washington to come through with the pass breakup. Lanning sang the praises of Washington after the game, and it's clear he's going to be an impactful player down the stretch.

Bear Alexander - Defensive Tackle

With the loss of Teituim Tuioti, it was a massive concern when Bear Alexander missed the start of the second half, but he emerged from the locker room with a heavily wrapped ankle to help anchor the defense. Alexander was key in slowing Michigan's run game, while adding a forced fumble to help the defense down the stretch. Oregon's veteran defensive front has lived up to the hype all season long, and it's going to be a key factor if the Ducks continue to rack up wins.

Dylan Williams - Linebacker

Jerry Mixon missed this week's game after tweaking something during Pregame warmups, but it was hardly noticed thanks to the solid play of Dylan Williams. Even with Devon Jackson missing a few plays, Williams was incredible, leading the team with 11 tackles, and he punched the ball away from Tommy Carr to help put the game away. The Linebacker room has been one of the best for Oregon this season, and Williams helped showcase the depth of the group on Saturday.

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