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What we learned from Oregon's clutch road win over Michigan

This team is special.

By Connor Muldowney

Nov 2, 2024; Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA; Oregon Ducks wide receiver Traeshon Holden (1) runs the ball chased by Michigan Wolverines defensive back Aamir Hall (12) in the second half at Michigan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images
Nov 2, 2024; Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA; Oregon Ducks wide receiver Traeshon Holden (1) runs the ball chased by Michigan Wolverines defensive back Aamir Hall (12) in the second half at Michigan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images / Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images
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Not many teams can go into the Big House and put up 470 yards and beat the reigning national champs by 21 points on their own turf and make it look easy, but Oregon football did just that.

The Ducks had to sweat it out for a quarter, but they went into halftime up 28-10 and they never looked back, winning 38-17. The Wolverines didn't stand much of a chance as their offense just couldn't keep up. They had just 270 total yards and it was obvious that the offense just didn't have the juice to keep pace with the No. 1 team in the country.

We learn a lot on Saturday, namely these three things.

1. Dillon Gabriel might run away with the Heisman

Although he's not putting up gaudy numbers or anything, Dillon Gabriel has been one of the best players in the country and he just led his team to 38 points and 470 yards on the road against the reigning national champion. And he was darn near perfect, throwing for 294 yards and a touchdown while rushing for another 23 yards and a score.

Like I said, his numbers aren't crazy, but as long as he keeps winning and avoiding mistakes, he might just run away with the Heisman Trophy.

All of his remaining games are more than winnable.

2. Loss of Tez Johnson is concerning

Losing Tez Johnson early in Saturday's game could have led to a nightmare scenario for the Ducks in Ann Arbor, but luckily they didn't let it derail them, cruising to a 21-point win anyways.

But this injury is concerning.

Lanning said after the game that they're still figuring out how serious the injury is, but the fact that he was on the sideline in street clothes with a sling on his arm does not make fans feel any better. This could be a long-term thing, but if he's back for the postseason, I think Oregon avoids disaster. That's a big 'if' though.

3. We're officially in 'national title or bust' territory

I hate to put this type of pressure on any team really because it's not fair, but Oregon is approaching 'national title or bust' territory with how it's been playing.

Outside of the first two games and a matchup with No. 2 Ohio State, Oregon has dominated every opponent and it's getting stronger by the week. Now with a dominant win over last year's national champion on the road, the Ducks have a clear path to a 12-0 regular season and a trip to the Big Ten title game, barring a serious meltdown.

That means this is a 'national title or bust' team and it's being led by the Heisman frontrunner right now. Everything feels like it's in place for the Ducks to truly contend for their first national title ever.

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