Coach Dan Lanning's Oregon Ducks are looking like a new team with a 7-3 record following a 31-7 beatdown of Michigan at Autzen Stadium that featured an electric play by Dakorien Moore. Lanning got into a verbal exchange of words with Kyle Whittingham of the Wolverines prior to the game on NIL dollars then watched his Ducks mop the floor with their Big Ten opponents.
Freshman defensive back Jett Washington got time against the Wolverines' QB duo of Tommy Carr and Bryce Underwood, prompting Lanning to share some thoughts on his situation.
“You've seen his role grow with the team, he's starting to be an impact player on special teams for us, you've seen big moments, the two-point play with the break-up, and then our fourth down with a break-up, he's long, he's smart, he's athletic, he cares.”
Washington is a safety and the nephew of Los Angeles Lakers NBA legend Kobe Bryant. At 6-foot-5 and just 19 years old, he brings a dimension most college football quarterbacks aren't used to seeing on the back end of a defense, and he is still learning how to utilize his considerable talents.
Article Continues BelowDylan Raiola threw for 341 yards and four touchdowns at quarterback while the Ducks' offense took center stage. Dierre Hill Jr. nearly broke the 100-yard mark on the ground while Lanning's recovering wide receiver Jeremiah McClellan also had a big day through the air.
The Ducks are 7-3 and could have a much better record if not for a long list of injuries that have come at bad times. Dante Moore's concussion is the worst of the bunch, but Raiola is starting to find his groove under new OC Jay Johnson. With 467 yards against the Wolverines, Lanning's team is officially back. There's still time for greater accomplishments, but for now, Lanning's team is basking in the glory of a thoroughly satisfying home win.