In a lot of ways, it was a typical spring game at Oregon.
The sun was out, the stands were packed and the traditional flyover thrilled fans down below.
But in more ways, it was a very different spring game for the Ducks.
Head coach Dan Lanning was able to show off a lot of the future here in the present, as there were a bunch of new names and faces playing a significant part of the game.
When all was said and done, the Combat Ducks (white) defeated the Fighting Ducks (black) 24-20.
It was a defensive game for much of the 60 minutes played.
There were two touchdowns scored in the last two minutes of the game. But was quarterback Luke Moga hitting receiver Dillon Gresham on the run for a long touchdown and the game-winner.
Moga, who is probably tabbed to be QB3 in the fall, looked like he was more than capable of leading the starters if he is called upon to do so, which is very unusual for a supposed third-stringer.
“I think every quarterback has a different skill set, you know, and Luke’s always been really athletic player, but I think what’s where he’s really come on this year is throwing on time, taking what’s there, becoming a complete quarterback from that standpoint,” Lanning said.
“But you know, he had some really good moments this spring, and certainly some good moments today.”
Gresham, also a redshirt freshman, looked like he could make significant contributions sooner rather than later. He led all receivers in yards. According to Lanning, Gresham has worked hard this off-season, and it shows in the results.
“I would say that Dillon is probably one of our most improved players from this past season to what he’s done now,” Lanning said.
“He’s continued to make big plays on the field and, you know, done a really good job for us. He showed up today. I think we all saw what he’s capable of today.”
Despite the two late scores, this was a defensive game. The offenses had trouble moving the ball and even gave up a score when linebacker Blake Purchase picked up a Jay Harris fumble and took it 38 yards for a touchdown.
Overall, it is just a spring game and nothing too much can be taken away from it except that the Ducks are a talented bunch and once they put the pieces all together, there’s no reason to think they can’t contend for another Big Ten title.