Oregon Ducks fall camp position breakdown: Quarterbacks

Before Oregon’s fall camp begins on July 30, The Oregonian/OregonLive will preview each of ten position groupings. The series begins with a review of the quarterbacks.

Eugene Oregon’s quarterback, who has the least amount of experience since 2020, will be the third new starter in as many seasons.

The moment has finally come for Dante Moore, who committed to transfer from UCLA on December 18, 2023, marking the start of a journey. Before a more difficult stretch of Big Ten play, Moore should be able to adjust to a new offensive line and a reloading receiver corps thanks to a fortunate schedule. The former five-star recruit has an exceptionally high ceiling.

Although Moore is responsible for this, Austin Novosad will advocate for opportunities.

Starter returning: N/A

Additional returning players are Luke Moga, a redshirt freshman; Austin Novosad, a redshirt sophomore; Dante Moore, a redshirt sophomore; and Akili Smith Jr., a rookie.

Dillon Gabriel and Jaron Keawe Sagapolutele (who was moved to Cal) left.

Arrivals in the summer: N/A

Outlook: Moore and Novosad are still officially in competition.

But putting coachspeak aside, Moore is responsible for a big part of this season. He will get the opportunity to demonstrate his growth in the fall after a year of playing primarily as Dillon Gabriel’s backup with minimal in-game action. He began playing for the Bruins in 2023.

To be fair to Moore, a thorough evaluation of his decision-making speed and accuracy will take time.

Behind an offensive line that had trouble early in the previous season, Gabriel had a rough start. This year’s group is experienced, but they haven’t yet played together. Even if the first four games aren’t very difficult, Moore still confronts some inherent challenges because the receiving corps is much younger than it was the previous season.

Novosad would probably start for a number of Power Four teams and is a more than adequate substitute. Novosad, a fellow Elite 11 finalist, has likewise seen few game appearances, but since he was redshirted, he ought to have more chances this season.

During the spring game, Luke Moga shown that he has improved significantly and that his athleticism may be a weapon.

It’s conceivable that Akili Smith Jr. will redshirt and use the space to set up a future competition.

Battle to Watch: Smith and Moga could provide varying skill sets and split the number three reps.

Watch out for Moore. A five-star quarterback is what fans have been waiting for. It’s time to enjoy the benefits of your patience.

Two deep projections:

Dante Moore: 210 pounds, 6′ 3″.

Austin Novosad: 205 pounds, 6′ 3″.

James Crepea discusses the Big Ten and Oregon Ducks.

Latest Ducks news

Oregon Ducks fall camp breakdown: Specialists
Oregon Ducks fall camp breakdown: Defensive backs
Olympic champion Ryan Crouser confirmed out for this week s USATF meet in Eugene