RJ Young Predicts Early Struggles for Big Ten Quarterback This Season
The Big Ten is undergoing a significant transformation this season with the addition of four new schools: the Oregon Ducks, USC Trojans, UCLA Bruins, and Washington Huskies. Oregon, in particular, is entering the conference with high expectations. Many predict the Ducks will not only win the Big Ten but also contend for a spot in the College Football Playoff.
Despite losing key players to the NFL Draft, including quarterback Bo Nix, running back Bucky Irving, and receiver Troy Franklin, Oregon has brought in former UCF Knights and Oklahoma Sooners QB Dillon Gabriel through the transfer portal. However, Fox Sports’ RJ Young anticipates Gabriel may face early challenges this season.
Young highlighted Gabriel’s unique situation, stating, “Gabriel feels like the player most likely to get off to a rough start of the three favorites. He is the only one of the three who doesn’t return to a team, a staff, and an offense he already knows and understands him as their leader. He will also lead Oregon into its first season of Big Ten competition with the expectation in Eugene that the Ducks will not only make the College Football Playoff but be featured in the Big Ten title game.”
Gabriel, who excelled at Oklahoma with over 3,000 passing yards and 25 touchdowns in consecutive seasons, is expected to adapt eventually. Young believes that offensive coordinator Will Stein, along with talented players like tailback Noah Whittington and wide receiver Evan Stewart, will help Gabriel adjust. Nevertheless, Young suggests Gabriel might spend September acclimating to his new team and environment.
