Marking their return to the iconic Big House for the first time since suffering a heavy 39-7 defeat back in 2007, the highly-ranked No. 1 Oregon football team aims to deliver a resounding performance against the reigning national champions, the Michigan Wolverines, this Saturday in Ann Arbor.
Michigan head coach Sherrone Moore addressed the media on Monday, sharing insights about the upcoming clash with the formidable Ducks.
Michigan football’s Sherrone Moore lauds Oregon QB Dillon Gabriel as ‘elite in every way’
Moore expressed great admiration for Oregon quarterback Dillon Gabriel when questioned about the strengths of the Ducks’ squad.
The first-year head coach emphasized that Gabriel’s prowess is foundational to Oregon’s success. “He’s elite in every way,” Moore said, highlighting Gabriel’s exceptional ability in reading coverages, executing critical plays, making deep throws, and effectively leading the offense. Moore suggested that the Wolverines need to devise strategies to create confusion for him and make him uncomfortable during the game.
In addition, Moore praised Oregon’s offensive line, categorizing it as one of the top units in the nation. He also identified transfer receiver Evan Stewart as a standout skill player who particularly impressed him on film.
Michigan football’s Sherrone Moore addresses quarterback uncertainty with Davis Warren and Alex Orji
Having transitioned from featuring a first-round NFL quarterback in J.J. McCarthy just a year ago, Michigan is currently grappling with instability at the quarterback position in the 2024 season.
Three different quarterbacks—Davis Warren, Jack Tuttle, and Alex Orji—have each started games this season for the Wolverines. Collectively, they have completed 62.2% of their passes, amassing only 1,044 passing yards along with eight touchdown throws and nine interceptions.
However, in last week’s 24-17 victory over Michigan State, the Wolverines began to find their rhythm with Warren as the primary starter. Orji provided a dynamic change-of-pace option during the game.
Warren’s performance included completing 13 of his 19 passes for 123 yards and a touchdown, while Orji showcased his speed with 64 rushing yards and a touchdown on six carries. “It was awesome,” Moore remarked about the quarterbacks’ coordinated efforts. “It was what you hoped it would be. They work well in tandem together, and you see that in practice. They really feed off each other.” Moore noted the satisfaction of witnessing their performance translate from practice to an actual game.
Future first-round cornerback Will Johnson’s availability uncertain as Oregon game approaches
The status of preseason All-American and future NFL first-round pick Will Johnson, a standout cornerback for Michigan, is uncertain as the team prepares to face Oregon. Johnson suffered an ankle injury during the game against Illinois on October 19.
Coach Moore mentioned that they will monitor Johnson’s recovery throughout the week and make a decision regarding his play status closer to Saturday’s game. “If he could go out there, he would go out there in a heartbeat,” Moore affirmed. “I know he’ll be back out there at some point this season, whether it’s this week or next. There’s zero doubt in my mind that he’s a competitor that wants to be out there with his teammates,” he added, reassuring fans about Johnson’s determination to return.
The junior star has recorded nine career interceptions over three seasons with the Wolverines, including two touchdowns this season, alongside three pass breakups and a tackle for loss.
The highly-anticipated matchup between the undefeated Ducks (8-0, 5-0 Big Ten) and the Wolverines (5-3, 3-2 Big Ten) is set to kick off at 12:30 p.m. this Saturday in Ann Arbor, Michigan.
Alec Dietz covers University of Oregon football, volleyball, women’s basketball, and baseball for The Register-Guard. You may reach him at adietz@registerguard.com and you can follow him on X @AlecDietz.
