As the Oregon Ducks enter Big Ten play this weekend against the Northwestern Wildcats, they hope to build on their recent explosive start. The Ducks defeated Oklahoma State 69-3, showing why they are among the best teams in the nation with a perfect 2-0 record and plenty of excitement. Northwestern, on the other hand, enters the game coming off a comfortable 42-7 victory over Western Illinois, but they are still looking for consistency.

Through 2 games, Oregon’s strong offense, captained by redshirt sophomore QB Dante Moore, has been almost perfect. Moore has already completed more than 77% of his passes for almost 500 yards and six touchdowns this season. On the flip side, Northwestern depends on Preston Stone, a transfer from SMU, to start its offense. The Wildcats have found their rhythm thanks to Stone’s ability to stretch the field and connect deep, even though they had a rough start.

When announcers like Gus Johnson call a game, you can be sure it will be an exciting spectacle because he is one of the most captivating voices in sports. Since 2011, he has served as the primary college football play-by-play commentator for FOX Sports, and he has a talent for making even the smallest play seem like a major one. His dramatic style keeps fans on the edge of their seats, whether it’s a game-changing touchdown or a last-second basketball shot. 

Joining Johnson in the booth is Joel Klatt, a former Colorado quarterback who set multiple records, bringing a lot of knowledge about the game to the booth. He has played professional football and baseball and set 44 school records, so he understands what it takes to be the best. As the primary college football analyst for FOX, Klatt confidently and skillfully analyzes plays to help viewers figure out not only what’s happening but also why it matters.

Klatt wasn’t holding back when discussing Oregon this week. “The team that I think is really good? Oregon,” he said, adding, “This is a team that’s constructed that could be a great team.” He also praised QB Dante Moore, saying, “I think Dante Moore is a step up from Bo Nix and Dillon Gabriel.” And Klatt summed the whole situation up perfectly: “When I turn on Oregon, I see the best team in the country.” Despite having a small shared history, Oregon is keen to gain momentum and show why Klatt and other analysts are already raving about their potential.

Oregon looks to start Big Ten play strong

The fact that this week’s game against Northwestern is their first conference matchup of the season makes it even more special. Oregon is playing an opponent for the second time ever for the third consecutive week. There isn’t much history between the Ducks and Wildcats other than their 1974 matchup, in which Northwestern defeated Oregon 14–10. But it’s interesting to note that last season, both teams faced a number of opponents in common, and Northwestern only managed two victories against those teams, whereas Oregon went 7-0.

The odd kickoff time of 9 a.m. Pacific, which they aren’t used to on the West Coast, will be one adjustment Oregon will have to make this week. Also, Martin Stadium, a small stadium with 12,000 seats, is hosting Northwestern’s home games, which doesn’t exactly have the typical college football vibe. “You want to think ‘start fast’ so you can build now, that’s how I’m thinking about preparing for such an early game like that. So, when I come out on Saturday at 9 a.m., I’m punching somebody in the mouth right from the jump,” offensive guard Emmanuel Pregnon said.

Preston Stone, the quarterback for Northwestern, has had a rough start; in Week 1, he threw four picks, but he bounced back in Week 2. But coach Dan Lanning is unbothered, stating, “I think he’s very capable… the first game this season was really not indicative of who he is as a player.” The Ducks’ key to success will be to keep the pressure on him, just as they have against other teams. The Wildcats’ offense may have a long day if Matayo Uiagalelei and Teitum Tuioti can keep pursuing him the way they did against Montana State and Oklahoma State. This is the kind of start Oregon needs in conference play.