Ducks playmaker proves to be key to Oregon's success in first Big Ten victory
The Oregon Ducks are rolling, now up to a 4-0 record after traveling to Pasadena and dismantling UCLA 34-13. Quarterback Dillon Gabriel continues to do his thing, and now finds himself tied for the third-most career passing touchdowns in college football history.If it wasn't for Tez Johnson, though, this young season might look very different […]
The Oregon Ducks are rolling, now up to a 4-0 record after traveling to Pasadena and dismantling UCLA 34-13. Quarterback Dillon Gabriel continues to do his thing, and now finds himself tied for the third-most career passing touchdowns in college football history.
If it wasn't for Tez Johnson, though, this young season might look very different for the Ducks.
Johnson had a huge game, catching 11 passes for 121 yards and two touchdowns, including a 52-yard deep shot that started to separate Oregon from UCLA in the second quarter. He doesn't get the respect he deserves on a national level.
Through four games, Johnson is clearly the leading receiver on the Oregon roster. He has 33 receptions for 311 yards and four touchdowns through four outings, while also serving as the primary punt returner. The single-season receptions leader in Oregon history is on his way to another huge season.
In week 2, it was Johnson's heroics with a punt return touchdown that helped the Ducks escape the Boise State Broncos.
Many people, myself included, expected transfer portal addition Evan Stewart to take over the mantle of the top receiver on the roster entering the season. Johnson has been a limited contributor early in the season, which continued on Saturday night – Stewart finished with three catches for nine yard.
Johnson is the focal point of the passing offense, getting targets on screen passes where he can use his speed after the catch to his advantage, while also seeing targets down the field. He has great spacial awareness and route running ability to go along with his athleticism, and when given the chance to work down the field, it typically goes very well.
Oregon would be wise to continue scheming opportunities for Johnson to work down the field. As the season progresses, he's going to be a huge part of Oregon's hopes of making a run at the College Football Playoffs.
Ducks QB Dillon Gabriel securing a spot in college football history is almost guaranteed on Saturday
Dillon Gabriel is close to making history.
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