As Oregon turns its attention to Week One, the Ducks will host an experienced Montana State squad led by head coach Brent Vigen. Speaking with the media ahead of the trip to Eugene, Vigen acknowledged the challenge of squaring off against a nationally ranked Oregon team while emphasizing the opportunity it provides for the Bobcats to test themselves early. 

Vigen’s remarks showed how the FCS power prepares for the daunting matchup at Autzen Stadium, from praising the Ducks’ speed and depth to outlining how Montana State hopes to lean on its own physical style.

“Obviously, it is a big opportunity and will be a challenge.  Oregon is the seventh team in the country. Finished undefeated and number one at the end of the regular season last year. They have been a perennial powerhouse for many, many years. And you know, we’re going to have to go out there and obviously play very well, and that’s going to be a challenge. And you know, I think our guys are looking forward to that challenge,” Vigen said. 

Vigen discussed the challenges of placing in a hostile environment like Autzen Stadium. 

“The opportunity to play in an environment like Autzen Stadium and all that means is you know we got to go out there and still play the game regardless of the environment. So we’ve done some things to prepare ourselves the best we can, but to get out there amongst the crowd they have you won’t quite know what that feels like. So, again excited about it.”

Vigen was asked what stands out about the Ducks in 2025 and what he and his staff look at.

“They turn over quite a bit. I think that’s the first thing that you see. But, you know, you go back to the style of play they were able to get to last year by the end of the season, go through the regular season undefeated, win the Big 10 championship, and then go on in the playoffs.  They had talent all over the place. I think the things that jump out are that they were extremely disruptive up front on defense. Offensively, you know, playmakers all over the place. They had a really experienced quarterback, um, and Dillon Gabriel, who they put a lot on. So what does that mean for this year? I think you’re going to be a team that’s got so many of the same characteristics, even though it’s going to be some different guys.”

Vigen shared his thoughts when asked about Dante Moore and the current quarterback competition. 

I think the quarterback piece is one that, yes, you know, whoever it is will be new, but they’ve been in the program, too, so they are not brand new. Both guys battling for the job were there last fall, so you have to assume that they were pretty entrenched with what they were doing all year. Not an easy job, I think, to predict, but I think when you get in the game, you know, hopefully, you know, a few drives in, you can back away and assess it and get a more narrow scope of what you think.”

Vigen has positive things to say about the Ducks’ defense as well.

“Yeah, there are multiple. They’re sound at the same time. They’re willing to get after you. I think the athleticism on the back end allows them to put those guys in positions to play coverage and, you know, just keep you on your toes. I have a lot of appreciation for the type of defense they play. They certainly don’t beat themselves on that side of the ball.”

Look for Vigen to have his team ready as the Bobcats take on the Ducks this Saturday. 

Oregon Ducks News

The Oregon Ducks now know who will be playing quarterback against them as Montana State names starter ahead of Saturday’s season opener

Montana State names Stanford transfer Justin Lamson as the team’s starting quarterback.

Brentley Weissman