While the Oregon Ducks have historically been known for their dynamic offenses and flashy style, the new regime might change that a bit.
With Dan Lanning at the helm, it may be defense first in Eugene, and while Kenny Dillingham will certainly raise some opposition, the pedigree of the defensive staff has turned some heads early.
The Ducks are going into the 2022 season without their defensive star, Kayvon Thibodeaux, on the roster, but Noah Sewell, Justin Flowe, Brandon Dorlus and Christian Gonzalez are projected to fill the void.
Recently, ESPN put out its annual future power ranking for defenses in college football. The rankings assess the 2022, 2023 and 2024 seasons, “accounting for current rosters, incoming recruits and transfers and potential NFL departures.”
They also take coaching changes into account, which is a big help for the Ducks.
So where does Oregon rank according to ESPN? Let’s take a look:
Clemson Tigers
Oct. 6, 2018; Winston-Salem, NC; A Clemson Tigers helmet sits on the bench during the game against the Wake Forest Demon Deacons at BB&T Field. Jeremy Brevard-USA TODAY Sports
Georgia Bulldogs
Justin Shaffer #54 of the Georgia Bulldogs celebrates their win against the Clemson Tigers in the Duke’s Mayo Classic at Bank of America Stadium on Sept. 4, 2021 in Charlotte, North Carolina. Grant Halverson/Getty Images
Texas A&M Aggies
Nov. 20, 2021; College Station, Texas; A general view of the stands at the last regular season home game between the Texas A&M Aggies and the Prairie View Am Panthers at Kyle Field. Maria Lysaker-USA TODAY Sports
Alabama Crimson Tide
Wisconsin Badgers
Dec. 30, 2021; Paradise, Nevada; Arizona State Sun Devils wide receiver Ricky Pearsall (19) is tackled by Wisconsin Badgers safety Scott Nelson (9) during the 2021 Las Vegas Bowl at Allegiant Stadium. Stephen R. Sylvanie-USA TODAY Sports
Notre Dame Fighting Irish
Notre Dame Fighting Irish running back Kyren Williams (23) celebrates with Notre Dame Fighting Irish quarterback Drew Pyne (10) in the…