Dante Moore Returns to Oregon Ducks, Boosting National Title Hopes After Giants Hire John Harbaugh
In a seismic shift for college football, Oregon Ducks quarterback Dante Moore has announced his return for the 2026 season, forgoing a top spot in the NFL Draft and positioning the Ducks as frontrunners for the national championship. The decision, revealed on ESPN’s “SportsCenter” Wednesday, comes amid swirling NFL rumors, including reports that the New York Giants have tabbed former Michigan coach John Harbaugh as their next head man.[1][2][4]
Moore’s Calculated Gamble on Ducks Glory
Moore, who completed nearly 72% of his passes for 3,565 yards, 30 touchdowns, and 10 interceptions in 2025, led Oregon to a 13-2 record and a College Football Playoff semifinal berth before a 56-22 defeat to Indiana.[2][4] Despite the loss—marred by three first-half turnovers that handed Indiana a 35-7 halftime lead—Moore’s stock soared, projecting him near the top of the 2026 draft class alongside Heisman winner Fernando Mendoza of Indiana.[1][2]
“I’ve prayed a lot about it, talked to many people—my mentors and people I look up to,” Moore said. “Of course I’ll be coming back to Oregon for one more year, being able to play for the Oregon Ducks and reach our goal and be national champions.”[1][2] At just 20 years old and with only 20 college starts—below the NFL’s preferred 25-start threshold for starters—Moore opted for development over immediate riches, echoing rare choices by Andrew Luck and Matt Leinart.[1][6]
Oregon’s Loaded Roster Reloads
Moore isn’t returning alone. The Ducks retain their entire defensive front, including Matayo Uiagalelei, Bear Alexander, A’Mauri Washington, and edge rusher Teitum Tuioti, plus starting center Iapani “Poncho” Laloulu.[3][4] Key offensive pieces like tight end Jamari Johnson (32 catches, 510 yards, 3 TDs) and receiver Evan Stewart, who missed 2025 due to injury, are also back.[4] Losses include tight end Kenyon Sadiq and safety Dillon Thieneman to the draft, but the nucleus remains elite.[4]
Adding intrigue, former Nebraska quarterback Dylan Raiola transferred to Oregon, setting up a marquee home clash against the Huskers at Autzen Stadium in 2026—one of just two such meetings in Eugene.[3] Oregon’s Big Ten slate promises fireworks, with the Ducks entering as one of the best-prepared teams for a deep playoff run.[3]
Championship Odds Surge
Pre-announcement, Oregon sat at +1000 to win the 2026-27 national title on DraftKings. Moore’s return slashed those to +800, vaulting the Ducks into the top tier of contenders.[3] Analysts like Dan Orlovsky and Taylor Lewan praised the move on ESPN, noting Moore’s “unfinished” status benefits from another year under coach Dan Lanning.[5]
| Scenario | Odds |
|---|---|
| Pre-Moore Announcement | +1000 |
| Post-Moore Return | +800 |
Giants’ Harbaugh Hiring Shakes NFL Landscape
Parallel to Moore’s saga, NFL circles buzz with the New York Giants’ reported hiring of John Harbaugh, brother of Ravens coach John Harbaugh and architect of Michigan’s recent dominance.[Original Title] Harbaugh, previously linked to Oregon rumors before committing to the Giants, brings a championship pedigree. His move leaves Michigan searching and underscores the fluid coaching carousel impacting college programs like the Ducks.
Dan Patrick called Moore’s choice “very smart, astute,” emphasizing the value of 30-plus starts for NFL readiness.[6] With Raiola’s arrival and a stacked roster, Oregon eyes its first national title. As Lanning builds via the transfer portal and freshmen, all eyes turn to Eugene for 2026.
Game odds subject to change. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, call 1-800-GAMBLER.[3]