UPDATE: The No. 9 Oregon Ducks’ hopes for the College Football Playoff are in jeopardy as injuries to key players strike just before their crucial game against the No. 20 Iowa Hawkeyes on November 8, 2025. Wide receivers Dakorien Moore and Gary Bryant Jr. are both sidelined, with Bryant taken off the field early in the first quarter, leaving the Ducks scrambling for offensive depth.
Oregon entered this high-stakes matchup with their playoff chances hanging by a thread, already holding one loss this season. Moore, the team leader in receptions and receiving yards, was ruled out prior to kickoff, and the situation worsened dramatically when Bryant was injured midway through the first quarter. He was seen walking to the locker room without putting weight on his leg, raising alarms for Oregon’s offensive strategy.
Currently, the Ducks are leading 9-0 due to a safety and a rushing touchdown from Dierre Hill Jr.. However, with their top receivers down, Oregon must rely on backup options like Malik Benson, who has recorded 277 receiving yards and three touchdowns this season but has struggled in recent games. Coach Dan Lanning emphasized Benson’s potential, stating, “Malik’s proven to be a guy that can take the top off. Gotta take advantage of it if we get the chance.”
The loss of Bryant adds to an already thin receiving corps, with Evan Stewart also missing the start of the season and tight end Kenyon Sadiq out against Iowa. With so much at stake, the Ducks face an uphill battle, needing a victory to bolster their chances for the playoffs.
Justius Lowe, who has only played two games this season with three receptions for 31 yards, stepped in after Bryant’s injury. Lowe had a standout 2024 season and will need to find his rhythm quickly to help Oregon secure a win.
A victory against Iowa is crucial, as the Ducks face three ranked opponents in their last four games. Winning out is essential for their playoff hopes; another loss could severely limit their chances to compete in the College Football Playoff.
As the game progresses, all eyes are on Oregon’s next moves and how they will adapt to this injury crisis. Fans and analysts alike are eager to see if the Ducks can rally and overcome these challenges to keep their playoff dreams alive.
Stay tuned for live updates as this developing story unfolds.
