Oregon Ducks Hold Second Spring Scrimmage at Autzen Stadium

The University of Oregon Ducks football team held its second spring scrimmage on Saturday, April 18, 2026, at Autzen Stadium, continuing its preparation for the upcoming season under head coach Dan Lanning. The closed practice session provided the coaching staff with its first extended look at offensive and defensive units in live-action scenarios since the start of spring drills.

According to the University of Oregon Athletics’ official practice report released the following day, the scrimmage featured full-team periods with situational drills, including red-zone efficiency, third-down conversions, and two-minute scenarios. While no official score was released, coaches emphasized competitive execution and situational awareness over final results.

“We’re not keeping score in the traditional sense, but we are evaluating how well players perform under pressure, make decisions, and execute assignments,” Lanning said in a post-practice availability with local media. “Today gave us a chance to see how our younger players respond when the game speeds up.”

Quarterback play drew particular attention, with sophomore Ty Thompson and incoming freshman Dante Moore both receiving extended snaps with the first and second teams. Thompson, who started the spring as the presumed No. 2 behind returning starter Dillon Gabriel, showed improved command of the offense, particularly in play-action sequences and intermediate throws. Moore, meanwhile, displayed poise in the pocket and accuracy on deep balls, though he occasionally held the ball too long under simulated pressure.

“Both guys are competing hard every day,” Lanning said. “Ty has taken a step forward in his understanding of the protections, and progressions. Dante brings elite arm talent and is learning how to harness it within our system. The competition is pushing both of them.”

On defense, the unit showed signs of cohesion despite losing several key contributors to the NFL Draft and transfer portal. Senior linebacker Jackson LaDuke was active throughout the scrimmage, logging multiple tackles for loss and demonstrating strong sideline-to-sideline range. Defensive tackle Brandon Dorlus, returning for a fifth year, consistently disrupted the interior line and drew double teams, creating opportunities for edge rushers.

“Jackson is playing with a level of physicality and intelligence that’s exactly what we need from our linebackers,” Lanning said. “And Brandon being back gives us a anchor inside that elevates everyone around him.”

Special teams also saw extended work, with placekicker Camden Lewis converting multiple field goal attempts from beyond 40 yards, including one from 48 yards that drew praise from the coaching staff. Punter James Smith averaged over 45 yards per punt with consistent hang time, while return specialist TJ Harden showed explosiveness in punt return drills, breaking several tackles in open space.

The scrimmage marked the midpoint of Oregon’s 15-session spring practice period, which began in early March and will conclude with the annual spring game on Saturday, April 25, also at Autzen Stadium. The spring game will be open to the public and serve as the final evaluation before the team enters summer conditioning and fall camp.

Oregon finished the 2025 season with a 9-4 record, including a win over Tennessee in the Fiesta Bowl. The Ducks return several key starters on both sides of the ball but must replace departed NFL prospects such as defensive end Bryce Boettcher and offensive lineman Gelaisa Agaga. Spring drills are critical for integrating transfers and underclassmen into expanded roles.

As the Ducks prepare for the spring game and eventual fall opener against Eastern Washington on August 29, the coaching staff will use the remaining practices to refine rotations, assess depth, and finalize the two-deep roster. The focus remains on ball security, tackling efficiency, and execution in high-leverage situations—areas emphasized throughout spring drills.