In the Oregon Ducks' most pivotal early-season game in recent years, there were a number of Ducks who shined throughout the night against the USC Trojans.
With quarterback Dante Moore headed to the hospital after enduring a gruesome injury, backup Dylan Raiola stepped in and threw for just under 300 yards and a pair of touchdowns, looking as cool as a cucumber. Tight end Jamari Johnson had his best day as a Duck, catching seven passes for a career-high 119 yards. On the defensive side of the ball, linebacker Devon Jackson's breakout campaign continued as he posted a game-high 11 tackles, a tackle for loss and a pass deflection.
But by game's end, it was true sophomore running back Dierre Hill Jr. who stood out the most.
Two games after a game-ending
lost fumble and one game after recording just two carries, Hill was among the stars in the Ducks' backfield in carrying the ball 15 times for 63 yards and two touchdowns on Saturday night in Los Angeles. But that's not where the 5-foot-11, 205-pound speedster did his most damage.
Dierre Hill Jr. is taking over for Oregon
— CONTENDRS (@contendrsmedia) September 27, 2026
2 TDs in the 3rd quarter for Hill pic.twitter.com/w3owWBdfAU
In the beginning of the third quarter, with Oregon leading 13-10 and looking to create separation from USC, Hill caught a pass from Raiola and took it 62 yards down the sideline into Trojans territory, a drive that Hill finished by punching the ball into the end zone for the 10-point lead. Hill caught four passes, turning them into 105 yards, giving him 19 touches for 168 yards and a pair of scores — both coming in the third quarter.
In a game the Ducks needed to have, Hill produced the best performance of his college career, taking home the Ducks Wire Player of the Game honor.
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This article originally appeared on Ducks Wire: Oregon RB Dierre Hill Jr. named Ducks Wire Player of the Game vs. USC
