Coming into the season, the Oregon Ducks' defense was touted as one of the best in the country. There were various different reasons for that, including past excellence, coaching and talent. The latter remains significantly true, with nationally-known stars at every level of the defense.
But through two weeks, the group has not lived up to its potential — not even close.
The Ducks allowed the Boise State Broncos to march down the field for two 70-plus-yard scoring drives in Week 1, while they gave up an astounding 554 total yards to the Oklahoma State Cowboys in Week 2, with quarterback Drew Mestemaker accounting for over 400 total yards. The defense was one of the main culprits of the loss, and needs to improve greatly for Oregon to reach their
goals this season.
Next on the docket are the Portland State Vikings, who have gotten off to an underwhelming 0-3 start. Their offense, however, hasn't been as bad as their record may suggest. They have solid players on that side of the ball and will attempt to test Oregon's struggling defense at Autzen Stadium on Friday.
Ahead of the 7:30 p.m. PT matchup, here's everything you need to know about the Vikings' offensive attack.
What do the Portland State Vikings do well on offense?
The Ducks will see a similar offense that they saw against Oklahoma State, albeit with far less talented players. The Vikings operate out of a spread offense, oftentimes with either four wide receivers or three receivers and a tight end split. Rarely, if ever, do they line up under center. As a result, the run game isn't especially extensive, primarily operating in a downhill manner towards the line of scrimmage.
In the pass game, Portland State likes to take deep shots down the field to stretch the defense. They haven't been very successful doing so thus far in 2026, but the possibility is there if the defense busts a coverage or misplays a deep pass. At the same time, offensive coordinator Matt Adkins isn't afraid to roll his quarterback out, as they did multiple times in their most recent game against North Dakota.
Ultimately, the Vikings don't have a super extensive playbook. Instead, they focus on stretching the defense out and allowing their quarterback to make simple decisions in the pass game and their running back to make simple reads in their downhill running scheme.
Who are the top players to know?
QB Gabe Downing
Having emerged as the starter in his third season with the program, Gabe Downing has completed 54-of-91 passes for 513 yards, four touchdowns and two interceptions with one rushing score in two games started. Sophomore passer Tyrese Smith started the opener for the Vikings, but Downing has succeeded him for the last two contests and projects to be the starter on Friday. At 6-foot and 185 pounds, Downing is on the smaller side and doesn't have the strongest arm, but has showed a command for the offense when given his opportunity.
RB Delon Thompson
Delon Thompson has received a lion share of the Vikings' carries this season, totaling 49 totes versus 13 for the next closest running back. Though the Portland State offensive line has been subpar in opening up holes, Thompson has the ability to break free, evidenced by his 23- and 30-yard gains through three games. Also a receiving threat out the backfield, the 5-foot-9, 200-pounder has seven receptions for 54 yards.
WR/KR Cru Newman
An FCS Freshman All-American kick returner in 2025 after amassing 651 kickoff return yards, Cru Newman is stepping into a larger role as a viable receiving option offensively in his second season. Thus far, he's the leader in catches (19) and third in receiving yards (123) while hauling in a touchdown. He also has four carries, as the Vikings are looking to get the ball to the former Central Catholic High School quarterback-turned-dynamic-returner.
Are the Oregon Ducks built to stop Oklahoma State?
If the Vikings were a more talented unit individually, it could pose problems for the Ducks. Their offensive system is very similar to the one that Oregon faced in Stillwater against Oklahoma State — and we know what happened there. But Drew Mestemaker, Caleb Hawkins and Wyatt Young aren't trotting out for Portland State on Friday.
With what has the potential to be a dominant defensive line, strong linebacking unit and shutdown secondary, Oregon is certainly built to stop Portland State's offensive attack.
What should we expect on Saturday?
Anything short of domination should be considered a disappointment. The Vikings have the potential to be an explosive offense if they executed at a higher level and had more talented personnel, but they're averaging just over 22 points per game against a less than imposing group of teams this season.
Facing off against the Ducks will be an immense challenge for the Vikings, and I'd be surprised if their starting unit scores a touchdown against Oregon's starting unit.
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This article originally appeared on Ducks Wire: What should Oregon expect from Portland State's offense?
