Oregon Running Back Noah Whittington Questionable Against Northwestern

The Oregon Ducks have started their 2025 football season strong with a 3-0 record, including a recent 34-14 victory over Northwestern where freshman running back Dierre Hill Jr. emerged as a key player, especially with starting running back Noah Whittington listed as questionable due to an undisclosed injury. Whittington, a senior and the team's leading rusher with 159 yards and two touchdowns in the first two games, has been a critical part of Oregon's offense, but his status for the Northwestern game remained uncertain, leading to greater reliance on other backs like Hill, Jayden Limar, and Makhi Hughes. Oregon's injury report also listed cornerbacks Theran Johnson and Sione Laulea, quarterback Austin Novosad, and offensive lineman Kawika Rogers as questionable, while several other players remained out. The Ducks utilized a deep running back rotation early in the season, with seven running backs traveling to Chicago, reflecting the team's strategy amid injury concerns and adverse weather conditions expected to limit passing. Head coach Dan Lanning emphasized the team's preparedness to adapt, relying heavily on the ground game in a challenging environment against Northwestern. This depth and adaptability have been crucial for Oregon as they pursue continued success in their conference schedule.