3 things to know about Oregon QB Dillon Gabriel ft. a unique Hawaiian connection

Dillon Gabriel left the Oklahoma Sooners and joined Oregon to become the leader of a Big Ten contender. He is expected to be a great replacement for Bo Nix because of the experience he brings to the roster.

Since he has become a highly touted player on the team, fans are itching to know more about Dillon Gabriel. Let's take a look at three interesting facts about the Oregon Ducks QB.

#1 Dillon Gabriel has a unique Hawaiian connection

Gabriel will reportedly be the first quarterback from the Islands who will play for the Ducks since Marcus Mariota.

When Gabriel announced his commitment to Oregon, he posted a picture of himself in the team's uniform and wrote:

"Marcus approved!"

Dillon Gabriel will wear No. 8 at Oregon, becoming the first quarterback to sport the number since Marcus Mariota graduated.

Gabriel was born in Oahu, a Hawaiian island, and his 9.948 yards at Mililani High School is a Hawaii state record.

#2 Gabriel has strong footballing genes

Gabriel comes from a footballing family, with his father Garrett making a name for himself with the Rainbow Warriors. Garrett set multiple school records and cemented his status by leading the team to shock wins over BYU in back-to-back seasons (1989 and 1990).

Garrett is seventh on the school's all-time passing ranking and fifth in touchdown passes.

#3 Named after a former NFL running back

Dillon Gabriel was named after former Cincinnati Bengals running back Corey Dillon.

Corey was selected in the second round of the 1997 draft and went on to enjoy a successful career, winning Super Bowl XXXIX.

"I know the history of being named after Corey Dillon and my brothers Garrison and Roman–Roman Gabriel, obviously," Dillon Gabriel was quoted as saying by On3 in 2022.

"So, just kind of a football family thing."

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