"There is a lot more to clean up": Oregon QB Dillon Gabriel sounds alarmed as he calls out Ducks after two narrow wins
Despite their 2-0 record, quarterback Dillon Gabriel and the Oregon Ducks have had a tougher start to the year. The Ducks had a scare in their season opener, beating the Idaho Vandals by just 10 points in their home opener. Oregon went into the game as 44.5-point favorites and led by just three with under 10 minutes left in the fourth quarter.
In their next game versus Boise State, Oregon was forced to make a last-second field goal to beat the Broncos 37-34. Oregon's defense allowed 221 rushing yards on 33 carries, but still, the Ducks managed to win both games.
Dillon Gabriel isn't satisfied with close wins, though. After the Ducks' win over Boise State on Saturday, Gabriel had some strong words to describe Oregon's start to the season.
"You're insane if you keep doing the same s**t and there is no chance in result. You're doing the same thing. I think we've done a good job of changing it in practice, and I think we did clean up some certain things, but there is a lot more to clean up," Gabriel said [via SI].
Gabriel thinks the Ducks still have a long way to go to live up to the high expectations. Pass protection has been a big concern for the Ducks, allowing seven sacks between their first two games.
Dillon Gabriel not to blame for Oregon's close calls
While Oregon has struggled in their first two games, quarterback play has not been a concern.
Dillon Gabriel has played up to the high expectations. In the season-opener, Gabriel completed 41 of 49 passes for 380 yards and two touchdowns, including the touchdown pass to put Oregon ahead 24-14 on a fourth-and-two conversion.
In their next game, Gabriel completed 18 of 21 passes for 243 yards, scoring two touchdowns and adding one through rushing.
If Oregon can improve their pass protection and overall discipline, drawing 17 penalties in their first two matchups, the Ducks could be legitimate national championship contenders.
Oregon will play the in-state rival Oregon State Beavers in Week 3.