Oregon’s preseason AP poll ranking signals return to Kelly/Helfrich-era expectations

The preseason edition of the 2024 college football AP poll was unveiled to the public on Monday, and Oregon was ranked higher than it has been entering a season since 2014.

The Ducks came in at No. 3 — their best preseason mark since Marcus Mariota was quarterbacking the team in Eugene — providing fans with a level of excitement that hasn’t been matched in 10 years.

With an inescapable blend of experience and talent, Oregon is being tabbed by many as a preseason favorite to contend for the national championship in 2024.

In addition to the No. 3 ranking in both the AP and Coaches polls, the Ducks are listed with the consensus third-best odds to bring home the national title on Vegas Insider.

Currently, the most favorable books have them listed at 6-to-1; their best preseason mark since 2014, once again.

And while the Oregon hype train reaches a fever pitch this fall, its many members have begun to sound off online following the release of the AP poll.

“Oregon at (three) feels fair,” @backthequack wrote on x.com. “Number one after October 12. USC should be below Liberty.”

The Ducks received a single first-place vote from Action Network’s Brett McMurphy.

“One man is the smartest man alive,” @ryneschill wrote on x.com.

“We got a first place vote,” @DeeJBennett added, with a crying-laughing face.

Oregon’s placement at No. 3 is tied for its best preseason ranking of all time, matching 2011, 2013 and 2014’s marks.

Compared to the Ducks’ 6-to-1 preseason championship odds this season, they were listed at 12-to-1 in 2011, 7-to-1 in 2013 and 6-to-1 in 2014.

According to these numbers and the beliefs of the AP voters, Oregon is in its best preseason shape since Mark Helfrich was at the reins