Advanced Metrics Don't Love Oregon Through Four Games

For an Oregon football program that produced some of the nation's best advanced metrics a season ago, 2024 has been a bit of a disappointment.

While the Ducks are 4-0 and easily still in contention for both a Big Ten and a national championship this season, their efficiency numbers on both sides of the ball have paled in comparison to a season ago, leaving some hardcore "stat-heads" unsold on their status as contenders this fall.

In 2023, Oregon held the top expected points added per play (EPA/play) in the nation at 0.41. This year, the Ducks currently hold an EPA/play of 0.18, which ranks 38th in the nation.

In 2023, Oregon also held the top yards per play average in the nation at 2.86. This fall, the Ducks' yards per play average ranks 14th at 2.33.

In 2023, Oregon even held the top success rate in the nation at 16.4%. This year, the Ducks rank 11th at 13.9%.

According to gameonpaper.com, which tracks each of these advanced metrics for all 134 FBS teams, the Ducks were far and away the best team across the entire country in 2023. In 2024, they're still among the best, but not nearly as dominant.

As it stands, Oregon's Big Ten foe Ohio State holds the top EPA/play in the nation at 0.66 in 2024.

The Ducks and Buckeyes will meet on Saturday, Oct. 12 at Autzen Stadium. Kickoff is set for 4:30 p.m. PST.