Smith Steps Up as Oregon Faces Ohio State
Freshman Brandon Smith takes a bigger role Saturday with Jordon Davison sidelined ahead of Oregon's trip to Ohio State.
Updated on Nov. 5, 2026 in Running
Live Poll
Will Oregon beat Ohio State this Saturday?
Freshman running back Brandon Smith rushed eight times for 82 yards and a touchdown in Oregon's win over Northwestern. With Jordon Davison sidelined, Smith is expected to take on a bigger role when Oregon plays at Ohio State this Saturday.
Why it matters
Oregon's chances to return to the College Football Playoff mix are on the line in the Ohio State game. Smith's expanded role offers a test of depth behind a backfield that has been limited for him this season.
Smith averaged roughly 10 yards per carry against Northwestern (82 yards on 8 rushes) and 5.3 yards per carry against Portland State (85 yards on 16 rushes). He also broke off two 13-yard runs against Nebraska and caught a 17-yard pass against Illinois.
The players
Brandon Smith
A freshman running back and former four-star prospect from Fresno, California, Smith is drawing comparisons to Saquon Barkley for his style of play.
Jordon Davison
Oregon's top running back, Davison is sidelined, which opens the door for Smith's expanded role.
The details
Smith gained yardage through speed, vision, and elusiveness on his carries against Northwestern. The former four-star prospect from Fresno, California, has seen limited opportunities this season behind Jordon Davison and Dierre Hill.
Timeline
Saturday (November 7, 2026): Oregon plays at Ohio State with Smith in a bigger role
Season Trajectory
Oregon's chances to return to the College Football Playoff mix hinge on the Ohio State game, and Smith's development could shape how the Ducks' backfield performs in that test. Early comparisons to Saquon Barkley at Penn State frame his rise as a freshman breakout story within Oregon's running back depth.
Fantasy managers tracking Oregon backs should watch Smith's carry count against Ohio State, since Davison's absence could make him a usable option. The Ducks' game against the Buckeyes also carries standings weight for their playoff position.
The takeaway
Watch how Oregon distributes carries when Davison is out, since that split will show whether Smith can carry a larger load against a top-tier defense.
What happens next
Oregon plays at Ohio State on Saturday, November 7, 2026, the next scheduled test of Smith's expanded role.
Further reading
Explore more Running coverage for Oregon's backfield developments.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Oregon Live.
Live Poll
Will Oregon beat Ohio State this Saturday?
