Oregon’s Dillon Gabriel Throws 2 1st-Half INTs as CFB Fans Criticize QB vs. MSU

Zach BacharContributor IOctober 5, 2024

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Dillon Gabriel struggled during the first half of No. 6 Oregon’s matchup with Michigan State on Friday night, but the Ducks were still able to jump out to a 21-0 lead.

Gabriel finished 12-of-20 for 171 yards through two quarters, throwing a touchdown to go along with two interceptions. Both were costly, as they occurred with the Ducks inside the red zone.

FOX College Football @CFBONFOXINTERCEPTED! Malik Spencer with the huge pick for @MSU_Football 🔥 pic.twitter.com/wXh6KzuNh1

FOX College Football @CFBONFOXCharles Brantley read it and GOT IT! 🙌 @MSU_Football takes the ball right back! pic.twitter.com/NXCT8ZOu2r

Gabriel bounced back with another touchdown in the second half and finished with 257 yards, two touchdowns and two interceptions on 20-of-32 passing as Oregon went on to earn a 31-10 win. He also added 22 rushing yards and another score.

After starting the season with eight passing touchdowns and zero interceptions through his first three appearances, Gabriel has now been picked off three times over his past two games.

Fans called out his performance.

Zachary Neel @zacharycneelIn the last two games, Dillon Gabriel has thrown three interceptions, all right at the goal line or in the endzone.

This is wild to see from an Oregon quarterback.

PUDDLES @scoduckzDillon gabriel pic.twitter.com/s17BQ6QxXj

James Crepea @JamesCrepeaDillon Gabriel’s 2 interceptions both in the red zone, both forced, both unnecessary. Can’t say that about more than 2 other pass he’s attempted this season.

Ben Stevens @BenScottStevensMichigan State’s defense when Dillon Gabriel drops back to pass in the red zone. pic.twitter.com/bf5znjTnuT

FlexinTexan  @flexintexansI don’t see the Dillon Gabriel hype

Derek Young @DerekYoungKSODillon Gabriel and Oregon are going to have to come to the realization that there’s a good amount of throws he just can’t make. That arm talent/strength is just…. non-existent.

The Ducks were able to stay in front due to an exceptional performance from defensive coordinator Tosh Lupoi’s unit. Michigan State amassed just 96 total yards in the first half and failed to score.

The Spartans nearly took an early lead in the first quarter, but a fumble by quarterback Aidan Chiles on the goal line ended a promising opening drive.

FOX College Football @CFBONFOXOREGON HAS IT! 😤 The Spartans fumble and the Ducks recover it! pic.twitter.com/RQVve9yQFC

With Oregon’s strong defensive performance combined with 166 rushing yards from Jordan James, the Ducks cruised to a 5-0 start to the season.