Oregon RBs Davison, Hill looking to grow beyond ‘pure talent’
Now leading the Oregon backfield, Jordon Davison and Dierre Hill Jr. are looking to take the next step in their sophomore season together.
You could make an argument that the Oregon Ducks have the best running back duo in the Big Ten heading into the 2026 season. Despite losing three running backs to the transfer portal this offseason and Noah Whittington to the NFL Draft, the Ducks have reloaded the depth in the room, but their star freshmen from last season will carry the torch and lead the way this fall. Jordon Davison and Dierre Hill Jr.
didn't play like freshmen in 2025 and quickly vaulted to the top of the depth chart and became true difference-makers in Oregon's offense. Ducks running back coach Ra'Shaad Samples recognized their talent immediately and couldn't keep them off the field. However, with more responsibilities in the offense heading into their second season together with the Ducks, Samples is looking for the bruising Davison and speedy Hill to take the next step within Drew Mehringer's offense .
Their freakish talent set them apart as freshmen, but they will have to grow and become smarter ballcarriers. “You know, they did that last year and really didn't know what they were doing," Samples said of Davison and Hill. "They're going through the maturation process.
They're growing. They have to understand who they are as players, understand their strengths and weaknesses. They were operating off of pure talent last year.