PFF Predicts Huge Year for Hughes

Hughes burst on the scene in his freshman season, immediately establishing a standard of productivity with 1,378 yards on 258 carries with seven touchdowns, 5.3 yards a carry.

He's surpassed the 250-carry mark in both campaigns, further boosting his credentials as a tough, durable workhorse.

Wasserman wrote:

Hughes' 2,776 rushing yards since 2023 are the most of any returning FBS running back by 476 yards. His 92.2 career PFF overall grade ranks second to only Jonah Coleman among returning FBS players at the position. He doesn’t add much as a receiver (247 career receiving yards) and will need to prove he can sustain his dominance in the Big Ten, but there’s no denying Hughes is one of the best tailbacks in college football based on how he’s looked in just his first two years of college football.

He's a great fit for the Oregon system. Dan Lanning, offensive coordinator Will Stein and offensive line coach A'lique Terry have maintained a commitment to being physical in the running game. The Ducks ran for 2,211 yards in 2024, 2,583 in 2023 with Bucky Irving toting the rock.

Hughes runs like Irving in his effort and creativity. After the Birmingham native ran for a career-high 195 yards against North Texas, Green Wave head coach Jon Sumrall said, "He is a beast. He’s just an absolute stud. He’s a workhorse. He just chews yards up and is physical and plays the game the right way. Everybody on our team watches him play and is just in awe of him he plays because he’s so physical and tough.”

With Noah Whittington, Jay Harris, Jayden Limar and Da'Juan Riggs set to return, the running back room at Oregon is well-stocked for 2024, making it a great support system for Dante Moore at quarterback. The Ducks can lean on the run and use it to close out games, a good recipe for making the playoffs again.