Oregon and Montana State open with a rebuilt look after major roster turnover, each focusing on scheme over names. Oregon replaces 10 NFL-draft departures with Dante Moore at quarterback and a broader, weapons-driven approach, while Montana State plugs in Justin Lamson after his Stanford stint, eyeing playmakers as primary drivers. Lamson’s prior Oregon exposure adds intrigue, but Dan Lanning stresses that game plans will dictate success more than any single return.

MSU arrives riding a 15-1 mark last season and a Big Sky title, but Mellott’s exit shifts the burden to Lamson alongside Taco Dowler and Adam Jones. Oregon counters with a fresh QB-room and a resilient mindset, hoping to redefine identity in Autzen’s opener. The backdrop is clear: talent is redistributed, and the winner will be the team best executing its new plan.