Intriguing Defensive Ranking Shows Oregon's Recruiting Success

The Oregon Ducks have one of the most dominant defenses in college football. In a ranking of the Big Ten cornerbacks with the lowest catch rate, Oregon is well represented with three players, including standout freshman Brandon Finney Jr.

Nov 8, 2025; Iowa City, Iowa, USA; Oregon Ducks head coach Dan Lanning enters Kinnick Stadium before the game against the Iowa Hawkeyes. Mandatory Credit: Jeffrey Becker-Imagn Images | Jeffrey Becker-Imagn Images

The Oregon Ducks hold one of the most dominant defenses in college football. Opposing offenses have struggled to pass the ball against Oregon thanks to the Ducks’ standout defensive backs.

Not only do the Ducks have a talented group of defensive backs who play at a high level, but they are also among the most difficult cornerbacks to pass against in the Big Ten, according to TruMedia and Pro Football Focus.

Oregon defensive coordinator Tosh Lupoi walks the field during the Oregon Ducks’ Spring Game Saturday, April 27. 2024 at Autzen Stadium in Eugene, Ore. | Ben Lonergan/The Register-Guard / USA TODAY NETWORK

Big Ten Cornerbacks With Lowest Catch Rate Allowed

1. Brandon Finney Jr., Oregon: 37.5 percent
2. Elliot Washington II, Penn State: 40.0 percent
3. TJ Hall, Iowa: 41.7 percent
4. Davison Igbinosun, Ohio State: 42.9 percent
5. Andrew Marshall, Nebraska: 44.2 percent
6. Jamare Glasker, Maryland: 48.0 percent
7. Ify Obidegwu, Oregon: 48.1 percent
8. Jadon Canady, Oregon: 48.6 percent
9. Roderick Pleasant, UCLA: 50.0 percent
10. Jaheum Clarke, Illinois: 50.9 percent

The ranking is among players with a minimum of 120 snaps in coverage within the conference. One of the most notable aspects of the players with the lowest catch rate allowed is that Oregon is the only program with multiple players who fall into this category.

With three Ducks cornerbacks represented in the lowest catch rate, it is no wonder that Oregon’s defense has been challenging to score against. The talented defensive backs helped Oregon win 11 regular-season games and secure a spot in the College Football Playoff.

Oct 22, 2022; Eugene, Oregon, USA; Oregon Ducks head coach Dan Lanning watches the clock during the second half against the UCLA Bruins at Autzen Stadium. The Ducks won the game 45-30. Mandatory Credit: Troy Wayrynen-Imagn Images | Troy Wayrynen-Imagn Images

Brandon Finney Jr.’s Breakout Season

Cornerback Brandon Finney Jr. is in his true freshman season, and he has immediately made an impact on the Oregon Ducks’ defense. The young cornerback stepped in as a starter right away and has been a consistent playmaker. 

Finney Jr. totals 34 tackles, one sack, seven passes defended, two forced fumbles, and one interception. Ranking No. 1 with the lowest catch rate allowed shows his talent, and this is just the beginning of his career with the Ducks.

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Ify Obidegwu Shows True Development

Cornerback Ify Obidegwu is in his second year with the Ducks, after being redshirted in 2024. He did not appear in any games last season, spending the year developing, which has paid off. Obidegwu has made 10 starts this season, appearing in all 13 games.

Oregon defensive coordinator Tosh Lupoi, right, greets Oregon defensive back Ify Obidegwu before the game as the Oregon Ducks host the USC Trojans on Nov. 22, 2025, at Autzen Stadium in Eugene, Oregon. | Ben Lonergan/The Register-Guard / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

Obidegwu has racked up 21 total tackles, six passes defended, and one interception. He ranks No. 7 in the Big Ten in lowest catch rate at 48.1 percent, which shows how talented Oregon’s depth at the position is.

As he has had a big season with the Ducks, Obidegwu has a chance to step up even more in 2026 to maintain Oregon’s defensive success.

Nov 14, 2025; Eugene, Oregon, USA; Oregon Ducks head coach Dan Lanning high fives fans before a game between the Oregon Ducks and the Minnesota Golden Gophers at Autzen Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Troy Wayrynen-Imagn Images | Troy Wayrynen-Imagn Images

Jadon Canady Proves To Be A Big Pickup For Oregon

Defensive back Jadon Canady transferred to the Oregon Ducks for his senior season. Before Oregon, he spent two seasons with the Ole Miss Rebels and two years with the Tulane Green Wave.

Canady is ranked No. 8 in the conference for lowest catch rate at 48.6 percent, proving to be a valuable addition to the Ducks. He has started in 11 games this season, racking up 33 total tackles, six passes defended, and two interceptions.

He is proving to be a valuable pickup for the Ducks through the portal and will play a significant part as Oregon continues its playoff push.