The clash between the Penn State Nittany Lions and Oregon Ducks isn’t just another high-stakes college football game. It’s a meeting of two of the most promising quarterback prospects in the country: Drew Allar of Penn State and Dante Moore of Oregon.
Both athletes are fighting for victory on the field, but there’s more at play. They’re also competing for top spots in the upcoming NFL draft, and their journeys through NIL (name, image, and likeness) deals highlight just how much college football has changed.
The Quarterback Showdown: Drew Allar vs. Dante Moore
No. 3 Penn State, unbeaten at 3-0, is gearing up to host the No. 6 Oregon Ducks. It’s a rematch of last season’s Big 10 championship, and all eyes are on Drew Allar and Dante Moore.
Both quarterbacks are seen as potential No. 1 overall picks in the NFL draft. How they play in this game could shift their draft stock in a big way.
Drew Allar’s NIL Success
Drew Allar, a 21-year-old from Medina, Ohio, has made waves not only for his play but for his NIL deals, too. According to On3, Allar is the 10th-highest paid player in college football, valued at $2.8 million.
That number might even be low—On3’s Pete Nakos pegged his NIL value at $3.1 million back in August. Allar just signed an endorsement with Venmo, promoting their Penn State-branded debit card.
He’s said he uses his NIL earnings to support his teammates, give back to youth sports, and stay connected off the field as a senior. It’s a pretty modern approach, honestly.
Dante Moore’s Marketability
Dante Moore, meanwhile, has led Oregon to four straight wins to start the year. His projected NIL earnings sit around $640,000.
He’s only sixth on his own team in NIL earnings, but his endorsement with Beats by Dre as part of their “Beats Elite” group really shows his potential. There’s a sense he could break out in a big way.
Moore’s smooth, efficient style has drawn comparisons to Packers QB Jordan Love. Quarterback trainer Quincy Avery even called him the best quarterback in college football right now, and says he should be the first QB taken in the draft.
Performance on the Field
NIL valuations are important, but let’s be honest—they’re often about hype and marketability, not just performance. So, how do Allar and Moore actually play?
Allar’s Struggles with Accuracy
Allar’s gotten plenty of hype, but he’s also faced criticism for his accuracy. Through three games, he’s thrown just four touchdown passes with a 64.8 percent completion rate.
Quincy Avery has been especially tough on Allar’s passing, pointing out that his technique causes issues that show up on game days. It’s a work in progress.
Moore’s Efficiency
Moore, on the other hand, has been praised for his efficiency. His smooth style has been a big reason for Oregon’s undefeated start.
Avery’s comparisons to Jordan Love aren’t just hot air—there’s something about Moore’s game that feels different. He looks comfortable out there.
What’s at Stake?
This Penn State vs. Oregon matchup is about more than just a win or loss. It’s a chance for both quarterbacks to prove themselves—boosting their draft stock and maybe even bumping up their NIL valuations.
Implications for the NFL Draft
Both Allar and Moore are expected to go early in the NFL draft. A strong showing in this high-profile game could lock in their spots, maybe even as the No. 1 pick.
Scouts and analysts will be watching every throw, every decision. The pressure’s real, and so is the opportunity.
Impact on NIL Deals
A breakout performance could mean bigger NIL deals for both players. For Allar, who’s already raking it in, it could mean even more high-profile endorsements.
For Moore, a huge game could close the gap, attracting more offers and raising his profile. That’s the kind of night that changes things.
Conclusion
The Penn State vs. Oregon game isn’t just a rematch of last season’s Big 10 championship. It’s a real showcase for two of the most exciting quarterback prospects in college football.
Drew Allar brings his own set of skills, while Dante Moore has a totally different approach. Each has strengths, sure, but also a few glaring weaknesses that could tip the scales.
When fans and analysts tune in, they’re not only watching for the win. There’s this undercurrent—a battle for who might be the next big NFL star.
Will it be Allar, with all his marketability and NIL buzz? Or maybe Moore, who just seems to glide through plays with such efficiency? Feels like this game could end up being a turning point for both of them.
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