Oregon Receivers Dakorien Moore and Gary Bryant Jr. Cleared for Orange Bowl; Evan Stewart Remains Out

The Oregon Ducks received a mix of injury news ahead of their College Football Playoff quarterfinal matchup against the Texas Tech Red Raiders in the Capital One Orange Bowl. While one of their top receivers will miss another game, the Ducks are gaining reinforcements at wideout at a crucial time.

ESPN insider Pete Thamel confirmed the latest availability report, noting that Evan Stewart remains out while Dakorien Moore and Gary Bryant Jr. are fully cleared to play. This update highlights both the ongoing challenges with Stewart and the optimism surrounding Oregon’s depth as the postseason intensifies.

Stewart’s absence has been a defining narrative for the Ducks this season. The receiver suffered a serious knee injury in preseason practice and has yet to see game action. Even during Oregon’s 51-34 playoff win over James Madison, Stewart was a game-time decision and participated in pregame warmups but ultimately did not play.

With Stewart unavailable, the focus turns to Moore and Bryant, whose return to full health provides a boost for Oregon’s passing game. Both receivers have demonstrated their value this season, and their availability could prove pivotal against a Texas Tech team preparing for its first Orange Bowl appearance.

1. Moore and Bryant Returning to Form

Dakorien Moore and Gary Bryant Jr. battled injuries during the season but have now been fully cleared. Moore suffered an injury in late October, missing several games before returning for the James Madison matchup, while Bryant went down in early November against Iowa. The Ducks’ offense will benefit from their contributions. Together, Moore and Bryant have recorded 54 receptions, 747 yards, and eight touchdowns this season, numbers that will be essential in stretching defenses and creating scoring opportunities. Their presence also allows quarterback Anthony Brown and the Oregon passing attack to operate with more confidence. Both receivers bring experience and reliability, offering the Ducks more versatility in route combinations and red-zone schemes. With Moore and Bryant back, Oregon’s offensive depth improves at precisely the right moment, providing head coach Dan Lanning with additional tools as the Ducks aim to avoid another early quarterfinal exit.

2. Evan Stewart’s Continued Absence

Evan Stewart, Oregon’s most anticipated playmaker, remains sidelined with a knee injury that has kept him out all season. His absence has been felt throughout the Ducks’ offensive schemes, forcing the team to rely on other contributors at wide receiver. Although briefly listed as a game-time decision against James Madison, Stewart did not participate in the contest and has not returned to practice this week. As such, his absence for the Orange Bowl was widely expected. Stewart’s return remains a long-term goal rather than an immediate option. The Ducks’ staff will continue to monitor his rehabilitation, but his health will not factor into Thursday’s quarterfinal preparations. While disappointing, Stewart’s absence has been mitigated by the return of Moore and Bryant, whose availability allows Oregon to field a more complete and dynamic receiving corps.

3. Implications for the Orange Bowl

Thursday’s matchup marks only the second meeting between Oregon and Texas Tech in three seasons, presenting a pivotal opportunity for the Ducks. Avoiding a quarterfinal exit for the second consecutive year will require a balanced attack and contributions from every position group. With Moore and Bryant in the lineup, Oregon can leverage their experience and playmaking ability to counter Texas Tech’s defensive schemes. Their presence increases the team’s scoring potential and adds a layer of flexibility to the passing game. Although Stewart remains sidelined, the Ducks enter the postseason healthier than they have been in months. This improved health could be a decisive factor as Oregon looks to extend its playoff run in Miami. The game is scheduled for Jan. 1 at 9 a.m. PT, giving Oregon a chance to capitalize on the availability of its key returning receivers and continue its bid for College Football Playoff success.