2 of 2

Write now Article Tools

A star is born.

Technically, Dennis Dixon was born 22 years ago. But Saturday certainly served as his coming out party.

On national television, the Oregon quarterback walked into the Big House and beat the snot out of Michigan. And while torching the Michigan defense isn't as impressive a feat as it was once considered, everything Dixon did was impressive.

Whether he was throwing the deep ball or improvising on a busted play, every decision Dixon made was spot on. Dixon made Michigan's efforts look so futile, it probably left them longing for the previous week's embarrassment.

Looking like Pop Warner kids taking on a high school varsity squad, Oregon dissected Michigan in the 39-7 whooping and Dixon was the head surgeon. The senior finished up with 292 passing yards and three touchdowns. He added 76 rushing yards and one more on score on the ground in a very Vince Young-like performance.

At 200 pounds, Dixon doesn't quite have Young's size. But a 6-foot-4, he's still a big kid. Dixon's elusiveness, his ability to create, his ability to move the chains and to carve up a Michigan defense were all Young-esque. On top of all that, Dixon appeared to be a much more accurate passer than Young and his deep tosses were things of beauty.

The senior is already responsible for almost 650 of Oregon's total yardage in the first two weeks. When you take into account that the PAC 10 isn't exactly known for its defense, the Ducks quarterback is headed for a monster year.

There is nothing more difficult to defend than a passing quarterback who can run on any given play, just ask USC - or a Michigan team that's been burned by one in consecutive weeks. So, as long as Dixon is taking the Oregon snaps, the Ducks are guaranteed to be trouble for anyone on their schedule.

Good luck PAC 10. You've been warned.

Learn more about this author, Sean Lynch.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

Add your voice

Know something about How good is Oregon quarterback Dennis Dixon?
We want to hear your view. Write now!