The Oregon Ducks were that team this season—undefeated, ranked No. 1, and walking into the Rose Bowl like kings. But Ohio State hit them with a reality check, handing out L’s like a DJ spinning tracks. Ohio State finally got their revenge for that week 7’s L. Ohio State literally shut down Jorden James & Oregon’s run-game. The Ducks only managed to get 53 rushing yards over them. That’s crazy. And Dan Lanning ain’t the type to let something like that slide. With 5-star Na’eem Offord‘s clutch, the Oregon Ducks are about to pull the former 5-star and the No.1 running back in the portal.

Let’s rewind to January 6th, when Josh Newberg from On3 was spilling tea with Steve Wiltfong, VP of Transfer Portal and Recruiting. They kicked things off with a big name in the portal: Tulane’s Makhi Hughes. “What’s the latest on him?” Steve didn’t hold back: “Makhi Hughes was out in Eugene over the weekend… helping his little brother, five-star cornerback Na’eem Offord, move in.” Yep, you read that right. The No. 1 RB in the portal, Makhi Hughes, and Na’eem Offord are half-brothers. Na’eem, a top-ranked CB from the 2025 class, had already flipped from Ohio State to Oregon last month. The twist? His move might just pave the way for his big bro Makai Hughes to join the Ducks, too.

If you know the game, you know Makhi Hughes. It’s simple. Makhi Hughes ain’t no ordinary back. After an injury in 2022, he came back like a man on a mission. Over the last 2 seasons, he racked up 2,779 yards and 22 touchdowns, averaging a solid 5.3 yards per carry. Tulane’s offense ran through him—literally. And now, with 2 years of eligibility left, hopefully, he’s finna take his talents to Eugene.

Let’s talk about Dan Lanning for a second now. This guy’s recruiting game is straight-fire. The Oregon Ducks literally ranked No.4th in the 2025 recruiting class. Na’eem Offord said it himself at the Under Armour Game last week: “Nobody recruited me harder or better than Oregon.” Na’eem’s dad even chimed in, calling Lanning their favorite head coach.

When your dad’s hyped about a coach, you know it’s real love. Fast forward to now, and Lanning’s chess moves are on full display. Oregon’s top RB, Jordan James, just declared for the NFL Draft. Coincidence? Nah, that’s Lanning playing 4D chess, setting the stage for Makhi Hughes to take the reins in Eugene.

Will Dan Lanning’s Oregon feel like home for Na’eem Offord and Makhi Hughes?

But let’s keep it real—switching teams isn’t just about stats. It’s about fit. And for Hughes, Oregon’s starting to feel like family in no time. His lil bro Na’eem is low-key settled in, and their connection could be a game-changer for the Ducks.

Imagine the 2025 Ducks with Hughes in the backfield. He’s the type of RB who makes defenses second-guess their life choices. And with Oregon’s high-octane offense, the fit feels almost too perfect. This ain’t just a transfer—it’s a statement. And let’s not overlook the family angle. Having Na’eem already on board gives Oregon an edge no other school can match. That brotherly bond? It’s like Oregon’s secret weapon—a little extra pull that might just seal the deal.

The Ducks may have fallen bad down short in the Rose Bowl, but Dan Lanning ain’t gonna stop to lick his wounds—he’s big-time reloading. Makhi Hughes ain’t just another name in the portal; he’s the name. If he lands in Eugene, Oregon’s championship dreams will have a whole new level of firepower. And with Na’eem Offord in the mix, the Ducks are proving that family ties and smart recruiting can change the game. Keep your eyes on this one—it’s about to get wild.