"It tells people that the Ducks are like that for real": Five-star safety Trey McNutt reflects on Oregon's win over Ohio State

Five-star safety Trey McNutt is one of the highest-rated prospects in Oregon's 2025 class. He was at Autzen Stadium in Eugene on Oct. 12 to see the Ducks game against Ohio State.

The then-No. 3 Ducks edged out the then-No. 2 Buckeyes with a nail-biting 32-31 victory, highlighted by kicker Atticus Sappington's clutch 19-yard field goal in the final minute. Speaking with Scoop Duck, McNutt expressed his admiration for Oregon's capabilities, saying,

"It tells people that the Ducks are like that for real. They're not just a normal team. They're a high-caliber team."

McNutt committed to Oregon in August and Dan Lanning played a crucial role in his decision to take his talents to the school.

"I just chose what I think is the best fit for me," Lanning told 247Sports' Allen Trieu. "I think that Coach Lanning and the rest of the Oregon staff is going to develop and take care of me."

Rivals rank Trey McNutt as the No. 18 overall prospect in the nation, the No. 1 safety in the 2025 class, and the No. 2 recruit in Ohio. ESPN places him as the No. 40 overall prospect in the nation, the No. 2 safety in the class, and the No. 2 recruit in the state.

Trey McNutt's potential in Oregon safety room

Trey McNutt is Oregon's first-ever five-star safety. With Tysheem Johnson set to exhaust his eligibility after this season, McNutt will step into the competition for a starting safety position.

As an accomplished track athlete, McNutt’s impressive speed translates seamlessly to the football field, and enhances his effectiveness as both a safety and cornerback. His versatility allows him to adapt to various defensive schemes and he is, accordingly, viewed as a potential early-round selection in the NFL draft.

McNutt is the highest-rated defensive back in the history of Oregon. He will join a promising defensive back class that includes cornerback Dorian Brew and Brandon Finney, who is also in the mix for safety. The Ducks have 16 committed players in the 2025 class, which ranks No. 7 in the nation.

Besides Trey McNutt, this cycle also features five-star wide receiver Dakorien Moore, five-star Dallas Wilson and five-star cornerback Brandon Finney.