Koa Ka’ai details Dante Moore’s growth and his vision for Oregon’s QB Room
Autzen Audibles: DuckTerritory's Oregon athletics podcastShow Notes
Oregon quarterbacks coach Koa Ka’ai joins the Autzen Audibles Podcast for an extensive conversation about his first offseason leading the position group and the development taking place inside one of the Ducks’ most important rooms. Ka’ai discusses the additional responsibilities he has taken on since moving into the position, including Oregon’s demanding recruiting schedule and the opportunity to put his own stamp on the quarterback room after spending more than two years working alongside former offensive coordinator Will Stein. The former Oregon player explains the identity he wants his quarterbacks to establish. Competitiveness is at the top of that list, but Ka’ai also wants the Ducks to remain connected, support one another and remember that football is supposed to be enjoyable. Much of the conversation centers on Dante Moore and the growth Oregon has seen from its veteran quarterback. Ka’ai details how Moore has become more vocal, demanding and willing to hold teammates accountable without becoming demeaning. He also explains how Moore’s expanding understanding of defensive football and Oregon’s entire offensive operation has allowed the coaching staff to give him greater control at the line of scrimmage. Ka’ai also provides an update on Nebraska transfer Dylan Raiola, including the physical transformation he has made since arriving in Eugene and his progress learning Oregon’s system. The discussion explores how the Ducks develop experienced backup quarterbacks, the individualized plans Oregon creates for each player and the message Marcus Mariota once delivered about the importance of maintaining a healthy quarterback room. Ka’ai also explains Oregon’s golf-inspired approach to competition, how the staff evaluates quarterbacks in the NIL era and why relationships throughout a high school can reveal as much as throwing talent.
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