Report: Oregon expected to start Brock Thomas at QB vs. Nebraska

The revenge matchup between Dylan Raiola and Nebraska will have to wait. After stepping in and nearly leading the Oregon Ducks' offense to a fourth-quarter comeback last week against UCLA, the Ducks are moving forward with third-string quarterback Brock Thomas as the starter on Saturday night against the Cornhuskers . CBS Sports' Chris Hummer and Matt Zenitz first reported the news.

With Dante Moore remaining on the sideline while he recovers from a concussion, Thomas will make his first start as a senior with his hometown team, having graduated from Sheldon High School, which also produced Justin Herbert . Thomas played well in the fourth quarter last week against UCLA, completing 11-of-16 passes for 156 yards and one touchdown.

Thomas also stepped in last season for Moore at home against Wisconsin. Although the conditions were rainy and less than ideal, Thomas completed all four of his pass attempts in the second half to win, 21-7. He led two drives that both lasted nearly six minutes and kept the ball out of harm's way, which is likely what he will be tasked with replicating against Nebraska's aggressive defense .

It was almost unfathomable that Raiola wouldn't start this game a week ago. After turning in a superb performance off the bench on the road at USC, throwing for nearly 300 yards and two touchdowns, Raiola cratered last week in his first Oregon start.

The former five-star was benched at the end of the third quarter against the Bruins after completing just six of his 19 pass attempts and turning the ball over three times.

By turning to Thomas, the Ducks are prioritizing clean play on offense, although Raiola might have a better chance to put up points. Oregon will lean on its defensive game plan to stop the Cornhuskers and play keepaway with the ball. Evan Stewart , Oregon's leading receiver this season, is listed as doubtful to play, so Thomas will have one less weapon to work with.

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