ESPN’s College GameDay makes a return trip to Eugene and turns to one of Oregon’s most iconic figures for its latest guest picker.
The network announced Thursday that former Ducks star quarterback and 2014 Heisman Trophy winner Marcus Mariota will join the show Saturday as No. 7 Oregon hosts No. 15 USC in a pivotal late-season matchup.
Mariota is now with the Washington Commanders and has stepped into a temporary starting role this fall as rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels recovers from injury.
We have Oregon legend and 2014 Heisman Trophy winner Marcus Mariota joining us as this week's guest picker‼️ pic.twitter.com/VzUDOGEbrn
— College GameDay (@CollegeGameDay) November 20, 2025
Despite his NFL obligations, the former Oregon standout will return to Eugene, where he remains one of the most celebrated athletes in school history. He's also the only Oregon player to be given college football's top honor.
The appearance continues a recent run of high-profile NFL talent on GameDay. Last week, Aaron Donald served as guest picker in Pittsburgh, following earlier appearances by Patrick Mahomes at Texas Tech and Alex Smith at Utah.
Mariota led Oregon to the inaugural College Football Playoff in 2014. He defeated Florida State and Jameis Winston in the semifinals before falling to Ohio State in the national title game. The No. 2 overall selection by the Tennessee Titans in the 2015 NFL Draft has embraced his role as a journeyman in the league.
This will be Mariota's first guest-picker appearance on the iconic pregame show.
More college football news:
- Deion Sanders buyout, contract details as Colorado Buffaloes coach
- Ole Miss reportedly gives Lane Kiffin an ultimatum as family visits Florida and LSU
- Virginia Tech reportedly funding roster near top of ACC for James Franklin
- Bill Belichick goes viral for awkward handshake after Wake Forest loss
- Texas state trooper reportedly relieved of duties after player exchange at Texas A&M