Jack Crabtree (Nov. 19, 1935-Mar. 16, 2026) is one of the least known quarterbacks from the University of Oregon relative to his accomplishments. He was the leader of the 1957 Ducks team that advanced to the Rose Bowl and nearly pulled off an epic upset.
Crabtree grew up in Southern California and moved to Eugene from San Bernardino Junior College in time for the 1955 season. At 6-feet, 180 pounds, he played three seasons for the Oregon varsity and was the starter at quarterback as a senior when the Ducks went 7-3 and tied Oregon State for the Pacific Coast Conference title. Conference rules gave the Ducks, who lost to the Beavers 10-7, the Rose Bowl berth because OSU had been to the game the previous year.
During the season, Crabtree attempted just 99 passes and threw four touchdowns, but the Ducks averaged 295 yards of offense per game and he was named Honorable Mention All-Conference.
At the Rose Bowl, #1 Ohio State was a three-touchdown favorite. Crabtree completed 10 of 17 passes for 135 yards and played defense in a nip and tuck game. Although Oregon lost 10-7, the Ducks carried coach Len Casanova off the field on their shoulders and Crabtree was named the game’s MVP, only the third player at the time to be so honored from the losing team.
Crabtree served two years in the Army before attempting to play in the American Football League with both the Denver Broncos and Los Angeles Chargers. He did not see any action and retired to work in the athletic supply business.
Jack Crabtree was inducted into the University of Oregon Athletics Hall of Fame in 2002.