Football Recruiting

Oregon put a capper on a season of change Monday night with a 30-7 drubbing of Texas.  While defensive coordinator Nick Aliotti’s departure dominated the Duck story lines, the fashion in which Oregon dismantled the storied program from the southwest, breathes new life into the late reaches of the 2013-14 recruiting cycle.

Now officially the offseason, defensive backs coach John Neal will undoubtedly be the top candidate to replace the tenured Aliotti.  With a possible promotion from within, Oregon’s focus sits on landing a few late commits and keeping the ’14 recruiting class, largely built by Neal, intact.

Interest

One of the nation’s top athletes, John ‘JuJu’ Smith (5-Star/Long Beach, CA/Rivals100), gave Oregon fans a reason for hope with comments made just prior to his arrival at the week-long Under Amour All-American practice session this past Friday.

“As of right now I would say Oregon comes out a little bit more . . .” said Smith.  “Oregon was talking about being away from home and that it’s a great responsibility.  At the same time, wherever you go, having a degree from Oregon, you should be great everywhere.”

Smith isn’t just bluffing about his commitment to academics; the 6-foot-1 tabbed athlete has a 3.2 GPA in addition to world class speed and athleticism on both sides of the football.

“Going to Oregon, it was one of the loudest stadiums I’ve been in.  The game was crazy all over.  The people are great.”

Smith is not expected to make an announcement during the All-American festivities but could reveal his choice just prior to signing day.  Stay tuned!

The class of 2015 is beginning to assert itself and some of the nation’s best are already naming Oregon their favorite.  Southwest-based athlete Tyrek Allen (NR/San Antonio, TX) is already hearing from Eugene after a solid junior season, where the 5-foot-11, 170 lb. jack-of-all-trades tallied 444 receiving, 500 return and 431 rushing yards.

“I’m getting flyers and letters from Oregon now,” said Allen.  “They have sent me the most mail of anyone so far.  I love Oregon; that is my favorite college of everyone.”

While on the lighter side, Allen would figure to bulk up once under the tutelage of strength and conditioning guru Jim Radcliff.  The shifty slot receiver/tailback hybrid will instantly remind the Oregon faithful of current speedster Bralon Addison, as both use superb vision to find their way to pay dirt.

“(Running backs coach Gary Campbell) said he watched my HUDL highlights and he liked them.  He said he was going to put me on his running back board and talk to the other coaches about me.”

Oregon’s prowess in the southwest is continuing to grow and could already have paved the way for a commitment if Allen is extended his dream offer.

To view Allen highlights, please click here.

For up to the minute recruiting news, please visit our friends at DUCK TERRITORY, who graciously provide FISHDUCK with in-depth analysis and player-generated material.  Look for my latest recruiting update every Wednesday. WTD!!!

Main photo by Craig Strobeck

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