Football Recruiting
Visits/News
Last Saturday night, Oregon flexed its muscle like few have ever seen. Several key recruits joined we, The Duck Faithful, in our first lengthy exposure to what could be one of the greatest (and balanced) Oregon units to ever grace the field at Autzen Stadium. (In case you missed any of Saturday night’s action, see below!)
Running back Thomas Tyner (5-Star/Beaverton, OR/Rivals100) played impromptu host as a multitude of prospects joined him at field level during Oregon’s 57-34 thrashing of a team who thought itself “fast.” Some of the confirmed attendees included athlete Mike Ralston (2-Star/Eugene, OR), offensive lineman Doug Brenner (NR/Portland, OR), and a Wilsonville High School trifecta made up of linebacker Johnny Ragin (3-Star/Wilsonville, OR), wide receiver Tanner Shipley (2-Star/Wilsonville, OR) and defensive back Nick Highberger (NR/Wilsonville, OR).
Following the matchup, Brenner, brother of current Duck volleyball standout Liz Brenner shed light on how Oregon’s recruitment is taking shape. “There was about four of us (who were pulled aside) and they told us they were very interested in all of us,” said Brenner. “They’re going to be looking at our film from this past weekend and they’ll be making a decision about us in the next few days and then we’ll know whether they’re going to offer us or not.”
UPDATE! Sometime on Tuesday, Oregon extended an offer to Brenner. The news was quickly passed along via Facebook by proud older sister, Liz.
Apart from Tyner, local standout Ragin’s presence demanded the most attention. “I did the pre-game tour with the guys and saw the new facilities that are being built,” said Ragin. “While I was on the sideline, (recruiting coordinator/coach Jim) Fisher came over and told me Chip (Kelly) wanted to talk to me. I was pretty excited to get the chance to speak with him, and he asked me about the season and how they are going to evaluate my first week’s film. They said after they evaluate that film they will let me know where things stand.”
Speaking of Tyner, the nationally recognized recruit had a cool 216 yards and five touchdowns in his first prep game of the 2012 season (see highlights below). “I just went in to my season opener feeling like I had a lot to prove,” said Tyner. “I know there are a lot of people out there doubting me and wondering if I can stay healthy. Some people wonder if I’m really as good as my ranking and stuff like that. I’m just using that for motivation. I’m motivated to be better and be the best I can be out there.”
Oregon commit Thomas Tyner tweeted this iPhone screenshot late Friday night.
Late Friday night via Twitter, Tyner publicized a congratulatory text between himself and fellow Oregon commit Dontre Wilson (4-Star/DeSoto, TX/Rivals250) who tallied a “DAT-like” 354 all-purpose yards in his respective opener.
A host of recruits will be making their way to Autzen Stadium throughout the season. Stay tuned to FISHDUCK as we bring you insider information following each home game regarding recruiting visits and reactions from prospects!
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 next Wednesday, WTD!!!
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Mark Flores, a Salem, OR resident, is a Firefighter/Paramedic and an avid Oregon Ducks fan. Prior to the fire service, Flores, a graduate of nearby Corban University, spent over seven years in professional journalism including a stint at the Statesman Journal in Salem and held the position of Sports Editor for the Hilltop News (Corban). A career transition however never dampened his love of writing and FishDuck is now his source to share his love of Mighty Oregon. Flores brings detailed knowledge of Oregon recruiting to the FishDuck team and welcomes your feedback.