Our Oregon Ducks football program had a TOUGH outing this past Saturday. While the offense was able to rack up 41 completions thanks to Dillon Gabriel, there were some massive holes that derailed what should have been a near-shutout performance. Mr. FishDuck took time from his fun at NFL lines Vegas and his research of NFL Odds to discuss last Saturday’s surprising game with me.
That begs the question: who needs to step up this week? What are the Ducks looking to accomplish in week two? And more importantly – who NEEDS a great week two?
No. 76 Josh Conerly Jr.had a dominant 2023. He needs to rally this offensive line to a much much much better performance in week two. (Photo By Nancy Paiva)
Josh Conerly Jr. – The Face of the Offensive Line
Overall, I think Conerly Jr.’s in the best spot for a huge week two. The offensive line as a whole allowed three sacks vs a meagerly-talented Idaho defensive front that was just playing to their absolute best. While the Ducks will be favorites in the vast majority of their remaining games, the offensive line’s play has to be a point of emphasis until it’s no longer a problem. Conerly is the key to that.
As a mainstay leader and one of the best tackles in the country, he absolutely has to be able to lead this position group. Gabriel cannot spend the vast majority of the game on his back, under pressure, or in desperate situations looking to get first downs. If Conerly Jr. is able to rally the troops and elevate the offensive line’s ability to protect the quarterback, we’ll be in much better shape. Additionally, the rushing attack was absolutely abysmal in comparison to what we’re used to with this Ducks team. Fixing that against Boise State will put Oregon in great shape to dominate this conference.
Let me quickly acknowledge this: I believe in Dan Lanning, I believe in the talent of this team, and I believe the Ducks are even capable of winning out. Oregon just is going through some growing pains. It’s time for the offensive line to rally in week two, and the rest of the team to get behind one of the best offenses in the country. Let’s see these Ducks get it together and dominate the rest of the year, here on out.
Anyway, enough from me, Oregon fans. Who do you think needs to step up in week two? How has week one affected your expectations of the season? Let us know in the FishDuck forum with decorum.
Go Ducks!
Alex Heining
Los Angeles, California
Top Photo By: Steven Chan
Alex Heining is an Oregon alumni from the graduate class of 2021. After studying sports business and media studies, he has moved into the field of digital marketing as a copywriter and content manager in the Los Angeles area. Still, he loves his Ducks and goes to local high school games all over the Los Angeles and Orange County area to check out new recruits of the future (and a SoFi game or two with the pros). On any given Saturday, expect to find him doing martial arts, playing the guitar, or screaming at the tv over a missed holding penalty.