LSU, Clemson, Ohio State and Alabama are currently the four best programs in college football. They are the elite, and the Ducks would love nothing more than to crash that party. A solid victory over No. 8 Wisconsin could serve as a solid “best of the rest” steppingstone in Oregon’s quest to join them. Five Thoughts on the Eve of the …
A New Year’s Toast to Justin Herbert
As we count down the days until the start of the 2020s, I figured it appropriate to take a moment to recognize the exceptional quarterback, and even more exceptional young man, who carried Oregon through its darkest period of the decade. Justin Herbert grew up near the banks of Willamette River in Eugene-Springfield, Oregon, only a 10-minute drive from Autzen …
Power Ranking Oregon’s Top Players of the Decade
As the decade comes to a close, we as Duck fans can celebrate knowing that we just came off the most successful decade in Oregon football history. In the last ten years, the Ducks have gone to two national championships, three Rose Bowls and have won the Pac-12 championship four times. The success of the Oregon Football program can be …
Oregon’s Offensive Woes Start at the Top
It’s amazing how a coach who puts such an emphasis on being “tough” can trot out an offense that’s so weak. We get it, Coach Mario Cristobal. You want to control the ball, control the clock, dominate the line of scrimmage, and run vertically between the tackles. This is great when it works, but when it doesn’t, you simply look …
Arizona State Outlasts an Unenergized Oregon
In the three games leading up to the showdown with Arizona State, Oregon committed 26 penalties for 320 yards. Against the Sun Devils, the Ducks committed only three penalties for 21 yards. Typically, that sort of improvement would be associated with a win. Not giving the opposing team extra yards and opportunities is usually a sign that a team is …
The Oregon Offense Finally Pulls Its Head out of …
… of the sand. What’d y’all think I was gonna’ say? After the Ducks came out throwing to start Friday night’s game against Colorado, ESPN color commentator (and former UW QB) Brock Huard repeatedly kept making the point of how the Ducks needed to establish the run. He emphasized that running is this team’s identity, as they have been formed …
Cristobal Needs to Address Oregon’s Biggest Weakness
I started out the college football season last Thursday night watching the Chip Kelly-led Bruins embarrass themselves on national television. Watching the debacle unfold further cemented my opinion that Chip did not compensate for his weaknesses when he took the job. He didn’t hire a good defensive coordinator and he clearly didn’t hire a staff that likes to recruit, unlike …
Does Oregon Have a Quarterback Problem?
In football, the quarterback is far and away the most important position on the team. His performance is pivotal to success. Oregon has a quarterback who should hear his name called early on the first day of the 2020 NFL Draft. So, what’s the problem? As much potential as Justin Herbert has, he hasn’t necessarily lived up to the mounting …
Herbert’s Stock Is Rising. Can He Live up to the Hype?
In his years at Oregon, Ducks quarterback Justin Herbert has cemented his place in the top tier of college players. Following the 2018 season, Herbert’s junior year, many speculated that he would declare for the NFL draft. This was not to be the case. Now, with Herbert returning to Eugene for his senior season, a great opportunity presents itself for the …
Herbie for Heisman? You Betcha!
Last season, Oregon quarterback Justin Herbert drew substantial, early season Heisman buzz. Unfortunately, his play throughout the season didn’t earn him a ticket to New York. This season, however, will be different. According to this writer’s calculations, less hype plus a feel-good story equals bronze man giving stiff arm. The Ol’ College Try, Take Four Heisman or no Heisman, Herbert …
Four Reasons Why Oregon Will Be Better in 2019
This has been an ideal offseason for the Ducks so far. No transfer QBs, no scandals and no coaches chasing “dream jobs.” In a sport that’s full of turnover and turmoil this time of the year, this offseason should be viewed as a big win for Oregon. Moreover, I’m confident the Ducks will be better in 2019. Here are four …