After an eventful and outspoken year, Oregon's quote machine has been silent for a month.
On the field, he could be sensational or exasperating, sometimes in the same game, or even the same quarter. The last time he faced a Heisman-finalist quarterback, he had two picks. For the season he had seven punt returns of 40 or more yards, including a school-record four for touchdowns. He intercepted a team-high five passes (tied with John Boyett) and led the conference with 15 pass breakups. He returned an interception for a touchdown against Tennessee.
The Ducks couldn't have won the Cal game without Harris' 64-yard punt return td, but his costly coverage and ball-handling mistakes put the team in a hole in several others. Harris plays like his wild hairdo is on fire. He can make things happen, or make things unravel. The Ducks need the Good Cliff in Glendale, that's certain. Auburn's trio of outside receivers, Darvin Adams, Terrell Zachary and Emory Blake, all have big-play, double move capability. Each has a touchdown catch of 62 yards or longer, and the three average about 17 yards a reception.
Before the Civil War, Harris created a minor stir by referring to the Beavers as "the little brother in the backyard brawl." He was subdued after the win, proclaiming, "We're going to the Natty" while munching on a nacho. He hasn't been heard from since.
On Monday, he'll have several opportunities to make a play on the biggest stage of his young and promising life. The cornerback with more instincts and raw ability than any in Oregon history will have an opportunity to make a statement on the field after a month of silence.
Here's hoping the true Cliff Harris shines through, and remembers to celebrate with his teammates. The Big Ten officials will be watching his every gesture and gyration, and Darvin Adams will try to spin him around.
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