Oregon offensive lineman Nick Cody was one of the students who put together this video on Coach Jim Radcliffe and the Oregon Strength and Conditioning Program:
Thursday, March 31, 2011
Two Fish Reports in One Week: FishDuck Explains It All
A new era of Oregon football is unfolding in the Moshofsky center.
Years past, the Ducks would be lucky to have one premier player, one top drawer talent. Now they have a backfield full of them.
In his two reports this week, Oregon's New Offense? and Shotgun Wishbone? FishDuck explores how all that talent can be utilized to maximum advantage. The Oregon offense is evolving, morphing before our eyes, to exploit this tremendous wealth of speed and athletic ability.
Years past, the Ducks would be lucky to have one premier player, one top drawer talent. Now they have a backfield full of them.
In his two reports this week, Oregon's New Offense? and Shotgun Wishbone? FishDuck explores how all that talent can be utilized to maximum advantage. The Oregon offense is evolving, morphing before our eyes, to exploit this tremendous wealth of speed and athletic ability.
After Two Days of Drills, Ducks Look Like a Team Building on Their Successes
From oregonlive, John Hunt's practice report:
Seastrunk made noise with his feet. Showing the darting ability of Jacquizz Rodgers but with more size, Seastrunk wowed for the second straight day. He’s the rare running back who can not only stop on a dime but throw it into reverse without grinding any gears.
Seastrunk made noise with his feet. Showing the darting ability of Jacquizz Rodgers but with more size, Seastrunk wowed for the second straight day. He’s the rare running back who can not only stop on a dime but throw it into reverse without grinding any gears.
Chris Courtney of educk with a detailed Day 2 practice recap. Thomas shows good command. Lyerla's slated for H-back. Full pads and Competition Day Saturday.
Rob Moseley has practice tweets. Fans get excited by the new guys and up-and-coming players. But the vets are pretty good. Paulson, Barner, James shine today.
Wednesday, March 30, 2011
Real Football Starts Tomorrow
Full pads on Saturday. Real football, with some live drills and contact. And on Saturday FishDuck will have a practice report.
Tony D Has the Early Line on the Lines, and other links that pack a punch
Never miss a tweet from Tony DiFrancisco. While so many in the twitterverse are fluff of the "ooo, I like cheese" variety, Tony D can pack a Micky Ward right hand into 145 characters. Here are two recent kones of Duckism to meditate on, followed by some practice video:
Tuesday, March 29, 2011
The Fish Report: Shotgun Wishbone?
Special Guest Column by Charles Fischer, alias "FishDuck"
[Editor's note: Second in a series by FishDuck on the innovations in the Oregon offense.]
Are we ready for football? For me, the pain of the National Championship loss has been replaced by the excitement of Spring Football and all the questions swirling that will create the drama and entertainment to be discussed until fall camp. We have so much to see this spring, and one of those questions concerns the use of the new formations and plays we saw in the NC game. In the last report I described the “Slash” formation and the plays that have been revealed thus far off those Forward and Backward Slash sets. They are fun to ponder, but the OTHER set of formations/plays we saw really rocked my boat. I have been considering the offensive implications for a couple of weeks now as I was stunned at what I saw on the field from the ZenSpreadmaster, Chip Kelly. (Remember—we amateur writers CAN have some fun with this)
Highlights from the Practice Reports, with links
Ken Goe has a report from first spring practice. Lache Seastrunk shows acceleration and focus. Good signs. Here's Adam Jude's from the Register-Guard, including these highlights:
On the offensive line, Nick Cody, Karrington Armstrong, Ramsen Golpashin worked mostly with the first unit.
Brandon Hanna, Taylor Hart and Ricky Heimuli joined returning starter Terrell Turner on the first wave of the defensive line.
At linebacker, Michael Clay and Dewitt Stuckey worked with the ones in the middle, with Kiko Alonso working mostly with the twos in his return from a season-long suspension (and a knee injury).
Both writers agree Seastrunk looked explosive. Of course, shorts and helmets isn't football. It's P.E. class.
Chris Courtney of educk.com also has a good update.
Courtney has this quote from Kelly:
"The biggest thing for us is the tape," Kelly said of his and his staff's evaluation. "We want our kids to practice at a certain tempo and a certain manner. The great things about the spring is that we never practice two days in a row, so we have a lot of time as a staff to go in and really dissect and watch everything."
Darron Thomas is now wearing number five and Josh Huff, number one. That seems appropriate because five plus one equals six.
Anthony Gildon, Taylor Hart and Ricky Heimuli are working out with the ones.
Courtney called Thomas "the obvious and undeniable leader of this offensive group" but noted that Bryan Bennett looked sharper in drills today.
Hated to hear that Colt Lyerla was lining up at tight end. As FishDuck pointed out, the Ducks are doing more with the tight ends and h-backs now, but it seems Lyerla's athleticism could be put to better use at wide receiver, linebacker or defensive end. Of course the staff gets paid good money to make these decisions. Seems like there's a chance he could get lost for a while behind Paulson, Williams and White.
Ken Goe had a great quote from Steve Greatwood:
“I’m excited,” Greatwood said. “I’ve got some talented young guys. Now it’s just a matter of sanding down the rough edges. Athletically, I think we’re as good as we’ve been in a while.”
Goe also spoke with line coach Jerry Azzinaro, who had strong praise for Brandon Hanna, the likely replacement for Kenny Rowe at drop end. “He just runs to the ball,” Azzinaro said. “It’s purely effort for him. If you can start with effort, other things will come.”
By all accounts they looked focused and had a good tempo, undistracted by the off-season stuff. It was a good start.
On the offensive line, Nick Cody, Karrington Armstrong, Ramsen Golpashin worked mostly with the first unit.
Brandon Hanna, Taylor Hart and Ricky Heimuli joined returning starter Terrell Turner on the first wave of the defensive line.
At linebacker, Michael Clay and Dewitt Stuckey worked with the ones in the middle, with Kiko Alonso working mostly with the twos in his return from a season-long suspension (and a knee injury).
Both writers agree Seastrunk looked explosive. Of course, shorts and helmets isn't football. It's P.E. class.
Chris Courtney of educk.com also has a good update.
Courtney has this quote from Kelly:
"The biggest thing for us is the tape," Kelly said of his and his staff's evaluation. "We want our kids to practice at a certain tempo and a certain manner. The great things about the spring is that we never practice two days in a row, so we have a lot of time as a staff to go in and really dissect and watch everything."
Darron Thomas is now wearing number five and Josh Huff, number one. That seems appropriate because five plus one equals six.
Anthony Gildon, Taylor Hart and Ricky Heimuli are working out with the ones.
Courtney called Thomas "the obvious and undeniable leader of this offensive group" but noted that Bryan Bennett looked sharper in drills today.
Hated to hear that Colt Lyerla was lining up at tight end. As FishDuck pointed out, the Ducks are doing more with the tight ends and h-backs now, but it seems Lyerla's athleticism could be put to better use at wide receiver, linebacker or defensive end. Of course the staff gets paid good money to make these decisions. Seems like there's a chance he could get lost for a while behind Paulson, Williams and White.
Ken Goe had a great quote from Steve Greatwood:
“I’m excited,” Greatwood said. “I’ve got some talented young guys. Now it’s just a matter of sanding down the rough edges. Athletically, I think we’re as good as we’ve been in a while.”
Goe also spoke with line coach Jerry Azzinaro, who had strong praise for Brandon Hanna, the likely replacement for Kenny Rowe at drop end. “He just runs to the ball,” Azzinaro said. “It’s purely effort for him. If you can start with effort, other things will come.”
By all accounts they looked focused and had a good tempo, undistracted by the off-season stuff. It was a good start.
Local Boy Gets Real
Harrowing story at espn.com about former Glencoe prep star Erik Ainge's battle with drug addiction and mental illness. 8 months sober. Football's underside. Athletes often don't get questioned about pain pills and substance abuse until the cheering stops.
Monday, March 28, 2011
I Want the Truth: Key Questions for Oregon's spring practice
Duck fans can handle the truth, because most of it is pretty good news. The starting quarterback is back and working on getting even better. The country's best running back has fresh legs, and three guys behind him who are fast and shifty, including a new one who's built like a Ram 1500. They return seven starters on offense and six on defense, plus all their best kick returners, the starting kicker, punter, holder, and long snapper.
Every spring has its surprises and question marks. Here are a few clues Duck fans will be looking to unearth when spring practice begins:
Which newcomers report for spring practice, and how do they look? Are they picking up the assignments? Are they getting reps?
How does Colt Lyerla look? Does he stay at wide receiver and does he look comfortable running patterns? How are his hands? Is he learning the offense and making a bid to contribute as a freshman?
Which offensive and defensive linemen improved in winter testing? Who's getting reps with the first team? Are Ricky Heimuli, Jared Ebert and Isaac Remington showing the mobility and technique to challenge for playing time?
Linebacker Kiko Alonso is a key piece of the puzzle. If he looks fast and agile after knee surgery and a year suspension, it gives the Ducks more flexibility and depth. Josh Kaddu could take some plays at drop end, Bo Lokombo can start, if Alonso can replace 4-year starter Matthews at the Mike. Is Alonso ready for his redemption?
Who wins the position battle at wide receiver? With two starters to replace, and several promising newcomers scheduled to arrive in August, this is the chance for Nick Cole, Eric Dungy and Blake Cantu to try and establish themselves as a reliable target for the open third wide receiver position.
Who's going to replace Jordan Holmes at center, and are Grasu and Armstrong, the leading candidates, mastering the shotgun snap? Will Oregon be able to maintain their timing and precision with a new center? Does the offensive line make progress toward gelling, getting ready for a season they'll start without a breather or a tune-up game? Can Steve Greatwood rebuild the offensive line in time to move the pile in Texas?
Do this year's Ducks bring the same effort and intensity to practice? Chip Kelly has said last year's team never had a bad practice, that he knew they were going to be special because of the way they practiced. With several senior leaders to replace, who sets the pace in practice? Does this team focus with the will to defend the conference championship?
Every team has its own character and personality, and that emerges as they work together. Can this year's team stay on the right side of the fine line between confident and cocky?
And the most important question: Can the Ducks stay healthy, practice hard while avoiding a key, devastating injury? Penn State has had two so far this spring.
For another preview of Spring Practice, see Joe Penkala's "Oregon Football: The Top 8 Storylines for the 2011 Season" on Bleacher Report.
Every spring has its surprises and question marks. Here are a few clues Duck fans will be looking to unearth when spring practice begins:
Which newcomers report for spring practice, and how do they look? Are they picking up the assignments? Are they getting reps?
How does Colt Lyerla look? Does he stay at wide receiver and does he look comfortable running patterns? How are his hands? Is he learning the offense and making a bid to contribute as a freshman?
Which offensive and defensive linemen improved in winter testing? Who's getting reps with the first team? Are Ricky Heimuli, Jared Ebert and Isaac Remington showing the mobility and technique to challenge for playing time?
Linebacker Kiko Alonso is a key piece of the puzzle. If he looks fast and agile after knee surgery and a year suspension, it gives the Ducks more flexibility and depth. Josh Kaddu could take some plays at drop end, Bo Lokombo can start, if Alonso can replace 4-year starter Matthews at the Mike. Is Alonso ready for his redemption?
Who wins the position battle at wide receiver? With two starters to replace, and several promising newcomers scheduled to arrive in August, this is the chance for Nick Cole, Eric Dungy and Blake Cantu to try and establish themselves as a reliable target for the open third wide receiver position.
Who's going to replace Jordan Holmes at center, and are Grasu and Armstrong, the leading candidates, mastering the shotgun snap? Will Oregon be able to maintain their timing and precision with a new center? Does the offensive line make progress toward gelling, getting ready for a season they'll start without a breather or a tune-up game? Can Steve Greatwood rebuild the offensive line in time to move the pile in Texas?
Do this year's Ducks bring the same effort and intensity to practice? Chip Kelly has said last year's team never had a bad practice, that he knew they were going to be special because of the way they practiced. With several senior leaders to replace, who sets the pace in practice? Does this team focus with the will to defend the conference championship?
Every team has its own character and personality, and that emerges as they work together. Can this year's team stay on the right side of the fine line between confident and cocky?
And the most important question: Can the Ducks stay healthy, practice hard while avoiding a key, devastating injury? Penn State has had two so far this spring.
For another preview of Spring Practice, see Joe Penkala's "Oregon Football: The Top 8 Storylines for the 2011 Season" on Bleacher Report.
Correspondent, Photographer Wanted
Are you planning on attending all or several of Oregon's spring practice? You can be the Spring Football Correspondent for The Duck Stops Here. You'll get a by-line and a head shot, and the opportunity to share your impressions with Duck fans who are unable to get out of work after several days of feigning illnesses during the NCAA tournament.
We're also looking for a staff photographer, a reliable source of images to use on the site. All photos would include a photo credit, and a link to your site if you're interested in more exposure for your work.
Unfortunately these positions pay exactly what writing and editing the blog does: NOTHING. But it is an opportunity to share your talents with an appreciative audience.
Interested parties can contact me at duckfanmo@yahoo.com. Please include a brief description of your level of interest and football experience. A former coach, player or long-time observer of football would be a great resource.
We're also looking for a staff photographer, a reliable source of images to use on the site. All photos would include a photo credit, and a link to your site if you're interested in more exposure for your work.
Unfortunately these positions pay exactly what writing and editing the blog does: NOTHING. But it is an opportunity to share your talents with an appreciative audience.
Interested parties can contact me at duckfanmo@yahoo.com. Please include a brief description of your level of interest and football experience. A former coach, player or long-time observer of football would be a great resource.
Starting from a Position of Strength
Last year the starting qb, coming off a dismal performance, lost his eligibility. This year's starter, coming off a strong performance, leads in the weight room and winter workouts.
Rob Moseley did a radio interview with the PB&J show previewing spring practice. Moseley also has a spring practice preview story on the Register-Guard website:
Significant hurdles must be overcome for Oregon to continue its recent dominance in conference play. The Ducks lost three senior starters on the offensive line, three more on the defensive line, and two each at linebacker and receiver. Among the losses were some of the most experienced leaders and familiar faces on the two-time Pac-10 championship teams, such as receiver Jeff Maehl, linebacker Casey Matthews and underrated cornerback Talmadge Jackson III.
The Ducks will at least return stability at the top, beginning with Kelly and his assistants, after receivers coach Scott Frost spurned overtures from Nebraska to keep Oregon’s coaching staff intact for a third straight season, enviable cohesion. A predictable handful of players left the team for various reasons since the BCS National Championship game on Jan. 10, but none who were expected to make the two-deep come fall.
Rob Moseley did a radio interview with the PB&J show previewing spring practice. Moseley also has a spring practice preview story on the Register-Guard website:
Significant hurdles must be overcome for Oregon to continue its recent dominance in conference play. The Ducks lost three senior starters on the offensive line, three more on the defensive line, and two each at linebacker and receiver. Among the losses were some of the most experienced leaders and familiar faces on the two-time Pac-10 championship teams, such as receiver Jeff Maehl, linebacker Casey Matthews and underrated cornerback Talmadge Jackson III.
The Ducks will at least return stability at the top, beginning with Kelly and his assistants, after receivers coach Scott Frost spurned overtures from Nebraska to keep Oregon’s coaching staff intact for a third straight season, enviable cohesion. A predictable handful of players left the team for various reasons since the BCS National Championship game on Jan. 10, but none who were expected to make the two-deep come fall.
Choose Your Poison: Every Choice is Wrong
Ted Miller names his best "3-headed monsters" on offense and defense but the Duck monsters are hydra-headed.
Miller rates Stanford's offensive trio of quarterback Andrew Luck, running back Stepfan Taylor and wide receiver Chris Owusu as the top returning offensive trio in the conference. Arizona State's DE Junior Onyeali, LB Vontaze Burfict, CB Omar Bolden are his top-rated defensive foundation.
The thing about Oregon is, they don't rely on one guy or a couple guys. They won their second straight PAC-10 title and a trip to the national championship last year without a single player who's expected to be drafted in the first two rounds of the NFL draft. Casey Matthews led the defense with 79 tackles, but the Ducks had 3 other players in the 70's, and Eddie Pleasant with 65 right behind them.
Offensively, Oregon gets tremendous production from Doak Walker Award winner LaMichael James, soon to be Oregon's all-time rushing leader, but there are five other players who are threats to break a big play, and an athletic offensive line that goes ten deep.
Facing the Ducks, you can't defend or neutralize just one guy. They have versatility and athleticism throughout the roster, a true team with multiple weapons on both sides of the ball.
Miller rates Stanford's offensive trio of quarterback Andrew Luck, running back Stepfan Taylor and wide receiver Chris Owusu as the top returning offensive trio in the conference. Arizona State's DE Junior Onyeali, LB Vontaze Burfict, CB Omar Bolden are his top-rated defensive foundation.
The thing about Oregon is, they don't rely on one guy or a couple guys. They won their second straight PAC-10 title and a trip to the national championship last year without a single player who's expected to be drafted in the first two rounds of the NFL draft. Casey Matthews led the defense with 79 tackles, but the Ducks had 3 other players in the 70's, and Eddie Pleasant with 65 right behind them.
Offensively, Oregon gets tremendous production from Doak Walker Award winner LaMichael James, soon to be Oregon's all-time rushing leader, but there are five other players who are threats to break a big play, and an athletic offensive line that goes ten deep.
Facing the Ducks, you can't defend or neutralize just one guy. They have versatility and athleticism throughout the roster, a true team with multiple weapons on both sides of the ball.
Sunday, March 27, 2011
The Fish Report: Oregon's New Offense?
They say that time heals the heart, and after waiting a few months before I could emotionally cope with viewing the National Championship game again,--I can state that the old adage is WRONG. Oregon fans will always have a little hole in their heart from that game, and I felt the angst and depression that intense fans feel after watching it again. Only the wise counsel of Gageac (A Duck Buddy) helped to offset the sour taste from the loss as he prescribed the new hit series “Portlandia” and we hooted for an hour as the game turned into a memory--for a short time. We have analyzed the game to death over the winter, and now it is time to take the positive elements of it to go forward and ponder the implications for this next year.
There were huge surprises from the game and the biggest became clear at the game’s beginning as we saw why Chip closed practices to the public leading up the NC game. We were running new formations and plays in this game, and there is a different attack strategy behind these formations that could have significant relevance for the upcoming year. Is Chip changing the offense, simply adding another tweak, or will he put these tools back in the tool box? Over the next two reports I will cover the new formations and plays and how they could change things this next year for us. These reports are SLOW READS, meant for the fan who wants to know how our offense is evolving, and taking time in the offseason is ideal for this level of contemplation. Again I offer the usual disclaimer of not being a coach or expert, but a hack who guessing at it like the rest of us. That being said,--I was stunned at the number of broadcasting mistakes declared aloud during the NC telecast, such as a routine Outside Zone Read being called, “an End-Around.” They still do not know the basics of our offense at ESPN, thus I think my analysis/guesses will be better than that!
It began right out of the gate in the second play of the game at 14:31 in the 1st Quarter as we lined up in a formation not seen at Oregon before. Try to picture this as I describe what I call the “Back-Slash” formation. We had two WRs flanked left, and then we had the QB, Thomas, lined up behind the center with an H-Back (Tight End) in front of him and to the left, with a Running Back behind him and to the right. If you look at it from behind them, it looks like a line from the H-Back through the QB and to the RB that goes at an angle. The slanted line of the three backs looks like a “Back-Slash” that you see on a computer keyboard, ( \ ) hence my christened name. (I have no idea what the coaches call it, but it is easier for us to categorize it that way.)
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| [photo from trojanfootballanalysis.com] |
At the snap we have a triple option, but with a different flair than in the past. The slotback flanked out comes in motion from the left and goes behind the whole formation and then charges straight ahead. After Thomas takes the snap he is doing the mesh with this Dive Back and Zone Reading the Defensive End on our left, and since the play is going to that side--it is a playside Zone Read which is different than the usual backside Zone Reads we ran throughout the season. The DE charged to the RB, and Thomas wisely pulled the ball and went to the outside. The H-Back who had been in the backfield on the left has now run around the left side and is leading the blocking. Darron is running into wonderful open space and if he had gone forward and slid to on the oncoming DBs--then he would have gained nine yards. Instead he did something he’s never done the whole season, which was taking off parallel to the left. He compounded the error with an awkward pitch to James who gained only two yards.
Go to the next series we have the ball and at 11:34 in the 1st Qtr, we run a “Forward-Slash” formation with the RB behind and to the left of Thomas and a H-Back in front and to the right of the QB. Looking from behind you will see the angle of the line of the three backs as a forward slash angle like we see on a keyboard with two WRs flanked out to the right. ( / ) This time the slotback comes in motion and behind the formation again to be the Dive-Back on the Triple Option, but we miss a block on a Linebacker and it blows up the play. Make that block and a good gain is in sight!
These are examples of how the new plays and formations WORKED, but we mucked them up which is why we transitioned into the usual formations in the second half. It takes time to get the timing, the blocking and simply being accustomed from hundreds of reps to a playside Zone Read. Remember that the Auburn defense faced a playside Zone Read every day in practice and was more accustomed to stopping it than we were in attacking with it. Even with an experience handicap in running these new plays/formations--we frequently had them well blocked, but judgment errors held us back as opposed to the Auburn defense stuffing it.
We see the first variation off this new formation at 8:40 in the 1st Qtr that had me sitting up straight in my chair. We were lined up in the “Backward-Slash” (\) formation where we had two WRs flanked out left, and the H-Back in front and to the left of Thomas, and the RB behind him and to the right. The slotback went in motion and came to the right and behind the formation to be the Dive-Back again. As Darron was handing off to him we see the H-Back fool everyone as instead of running outside and to the left and leading the blocking there--he moves to his right and leads the RB through the hole! The H-Back got a nice block on the Linebacker, which sprung the RB for nearly five yards on a dive play! The defense has to be so conscious of the outside, that they can get caught moving or leaning that way which allows us to set blocks other directions to take advantage of their anticipation. Let me get that right--wasn’t that like an old fullback leading the way in a traditional “I” formation attack? Yeah baby! I love it!
I was wondering about the recruiting strategy of going after so many Tight Ends and H-Backs, and yet we didn’t throw to them as much as I would prefer. NOW I see what Chip is up to; a player like Lyerla who is 6’5” and 240 can become one heck of blocking fullback on given plays, or he could be short yardage RB, (he WAS a RB in High School-think of the jump scoring play) or he can get open as a TE with his speed. The defense has to fear them coming out the backfield with a head of steam for a block, yet if they avoid the block--he may run past them on a pass pattern. The new formations make the H-Back/TE a very valuable player!
So, we see a pattern emerge of the play going to the side of the two WRs, and at 6:13 in the 1st Qtr we see Chip break that tendency. We’re in a forward slash formation, (/) (RB to the left and behind Thomas, and the H-Back in front and to the right) and the slotback is coming in motion from the right where both WRs began the play. Usually this slotback would circle behind and be the Dive-Back with the play going to the side of the WRs or the right. But this time Thomas goes LEFT and the RB is the Dive-Back, and the slotback in motion is the pitchman going to the left. The playside DE is unblocked and is sucked inside to follow the Dive-Back and Thomas makes the right Zone Read and pulls the ball out and runs outside down the LOS; he then steps inside to cause the outside defenders to move in to stop the QB. No sweat as he flicks the ball out to the pitchman and it grabs an easy five yards on first down. We can triple option EITHER way out of a forward or backward slash formation? That is a ton of pressure to put on a defense as we can attack either direction, inside or outside! Holy Crap.
I just about lost it all at 11:55 in the 2nd Qtr as we were on our own seven yard line and was trying to dig out of the shadow of our own end zone. We had the new Forward-Slash formation, (/) (Two WRs right, H-Back to the front and right of Thomas, with the RB behind him and to the left.) and the slotback on the right goes in motion-but wait! He is not going back behind the backfield to be a Dive-Back; he is continuing across the field from right to left as if it was a sweep coming or Outside Zone Read. Immediately we see the Auburn defense shift that direction, as we see the RB come forward like he is going to be a Dive-Back. But Darron puts the ball in the RBs belly, pulls it out and steps back. It’s a PLAY-ACTION PASS off this new formation! (And we thought it was a Running formation) Thomas throws a beauty downfield to Maehl for 81 yards, which resembled the long pass against USC from the same spot on the field. Now we have a new formation to confuse teams with! Running? Passing? Outside or Inside? There are TONS of spinoff plays from these new “Slash” formations! Wow.
Do we really need FIVE Running Backs? When we use the “Slash” formations--absolutely. Note how LMJ or Barner were the slotback coming around as a pitchman or circling behind to be the Dive-Back. The RB played the other part, thus a “Tazer” has taken a huge step up in usage and importance in our offense with these new formations. The fact is we couldn’t have run these formations with the injury situation at times this year; the addition of Seastrunk and DAT (DeAnthony Thomas) this next year will make running the “Slash” formations easier as both RBs can be Tazer or traditional Tailback and on the field at the same time. Again, the recruiting is being tailored to where our offense is going, and that is UP!
We’ll look at more new formations/plays in the next report.
We Love Our Ducks,
FishDuck
Charles Fischer fishduck83@gmail.com
[Editor's note: FishDuck simultaneously publishes his "Fish Reports" at The Duck Stops Here as well as Addicted to Quack and Duck Sports Authority. When TDSH moves to the Bloguin Network here in the next couple of weeks, Fish will have his own home page and archive on the new site. Reader contributions and comments are always welcome at The Duck Stops Here, but keep in mind the Fish sets the standard.]
In SEC Country, They're Looking Forward to a Little Duck Hunting
There's a website for Georgia fans called "Bubba n' Earl, Sittin' at the 50," and this weekend B&E rank the top ten games involving SEC teams in 2011. Oregon versus LSU is number one, followed by Georgia versus Boise State, also on September 3rd, the Chick-Fil-A Kickoff Classic at the Georgia Dome in Hotlanta:
#2 Georgia vs. Boise State - September 3 The country will be pulling for Boise to beat the Dawgs. I sure hope we are ready to send them packing just like we did back in 2005. Georgia typically shows up in these situations. I definitely don't want to be the team that let Boise State get the SEC monkey off their back.
#1 - Oregon at LSU - September 3
LSU hosts the defending Pac-10 at Jerry Jones' football palace in Dallas. It should be quite a show."
You have to admire the passion and fervor of southern fans. Bubba and Earl's masthead proclaims, "God talks like we do."
Few have heard the voice of the Almighty since Moses, so it can't be determined with certainty whether the footbawl-frenzied sons of the south are correct in this. I've always imagined the Lord to have a voice like Billy Graham, rich and powerful, yet soothing, with a message that's full of hope.
One thing that is certain, from the evidence of things seen, is that God's favorite colors are green and yellow, for He chose them as the hues of spring and renewal. The Creator of the Universe may indeed talk like they do, but the sun that sustains every creature shines bright yellow in the morning sky, and decorates the fertile earth a brilliant green. Praise God from whom all blessings flow, and Go Ducks.
#2 Georgia vs. Boise State - September 3 The country will be pulling for Boise to beat the Dawgs. I sure hope we are ready to send them packing just like we did back in 2005. Georgia typically shows up in these situations. I definitely don't want to be the team that let Boise State get the SEC monkey off their back.
#1 - Oregon at LSU - September 3
LSU hosts the defending Pac-10 at Jerry Jones' football palace in Dallas. It should be quite a show."
You have to admire the passion and fervor of southern fans. Bubba and Earl's masthead proclaims, "God talks like we do."
Few have heard the voice of the Almighty since Moses, so it can't be determined with certainty whether the footbawl-frenzied sons of the south are correct in this. I've always imagined the Lord to have a voice like Billy Graham, rich and powerful, yet soothing, with a message that's full of hope.
One thing that is certain, from the evidence of things seen, is that God's favorite colors are green and yellow, for He chose them as the hues of spring and renewal. The Creator of the Universe may indeed talk like they do, but the sun that sustains every creature shines bright yellow in the morning sky, and decorates the fertile earth a brilliant green. Praise God from whom all blessings flow, and Go Ducks.
Saturday, March 26, 2011
A Scary Thought for the rest of the PAC-12: How Oregon will improve their running game this spring and summer
For the serious student of x's and o's, Trojan Football Analysis has breakdowns of the Oregon triple option plays introduced during the Auburn game, complete with photos and videos. The writer illustrates what went wrong in the running game, particularly how Nick Fairley defeated play after play at the point of attack.
When these did not work as well as hoped Oregon also opted to attempt to read some of the Auburn defenders on other run plays. During the regular season Oregon had tremendous success running plays and not blocking the 3 technique DT versus undisciplined teams like USC. Also this has been a great play for them in the red zone the past few seasons. In this game it was not working too well though and several plays were blown up.
Oregon returns their skill players in the backfield and adds a speedy recruit in De’Anthony Thomas. Whether they use the triple gun option look or not they will rack up yards again on offense next season. Of that fact I have no doubt… The question will be whether anyone in the Pac-10 can stop them the way Auburn did. USC has not come close in two season now. Cal came the closest in 2010 so that rematch will be interesting to watch next season.
It's a safe bet that Chip Kelly and Steve Greatwood have carefully studied this same film, and will improve the execution in this series with repetition and some forceful instruction.
Oregon Gun Triple Option Plays (youtube link)
Oregon Rushing Attack by Game (chart)
The triple option series, provided the breakdowns in blocking can be ironed out, offers the Ducks an exciting way to exploit their speed and depth in the backfield, particularly when the footing is better than it was on the loose, soggy turf of University of Phoenix Stadium. Imagine Kenjon Barner, Lache Seastrunk, and D'Anthony Thomas with one man to beat to the end zone, and Lavasier Tuinei and Josh Huff blocking downfield. The article points out that last season the Ducks averaged 286 yards per game on the ground, 4th in the country, and the National Championship Game suggested Darron Thomas is ready to take the passing game to a new level as well.
With speed and innovation, and a strong resolve to get off the canvas and keep punching, the Ducks will take the offensive fight to the opponents in 2011.
When these did not work as well as hoped Oregon also opted to attempt to read some of the Auburn defenders on other run plays. During the regular season Oregon had tremendous success running plays and not blocking the 3 technique DT versus undisciplined teams like USC. Also this has been a great play for them in the red zone the past few seasons. In this game it was not working too well though and several plays were blown up.
Oregon returns their skill players in the backfield and adds a speedy recruit in De’Anthony Thomas. Whether they use the triple gun option look or not they will rack up yards again on offense next season. Of that fact I have no doubt… The question will be whether anyone in the Pac-10 can stop them the way Auburn did. USC has not come close in two season now. Cal came the closest in 2010 so that rematch will be interesting to watch next season.
It's a safe bet that Chip Kelly and Steve Greatwood have carefully studied this same film, and will improve the execution in this series with repetition and some forceful instruction.
Oregon Gun Triple Option Plays (youtube link)
Oregon Rushing Attack by Game (chart)
The triple option series, provided the breakdowns in blocking can be ironed out, offers the Ducks an exciting way to exploit their speed and depth in the backfield, particularly when the footing is better than it was on the loose, soggy turf of University of Phoenix Stadium. Imagine Kenjon Barner, Lache Seastrunk, and D'Anthony Thomas with one man to beat to the end zone, and Lavasier Tuinei and Josh Huff blocking downfield. The article points out that last season the Ducks averaged 286 yards per game on the ground, 4th in the country, and the National Championship Game suggested Darron Thomas is ready to take the passing game to a new level as well.
With speed and innovation, and a strong resolve to get off the canvas and keep punching, the Ducks will take the offensive fight to the opponents in 2011.
A Good Let Go Is Way Better than a Bad Get
Hindsight is more like 20-10. Every year there's a guy the Ducks wind up lucky to miss out on--Bryce Brown, Terrelle Pryor. Simmons? Check back in two years.
Delvon Simmons Update
ESPN insider Roger Brown reports 4-star DT Delvon Simmons is still waiting for his official release from North Carolina. Likely favorites are USC or Texas Tech.
Bring Me the Head of Lee Corso, and Urban Meyer's Cell Number
Ohio State coach Tressel not only concealed knowledge of multiple NCAA violations; he forwarded damaging emails to Terrelle Pryor's mentor Ted Sarniak, according to Adam Rittenburg, ESPN.
The World Wide Leader in Curmudgeonly Asides
Another bulletin from the Takimoto Sports Network: sheep missing from the Veterinary Medicine Lab at the University of Tennessee. Thus far no Beavers have been implicated. Investigation continues.
A Tale of 5,000 Pushups, and One Incredible Cutback
Duck Soup has the video version of Takimoto's Top 15 Oregon Touchdowns. How many can you recognize before the snap? Quick, what is your significant other's birthday?
Friday, March 25, 2011
Like Ed Harris in Apollo 13: Will 2011 be the defensive line's finest hour?
Failure is not an option.
John Hunt of oregonlive has a preview of the defensive line, and the outlook is good, even with three starters departing:
"The Ducks have been remaking their defensive front for a couple of seasons now, moving toward faster, quicker players who can drop into coverage but, ideally, with a stout guy inside who can muck things up but still move."
Terrell Turner is likely to step up into a leadership role.
"How about the praying mantis? Dion Jordan, who matched Turner with 33 tackles and 5 ½ tackles for loss last season, is a unique athlete with great wingspan and speed. The Ducks want his athleticism on the field, but is the converted receiver mature enough to replace the do-everything Rowe?"
Hunt projects Keliipiki and Taylor Hart as the likely starters inside, but with Oregon's rotations and fast pace, Heimuli and JC transfer Ebert are certain to get the opportunity to contribute. Brandon Hanna will compete with Jordan for the other starting spot at defensive end. Hanna, a senior from Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, is 6-2 234, a converted linebacker with the mobility to play the drop-end role.
Coach Azzinaro enters his third year as the d-line coach. Two years ago, Hunt notes, the hard-driving Azzinaro had just one returning starter and molded a defensive line that led the conference with 36 sacks.
Duck Tracks: In all the preseason magazines and the late summer ESPN chalktalks, defensive line will be cited as a question mark for this year's Ducks. What the critics don't know is, this defensive line is primed to exceed all expectations, and continue the evolution of Oregon defensive football. There will be aggressiveness and mayhem from some fast, crazy guys who love to play hard and hit people.
John Hunt of oregonlive has a preview of the defensive line, and the outlook is good, even with three starters departing:
"The Ducks have been remaking their defensive front for a couple of seasons now, moving toward faster, quicker players who can drop into coverage but, ideally, with a stout guy inside who can muck things up but still move."
Terrell Turner is likely to step up into a leadership role.
"How about the praying mantis? Dion Jordan, who matched Turner with 33 tackles and 5 ½ tackles for loss last season, is a unique athlete with great wingspan and speed. The Ducks want his athleticism on the field, but is the converted receiver mature enough to replace the do-everything Rowe?"
Hunt projects Keliipiki and Taylor Hart as the likely starters inside, but with Oregon's rotations and fast pace, Heimuli and JC transfer Ebert are certain to get the opportunity to contribute. Brandon Hanna will compete with Jordan for the other starting spot at defensive end. Hanna, a senior from Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, is 6-2 234, a converted linebacker with the mobility to play the drop-end role.
Coach Azzinaro enters his third year as the d-line coach. Two years ago, Hunt notes, the hard-driving Azzinaro had just one returning starter and molded a defensive line that led the conference with 36 sacks.
Duck Tracks: In all the preseason magazines and the late summer ESPN chalktalks, defensive line will be cited as a question mark for this year's Ducks. What the critics don't know is, this defensive line is primed to exceed all expectations, and continue the evolution of Oregon defensive football. There will be aggressiveness and mayhem from some fast, crazy guys who love to play hard and hit people.
Getting to Know Jared Ebert
Oregon's newest defensive tackle is waiting for a plane to take him cross country, but he was gracious and courteous in a telephone interview about his first season of major college football.
TDSH: You were recruited by a number of schools around the country, including TCU, West Virginia and Missouri. Why did you choose Oregon?
J.E.: Well, I've always been a fan of Oregon. One night I was sitting around with some teammates and I said Oregon would be about the coolest school to go to, my dream school, you know, and a day or two later they called me.
I was being recruited by a lot of schools by the recruiter or the recruiting coordinator, but for Oregon it was my position coach, Coach Azz. He told me that he wanted me and they needed me with a couple of defensive tackles graduating.
TDSH: What was your impression of Coach Azz?
J.E.: Oh, I really liked him. I love his energy, his attitude toward football, that it's serious but still a game.
During your recruiting visit did you get a chance to make any friends on the team, ease your adjustment across the country?
I met all the guys on the d-line, sat with them during the meetings. They're a great group of guys.
TDSH: How would you describe your playing style?
J.E.: Speed. I try to play as fast as I can, be a playmaker. I'm always there to make a play. A lot of guys who play on the interior line tend to just soak up blocks but I want to make a play whenever I can.
TDSH: What are you looking to improve on in your game as you come to Oregon?
Again, speed. I want to get faster, get cut.
TDSH: The recruiting sites list you at 6-6 285, with a 4.8 40. Are those numbers accurate?
J.E.: Yeah, that's about right. I'm actually 6-5. I wish I was 6-6. I'm at about 280 right now, but yeah.
TDSH: What do see as the biggest adjustment, going from a top JC program to major college football?
J.E.: Just the competitiveness every day in practice. I'll be working against some of the top offensive linemen in the country.
TDSH: Do you have aspirations to play at the next level?
J.E.: I want to take football as far as it goes. But I know I have to take it one step at a time, and the next step is Oregon.
TDSH: In researching this interview I got an opportunity to exchange emails with your parents, and they sent along a video of you and your brothers working with the handicapped people in the Grand Canyon. You obviously have a wonderful family structure. What role have your parents played in your development as a person and a football player?
J.E.: Oh, my parents are my idols. They've made all the difference in my life, and they're kind of my inspiration. Not working hard would be letting them down.
TDSH: Jared, thanks for your time and welcome to Oregon. Have a good flight and good luck getting settled in.
J.E.: You're welcome, and thank you.
----
Duck Tracks: Ebert comes across as a great addition to a team of guys who are directed, focused and well-adjusted, a team of character and commitment. Terrell Turner would have done a much better job with the interview (I was a tongue-tied idiot) but the young man could not have been more poised and gracious. He's a Duck. He'll fit in, work hard, and make Oregon fans proud.
Just like his teammates.
TDSH: You were recruited by a number of schools around the country, including TCU, West Virginia and Missouri. Why did you choose Oregon?
J.E.: Well, I've always been a fan of Oregon. One night I was sitting around with some teammates and I said Oregon would be about the coolest school to go to, my dream school, you know, and a day or two later they called me.
I was being recruited by a lot of schools by the recruiter or the recruiting coordinator, but for Oregon it was my position coach, Coach Azz. He told me that he wanted me and they needed me with a couple of defensive tackles graduating.
TDSH: What was your impression of Coach Azz?
J.E.: Oh, I really liked him. I love his energy, his attitude toward football, that it's serious but still a game.
During your recruiting visit did you get a chance to make any friends on the team, ease your adjustment across the country?
I met all the guys on the d-line, sat with them during the meetings. They're a great group of guys.
TDSH: How would you describe your playing style?
J.E.: Speed. I try to play as fast as I can, be a playmaker. I'm always there to make a play. A lot of guys who play on the interior line tend to just soak up blocks but I want to make a play whenever I can.
TDSH: What are you looking to improve on in your game as you come to Oregon?
Again, speed. I want to get faster, get cut.
TDSH: The recruiting sites list you at 6-6 285, with a 4.8 40. Are those numbers accurate?
J.E.: Yeah, that's about right. I'm actually 6-5. I wish I was 6-6. I'm at about 280 right now, but yeah.
TDSH: What do see as the biggest adjustment, going from a top JC program to major college football?
J.E.: Just the competitiveness every day in practice. I'll be working against some of the top offensive linemen in the country.
TDSH: Do you have aspirations to play at the next level?
J.E.: I want to take football as far as it goes. But I know I have to take it one step at a time, and the next step is Oregon.
TDSH: In researching this interview I got an opportunity to exchange emails with your parents, and they sent along a video of you and your brothers working with the handicapped people in the Grand Canyon. You obviously have a wonderful family structure. What role have your parents played in your development as a person and a football player?
J.E.: Oh, my parents are my idols. They've made all the difference in my life, and they're kind of my inspiration. Not working hard would be letting them down.
TDSH: Jared, thanks for your time and welcome to Oregon. Have a good flight and good luck getting settled in.
J.E.: You're welcome, and thank you.
----
Duck Tracks: Ebert comes across as a great addition to a team of guys who are directed, focused and well-adjusted, a team of character and commitment. Terrell Turner would have done a much better job with the interview (I was a tongue-tied idiot) but the young man could not have been more poised and gracious. He's a Duck. He'll fit in, work hard, and make Oregon fans proud.
Just like his teammates.
A Play that Will Live in Infamy, Ten Weeks Later
Cliff Harris' shows incredible anticipation, picks Cam Newton clean, his entire forearm touches down in bounds as he tucks the ball away, and both officials rush to the play signalling the wrong call. Harris is so confident and certain of possession he casually flips the ball to the sideline official. Note the striped shirts aren't signalling "incomplete" or making a juggling motion. Both are waving the catch off, out of bounds. On the very next play Auburn scores a touchdown.
Harris is even more down on the play than Michael Dyer was later. At least the officiating crew was consistent.
Harris is even more down on the play than Michael Dyer was later. At least the officiating crew was consistent.
The Secondary is a Primary Reason Why the Ducks are a Top Ten Team
The talent, speed, depth and potential in this year's secondary is amazing. Dargan, Mitchell, Mathis, Jackson, Davis and Ifo Ekpre-Olomu are impressive young players, and three starters return ahead of them. Scott Grady, Avery Patterson and Anthony Gildon will be very solid contributors.
Rob Moseley has the details on what is Oregon's deepest unit
Rob Moseley has the details on what is Oregon's deepest unit
The Special Teams Were Special, and Likely to Be So Again
R-G's Moseley previews special teams. Solid kicker and punter, and at least 6 kick returners who could take one the distance.
The coverage and return units did an amazing job last year, and Tom Osborne will have a lot of talent to choose from again this season.
It's always fun to see the wrinkles they come up with, fake punts, two-point conversions, and onside kicks. In all the special teams produced five returns for touchdowns last season and numerous game-changing plays. Mad Mike 1951 ought to give them their own highlight video.
The pride and preparation on the Oregon special teams were a winning edge in 2011. They're likely to repeat that role this season.
The coverage and return units did an amazing job last year, and Tom Osborne will have a lot of talent to choose from again this season.
It's always fun to see the wrinkles they come up with, fake punts, two-point conversions, and onside kicks. In all the special teams produced five returns for touchdowns last season and numerous game-changing plays. Mad Mike 1951 ought to give them their own highlight video.
The pride and preparation on the Oregon special teams were a winning edge in 2011. They're likely to repeat that role this season.
ESPN: Auburn begins practice with 4 players kicked off the team for burglary, while the AD department faces a lawsuit for racial discrimination. No Cam, no Fairley. War Citrus Bowl.
A Duck Flies West, and the Oregon Community Welcomes Him
Defensive Tackle Jared Ebert has completed his junior college academic work and is flying to Oregon today to begin classes and participate in spring drills. Enrolled, eligible and in great condition, he'll room with Tyson Coleman, the linebacker/safety from Lake Oswego, who's also enrolling early and will practice this spring.
The players have meetings and physicals on Sunday, testing on Monday, and practice beginning Tuesday the 29th.
The players have meetings and physicals on Sunday, testing on Monday, and practice beginning Tuesday the 29th.
Thursday, March 24, 2011
NFL Scouting Service Releases Draft Guide, Provides an Inside Look at Oregon Players' Draft Stock
For four years Eric Galko and Optimum Scouting have been offering scouting evaluations to draft prospects, their agents and NFL teams. Galko has worked as a consultant for both teams and agents, and he provides some of the most in-depth and carefully researched scouting reports in the business.
Optimum Scouting recently published its 2011 NFL draft guide, and it's available to fans by emailing director of scouting Galko at EricG@OptimumScouting.com. Their online guide includes 300 pages of inside information on nearly every eligible player in both FBS and FCS competition, plus continuous updates between now and draft day.
From the draft guide and website, here are some updates on the Oregon players who looking to play in the league:
Casey Matthews
Optimum ranks Matthews as the 7th-best available outside linebacker in the draft, right behind Mason Foster of Washington. They project him to go in the first three rounds. Von Miller of Texas A&M is their highest rater OLB prospect
"Has the bloodlines and motor, not an elite athlete."
Jeff Maehl
Galko lowballs Maehl, tabbing him as 28th among available receivers, four notches below Darvin Adams of Auburn. Maehl might go in the last two rounds of the draft, or he may have to try to catch on as a free agent. You wonder if the scouts got a chance to see the video of the USC game, or witnessed Maehl's record-setting performance in NFL Combine shuttle run. A.J. Green of Georgia and Julio Jones of Alabama are 1-2 among receivers.
"Good blocker, needs to be a more complete receiver."
Brandon Bair
Bair falls to #22 among defensive tackles. Listed at 6-7, 272, he's among the lightest on the list, which is headed by Auburn's Nick Fairley. A trio of PAC-10 300-pounders crack the top 15: Lawrence Guy of ASU rates 14th, Jurrell Casey of USC, 11th, followed by Fua of Stanford. Surprisingly, Oregon State's Stephen Paea, who benched 220 lbs. a combine record 46 times without stopping, rates 19th, just ahead of Bair. The Ducks' Mormon strongman figures to be drafted late, or like Maehl, fall to free agent status.
"Great size, needs a perfect scheme fit to be successful"
In all 50 cornerbacks made the ratings, including one from Central Connecticut State, but Javes Lewis, who left school early in spite of the potential of a pending lockout, was not one of them.
Spencer Paysinger and D.J. Davis didn't make the rankings at their respective positions, but they are included in the draft guide, and may get an invitation to a pro camp even if they are not drafted.
Of course, the rancorous and uncertain negotiations between the league and the NFL players make everything a question mark right now. College football, which enjoyed a record year in 2011, could be the best game in the world in September, unless you count the fledgling UFL.
Other recent features of interest at Optimum Scouting include:
Comparing Jake Locker and Colin Kaepernick
The Cam Newton Scouting Report
The Top 250 NFL Prospects
Sleepers
Optimum Scouting recently published its 2011 NFL draft guide, and it's available to fans by emailing director of scouting Galko at EricG@OptimumScouting.com. Their online guide includes 300 pages of inside information on nearly every eligible player in both FBS and FCS competition, plus continuous updates between now and draft day.
From the draft guide and website, here are some updates on the Oregon players who looking to play in the league:
Casey Matthews
Optimum ranks Matthews as the 7th-best available outside linebacker in the draft, right behind Mason Foster of Washington. They project him to go in the first three rounds. Von Miller of Texas A&M is their highest rater OLB prospect
"Has the bloodlines and motor, not an elite athlete."
Jeff Maehl
Galko lowballs Maehl, tabbing him as 28th among available receivers, four notches below Darvin Adams of Auburn. Maehl might go in the last two rounds of the draft, or he may have to try to catch on as a free agent. You wonder if the scouts got a chance to see the video of the USC game, or witnessed Maehl's record-setting performance in NFL Combine shuttle run. A.J. Green of Georgia and Julio Jones of Alabama are 1-2 among receivers.
"Good blocker, needs to be a more complete receiver."
Brandon Bair
Bair falls to #22 among defensive tackles. Listed at 6-7, 272, he's among the lightest on the list, which is headed by Auburn's Nick Fairley. A trio of PAC-10 300-pounders crack the top 15: Lawrence Guy of ASU rates 14th, Jurrell Casey of USC, 11th, followed by Fua of Stanford. Surprisingly, Oregon State's Stephen Paea, who benched 220 lbs. a combine record 46 times without stopping, rates 19th, just ahead of Bair. The Ducks' Mormon strongman figures to be drafted late, or like Maehl, fall to free agent status.
"Great size, needs a perfect scheme fit to be successful"
In all 50 cornerbacks made the ratings, including one from Central Connecticut State, but Javes Lewis, who left school early in spite of the potential of a pending lockout, was not one of them.
Spencer Paysinger and D.J. Davis didn't make the rankings at their respective positions, but they are included in the draft guide, and may get an invitation to a pro camp even if they are not drafted.
Of course, the rancorous and uncertain negotiations between the league and the NFL players make everything a question mark right now. College football, which enjoyed a record year in 2011, could be the best game in the world in September, unless you count the fledgling UFL.
Other recent features of interest at Optimum Scouting include:
Comparing Jake Locker and Colin Kaepernick
The Cam Newton Scouting Report
The Top 250 NFL Prospects
Sleepers
With a View of the Promised Land, How Long Can the Ducks Stay in the Land of Milk, Honey and Swooshes?
Like the country's population, the best players go to warm weather locales in large numbers. For a few years now UO has bucked this trend with innovation and aggressive recruiting, and a steady infusion of Phil Knight's generosity.
While teams like Michigan, Notre Dame and Penn State have declined in the national pecking order, the Ducks have emerged as a flashy frontrunner.
Duck fans have to wonder though, what happens without Mr. Knight, or without Chip Kelly's driving energy? The last few years of sustained success have made Duck fans giddy with the taste of it, and bold in the assumption that things will stay this way for the foreseeable future.
An unfavorable result from the NCAA probe would be a huge jolt. So often when the trench coats and lap tops from Indianapolis come to a college football town, they stumble upon one thing while asking their questions about another. It's a fishing expedition, but they don't care if their catch gets hooked in the gill or flops into the boat. They just want a picture and a trophy, or to take a trophy away.
In the words of the immortal Don Henley, Randy Meisner and Glen Frey,
"If it all fell to pieces tomorrow/Would you still be mine?"
For now the Ducks will take it to the limit of their talent, and give a death stare to distractions, but Matt Barkley, Nick Foles, Chris Polk and Andrew Luck are lining up for an opportunity to kill the dream. Should the Ducks dispatch that row of assassins, they might earn another chance at the Oklahomas or Alabamas of the world, and an opportunity to announce they've completely arrived, that the promised land is truly their own.
What's certain is, in less than a week they get to suit up and practice football again, and the first perfectly arced spiral off the talented right hand of Darron Thomas will be a welcome sign of spring. It will convince Duck fans in a way that another rainy Thursday afternoon never can.
While teams like Michigan, Notre Dame and Penn State have declined in the national pecking order, the Ducks have emerged as a flashy frontrunner.
Duck fans have to wonder though, what happens without Mr. Knight, or without Chip Kelly's driving energy? The last few years of sustained success have made Duck fans giddy with the taste of it, and bold in the assumption that things will stay this way for the foreseeable future.
An unfavorable result from the NCAA probe would be a huge jolt. So often when the trench coats and lap tops from Indianapolis come to a college football town, they stumble upon one thing while asking their questions about another. It's a fishing expedition, but they don't care if their catch gets hooked in the gill or flops into the boat. They just want a picture and a trophy, or to take a trophy away.
In the words of the immortal Don Henley, Randy Meisner and Glen Frey,
"If it all fell to pieces tomorrow/Would you still be mine?"
For now the Ducks will take it to the limit of their talent, and give a death stare to distractions, but Matt Barkley, Nick Foles, Chris Polk and Andrew Luck are lining up for an opportunity to kill the dream. Should the Ducks dispatch that row of assassins, they might earn another chance at the Oklahomas or Alabamas of the world, and an opportunity to announce they've completely arrived, that the promised land is truly their own.
What's certain is, in less than a week they get to suit up and practice football again, and the first perfectly arced spiral off the talented right hand of Darron Thomas will be a welcome sign of spring. It will convince Duck fans in a way that another rainy Thursday afternoon never can.
In Recruiting, the Ducks Overcame a Built-In Disadvantage that will always exist
Parenthetically, Leather Helmet Blog makes a telling point. Only a scarce few of Oregon's best athletes are home grown. Very hard to sustain success. He counts 23 Oregonians on the roster--that seems high, and even so, many of those are non scholarship players.
In Florida, Texas, Los Angeles--in fact, in most of SEC country, a coach can count on a core of talent within driving distance of his school. There's a terrific group of players that grew up dreaming of wearing the jersey of the in-state power. Oregon has to manufacture this kind of interest elsewhere with flash and creativity, and coaches that make a unique personal connection to recruits. It's a much greater challenge. The Ducks have little in the way of a natural base, and it leads many around the country to believe their recent success is an anomaly, a one-off, a convergence of good fortune, judicious hiring and Nike money.
Worse yet and odder still, the geographic defying of the odds has fueled the suspicion about Oregon recruiting. "How'd they get so good so fast? How come all of the sudden are they stealing kids from our backyard?" The whispers turned into an accusation, and their associations and partnerships were examined with a jaundiced burnt orange eye. The eyes of Texas are upon UO, and Major Applewhite is crying foul. Duck loyalists are saying he's never gotten over being outshined by Joey Harrington in the 2000 Holiday Bowl, that he still sees Joey in his sleep, stumbling into the end zone with a pass from Keenan Howry.
In Florida, Texas, Los Angeles--in fact, in most of SEC country, a coach can count on a core of talent within driving distance of his school. There's a terrific group of players that grew up dreaming of wearing the jersey of the in-state power. Oregon has to manufacture this kind of interest elsewhere with flash and creativity, and coaches that make a unique personal connection to recruits. It's a much greater challenge. The Ducks have little in the way of a natural base, and it leads many around the country to believe their recent success is an anomaly, a one-off, a convergence of good fortune, judicious hiring and Nike money.
Worse yet and odder still, the geographic defying of the odds has fueled the suspicion about Oregon recruiting. "How'd they get so good so fast? How come all of the sudden are they stealing kids from our backyard?" The whispers turned into an accusation, and their associations and partnerships were examined with a jaundiced burnt orange eye. The eyes of Texas are upon UO, and Major Applewhite is crying foul. Duck loyalists are saying he's never gotten over being outshined by Joey Harrington in the 2000 Holiday Bowl, that he still sees Joey in his sleep, stumbling into the end zone with a pass from Keenan Howry.
We Just Got Here, and now that we are, we want to stay a little while
Truth is, this is a relatively brief moment of football competence. Thirty years ago Herschel Walker was trampling the record book, and UO was mired in The Bottom Ten.
For a reminder of how bad it really was, visit duckdowns, "tales of Oregon football prehistory," a new website by Benzduck. Eloquent, meticulously researched and entertaining.
At the time, though, it was as painful as Kevin Wilhite's hamstring, and not funny at all.
For a reminder of how bad it really was, visit duckdowns, "tales of Oregon football prehistory," a new website by Benzduck. Eloquent, meticulously researched and entertaining.
At the time, though, it was as painful as Kevin Wilhite's hamstring, and not funny at all.
Only had time to read the latest Leather Helmet Blog over my Choco Pebbles. Never needle a friend who has more facts. Ouch. That stung a little.
Wednesday, March 23, 2011
The SEC Honks Are at it Again
EC Dawg of The Leather Helmet Blog is at it again. The nation's foremost SEC apologist and mouth-breathing SEC supremacist puts on his moonshine googles to look back into history and declare "SEC Dominance Nothing New." With a true revisionist southern spirit he looks back at national championship polls from the 1930's and '40's and concludes although southern schools weren't winning championships then, they certainly should have.
Here's an excerpt from his argument with himself:
My contention is that demographic change in the United States since 1960 has more to do with the actual awarding of championships than the relative strength of teams across the country. In other words, not only has population shifted South but so has media/media awareness. With increased media numbers in the region has come greater greater respect for quality of play nationally.
Translation: teams like Army, Oklahoma, Notre Dame and the Big Ten may have dominated prior to 1960, but only because the "I didn't know" defense and ESPN hadn't been invented yet.
Oregon will get to make its own rebuttal on the subject of SEC dominance on September 3rd.
Here's an excerpt from his argument with himself:
My contention is that demographic change in the United States since 1960 has more to do with the actual awarding of championships than the relative strength of teams across the country. In other words, not only has population shifted South but so has media/media awareness. With increased media numbers in the region has come greater greater respect for quality of play nationally.
Translation: teams like Army, Oklahoma, Notre Dame and the Big Ten may have dominated prior to 1960, but only because the "I didn't know" defense and ESPN hadn't been invented yet.
Oregon will get to make its own rebuttal on the subject of SEC dominance on September 3rd.
Another Jab at the Broncos
Even though it's a different sport, it's a special kind of intrigue and potential satisfaction to be playing the Boise State Broncos again.
This time it's the Ducks with the home advantage and the weirdly painted playing surface. Hopefully this time there will be fewer missed blocks and passes sailing ten feet over the head of the intended target.
May this game be punch-free and played hard, another positive step toward Dana Altman and his team finishing strong and gaining valuable momentum for next season.
This time it's the Ducks with the home advantage and the weirdly painted playing surface. Hopefully this time there will be fewer missed blocks and passes sailing ten feet over the head of the intended target.
May this game be punch-free and played hard, another positive step toward Dana Altman and his team finishing strong and gaining valuable momentum for next season.
Links and Notes, Six Days before the start of spring practice
Mobile blogging is tough. Love staying in touch, but it tortures me that I have to wait 8 hours to correct my typos.
An Intriguing Future Duck Who Could Have a Big Impact in a Year or Two
Drop end of the future could be Christian French, 6-6 230, a former basketball player with 4.4 speed, but likely to redshirt this fall. French has only played three years of football, and has to learn the defense and adjust to school. But his physical tools are amazing.
French was listed as a tight end coming in, but watching video of him on both sides of the ball, he looks like a better fit on defense. Lindsay Schnell of the Oregonian reported he had only had 10 catches his senior year, but 71 tackles as a linebacker. His high school coach said French has loads of potential, a natural athlete with good size and great speed who has never spent any time in the weight room. If he applies himself and listens to Jim Radcliffe, he could blossom into an exceptional player.
In the early days of spring practice, the first thing to get a read on are his hands. It takes soft hands, good blocking skills and comfort running routes over the middle to be a tight end in the Oregon system.
In the past, all of the Ducks' best athletes have wound up on offense. Kenyon Barner, Jeff Maehl, Dante Rosario, and Terrence Whitehead all could have been fierce defenders, but at Oregon, tie goes to the offense, always. On Letter of Intent Day Coach Kelly indicated he allows players to pursue their preference, and that was a big selling point with Lyerla, the Black Mamba, and French, among others. Still, fans have to hope a few of these fast, gifted, agile types choose to be the hitter and not the hittee. Lylerla's already declared for wide receiver, and he could become a tremendous player at that position.
On defense, a great athlete can impact 50 plays a game. On offense, sometimes it's six to twelve, unless he's the feature running back, then no more than two dozen.
French has the physical tools and upside to be a game changer at the defensive end hybrid. It wouldn't be a mismatch for him to cover most receivers, speed-wise. Whether he has the wisdom to pursue the position, and the heart to do the work, we'll learn over the coming months.
It would be incredibly fun to be the fly on the wall during the evaluation and assignment process for this group of incoming Ducks. Best candidates to make an immediate contribution? Jared Ebert and Rahsaan Vaughn, certainly. After that, Lyerla, Blackmon and Wallace. Most of the class will redshirt, including those promising offensive linemen, unless pressed into service by injuries.
French was listed as a tight end coming in, but watching video of him on both sides of the ball, he looks like a better fit on defense. Lindsay Schnell of the Oregonian reported he had only had 10 catches his senior year, but 71 tackles as a linebacker. His high school coach said French has loads of potential, a natural athlete with good size and great speed who has never spent any time in the weight room. If he applies himself and listens to Jim Radcliffe, he could blossom into an exceptional player.
In the early days of spring practice, the first thing to get a read on are his hands. It takes soft hands, good blocking skills and comfort running routes over the middle to be a tight end in the Oregon system.
In the past, all of the Ducks' best athletes have wound up on offense. Kenyon Barner, Jeff Maehl, Dante Rosario, and Terrence Whitehead all could have been fierce defenders, but at Oregon, tie goes to the offense, always. On Letter of Intent Day Coach Kelly indicated he allows players to pursue their preference, and that was a big selling point with Lyerla, the Black Mamba, and French, among others. Still, fans have to hope a few of these fast, gifted, agile types choose to be the hitter and not the hittee. Lylerla's already declared for wide receiver, and he could become a tremendous player at that position.
On defense, a great athlete can impact 50 plays a game. On offense, sometimes it's six to twelve, unless he's the feature running back, then no more than two dozen.
French has the physical tools and upside to be a game changer at the defensive end hybrid. It wouldn't be a mismatch for him to cover most receivers, speed-wise. Whether he has the wisdom to pursue the position, and the heart to do the work, we'll learn over the coming months.
It would be incredibly fun to be the fly on the wall during the evaluation and assignment process for this group of incoming Ducks. Best candidates to make an immediate contribution? Jared Ebert and Rahsaan Vaughn, certainly. After that, Lyerla, Blackmon and Wallace. Most of the class will redshirt, including those promising offensive linemen, unless pressed into service by injuries.
Rob Moseley previews the d-line. Brandon Hanna is the likely replacement for Rowe at drop end.
This afternoon he adds a preview of linebackers, Have to wonder, with the talent and speed in this group, Lokombo, Kaddu, Clay, Alonso, Wallace, Malone, Stuckey, if the Ducks won't play more 3-4 this year. Especially when you factor in the questions at defensive line. Thing is, they don't have a true nose tackle. Heimuli comes closest.
Wonder also if Eddie Pleasant would be better back at outside linebacker. His coverage skills were a persistent problem last year at safety, and he might be able to contribute more if he played closer to the line of scrimmage. Hope he's committed to improving. The Ducks have a wealth of talent in the secondary, which the Moze will preview tomorrow.
This afternoon he adds a preview of linebackers, Have to wonder, with the talent and speed in this group, Lokombo, Kaddu, Clay, Alonso, Wallace, Malone, Stuckey, if the Ducks won't play more 3-4 this year. Especially when you factor in the questions at defensive line. Thing is, they don't have a true nose tackle. Heimuli comes closest.
Wonder also if Eddie Pleasant would be better back at outside linebacker. His coverage skills were a persistent problem last year at safety, and he might be able to contribute more if he played closer to the line of scrimmage. Hope he's committed to improving. The Ducks have a wealth of talent in the secondary, which the Moze will preview tomorrow.
Bleacher Report's Joe Penkala tabs UO fans' key concerns for spring, among them line play, DT's improvement curve, and potential distractions from the NCAA probe of the Ducks' involvement with recruiting services.
Addicted to Quack's Takimoto had a very entertaining feature yesterday, "the top 15 Oregon touchdowns of 2O11." Fun to look back with Tako Tuesday, and he has some great observations on some of those plays.
Oregon coaches teach offensive line assignments with a simple count-off system. It gives young players the confidence to play fast and physical.
Tuesday, March 22, 2011
Replacing the Best Passer in the Conference
The most accurate passer in the Pac-10 last year snapped every pass backwards. His consistency and reliablity led his team to a perfect 12-0 regular season record and a second straight conference championship.
Oregon ran 1024 offensive plays last season, and nearly every one of them started with a center snap from Jordan Holmes, backward through his legs, and 95% of those hit Darron Thomas and Nate Costa between the numbers.
In a timing offense like the Ducks', Holmes dead-on dependability was a crucial element. The 6-5, 300-lb. Yuba City product took over for Max Unger in 2009, made the cover of Sports Illustrated, and played 94 snaps in the double overtime win over Arizona. That first season as a starter he led the team with 55 pancake blocks.
As a senior, the biggest improvement in Holmes' game was that five-yard toss to the quarterback. By his senior year he'd perfected it, when the year before it seemed the Webfoots would have four or five ruined plays a game due to center snaps that were high and away. Of course, a critical part of the improvement was changing from a 5-9 quarterback to one who was 6-3.
Chip Kelly doesn't run a complicated offense. The Ducks win with fundamentals and execution, not gadgets. At a clinic talk he gave in 2009 he said, "I'm a big fundamental coach. You must practice the shotgun snap with quarterback and center every day. If you are not going to practice that, do not get into this type of set. It is not something you can do on Tuesday, use it in the game on Friday, and expect it to work. You have to spend a lot of time on the snap."
Karrington Armstrong and Hroniss Grasu have to master the bust block and line calls and assignments to earn a starting job. But it all starts with a quick, accurate toss to the quarterback, 1,000 times a season. One of the things to look for at the spring game is which of them proves himself more ready to replace the most accurate passer in the conference, giving Darron Thomas a crucial extra split second to make winning decisions downfield.
Oregon ran 1024 offensive plays last season, and nearly every one of them started with a center snap from Jordan Holmes, backward through his legs, and 95% of those hit Darron Thomas and Nate Costa between the numbers.
In a timing offense like the Ducks', Holmes dead-on dependability was a crucial element. The 6-5, 300-lb. Yuba City product took over for Max Unger in 2009, made the cover of Sports Illustrated, and played 94 snaps in the double overtime win over Arizona. That first season as a starter he led the team with 55 pancake blocks.
As a senior, the biggest improvement in Holmes' game was that five-yard toss to the quarterback. By his senior year he'd perfected it, when the year before it seemed the Webfoots would have four or five ruined plays a game due to center snaps that were high and away. Of course, a critical part of the improvement was changing from a 5-9 quarterback to one who was 6-3.
Chip Kelly doesn't run a complicated offense. The Ducks win with fundamentals and execution, not gadgets. At a clinic talk he gave in 2009 he said, "I'm a big fundamental coach. You must practice the shotgun snap with quarterback and center every day. If you are not going to practice that, do not get into this type of set. It is not something you can do on Tuesday, use it in the game on Friday, and expect it to work. You have to spend a lot of time on the snap."
Karrington Armstrong and Hroniss Grasu have to master the bust block and line calls and assignments to earn a starting job. But it all starts with a quick, accurate toss to the quarterback, 1,000 times a season. One of the things to look for at the spring game is which of them proves himself more ready to replace the most accurate passer in the conference, giving Darron Thomas a crucial extra split second to make winning decisions downfield.
Monday, March 21, 2011
Greatwood Faces Another Reloading Job, but he's good at that
If Hroniss Grasu, Ramsen Golpashin and Andre Yruretagoyena ever appear in a game together, they may force Brent Musberger into retirement.
Just kidding. Golpashin's a senior walk-on, and Grasu and Andre Y may have to wait another year to crack the lineup. Oregon is blessed though, with a wealth of talent and potential on the offensive line, in addition to a veritable plethora of multi-syllabic strongmen.
Running a play every fifteen seconds in practice, it's hard to think how Steve Greatwood barks out instructions to this group. Maybe he uses jersey numbers a lot.
Whatever he does, it's working. Greatwood, named the nation’s college football Assistant Coach of the Year by FootballScoop.com in 2008, teaches line play as well as anyone in the country. His charges hold school records for rushing yardage in a game (465 versus Washington in 2007) and a season (3,721 in 2010).
Rob Moseley has the breakdown of this year's offensive line. Here's an excerpt:
Comparisons will be made this offseason between this Oregon offensive line and the group from 2009, which was completely rebuilt after heavy losses to graduation and suffered the consequences in the opener at Boise State that fall. But this group is starting from a far better base of experience than that one. The 2009 group brought 19 career starts into that season; between them, the 2011 offensive line boasts 55 career starts, including 24 by right tackle Mark Asper and 22 for left guard Carson York.
Moseley points out Darrion Weems emerged last season with plenty of playing time and seven starts. A senior this season, he's the likely starter at the critical left tackle spot. Redshirt transfer Ryan Clanton and Golpashin will duel for playing time at right guard, and center is shaping up to be a battle between Grasu and the athletic Karrington Armstrong, a sophomore from Las Vegas who was a state champion wrestler in high school.
Greatwood will sort them out. They'll be superbly conditioned, deep, and eager to power the bus. It will be fun to watch their progress this spring.
Just kidding. Golpashin's a senior walk-on, and Grasu and Andre Y may have to wait another year to crack the lineup. Oregon is blessed though, with a wealth of talent and potential on the offensive line, in addition to a veritable plethora of multi-syllabic strongmen.
Running a play every fifteen seconds in practice, it's hard to think how Steve Greatwood barks out instructions to this group. Maybe he uses jersey numbers a lot.
Whatever he does, it's working. Greatwood, named the nation’s college football Assistant Coach of the Year by FootballScoop.com in 2008, teaches line play as well as anyone in the country. His charges hold school records for rushing yardage in a game (465 versus Washington in 2007) and a season (3,721 in 2010).
Rob Moseley has the breakdown of this year's offensive line. Here's an excerpt:
Comparisons will be made this offseason between this Oregon offensive line and the group from 2009, which was completely rebuilt after heavy losses to graduation and suffered the consequences in the opener at Boise State that fall. But this group is starting from a far better base of experience than that one. The 2009 group brought 19 career starts into that season; between them, the 2011 offensive line boasts 55 career starts, including 24 by right tackle Mark Asper and 22 for left guard Carson York.
Moseley points out Darrion Weems emerged last season with plenty of playing time and seven starts. A senior this season, he's the likely starter at the critical left tackle spot. Redshirt transfer Ryan Clanton and Golpashin will duel for playing time at right guard, and center is shaping up to be a battle between Grasu and the athletic Karrington Armstrong, a sophomore from Las Vegas who was a state champion wrestler in high school.
Greatwood will sort them out. They'll be superbly conditioned, deep, and eager to power the bus. It will be fun to watch their progress this spring.
It Takes More than Luck to Win a Championship
ESPN's Ted Miller named Stanford quarterback Andrew Luck his number one player in the PAC-10. LaMichael James was number two, Darron Thomas, number four.
Luck is certainly a wonderful player, finishing second in last year's Heisman voting while throwing for 3338 yards and 32 touchdowns, leading Stanford to their best finish in many years at 12-1. Poised and intelligent, he's a slam-dunk first round draft pick once he decides to declare for the NFL.
But when these players met on the field this last season, Oregon won 52-31. LaMichael James ran for 257 yards and three touchdowns, and Darron Thomas passed for three and ran for another, 117 yards rushing, 238 in the air.
Andrew Luck got his pocket picked twice by Cliff Harris, once in the end zone. On that night, Luck showed himself to be a very good player, but the Ducks were a better team.
This season, both schools return with their one-two tandem intact. Stanford, however, loses Jim Harbaugh, who instilled a chippiness and attitude in the Cardinal squad that may be missing without him. The Ducks have to travel to Palo Alto in the tenth game of the year, on November 12th, and it's likely to be a night game rematch watched closely around the country.
James and Thomas don't care about conference player rankings, or any other rankings. But they'll be looking for another win over their Texas schoolboy rival. Ted Miller's rankings may have to be revised after the 2011 season.
Cliff Harris will be patrolling again in the secondary, just in case. He might attempt some revisions of his own.
Luck is certainly a wonderful player, finishing second in last year's Heisman voting while throwing for 3338 yards and 32 touchdowns, leading Stanford to their best finish in many years at 12-1. Poised and intelligent, he's a slam-dunk first round draft pick once he decides to declare for the NFL.
But when these players met on the field this last season, Oregon won 52-31. LaMichael James ran for 257 yards and three touchdowns, and Darron Thomas passed for three and ran for another, 117 yards rushing, 238 in the air.
Andrew Luck got his pocket picked twice by Cliff Harris, once in the end zone. On that night, Luck showed himself to be a very good player, but the Ducks were a better team.
This season, both schools return with their one-two tandem intact. Stanford, however, loses Jim Harbaugh, who instilled a chippiness and attitude in the Cardinal squad that may be missing without him. The Ducks have to travel to Palo Alto in the tenth game of the year, on November 12th, and it's likely to be a night game rematch watched closely around the country.
James and Thomas don't care about conference player rankings, or any other rankings. But they'll be looking for another win over their Texas schoolboy rival. Ted Miller's rankings may have to be revised after the 2011 season.
Cliff Harris will be patrolling again in the secondary, just in case. He might attempt some revisions of his own.
Sunday, March 20, 2011
Ken Goe, as always, a voice of reason
Ken Goe repeatedly gets it right. Never a homer, the Oregonian reporter balances an appreciation of college athletics with a persistent determination to report accurately, and the balance, candor and evenness of his approach is a godsend for fans amid the noise and sensationalism the web tends to foster in the world of sports.
Friday he ran a piece on several Texas high school coaches and their impressions of Oregon recruiting. Some highlights from Goe's story follow, in italics:
LaMichael James' high school coach credits Willie Lyles with a key and ethical role during James' recruitment to the University of Oregon.
Pat Brady, James' football coach at Liberty-Eylau of Texarkana, Texas, said he doesn't recognize Lyles as the man described in recent national stories as a "street agent" who possibly benefited financially from under-the-table payments after becoming directly involved with Texas high school recruits.
Brady and Shepherd (Texas) coach Bob Jones spoke to The Oregonian this week. Although Jones has not coached any players reportedly linked to Lyles, he did coach UO quarterback Darron Thomas and former Oregon running Dontae Williams while at Aldine High School in Houston.
Neither Brady nor Jones said they witnessed anything in their dealings with the Ducks that was unusual or made them uncomfortable.
"Nothing I've read, seen or heard has made me believe this is a shady deal," Brady said of the NCAA investigation into Lyles' dealings with Oregon.
Goe also includes several tidbits from an interview with Darron Thomas' high school coach, Bob Jones, who states he has grown to know and trust the Oregon coaches.
Chip Kelly rose through the ranks in coaching, worked the clinics, built a reputation as a man of integrity, tireless energy and innovation. He's well respected, and understands the devotion of high school coaches to their players and the game of football.
Ultimately it's this fundamental character, and the relationships it fosters, that will be Oregon's strongest asset in the recruiting wars. This is the explanation of the Ducks success. Sometimes the scandal-mongers strain too hard in stretching a story to fit their lurid expectations. Oregon probably made a mistake in dealing with Will Lyles, and they're unlikely to partner with him going forward, but the heart of their approach is based on relationships, a desire to win and develop athletes into young men, and a passion for the game they love to coach.
Friday he ran a piece on several Texas high school coaches and their impressions of Oregon recruiting. Some highlights from Goe's story follow, in italics:
LaMichael James' high school coach credits Willie Lyles with a key and ethical role during James' recruitment to the University of Oregon.
Pat Brady, James' football coach at Liberty-Eylau of Texarkana, Texas, said he doesn't recognize Lyles as the man described in recent national stories as a "street agent" who possibly benefited financially from under-the-table payments after becoming directly involved with Texas high school recruits.
Brady and Shepherd (Texas) coach Bob Jones spoke to The Oregonian this week. Although Jones has not coached any players reportedly linked to Lyles, he did coach UO quarterback Darron Thomas and former Oregon running Dontae Williams while at Aldine High School in Houston.
Neither Brady nor Jones said they witnessed anything in their dealings with the Ducks that was unusual or made them uncomfortable.
"Nothing I've read, seen or heard has made me believe this is a shady deal," Brady said of the NCAA investigation into Lyles' dealings with Oregon.
Goe also includes several tidbits from an interview with Darron Thomas' high school coach, Bob Jones, who states he has grown to know and trust the Oregon coaches.
Chip Kelly rose through the ranks in coaching, worked the clinics, built a reputation as a man of integrity, tireless energy and innovation. He's well respected, and understands the devotion of high school coaches to their players and the game of football.
Ultimately it's this fundamental character, and the relationships it fosters, that will be Oregon's strongest asset in the recruiting wars. This is the explanation of the Ducks success. Sometimes the scandal-mongers strain too hard in stretching a story to fit their lurid expectations. Oregon probably made a mistake in dealing with Will Lyles, and they're unlikely to partner with him going forward, but the heart of their approach is based on relationships, a desire to win and develop athletes into young men, and a passion for the game they love to coach.
Saturday, March 19, 2011
The Most Important Players at Spring Practice: if the Ducks want another crack at greatness, it starts with these five guys
The offensive line is the drive train of a football team, and for the last two years chief mechanic Steve Greatwood and his charges have provided the torque and thrust to back up a 500-point, 6000-yard warranty for the Oregon Ducks.
The trouble is, both seasons they've broken down in the last lap, and the biggest prize has eluded them. Getting to the Rose Bowl and the National Championship Game was nice, being the Grand Marshall of the Rose Parade is wonderful recognition, but having a parade all your own would have been one step better.
In 2011, the Ducks want the girl, the victory spinout and the quart of milk, all to themselves. To get it, they need a winning performance from the best pit crew in college football, the Oregon offensive line.
A lot has been made of the collapses in the Rose Bowl and NCG. The instant, sheep-bleat analysis is that Oregon, with its emphasis on athleticism in the offensive line, is no match for the size and physicality of elite defensive linemen.
That's been overstated. First, any line and any system has trouble with Nick Fairley and Cameron Heyward. That's why premier defensive linemen like these go so early in the NFL draft, Fairley in the first ten, although rumors are he's slipping, partly due a suspect work ethic. In college, though, supreme natural talents like these dominate, against the spread or the power-I.
The Ducks will get a good measure of their progress in game one against LSU. If they want to beat the biggest dogs, it starts will execution, technique, conditioning and strength training. And their first day of practice together is in ten days.
Losing Nick Rowland to health issues won't help. The redshirt freshman had to give up football for medical reasons, and at 6-5 318 the four-star recruit from the 2010 class could have been a valuable contributor.
The Webfoots did have a tremendous recruiting year on the offensive line, but o-line is the least likely position for a newcomer to contribute immediately. Almost without exception players need a year in the weight room and at the training table. Wide receiver is probably the easiest position for a first-year player to step in and have an immediate impact. The assignments are simpler, and pure athletic ability trumps almost everything else out wide.
The trouble is, both seasons they've broken down in the last lap, and the biggest prize has eluded them. Getting to the Rose Bowl and the National Championship Game was nice, being the Grand Marshall of the Rose Parade is wonderful recognition, but having a parade all your own would have been one step better.
In 2011, the Ducks want the girl, the victory spinout and the quart of milk, all to themselves. To get it, they need a winning performance from the best pit crew in college football, the Oregon offensive line.
A lot has been made of the collapses in the Rose Bowl and NCG. The instant, sheep-bleat analysis is that Oregon, with its emphasis on athleticism in the offensive line, is no match for the size and physicality of elite defensive linemen.
That's been overstated. First, any line and any system has trouble with Nick Fairley and Cameron Heyward. That's why premier defensive linemen like these go so early in the NFL draft, Fairley in the first ten, although rumors are he's slipping, partly due a suspect work ethic. In college, though, supreme natural talents like these dominate, against the spread or the power-I.
The Ducks will get a good measure of their progress in game one against LSU. If they want to beat the biggest dogs, it starts will execution, technique, conditioning and strength training. And their first day of practice together is in ten days.
Losing Nick Rowland to health issues won't help. The redshirt freshman had to give up football for medical reasons, and at 6-5 318 the four-star recruit from the 2010 class could have been a valuable contributor.
The Webfoots did have a tremendous recruiting year on the offensive line, but o-line is the least likely position for a newcomer to contribute immediately. Almost without exception players need a year in the weight room and at the training table. Wide receiver is probably the easiest position for a first-year player to step in and have an immediate impact. The assignments are simpler, and pure athletic ability trumps almost everything else out wide.
Thursday, March 17, 2011
Integrity is a Check You Write with the Way You Live
My daughter Stephanie is married to Army EOD technician Tom Applegate of Florence, Montana. Tom just finished a tour of duty in Afghanistan, and he's on a plane home. His unit is spending the night on the East coast after crossing the Atlantic. They land at Ft. Lewis tomorrow, get bused back to Yakima, and then debriefed. Pretty exciting stuff. He'll be home in time for Ethan's third birthday and little Lizzie's first steps. We are grateful, and we're grateful to the men and women who are serving their country in the ravaged, uncertain corners of the world.
So it was with a special pride that I read in Rob Moseley's blog today that for the second year in a row Chip Kelly and the Oregon Ducks would be honoring the troops at the April 30th Spring Game, which again will be televised on ESPN 2. Moseley reported the game would have a 1 p.m. start, preceded by a two-hour fanfest in the Moshofsky Center.
The R-G's top-notch football news shark had a statement from the coach:
“This not only presents a tremendous opportunity for our fans to pay their respects for the sacrifices men and women around the country make every day, but proved to be an eye-opening experience for our players and coaches,” Kelly said. “There were relationships formed from last year’s experience that extended beyond just one afternoon.”
What a great tradition the coach has enacted. He leads with class in a hundred little ways. I'll be there with a grocery sack full of canned food, and a hearty handshake for as many of the special guests I can reach.
So it was with a special pride that I read in Rob Moseley's blog today that for the second year in a row Chip Kelly and the Oregon Ducks would be honoring the troops at the April 30th Spring Game, which again will be televised on ESPN 2. Moseley reported the game would have a 1 p.m. start, preceded by a two-hour fanfest in the Moshofsky Center.
The R-G's top-notch football news shark had a statement from the coach:
“This not only presents a tremendous opportunity for our fans to pay their respects for the sacrifices men and women around the country make every day, but proved to be an eye-opening experience for our players and coaches,” Kelly said. “There were relationships formed from last year’s experience that extended beyond just one afternoon.”
What a great tradition the coach has enacted. He leads with class in a hundred little ways. I'll be there with a grocery sack full of canned food, and a hearty handshake for as many of the special guests I can reach.
Wednesday, March 16, 2011
How Good Can the Oregon Passing Game Be in 2011 and 2012?
Here's a preview from the past: Oregon 39, Michigan 7, The Beatdown in The Big House, September 8, 2007.
In that game Dennis Dixon dazzled the country with a Statue of Liberty and a Statue of Liberty fake, 16-25 passing for 292 yards, three touchdowns and no picks, including scoring strikes of 85, 61 and 46 yards.
Here's the exciting thing: Darron Thomas, a full-time starter as a sophomore in 2010, may be a better pure passer than Dixon was, and this season and next, he'll have the most awesome array of speed and receiving talent ever assembled at Oregon. With a full year of experience running the offense, and the determination Thomas has shown in the weight room and off season workouts, his 363-yard performance in the national championship game becomes the standard for his future, minus the early jitters. He'll continue to learn and improve. He'll grow, because he has a tremendous will to do so.
He has a great corps of targets to rely on. Returnees Josh Huff, Lavasier Tuinei and David Paulson were three, four and five in receptions for the Ducks last year. Huff made a big impression as a true freshman, averaging 15.9 yards a catch, including a 54-yard touchdown against Arizona State, a 41-yard touchdown against Stanford, and an 85-yard touchdown run against Arizona. He also averaged 17.8 yards a carry on the ground. Tuinei, a tough blocker and a strong runner after the catch, nabbed 36 balls in 2010, including a 29-yard touchdown against Tennessee and a 33-yard catch-and-run versus USC. He had a terrific grab in the national championship game, a 43-yarder where he tipped the ball to himself, tripped up by a shoelace at the three.
Tight end Paulson made a lot of big plays for the Webfoots. In all, he accumulated 24 receptions for a 17.4-yard average, Darron Thomas finding him for touchdowns versus New Mexico, Tennessee, UCLA, and Arizona. Paulson showed a knack for the clutch catch and the big play. In the ncg he broke loose for a 33-yard catch on a 3rd and 18 from the Oregon eight yard line. Thomas, under pressure, gets a great chip block from LaMichael James on the blitz pickup, and throws a strike to Paulson in the seam.
With plays like these, the three veterans earned their quarterback's trust. That's huge for 2011. Leading targets Jeff Maehl and D.J. Davis have moved on, both hoping to catch on at the next level of football, but Thomas knows Tuinei, Huff and Paulson will be where they're supposed to be and finish the play. The rangy Tuinei has a knack for the tough catch. He was an accomplished basketball player in high school, and knows instinctively how to use his body for leverage. His first td catch of last season, against Tennessee, was a good example. Huff is sturdy and explosive; Paulson, consistent and reliable.
The three make a great nucleus. Add Kenjon Barner and LaMichael James, who both improved their pass-catching out of the backfield as sophomores, James with an 84-yard touchdown on a wheel route versus Washington State, and a 25-yard grab as the fifth option the following week against UCLA. James, the Doak Walker Award winner last year, can do the most to improve his NFL draft stock by continuing to improve as a receiver out of the backfield, increasing his value in third down situations. For Barner, he's likely to get additional touches in the slot and tazer roles this year, and more practice reps running routes can only improve his consistency and effectiveness. Barner in space, with Thomas' soft touch on the football, is a scary prospect for defenses.
Adding to the potential the passing game has in the coming season are a promising group of newcomers. Two or three are certain to step up and make significant contributions, because there is so much potential, and Scott Frost has shown himself to be a terrific teacher and motivator as receivers coach, beginning with the way he's instilled a pride in downfield blocking.
Colt Lyerla, Devon Blackmon, Rahsaan Vaughn, Blake Cantu, Nick Cole, Eric Dungy, B.J. Kelley, Tacoi Sumler, Brandon Williams, Curtis White, and Justin Hoffman are going to square off in a WWE Ladder Match for playing time this spring and next summer in "fall camp," and the Oregon offense is sure to benefit from the competition. The Ducks have never had such an awesome array of speed and talent in the receiver corps. It's utterly crazy, with several of these guys clocking in between 4.3 and 4.6 in the 40. Several different sources identified Sumler as the fastest recruit in the nation in the 2011 recruiting class, and the 6-5, 240-lb. Lyerla has a range of athletic skills that has Duck fans raving about his future.
While it's generally a mistake to count on a gigantic contribution from one newcomer, the Ducks have so many promising ones that one or two are virtually certain to emerge with an immediate impact. Think Demetrius Williams in 2004. Lyerla, Blackmon and Vaughn are the most likely candidates. But Cole has good speed, Dungy showed himself to be tenacious and savvy, a hard worker in practice in his redshirt year, and Hoffman is a hard worker who earned a scholarship with his blocking and toughness. Cantu was a four-star recruit coming out of Texas two years ago, and if can rise above the shoulder problems that have held him in his first two years in the program, he could become a player. Kelley and Sumler were sought after by schools all over the country, Kelley with offers from Florida and USC, Sumler from Auburn, Florida State and Nebraska.
Darron Thomas, throwing to a group like this, will make the Oregon passing game a perfect complement to the rushing offense that's produced 10,374 yards in the last three years. In the words of the immortal Casey Stengel, you could look it up.
In that game Dennis Dixon dazzled the country with a Statue of Liberty and a Statue of Liberty fake, 16-25 passing for 292 yards, three touchdowns and no picks, including scoring strikes of 85, 61 and 46 yards.
Here's the exciting thing: Darron Thomas, a full-time starter as a sophomore in 2010, may be a better pure passer than Dixon was, and this season and next, he'll have the most awesome array of speed and receiving talent ever assembled at Oregon. With a full year of experience running the offense, and the determination Thomas has shown in the weight room and off season workouts, his 363-yard performance in the national championship game becomes the standard for his future, minus the early jitters. He'll continue to learn and improve. He'll grow, because he has a tremendous will to do so.
He has a great corps of targets to rely on. Returnees Josh Huff, Lavasier Tuinei and David Paulson were three, four and five in receptions for the Ducks last year. Huff made a big impression as a true freshman, averaging 15.9 yards a catch, including a 54-yard touchdown against Arizona State, a 41-yard touchdown against Stanford, and an 85-yard touchdown run against Arizona. He also averaged 17.8 yards a carry on the ground. Tuinei, a tough blocker and a strong runner after the catch, nabbed 36 balls in 2010, including a 29-yard touchdown against Tennessee and a 33-yard catch-and-run versus USC. He had a terrific grab in the national championship game, a 43-yarder where he tipped the ball to himself, tripped up by a shoelace at the three.
Tight end Paulson made a lot of big plays for the Webfoots. In all, he accumulated 24 receptions for a 17.4-yard average, Darron Thomas finding him for touchdowns versus New Mexico, Tennessee, UCLA, and Arizona. Paulson showed a knack for the clutch catch and the big play. In the ncg he broke loose for a 33-yard catch on a 3rd and 18 from the Oregon eight yard line. Thomas, under pressure, gets a great chip block from LaMichael James on the blitz pickup, and throws a strike to Paulson in the seam.
With plays like these, the three veterans earned their quarterback's trust. That's huge for 2011. Leading targets Jeff Maehl and D.J. Davis have moved on, both hoping to catch on at the next level of football, but Thomas knows Tuinei, Huff and Paulson will be where they're supposed to be and finish the play. The rangy Tuinei has a knack for the tough catch. He was an accomplished basketball player in high school, and knows instinctively how to use his body for leverage. His first td catch of last season, against Tennessee, was a good example. Huff is sturdy and explosive; Paulson, consistent and reliable.
The three make a great nucleus. Add Kenjon Barner and LaMichael James, who both improved their pass-catching out of the backfield as sophomores, James with an 84-yard touchdown on a wheel route versus Washington State, and a 25-yard grab as the fifth option the following week against UCLA. James, the Doak Walker Award winner last year, can do the most to improve his NFL draft stock by continuing to improve as a receiver out of the backfield, increasing his value in third down situations. For Barner, he's likely to get additional touches in the slot and tazer roles this year, and more practice reps running routes can only improve his consistency and effectiveness. Barner in space, with Thomas' soft touch on the football, is a scary prospect for defenses.
Adding to the potential the passing game has in the coming season are a promising group of newcomers. Two or three are certain to step up and make significant contributions, because there is so much potential, and Scott Frost has shown himself to be a terrific teacher and motivator as receivers coach, beginning with the way he's instilled a pride in downfield blocking.
Colt Lyerla, Devon Blackmon, Rahsaan Vaughn, Blake Cantu, Nick Cole, Eric Dungy, B.J. Kelley, Tacoi Sumler, Brandon Williams, Curtis White, and Justin Hoffman are going to square off in a WWE Ladder Match for playing time this spring and next summer in "fall camp," and the Oregon offense is sure to benefit from the competition. The Ducks have never had such an awesome array of speed and talent in the receiver corps. It's utterly crazy, with several of these guys clocking in between 4.3 and 4.6 in the 40. Several different sources identified Sumler as the fastest recruit in the nation in the 2011 recruiting class, and the 6-5, 240-lb. Lyerla has a range of athletic skills that has Duck fans raving about his future.
While it's generally a mistake to count on a gigantic contribution from one newcomer, the Ducks have so many promising ones that one or two are virtually certain to emerge with an immediate impact. Think Demetrius Williams in 2004. Lyerla, Blackmon and Vaughn are the most likely candidates. But Cole has good speed, Dungy showed himself to be tenacious and savvy, a hard worker in practice in his redshirt year, and Hoffman is a hard worker who earned a scholarship with his blocking and toughness. Cantu was a four-star recruit coming out of Texas two years ago, and if can rise above the shoulder problems that have held him in his first two years in the program, he could become a player. Kelley and Sumler were sought after by schools all over the country, Kelley with offers from Florida and USC, Sumler from Auburn, Florida State and Nebraska.
Darron Thomas, throwing to a group like this, will make the Oregon passing game a perfect complement to the rushing offense that's produced 10,374 yards in the last three years. In the words of the immortal Casey Stengel, you could look it up.
Ted Miller Makes Some Important Distinctions, and Some Much-Needed Sense
Ted Miller's PAC-12 blog is one of the best college football news digests in the country. It's sharply written and carefully researched, in an entertaining, largely positive style. If you follow the conference, particularly if you want conference-wide news at a glance, Miller's blog is a great place to start.
Yesterday in his mailbag feature the ESPN blogger broke down the NCAA's investigation of Oregon's connection to Will Lyles as plainly and carefully as anyone on the web. His take is refreshingly free of accusations, name-calling and hysteria. Call it a dose of common sense, something that has been lacking in some of the reporting and commentary on the issue (including, at times, at The Duck Stops Here.) An excerpt follows, in italics:
The NCAA's investigation of Oregon has nothing to do with the Ducks using a recruiting service -- even paying $25,000 for one. Most teams use recruiting services, and that use is not against NCAA rules, nor is spending a lot on them.
The problem for Oregon is primarily Will Lyles, who has been characterized as a “street agent,” a third party who steers recruits to certain colleges.
The Ducks face two connected issues; 1. What did they get for $25,000 from Lyles? 2. Did Lyles steer prospects to Oregon (?)
To the first question: Can Oregon produce for investigators what Lyles gave them that was worth $25,000? If Oregon hands over hundreds of hours of video, as well as scouting reports, telephone numbers and other bits of information that are valuable in recruiting, then a significant part of the school's defense will be accomplished. It can say: "We paid Lyles for his recruiting service," and it would be tough to prove otherwise as the second question gets asked.
And that, again, is: Did Lyles push recruits to sign with Oregon? If Oregon doesn't produce materials of value that Lyles provided, then the payment looks fishy, particularly when you consider Lyles' reputation and that he clearly had "mentor-like" relationships with redshirt freshman running back Lache Seastrunk and Heisman finalist LaMichael James, who brought Lyles along as his guest at the Home Depot College Football Awards in December.
As for what might happen, it's hard to say. Oregon isn't the only team under scrutiny. The NCAA recently announced that the influence of street agents in college football was going to get a serious look. And if it finds that Oregon paid someone to deliver an A-list prospect, well, that's a serious recruiting violation that likely would have serious consequences. But there is a ways to travel to get to that point, so Oregon fans don't need to get into a full panic just yet.
Taking a step back from the ledge, it doesn't make sense that Oregon would have agreed to pay Lyles $25,000 to deliver Lache Seastrunk. The Ducks have world class facilities, an exciting offense and great coaches that good players want to play for. They recruited the player, who originally leaned to USC. USC's Pete Carroll left for the NFL; the Texas prep star reconsidered his commitment. He made a faith-based decision to sign with Oregon. Did Lyles advise him in his decision? Probably. But Seastrunk has stated repeatedly he made an independent decision for his own reasons, based partly on the advice of his father and a personal vision. Did Oregon break the rules in signing him? If the NCAA looks at the evidence objectively, there's not a conclusive case that the coaching staff did anything wrong.
Spring practice is twelve days away. To date, there is nothing about this investigation or the reporting of it that should lessen enthusiasm for real football. The Ducks could be even better in 2011, and given what they've accomplished in the last three years, that's saying something. There are plenty of reasons to be excited this spring. In the neighborhoods near Autzen Stadium the cherry blossoms are starting to open, and so is the most promising season in Oregon history.
Yesterday in his mailbag feature the ESPN blogger broke down the NCAA's investigation of Oregon's connection to Will Lyles as plainly and carefully as anyone on the web. His take is refreshingly free of accusations, name-calling and hysteria. Call it a dose of common sense, something that has been lacking in some of the reporting and commentary on the issue (including, at times, at The Duck Stops Here.) An excerpt follows, in italics:
The NCAA's investigation of Oregon has nothing to do with the Ducks using a recruiting service -- even paying $25,000 for one. Most teams use recruiting services, and that use is not against NCAA rules, nor is spending a lot on them.
The problem for Oregon is primarily Will Lyles, who has been characterized as a “street agent,” a third party who steers recruits to certain colleges.
The Ducks face two connected issues; 1. What did they get for $25,000 from Lyles? 2. Did Lyles steer prospects to Oregon (?)
To the first question: Can Oregon produce for investigators what Lyles gave them that was worth $25,000? If Oregon hands over hundreds of hours of video, as well as scouting reports, telephone numbers and other bits of information that are valuable in recruiting, then a significant part of the school's defense will be accomplished. It can say: "We paid Lyles for his recruiting service," and it would be tough to prove otherwise as the second question gets asked.
And that, again, is: Did Lyles push recruits to sign with Oregon? If Oregon doesn't produce materials of value that Lyles provided, then the payment looks fishy, particularly when you consider Lyles' reputation and that he clearly had "mentor-like" relationships with redshirt freshman running back Lache Seastrunk and Heisman finalist LaMichael James, who brought Lyles along as his guest at the Home Depot College Football Awards in December.
As for what might happen, it's hard to say. Oregon isn't the only team under scrutiny. The NCAA recently announced that the influence of street agents in college football was going to get a serious look. And if it finds that Oregon paid someone to deliver an A-list prospect, well, that's a serious recruiting violation that likely would have serious consequences. But there is a ways to travel to get to that point, so Oregon fans don't need to get into a full panic just yet.
Taking a step back from the ledge, it doesn't make sense that Oregon would have agreed to pay Lyles $25,000 to deliver Lache Seastrunk. The Ducks have world class facilities, an exciting offense and great coaches that good players want to play for. They recruited the player, who originally leaned to USC. USC's Pete Carroll left for the NFL; the Texas prep star reconsidered his commitment. He made a faith-based decision to sign with Oregon. Did Lyles advise him in his decision? Probably. But Seastrunk has stated repeatedly he made an independent decision for his own reasons, based partly on the advice of his father and a personal vision. Did Oregon break the rules in signing him? If the NCAA looks at the evidence objectively, there's not a conclusive case that the coaching staff did anything wrong.
Spring practice is twelve days away. To date, there is nothing about this investigation or the reporting of it that should lessen enthusiasm for real football. The Ducks could be even better in 2011, and given what they've accomplished in the last three years, that's saying something. There are plenty of reasons to be excited this spring. In the neighborhoods near Autzen Stadium the cherry blossoms are starting to open, and so is the most promising season in Oregon history.
2011 Ducks May Be the Greatest Show on Turf
Fans and sportwriters called the 1999-2001 Rams The Greatest Show on Turf, but that's because nobody could envision the 2011 Ducks.
Led by running back Marshall Faulk, the NFL Offensive Player of the Year three years straight, and receiver Isaac Bruce. the Rams obliterated the record book with a dazzling aerial attack. In 2011, Oregon will have the capability to score quickly and often, on the ground or in the air. The diversity and innovation will make the Ducks a team on a mission, beginning in Dallas against LSU on September 3rd.
Critics and cynics will point to this year's national championship game and say the Ducks have been grounded, but the naysayers are discounting the brilliance of Chip Kelly, and the awesome array of weapons the Webfoots will bring to the field for the next two seasons. Yesterday Rob Moseley of the Register-Guard had a preview of the running backs.
In Kenjon Barner, LaMichael James, Lache Seastrunk and Tra Carson, the Ducks have assembled some amazing talent to carry the ball, and that doesn't include the slot counters, reverses, sweeps, pitches and shovel passes they can toss to players like Josh Huff , Colt Lyerla, Devon Blackmon, Lavasier Tuinei, and a host of promising young players whose names are not yet as familiar. The Black Mamba, Crenshaw High product De'Anthony Thomas, will also make a bid to contribute as a true freshman. He may be too talented to keep off the field.
Oregon moved the ball against Auburn; they had 367 yards through the air. The tractionless turf grounded their outside speed game, and they had trouble in the red zone.
The 2011 Ducks aren't likely to have trouble in the red zone, or anywhere else. In fact, with this multiplicity of speed and explosiveness, the entire field becomes the red zone. Coupled with the offense's disciplined downfield blocking and their quick-strike cutting ability, James and Barner can turn any play into a long one.
Darron Thomas will be more of a factor in year two of running the offense. He'll have more command. Opponents absolutely won't be able to jam the line of scrimmage or overload the box. At the goal line, the safeties and corners will have their hands full with Lyerla, Tuinei, Rahsaan Vaughn and Blackmon.
In Carson they'll have a back with change-of-pace, straight-ahead power, but he may be a year away from making a major contribution. At 6-0, 225, his body is ready right now. Marshall Faulk was 5-10 211. For that matter, LaMichael James is 5-9, 185 and he's a very underappreciated runner between the tackles. Fans from other parts of the country assume he's a scatback.
Chip Kelly has been laying in the weeds. He hasn't said much since the national championship, just a few comments on the recruiting class, and a few others on the Lyles brouhaha, not much else. But you know he's spent hours reviewing video and gameplanning. He's a fiercely competitive guy. Coming close and losing burns at his soul. The Ducks will play offense with an edge in 2011, and the results will be Hall of Fame memorable.
Led by running back Marshall Faulk, the NFL Offensive Player of the Year three years straight, and receiver Isaac Bruce. the Rams obliterated the record book with a dazzling aerial attack. In 2011, Oregon will have the capability to score quickly and often, on the ground or in the air. The diversity and innovation will make the Ducks a team on a mission, beginning in Dallas against LSU on September 3rd.
Critics and cynics will point to this year's national championship game and say the Ducks have been grounded, but the naysayers are discounting the brilliance of Chip Kelly, and the awesome array of weapons the Webfoots will bring to the field for the next two seasons. Yesterday Rob Moseley of the Register-Guard had a preview of the running backs.
In Kenjon Barner, LaMichael James, Lache Seastrunk and Tra Carson, the Ducks have assembled some amazing talent to carry the ball, and that doesn't include the slot counters, reverses, sweeps, pitches and shovel passes they can toss to players like Josh Huff , Colt Lyerla, Devon Blackmon, Lavasier Tuinei, and a host of promising young players whose names are not yet as familiar. The Black Mamba, Crenshaw High product De'Anthony Thomas, will also make a bid to contribute as a true freshman. He may be too talented to keep off the field.
Oregon moved the ball against Auburn; they had 367 yards through the air. The tractionless turf grounded their outside speed game, and they had trouble in the red zone.
The 2011 Ducks aren't likely to have trouble in the red zone, or anywhere else. In fact, with this multiplicity of speed and explosiveness, the entire field becomes the red zone. Coupled with the offense's disciplined downfield blocking and their quick-strike cutting ability, James and Barner can turn any play into a long one.
Darron Thomas will be more of a factor in year two of running the offense. He'll have more command. Opponents absolutely won't be able to jam the line of scrimmage or overload the box. At the goal line, the safeties and corners will have their hands full with Lyerla, Tuinei, Rahsaan Vaughn and Blackmon.
In Carson they'll have a back with change-of-pace, straight-ahead power, but he may be a year away from making a major contribution. At 6-0, 225, his body is ready right now. Marshall Faulk was 5-10 211. For that matter, LaMichael James is 5-9, 185 and he's a very underappreciated runner between the tackles. Fans from other parts of the country assume he's a scatback.
Chip Kelly has been laying in the weeds. He hasn't said much since the national championship, just a few comments on the recruiting class, and a few others on the Lyles brouhaha, not much else. But you know he's spent hours reviewing video and gameplanning. He's a fiercely competitive guy. Coming close and losing burns at his soul. The Ducks will play offense with an edge in 2011, and the results will be Hall of Fame memorable.
Tuesday, March 15, 2011
Ducks Land 2029 Defensive Tackle Commit
Oregon picked up a verbal commitment today from six-star defensive tackle prospect Cyrus "the Cyclone" Mohem of the 2029 recruiting class.
Just three months old, Mohem possesses a powerful set of lungs and a strong head. He's bright and alert and the Duck Fight Song is his favorite lullaby. Cyrus weighs 16 pounds and is 26 inches long, already putting a fiercesome pass rush on nine feedings a day. He has big hands, long arms, and excellent agility for an infant.
No street agents were involved in his recruiting, which has been handled completely by his loving grandparents.
Just three months old, Mohem possesses a powerful set of lungs and a strong head. He's bright and alert and the Duck Fight Song is his favorite lullaby. Cyrus weighs 16 pounds and is 26 inches long, already putting a fiercesome pass rush on nine feedings a day. He has big hands, long arms, and excellent agility for an infant.
The Human Tragedy Behind the Will Lyles Story
The infrastructure of the American family is crumbling, particularly in the black community. Into the void come gangs and questionable mentors.
In the United States alone, 21.2 million children (26% of all children) are growing up in a household with only one custodial parent.
Among Black children, 48.5% are growing up with a single custodial parent.
5 out of every 6 custodial parents are mothers (84%), 1 in 6 are fathers (16%).
Poverty
Children in father-absent homes are five times more likely to be poor. In 2002, 7.8% of children in married-couple families were living in poverty, compared to 38.4% of children in female-householder families.
Drug and Alcohol Abuse
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services states, "Fatherless children are at a dramatically greater risk of drug and alcohol abuse."
from the website WithoutaFather.com
The one person I feel sorry for in the whole Will Lyles mess is Lache Seastrunk. He's had the searing details of his upbringing broadcast all over the internet to generate web hits. Growing up largely without both parents, as they were in and out of drug use and jail, he's a genuinely good kid who survived an extremely painful situation. Here are some details, from a September 2010 story by Stephen Alexander of the Portland Tribune:
“My dad is incarcerated for 35 years,” he says, pausing for several moments. “But it came to me … my dad called me … hold on.”
Seastrunk turns his back to the interviewer, raises his hand to his eyes and sniffs. After more than a minute of fighting back emotion, he turns back around.
And:
He says his father had been locked up before, “long before I was even thought of.” He says his father got out when Seastrunk was in middle school and was back in just as he was about to enter high school.
Seastrunk also says his mother was in and out of his life.
“I had my mom for a brief time, but she left,” he says. “And my dad left. And then my mom came back. And she was in my life for a long time. That’s when my dad came back, and I had my mom and my dad. But they were never together. They were always separated. And then my dad left again.”
Seastrunk’s mother, Evelyn, vehemently denied Seastrunk’s story. An 11-minute interview turned sour when she was questioned about being in her son’s life.
“Reporters write their own stories,” she said. “I don’t give a damn what he tells you. For 18 years, I’m the one who broke my back to make sure he got to where he is.”
Pastor Quinton J. Gibson Sr., of St. James United Methodist Church in Temple, was a “chaplain on the side” for the athletic programs at Temple High. Gibson corroborates what Seastrunk says about his upbringing.
“(His childhood) was shaky,” Gibson says. “It wasn’t as stable as it needed to be.”
Gibson was one of the people who helped Seastrunk and kept him on track with his unshakable faith
Young men from difficult circumstances, it is natural they would reach out for someone to trust. LaMichael James has a similarly painful story. He was raised by his grandmother, who died during his junior year of high school.
LaMichael James and Lache Seastrunk were two talented kids who just wanted to play football. Will Lyles exploited their trust for his own profit. And now their honest attempt to find mentorship is being dragged through the papers, along with the details of their private sorrow.
In the United States alone, 21.2 million children (26% of all children) are growing up in a household with only one custodial parent.
Among Black children, 48.5% are growing up with a single custodial parent.
5 out of every 6 custodial parents are mothers (84%), 1 in 6 are fathers (16%).
Poverty
Children in father-absent homes are five times more likely to be poor. In 2002, 7.8% of children in married-couple families were living in poverty, compared to 38.4% of children in female-householder families.
Drug and Alcohol Abuse
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services states, "Fatherless children are at a dramatically greater risk of drug and alcohol abuse."
from the website WithoutaFather.com
The one person I feel sorry for in the whole Will Lyles mess is Lache Seastrunk. He's had the searing details of his upbringing broadcast all over the internet to generate web hits. Growing up largely without both parents, as they were in and out of drug use and jail, he's a genuinely good kid who survived an extremely painful situation. Here are some details, from a September 2010 story by Stephen Alexander of the Portland Tribune:
“My dad is incarcerated for 35 years,” he says, pausing for several moments. “But it came to me … my dad called me … hold on.”
Seastrunk turns his back to the interviewer, raises his hand to his eyes and sniffs. After more than a minute of fighting back emotion, he turns back around.
And:
He says his father had been locked up before, “long before I was even thought of.” He says his father got out when Seastrunk was in middle school and was back in just as he was about to enter high school.
Seastrunk also says his mother was in and out of his life.
“I had my mom for a brief time, but she left,” he says. “And my dad left. And then my mom came back. And she was in my life for a long time. That’s when my dad came back, and I had my mom and my dad. But they were never together. They were always separated. And then my dad left again.”
Seastrunk’s mother, Evelyn, vehemently denied Seastrunk’s story. An 11-minute interview turned sour when she was questioned about being in her son’s life.
“Reporters write their own stories,” she said. “I don’t give a damn what he tells you. For 18 years, I’m the one who broke my back to make sure he got to where he is.”
Pastor Quinton J. Gibson Sr., of St. James United Methodist Church in Temple, was a “chaplain on the side” for the athletic programs at Temple High. Gibson corroborates what Seastrunk says about his upbringing.
“(His childhood) was shaky,” Gibson says. “It wasn’t as stable as it needed to be.”
Gibson was one of the people who helped Seastrunk and kept him on track with his unshakable faith
Young men from difficult circumstances, it is natural they would reach out for someone to trust. LaMichael James has a similarly painful story. He was raised by his grandmother, who died during his junior year of high school.
LaMichael James and Lache Seastrunk were two talented kids who just wanted to play football. Will Lyles exploited their trust for his own profit. And now their honest attempt to find mentorship is being dragged through the papers, along with the details of their private sorrow.
Monday, March 14, 2011
Finally Some Real Football--Moseley's talking quarterbacks
When Wes Byrum kicked that awful inevitable chipshot field goal, it seemed like an eternity until we'd be able to talk about real football again, but 2011 is hurtling along, shaping up to be the most rapid year of our lives.
I had a friend explain once why that happens. "When you're ten," he said, "A year represents one-tenth of your life, and it seems like a long time in passing. When you're 50, it's a small fraction of the time you've lived, and it passes it no time at all."
Still, on January 12th, waiting in the Phoenix airport, it seemed like a long agony of time waiting for that plane, surrounded by jubilant "War Eagles"; even longer until we could see and read about some football and get the taste of a bitter loss completely out of our mouths.
Yet sixty days passed pretty quickly, and now spring practice is just two weeks away. Rob Moseley has his first preview up, the quarterbacks, and he reports that Darron Thomas will work on improving his footwork and mechanics this off season, and that the junior qb is taking his leadership role very seriously:
Thomas has told people around the team recently that he wants to skip spring break in order to get in ample strength and conditioning work prior to the start of spring drills. That's how a leader sets the tone.
Duck Tracks: Between his first year starting and his second, Andrew Luck of Stanford improved his completion percentage from 56.3% to 70.7% and his passer rating from 143.47 to 170.16. His touchdowns increased from 13 to 32; all this while losing Toby Gerhart. Thomas and Luck were rivals as Houston preps, and so far DT is 1-0 against his hometown foe.
In Thomas' first year starting, the sophomore completed 61.5% of his passes, a quarterback rating of 150.97 (the third highest in school history), 30 touchdowns and nine interceptions.
If Thomas improves on a curve similar to or exceeding his hometown rival, his junior and senior years could be pretty special. Given his work ethic, the prospects are very good that he will.
One X factor in the Webfoot signal caller's potential is that this was only his fifth year playing the position full time. He started his high school career as a wide receiver, moving to quarterback as a junior. In his junior season at Aldine High he threw for 905 yards and six tds, very modest totals. As a senior he improved to 2,576 yards and 11 tds, with more than 900 yards on the ground. The exciting thing is this: Darron Thomas is still growing into the position. He's still improving, and he's shown toughness and determination, the will to be great. He's not one to be easily satisfied, not likely to grow cocky or consider himself above the law. With all his athletic gifts, foremost is his character. And that's refreshing.
It's heartening to hear he's taking the leadership role so seriously.
Duck fans have to be excited also about the development and potential of the two young quarterbacks in the system. Bryan Bennett successfully completed his redshirt year, taking practice reps as the number two quarterback after Nate Costa went down. He impressed observers with his arm, athletic ability and adaptability.
Ideally, Bennett gets some spot duty over the next two years and time to fill out and develop. If he is pressed into a starting role, it's a situation he's faced before. As a raw sophomore at Crespi high school, he had to take the reins when senior starter Kevin Prince went down with a knee injury in the season's first game. Bennett responded, throwing for 2100 yards and 17 touchdowns as his team went to the state championship game.
Incoming freshman Marcus Mariota, who won't arrive on campus until this summer, already has fans buzzing about his potential as well: 6-4, 195 with a 4.4 40, a plus-4.0 grade average, and 32 touchdowns in his senior year versus 5 interceptions. Smart, fast and polished, Mariota is the total package and a true duel threat.
This isn't to slight the young men ahead of him in any way. Mariota has to get to school and do the work, just like they already have. But coming in, he has the most exciting set of skills for playing quarterback in the Oregon system since you-know-who. He has to prove it, but the potential is undeniable. Relatively overlooked, coming from the Islands and not getting the fulltime starting nod until his senior year, Mariota may prove to be the steal of the college football recruiting season. Chip Kelly offered the kid on sight the first day of Oregon's football camp last summer.
Kelly knows quarterbacks, and now he has three good ones who are perfect for the Oregon system. And the fourth one, ultimate teammate Daryle Hawkins, is a steady, head-on-straight athlete who knows the playbook. He'd do a credible job, if he ever had to give the cadence. Just a sophomore this season, he's already done everything that's been asked of him, and shown some real potential in a variety of roles.
I had a friend explain once why that happens. "When you're ten," he said, "A year represents one-tenth of your life, and it seems like a long time in passing. When you're 50, it's a small fraction of the time you've lived, and it passes it no time at all."
Still, on January 12th, waiting in the Phoenix airport, it seemed like a long agony of time waiting for that plane, surrounded by jubilant "War Eagles"; even longer until we could see and read about some football and get the taste of a bitter loss completely out of our mouths.
Yet sixty days passed pretty quickly, and now spring practice is just two weeks away. Rob Moseley has his first preview up, the quarterbacks, and he reports that Darron Thomas will work on improving his footwork and mechanics this off season, and that the junior qb is taking his leadership role very seriously:
Thomas has told people around the team recently that he wants to skip spring break in order to get in ample strength and conditioning work prior to the start of spring drills. That's how a leader sets the tone.
Duck Tracks: Between his first year starting and his second, Andrew Luck of Stanford improved his completion percentage from 56.3% to 70.7% and his passer rating from 143.47 to 170.16. His touchdowns increased from 13 to 32; all this while losing Toby Gerhart. Thomas and Luck were rivals as Houston preps, and so far DT is 1-0 against his hometown foe.
In Thomas' first year starting, the sophomore completed 61.5% of his passes, a quarterback rating of 150.97 (the third highest in school history), 30 touchdowns and nine interceptions.
If Thomas improves on a curve similar to or exceeding his hometown rival, his junior and senior years could be pretty special. Given his work ethic, the prospects are very good that he will.
One X factor in the Webfoot signal caller's potential is that this was only his fifth year playing the position full time. He started his high school career as a wide receiver, moving to quarterback as a junior. In his junior season at Aldine High he threw for 905 yards and six tds, very modest totals. As a senior he improved to 2,576 yards and 11 tds, with more than 900 yards on the ground. The exciting thing is this: Darron Thomas is still growing into the position. He's still improving, and he's shown toughness and determination, the will to be great. He's not one to be easily satisfied, not likely to grow cocky or consider himself above the law. With all his athletic gifts, foremost is his character. And that's refreshing.
It's heartening to hear he's taking the leadership role so seriously.
Duck fans have to be excited also about the development and potential of the two young quarterbacks in the system. Bryan Bennett successfully completed his redshirt year, taking practice reps as the number two quarterback after Nate Costa went down. He impressed observers with his arm, athletic ability and adaptability.
Ideally, Bennett gets some spot duty over the next two years and time to fill out and develop. If he is pressed into a starting role, it's a situation he's faced before. As a raw sophomore at Crespi high school, he had to take the reins when senior starter Kevin Prince went down with a knee injury in the season's first game. Bennett responded, throwing for 2100 yards and 17 touchdowns as his team went to the state championship game.
Incoming freshman Marcus Mariota, who won't arrive on campus until this summer, already has fans buzzing about his potential as well: 6-4, 195 with a 4.4 40, a plus-4.0 grade average, and 32 touchdowns in his senior year versus 5 interceptions. Smart, fast and polished, Mariota is the total package and a true duel threat.
This isn't to slight the young men ahead of him in any way. Mariota has to get to school and do the work, just like they already have. But coming in, he has the most exciting set of skills for playing quarterback in the Oregon system since you-know-who. He has to prove it, but the potential is undeniable. Relatively overlooked, coming from the Islands and not getting the fulltime starting nod until his senior year, Mariota may prove to be the steal of the college football recruiting season. Chip Kelly offered the kid on sight the first day of Oregon's football camp last summer.
Kelly knows quarterbacks, and now he has three good ones who are perfect for the Oregon system. And the fourth one, ultimate teammate Daryle Hawkins, is a steady, head-on-straight athlete who knows the playbook. He'd do a credible job, if he ever had to give the cadence. Just a sophomore this season, he's already done everything that's been asked of him, and shown some real potential in a variety of roles.
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