Much hoopla has been made about the OL for Wisconsin. I gave them an edge based on their size... but they are not significantly larger than USC who averaged 308 pounds... including a 340 pounder.
Oregon: As the 2011 season approached, the biggest question mark fans, media and coaches had regarding the Oregon Duck football team was the offensive line. The Ducks returned starters Carson York (6-5, 292) and Mark Asper (6-7, 325) from the 2010 season. With another entity well known in Darrion Weems (6-5, 302), the biggest question that the offensive line would face is who would fill the departed shoes of center Jordan Holmes.
There were three contenders entering fall camp each of whom had some reasonable doubt as to their readiness. The first candidate was Karrington Armstrong (6-3, 270) a sophomore from Reno, Nevada. Armstrong might have been considered a lock for the position, but an illness sapped a lot of his weight and strength entering fall camp. Another name many Duck fans were excited about, Hamani Stevens (6-3, 305) was just returning from a Mormon mission. Though he was in excellent shape and had managed to keep his weight where it needed to be as a Division I lineman, he had not played a down of football in three years. The final candidate for the position was Hroniss Grasu (6-3, 291) a redshirt freshman from Crespi High School in Encino, California.
Grasu won the position and played as well as could be expected early on this season. There were moments where his snaps in the shotgun were...
Wisconsin: In case anyone has not heard, the Wisconsin Badgers have a very large offensive line. Starting at left tackles is Ricky Wagner (6-6, 320) a redshirt junior. Wagner was named honorable mention all conference and has started 23 of the last 25 games for the Badgers. Like all Badger linemen, Wagner is a very good run blocker who has the ability to play multiple positions on the line. He has, however been susceptible to false start penalties for Wisconsin. With his strength in run blocking, he can be dominant, but he does have trouble with speed rushers. His biggest problem in pass blocking is playing too upright at times.
Next to Wagner, the starting left guard position is normally filled by Travis Frederick (6-4, 330) a sophomore. There is a strong possibility, though that injury will force Frederick to...
Click here to read entire story...
Opinion: In The Hands of Man
“Everything is good as it leaves the hands of the Author of things; everything degenerates in the hands of man.” From a simple statement grows a strong opinion about the state of athletics and our places as fans. The pressure of winning is intense; more now than ever. Coaches are paid exorbitant amounts of money to do just that; win. And we cheer for them to win. We hope that whatever it takes to win is legitimate enough to not cause real trouble. And when we roll in the mud with hogs, we are bound to get some dirt under our nails. Everything degenerates in the hands of man.
Breaking Down Match-Ups
Each week during the season, I will take the time to break down the match-ups at each position group for both the Ducks and their opponent. A unique look at which team has the edge at each position as well as an overall preview of the match-ups.
Feature Articles
Every week I will bring new feature articles for the reader to get to know the Duck Empire just a little better. The Duck Empire is vast and complex, these stories will bring you inside the lives of other Duck fans.
Exclusive Stories
We are always working to bring you breaking news and exclusive stories. The Other Side of Duck was the only Oregon member to interview Lache Seastrunk after his transfer. We are working on future exclusive stories and will work non-stop to bring you the very latest news.
The Other Side Of Duck
We are here to bring you a side of Duck sports that no one else brings. There are two sides to every story, our goal is to bring you the side of the story less discussed. In addition, we will continue to provide more content than responses to other stories. Original content, exclusive interviews, strong opinions and feature articles.
Wednesday, December 28, 2011
Monday, December 26, 2011
DSA Tailgate-ROSE BOWL Edition
Good Day all!
Just wanted to make sure that all our readers know there will be an official DSA tailgate in Pasadena. We have a parking pass, but it is not for a specific spot. Last time we had to get there at 4:00 AM, but were in a really good location.
We WILL have the DSA flag flying as well as the DSA banner hooked up to our canopy.
So far the plan is to purchase the adult beverages here and take them with us... mainly because I do not want to get stuck buying beer that I do not like!
At the moment the food plan is to stick to basics... it is difficult to bring specialty foods to a road game like this.
However, if there is someone who wants something specific, let me know and I can arrange. We are driving down and bringing all of our tailgate gear with us, so should be able to do a of of stuff.
The one thing we are not bringing, as it stands at the moment, is the generator. We will be bringing my wife's laptop and will be able to watch other games if we choose, but taking a gas filled generator on a 16 hour drive might cause some issues!
No generator also means we will be doing blended drinks the old fashioned way... shaken and on the rocks!
What: DSA Tailgate - ROSE BOWL Edition
When: Jan. 2, 2012
Time: ~ 8:00AM local time depending on just how early we are allowed to get there... last time we were there at 4:00 AM
Where: 1001 Rose Bowl Drive Pasadena, CA 91103
Donations: Donations may be made at the game with cash or through
PayPal: To pay with paypal you can use my email address:
Email Address: SReed39@canby.com
Cell Phone: 503-807-9543
Twitter: ScottReed_DSA
Facebook: http://facebook.com/ScottReedDSA
COMMENTS: Remember that we will have the following amenities:
*-TV with cable to watch games during tailgate
*-Food: Burgers, Hot Dogs, Brats
*-Beverages: Beer, Sodas, Blended Drinks
If there are ANY questions, call me at the Cell number listed... thanks!
Just wanted to make sure that all our readers know there will be an official DSA tailgate in Pasadena. We have a parking pass, but it is not for a specific spot. Last time we had to get there at 4:00 AM, but were in a really good location.
We WILL have the DSA flag flying as well as the DSA banner hooked up to our canopy.
So far the plan is to purchase the adult beverages here and take them with us... mainly because I do not want to get stuck buying beer that I do not like!
At the moment the food plan is to stick to basics... it is difficult to bring specialty foods to a road game like this.
However, if there is someone who wants something specific, let me know and I can arrange. We are driving down and bringing all of our tailgate gear with us, so should be able to do a of of stuff.
The one thing we are not bringing, as it stands at the moment, is the generator. We will be bringing my wife's laptop and will be able to watch other games if we choose, but taking a gas filled generator on a 16 hour drive might cause some issues!
No generator also means we will be doing blended drinks the old fashioned way... shaken and on the rocks!
What: DSA Tailgate - ROSE BOWL Edition
When: Jan. 2, 2012
Time: ~ 8:00AM local time depending on just how early we are allowed to get there... last time we were there at 4:00 AM
Where: 1001 Rose Bowl Drive Pasadena, CA 91103
Donations: Donations may be made at the game with cash or through
PayPal: To pay with paypal you can use my email address:
Email Address: SReed39@canby.com
Cell Phone: 503-807-9543
Twitter: ScottReed_DSA
Facebook: http://facebook.com/ScottReedDSA
COMMENTS: Remember that we will have the following amenities:
*-TV with cable to watch games during tailgate
*-Food: Burgers, Hot Dogs, Brats
*-Beverages: Beer, Sodas, Blended Drinks
If there are ANY questions, call me at the Cell number listed... thanks!
Year End Thoughts Part II: Run For The Roses
The beginning of the 2011 football season saw the Ducks in unprecedented position; ranked #3 in the pre-season polls. With an opening game against #4 LSU in Dallas, the hype for Oregon was at an all-time high. Win, and the Ducks would hold the keys to a second consecutive BCS National Championship Game in their own hands. Lose? Something Duck fans did not want to ponder.
Yet, in the much less than neutral Dallas site, the Ducks did lose. Their lack of experience at several positions proved to be more difficult to overcome than Duck fans had hoped. It seemed there was a little bit of let down in fans excitement following the LSU game.
Returning home, the Ducks licked their wounds and began a run through the Pac-12 with convincing early victories. As had been predicted, the Ducks and Stanford were once again battling for a spot as the conference champion.
This season was one unlike any other as the Ducks fought through a lot of adversity on the field with key injuries they had not suffered in their previous two BCS seasons. LaMichael James missed two games; Kenjon Barner missed two games; Michael Clay missed three games; Darron Thomas missed 1 1/2 games. Injuries took their toll.
Fortunately for the Ducks, though, the injuries were absorbed due to depth better than the Ducks had ever known. LaMichael James misses two games? Simple, plug in Kenjon Barner who gains 286 yards during his absence. Darron Thomas misses the second half of Arizona State game and the Colorado game? Plug in redshirt freshman Bryan Bennett and whet the appetites of Duck fans for what the future holds.
The biggest story for the Ducks 2011 season began as a secret back in January of 2011 as highly touted running back De'Anthony Thomas came to Oregon for a visit. The long time USC commitment was so impressed with the Ducks that he switched his commitment and became a Duck at the last minute. His talent was evident from highlight tapes, but it really began to show in fall camp as the Duck freshman was simply too good to keep off the field.
Thomas had a forgettable debut with two fumbles, but the explosiveness was there. It was obvious he would have an impact as a Duck. It was just not possible, though, to see just how big of an impact he would have. Though LaMichael James once aga9ns led the Ducks in rushing and all-purpose yards, he now had a companion near the top of that category in Thomas. Thomas led the Ducks in receiving and was one of the best kick returners in the nation averaging 27.7 yards per kick off return. His 16 touchdowns is a record for a Duck freshman.
As a team, the Ducks accomplished a feat no other team outside of USC has ever accomplished in the Pac-10/12; three consecutive outright conference championships. Given the rich history of the conference this may surprise many. There have been some great coaches and great teams in this conference during it's storied history, and yet this is the second best run in the history of the conference. And some, like me, say that the best is still yet to come for this team. The depth is better than it has ever been at Oregon, but this 2011 team was very young on defense. With a year of experience for three freshman cornerbacks and a defense returning 7 starters, the 2012 Ducks might be even better than the 2010 or 2011 teams. Can you imagine that?
Yet, in the much less than neutral Dallas site, the Ducks did lose. Their lack of experience at several positions proved to be more difficult to overcome than Duck fans had hoped. It seemed there was a little bit of let down in fans excitement following the LSU game.
Returning home, the Ducks licked their wounds and began a run through the Pac-12 with convincing early victories. As had been predicted, the Ducks and Stanford were once again battling for a spot as the conference champion.
This season was one unlike any other as the Ducks fought through a lot of adversity on the field with key injuries they had not suffered in their previous two BCS seasons. LaMichael James missed two games; Kenjon Barner missed two games; Michael Clay missed three games; Darron Thomas missed 1 1/2 games. Injuries took their toll.
Fortunately for the Ducks, though, the injuries were absorbed due to depth better than the Ducks had ever known. LaMichael James misses two games? Simple, plug in Kenjon Barner who gains 286 yards during his absence. Darron Thomas misses the second half of Arizona State game and the Colorado game? Plug in redshirt freshman Bryan Bennett and whet the appetites of Duck fans for what the future holds.
The biggest story for the Ducks 2011 season began as a secret back in January of 2011 as highly touted running back De'Anthony Thomas came to Oregon for a visit. The long time USC commitment was so impressed with the Ducks that he switched his commitment and became a Duck at the last minute. His talent was evident from highlight tapes, but it really began to show in fall camp as the Duck freshman was simply too good to keep off the field.
Thomas had a forgettable debut with two fumbles, but the explosiveness was there. It was obvious he would have an impact as a Duck. It was just not possible, though, to see just how big of an impact he would have. Though LaMichael James once aga9ns led the Ducks in rushing and all-purpose yards, he now had a companion near the top of that category in Thomas. Thomas led the Ducks in receiving and was one of the best kick returners in the nation averaging 27.7 yards per kick off return. His 16 touchdowns is a record for a Duck freshman.
As a team, the Ducks accomplished a feat no other team outside of USC has ever accomplished in the Pac-10/12; three consecutive outright conference championships. Given the rich history of the conference this may surprise many. There have been some great coaches and great teams in this conference during it's storied history, and yet this is the second best run in the history of the conference. And some, like me, say that the best is still yet to come for this team. The depth is better than it has ever been at Oregon, but this 2011 team was very young on defense. With a year of experience for three freshman cornerbacks and a defense returning 7 starters, the 2012 Ducks might be even better than the 2010 or 2011 teams. Can you imagine that?
Friday, December 23, 2011
Rose Bowl Match-Ups: Defensive Backs
This unit did not surprise me that much. What did surprise me was the sheer lack of passing that the Badgers faced in the Big 10. Only ONE team that Wisconsin faced averaged more than 200 passing yards per game. Just one! That was Michigan State. In the two games with Michigan State, Wisconsin allowed Kirk Cousins to go 44-61 (72.1% completion rate) for 571 yards and 6 touchdowns. Outside of those Wisconsin games, Cousins is a 63.6% passer who threw for 18 touchdowns in 11 games. Darron Thomas, meanwhile, threw for 30 touchdowns (6 more than Cousins overall total) and completed 61.4% of his passes.
All that really means is that this match-up went pretty much how I expected...
Oregon: Defensive backs were considered a strength entering the 2011 football season for the Oregon Ducks. Oregon graduated just one player, Talmadge Jackson, from the unit that went to the BCS title game a year before. Returning All-American Cliff Harris was supposed to take a step forward and be the leader of this group. Unfortunately, due to off field issues, Harris played sparingly after being suspended for the first game.
In the absence of Harris, the Ducks turned to a trio of freshman to fill the void. Though they experienced the freshman mistakes that many young cornerbacks endure, Terrance Mitchell, Troy Hill and Ifo Ekpre-Olomu played very well and learned on the fly throughout the 2011 season. Mitchell got the start in the opener against LSU in Dallas. Though he showed promise, there were also signs of inexperience as he got beat by bigger stronger receivers on passes in the red-zone. Nonetheless, he proved a solid and reliable tackler and, despite being out-muscled for some balls, never seemed to be "burned" by receivers. Mitchell would continue...
Wisconsin: Like the Ducks, Wisconsin brought an experienced defensive backfield group into the 2011 season. Returning at cornerback is Antonio Fenelus (5-9, 190) a senior from Florida. Fenelus was coming off of an impressive junior campaign that saw him notch 56 tackles and 4 interceptions. Fenelus is the best tackler of the cornerbacks and played well early, but really made more of his mark in conference play. Through the first four non-conference games, Fenelus had 14 total tackles, but had yet to make an impact in pass defense. That would change in conference play where he would intercept 4 passes. For the season, Fenelus recorded 46 total tackles, 3 tackles for loss, 9 passes defended with 4 interceptions.
Starting opposite Fenelus is Marcus Cromartie (6-1, 180) a junior from the state of Texas. Cromartie saw the first start of his career against Oregon State. Early indications seemed to indicate that Cromartie, the fastest defensive back on the team, would provide an exceptional contribution. Through the first three games of the season, he would have 18 tackles. Cromartie struggled some, though, during Big 10 conference play. For the year, Cromartie finished with 41 total tackles with 3 passes defended.
The Badgers saw action in all 13 games from Peniel Jean (5-11, 190) a redshirt freshman from West Palm Beach, Florida. Jean had his best game against Michigan State...
Click here to read entire story
All that really means is that this match-up went pretty much how I expected...
Oregon: Defensive backs were considered a strength entering the 2011 football season for the Oregon Ducks. Oregon graduated just one player, Talmadge Jackson, from the unit that went to the BCS title game a year before. Returning All-American Cliff Harris was supposed to take a step forward and be the leader of this group. Unfortunately, due to off field issues, Harris played sparingly after being suspended for the first game.
In the absence of Harris, the Ducks turned to a trio of freshman to fill the void. Though they experienced the freshman mistakes that many young cornerbacks endure, Terrance Mitchell, Troy Hill and Ifo Ekpre-Olomu played very well and learned on the fly throughout the 2011 season. Mitchell got the start in the opener against LSU in Dallas. Though he showed promise, there were also signs of inexperience as he got beat by bigger stronger receivers on passes in the red-zone. Nonetheless, he proved a solid and reliable tackler and, despite being out-muscled for some balls, never seemed to be "burned" by receivers. Mitchell would continue...
Wisconsin: Like the Ducks, Wisconsin brought an experienced defensive backfield group into the 2011 season. Returning at cornerback is Antonio Fenelus (5-9, 190) a senior from Florida. Fenelus was coming off of an impressive junior campaign that saw him notch 56 tackles and 4 interceptions. Fenelus is the best tackler of the cornerbacks and played well early, but really made more of his mark in conference play. Through the first four non-conference games, Fenelus had 14 total tackles, but had yet to make an impact in pass defense. That would change in conference play where he would intercept 4 passes. For the season, Fenelus recorded 46 total tackles, 3 tackles for loss, 9 passes defended with 4 interceptions.
Starting opposite Fenelus is Marcus Cromartie (6-1, 180) a junior from the state of Texas. Cromartie saw the first start of his career against Oregon State. Early indications seemed to indicate that Cromartie, the fastest defensive back on the team, would provide an exceptional contribution. Through the first three games of the season, he would have 18 tackles. Cromartie struggled some, though, during Big 10 conference play. For the year, Cromartie finished with 41 total tackles with 3 passes defended.
The Badgers saw action in all 13 games from Peniel Jean (5-11, 190) a redshirt freshman from West Palm Beach, Florida. Jean had his best game against Michigan State...
Click here to read entire story
Thursday, December 22, 2011
Rose Bowl Match-Ups: Running Backs
As the Ducks approach the 2012 Rose Bowl, to be played Monday, January 2, 2012, Ducks Sports Authority will take you deeper into the match-ups between the Big 10 Champion Wisconsin Badgers (11-2) and the Pac-12 champion Oregon Ducks (11-2) position by position.
Wisconsin earned the right to play in the Rose Bowl with a thrilling come-from-behind victory over the Michigan State Spartans in a "grudge re-match" from earlier in the season. Oregon won the Pac-12 conference for the third consecutive year. Not only did the Ducks have the best conference record in the Pac-12, but they also won the inaugural conference championship game in a game not as close as the 49-31 final.
In today's article, we take an in-depth look at the running backs for the Badgers and the Ducks.
Oregon: The Duck running back corps was considered one of the deepest in the nation prior to the beginning of the season. Nothing that occurred during fall camp or the season changes that thought process.
In the off-season, LaMichael James 15 pounds of muscle to his frame. After a less than stellar performance against LSU to open the season, many began to quietly (and some not so quietly) wonder if the added weight had slowed James down some. After 2 games, James had just 121 yards on 30 carries, only 4.0 yards per carry. James answered the critics, though,
Wisconsin: Wisconsin, answering the question if anyone in the nation could match-up running backs with the Ducks has a very valuable tandem of their own. Monte Ball entered this season as the second leading returning rusher for the Badgers. Ball was behind James White and the John Clay last season. With Clay having entered the NFL draft, the Badgers figured to have a two way race for the starting position between White and Ball. Ball spent the off-season losing 25 pounds and gaining quickness without sacrificing any power. Through the first four non-conference games, Ball and White were even in their production, but against Nebraska, Ball began to separate himself as the lead running back for the Badgers. Against the Cornhuskers, Ball had a workmanlike performance with 30 carries for 151 yards and 4 touchdowns. Over his last five games of the season, Ball had 133 carries for 909 yards and 14 touchdowns. This was an incredible stretch for Ball and catapulted him into the Heisman talk and a trip to New York City as a Heisman finalist .Ball's best performance of the season would have been against Purdue when he rushed 20 times for 223 yards and 2 touchdowns. Ball was a very effective receiver out of the backfield this season snagging 20 receptions for 256 yards and 6 more touchdowns.
James White was the leading rusher for the Badgers in 2010 and looked
Click here to read entire story
Wisconsin earned the right to play in the Rose Bowl with a thrilling come-from-behind victory over the Michigan State Spartans in a "grudge re-match" from earlier in the season. Oregon won the Pac-12 conference for the third consecutive year. Not only did the Ducks have the best conference record in the Pac-12, but they also won the inaugural conference championship game in a game not as close as the 49-31 final.
In today's article, we take an in-depth look at the running backs for the Badgers and the Ducks.
Oregon: The Duck running back corps was considered one of the deepest in the nation prior to the beginning of the season. Nothing that occurred during fall camp or the season changes that thought process.
In the off-season, LaMichael James 15 pounds of muscle to his frame. After a less than stellar performance against LSU to open the season, many began to quietly (and some not so quietly) wonder if the added weight had slowed James down some. After 2 games, James had just 121 yards on 30 carries, only 4.0 yards per carry. James answered the critics, though,
Wisconsin: Wisconsin, answering the question if anyone in the nation could match-up running backs with the Ducks has a very valuable tandem of their own. Monte Ball entered this season as the second leading returning rusher for the Badgers. Ball was behind James White and the John Clay last season. With Clay having entered the NFL draft, the Badgers figured to have a two way race for the starting position between White and Ball. Ball spent the off-season losing 25 pounds and gaining quickness without sacrificing any power. Through the first four non-conference games, Ball and White were even in their production, but against Nebraska, Ball began to separate himself as the lead running back for the Badgers. Against the Cornhuskers, Ball had a workmanlike performance with 30 carries for 151 yards and 4 touchdowns. Over his last five games of the season, Ball had 133 carries for 909 yards and 14 touchdowns. This was an incredible stretch for Ball and catapulted him into the Heisman talk and a trip to New York City as a Heisman finalist .Ball's best performance of the season would have been against Purdue when he rushed 20 times for 223 yards and 2 touchdowns. Ball was a very effective receiver out of the backfield this season snagging 20 receptions for 256 yards and 6 more touchdowns.
James White was the leading rusher for the Badgers in 2010 and looked
Click here to read entire story
Tuesday, December 20, 2011
Early DSA Tailgate Information
An early heads up that there will be an Official Duck Sports Authority tailgate in Pasadena! I hosted a tailgate there for the 2010 Rose Bowl and it was a blast. We look forward to seeing new faces this time around.
Over the next week, I will finalize information about the tailgate and post it right here.
What I know now is that we are int eh GA parking. We WILL have the DSA flag with us as well as the banner. We will also have a canopy this time around and will bring the bigger grill we used this season. As always there will be plenty of food and drink.
Over the next week, I will finalize information about the tailgate and post it right here.
What I know now is that we are int eh GA parking. We WILL have the DSA flag with us as well as the banner. We will also have a canopy this time around and will bring the bigger grill we used this season. As always there will be plenty of food and drink.
Uniform Rumor
I am hearing from a very good source that the uniform change for the Rose Bowl is to remove the "O" from the helmet and replace it with a Wing design.
I have never fought the uniform changes much because I understand that the kids like them. However, at some point there HAS to be a brand that is firmly established and remains the one constant in our ever evolving identity.
When George Horton agreed to become the Manager for the Duck baseball team, he did it under an agreement that the uniforms have some basics that be adhered to... and that made sense. Certainly it is easier to do so for a non-revenue sport like baseball. Football, on the other hand, is the driving monetary force in the university and thus subject to more outside influences when it comes to things like uniform design.
They say the only constant in this world is change, but I beg to differ. There are plenty of constants. Oregon can stand apart from every other university and yet still have some tradition. We must find a way to communicate our disapproval of this step and ask the athletic department to choose a different helmet for the Rose Bowl.
If they want to work a wing pattern into a "ghost patter" coming off of the "O," that is one thing. But to completely eliminate the "O" from the helmet is a step too far. The "O" is our identity. After all, the "O" is on gloves! We almost had our players banned from flashing the "O" after scores. And the university wants to abandon it? Even if only for one game this is not acceptable.
I have created a facebook page... we need to see if our voice can be heard!
I have never fought the uniform changes much because I understand that the kids like them. However, at some point there HAS to be a brand that is firmly established and remains the one constant in our ever evolving identity.
When George Horton agreed to become the Manager for the Duck baseball team, he did it under an agreement that the uniforms have some basics that be adhered to... and that made sense. Certainly it is easier to do so for a non-revenue sport like baseball. Football, on the other hand, is the driving monetary force in the university and thus subject to more outside influences when it comes to things like uniform design.
They say the only constant in this world is change, but I beg to differ. There are plenty of constants. Oregon can stand apart from every other university and yet still have some tradition. We must find a way to communicate our disapproval of this step and ask the athletic department to choose a different helmet for the Rose Bowl.
If they want to work a wing pattern into a "ghost patter" coming off of the "O," that is one thing. But to completely eliminate the "O" from the helmet is a step too far. The "O" is our identity. After all, the "O" is on gloves! We almost had our players banned from flashing the "O" after scores. And the university wants to abandon it? Even if only for one game this is not acceptable.
I have created a facebook page... we need to see if our voice can be heard!
Sunday, December 18, 2011
Year End Thoughts Part I: Will Lyles Investigation
Because the next two weeks will be extraordinarily busy, I thought I would share my year end thoughts now.
Recruiting Scandal:
Many of the readers first discovered my writing as we talked about the ongoing investigation into Oregon's recruiting practices. I have made no secret that I believe that the over-hyped status of this is largely a media created monster that has little bearing on reality. I am a Duck fan; that was my initial interest. I make no bones about this fact, but my fandom does not change what I discovered along the way.
A funny thing about investigating... most people find what they want to find. There are more readers when a "feel good" story is taken down by scandal. Think about the Tiger Woods saga. Whenever someone is built up, they just set themselves up for a fall. The bigger they are, the harder they fall.
Nonetheless, there are always two sides to a story. Much of traditional media assumes "no comment" equals guilt. It is unimaginable to them that no comment is simply used to avoid further complications. Sometimes, no comment simply means no comment.
As I dug into this story, I discovered a lot of information that changed the way people looked at the story. But that was never my original goal. I was simply sharing my thoughts on another blog when someone asked me to put those thoughts together in my own blog. Now, over 110,000 visits later, my story has been seen by tens of thousands of people. Some minds have been eased while others simply dismissed my thoughts just because I am a "fan."
That's okay, I never did the research to convince journalists of anything. I simply looked at existing facts and put them out there in a way that told a different story than the prevailing media thoughts. One of the main problems with media is that it goes unchecked. We are so jaded to the stories we see that no one challenges the media. When anyone dares attempt to challenge the veracity of truth in what the media reports, they are ridiculed mercilessly until the challenger simply quits.
The tactic was used against me as well... the difference? I don't particularly care what people in the media have to say. Unlike the editors of some fan-centric websites, I have no designs to be "mainstream" media. If someone wants to pay me to write, so be it; but if they want to pay me for opinions, I am going to state my opinions. It is not relevant to me whether others in the profession like what I have to say. Simply put, the reason some feel the need to ridicule is that they are not confident in their own ability. When they see some "hack" who does this in his spare time dig deeper and come to conclusions that do not fit their preconceived notions, they begin to feel inadequate.
I have seen this in the business world as well. There are those who use their own skills and abilities to move up in the world, and there are those that see someone else doing that and simply try to tear them down. For those people, it is simply easier to try to drag others down than to work harder. And, you know what, that's okay too.
Along this journey, I have met some incredible people and had a great time talking about Duck football. I have long been a contributor to Duck Sports Authority and hope to continue doing so for many years to come.
When the Will Lyles story first broke, I thought little of the story. Oregon had not broken a rule, but had played in some murky mud that others did not like. As the story grew, and I watched from the sidelines, I started to see facts distorted and fabricated. So I looked deeper.
Will Lyles told us all that he was a mentor to Lache Seastrunk. Lyles made the world think that he had some magical mystical control over the kid. Why? Well, the story he was telling was that Oregon had paid him for his influence. If his influence was diminished in some way, then his story was less believable.
Make no mistake, Will Lyles implemented himself into the lives of many recruits including Seastrunk. Nonetheless, his position was not one of exclusivity. You see, in the research, it turns out that there were many people heavily involved in Lache Seastrunk's life. Not the least of which was a high school counselor whose husband had coached Lache in grade school. Lache also had an incredible extended family who supported him through it all.
In our journey this year, we got to meet his family and friends and see that Will Lyles was one of may people in Lache's life. Lyles, while claiming he was only trying to help these kids, KNOWINGLY violated NCAA rules to curry favor with the young men and their families. The revelation that Lyles accepted money from a Tennessee assistant (Willie Mack Garza) for an unofficial visit for the athlete AND his mother was the bombshell that proved where Lyles' intentions lay. He was out for himself. He risked the future of young men just to garner their support. He was selfish and despicable in his actions.
When it all started to fall apart, he resorted to what many choose: telling whatever stories he could to victimize himself. But Lyles was no victim. Will Lyles took kids and their families unofficial visits with money from schools. He knew it was wrong and did it anyway. When Evelyn Seastrunk requested Oregon pay for her to visit, she was quickly and loudly rebuffed. These were facts, though, that media ignored in their race to find Oregon guilty.
As the year nears an end, there have been many facts we were able to bring to you exclusively. I was the only person able to interview Lache Seastrunk as he transferred. I got an exclusive interview with his family, with his high school counselor. I brought an exclusive update on Dontae Williams.
These stories helped define the year for the Oregon Ducks. But the year was so much more; because this was the third consecutive season that the Oregon Ducks were the outright conference champion. Only one other school can make that claim. In my next segment, I will discuss the year that was on the field.
Recruiting Scandal:
Many of the readers first discovered my writing as we talked about the ongoing investigation into Oregon's recruiting practices. I have made no secret that I believe that the over-hyped status of this is largely a media created monster that has little bearing on reality. I am a Duck fan; that was my initial interest. I make no bones about this fact, but my fandom does not change what I discovered along the way.
A funny thing about investigating... most people find what they want to find. There are more readers when a "feel good" story is taken down by scandal. Think about the Tiger Woods saga. Whenever someone is built up, they just set themselves up for a fall. The bigger they are, the harder they fall.
Nonetheless, there are always two sides to a story. Much of traditional media assumes "no comment" equals guilt. It is unimaginable to them that no comment is simply used to avoid further complications. Sometimes, no comment simply means no comment.
As I dug into this story, I discovered a lot of information that changed the way people looked at the story. But that was never my original goal. I was simply sharing my thoughts on another blog when someone asked me to put those thoughts together in my own blog. Now, over 110,000 visits later, my story has been seen by tens of thousands of people. Some minds have been eased while others simply dismissed my thoughts just because I am a "fan."
That's okay, I never did the research to convince journalists of anything. I simply looked at existing facts and put them out there in a way that told a different story than the prevailing media thoughts. One of the main problems with media is that it goes unchecked. We are so jaded to the stories we see that no one challenges the media. When anyone dares attempt to challenge the veracity of truth in what the media reports, they are ridiculed mercilessly until the challenger simply quits.
The tactic was used against me as well... the difference? I don't particularly care what people in the media have to say. Unlike the editors of some fan-centric websites, I have no designs to be "mainstream" media. If someone wants to pay me to write, so be it; but if they want to pay me for opinions, I am going to state my opinions. It is not relevant to me whether others in the profession like what I have to say. Simply put, the reason some feel the need to ridicule is that they are not confident in their own ability. When they see some "hack" who does this in his spare time dig deeper and come to conclusions that do not fit their preconceived notions, they begin to feel inadequate.
I have seen this in the business world as well. There are those who use their own skills and abilities to move up in the world, and there are those that see someone else doing that and simply try to tear them down. For those people, it is simply easier to try to drag others down than to work harder. And, you know what, that's okay too.
Along this journey, I have met some incredible people and had a great time talking about Duck football. I have long been a contributor to Duck Sports Authority and hope to continue doing so for many years to come.
When the Will Lyles story first broke, I thought little of the story. Oregon had not broken a rule, but had played in some murky mud that others did not like. As the story grew, and I watched from the sidelines, I started to see facts distorted and fabricated. So I looked deeper.
Will Lyles told us all that he was a mentor to Lache Seastrunk. Lyles made the world think that he had some magical mystical control over the kid. Why? Well, the story he was telling was that Oregon had paid him for his influence. If his influence was diminished in some way, then his story was less believable.
Make no mistake, Will Lyles implemented himself into the lives of many recruits including Seastrunk. Nonetheless, his position was not one of exclusivity. You see, in the research, it turns out that there were many people heavily involved in Lache Seastrunk's life. Not the least of which was a high school counselor whose husband had coached Lache in grade school. Lache also had an incredible extended family who supported him through it all.
In our journey this year, we got to meet his family and friends and see that Will Lyles was one of may people in Lache's life. Lyles, while claiming he was only trying to help these kids, KNOWINGLY violated NCAA rules to curry favor with the young men and their families. The revelation that Lyles accepted money from a Tennessee assistant (Willie Mack Garza) for an unofficial visit for the athlete AND his mother was the bombshell that proved where Lyles' intentions lay. He was out for himself. He risked the future of young men just to garner their support. He was selfish and despicable in his actions.
When it all started to fall apart, he resorted to what many choose: telling whatever stories he could to victimize himself. But Lyles was no victim. Will Lyles took kids and their families unofficial visits with money from schools. He knew it was wrong and did it anyway. When Evelyn Seastrunk requested Oregon pay for her to visit, she was quickly and loudly rebuffed. These were facts, though, that media ignored in their race to find Oregon guilty.
As the year nears an end, there have been many facts we were able to bring to you exclusively. I was the only person able to interview Lache Seastrunk as he transferred. I got an exclusive interview with his family, with his high school counselor. I brought an exclusive update on Dontae Williams.
These stories helped define the year for the Oregon Ducks. But the year was so much more; because this was the third consecutive season that the Oregon Ducks were the outright conference champion. Only one other school can make that claim. In my next segment, I will discuss the year that was on the field.
Rose Bowl Match-Ups: Linebackers
This one was a much more difficult evaluation. I think the Duck linebackers will have more success against the Badgers offense than the Badger linebackers will against Oregon's offense. Nonetheless, the Wisconsin linebackers have had a huge statistical impact and have made a lot of plays this season.
Oregon: The Oregon Ducks lost two linebackers from the 2010 football team. Casey Matthews and Spencer Paysinger were the heart of the Oregon defense in a run to the National Championship game. After several good recruiting years, however, the Ducks still felt as if there would be little drop-off at the position. Going into the summer after the Spring Game, Michael Clay (5-11, 225) and Kiko Alonso (6-4, 240) had separated themselves from the group of outstanding linebackers. With starter Joshua Kaddu (6-3, 235) returning, Oregon entered the off-season with great hopes.
Just after Spring, though, Alonso was suspended from the team. During fall camp, the question of who would step into Alonso's shoes was on everyone's mind. Up stepped Dewitt Stuckey (5-11, 221) a senior from Stockton. Clay and Stuckey did not disappoint in the season opener against LSU. Clay notched 9 tackles and Stuckey...
Wisconsin: Wisconsin lost two starters from their 2010 squad including their leading tackler and third leading tackler. In a run dominated conference, losing two linebackers can be devastating. Nonetheless, the group the Badgers were bringing back were talented and well received. Mike Taylor (6-2, 230) would be the only returning starter in this group. The weakside linebacker had done enough as a sophomore to be named a third team all Big 10 last season. 2011 would see Taylor have a monster season.
Taylor's season started out good, but no indications of just how special it would be until a little later in the season. Through three games, Taylor had notched a respectable 14 tackles with 2 tackles for loss and 1 sack. After that, though, Taylor really started to excel. Against Ohio State, Taylor...
Click here to read entire story
Oregon: The Oregon Ducks lost two linebackers from the 2010 football team. Casey Matthews and Spencer Paysinger were the heart of the Oregon defense in a run to the National Championship game. After several good recruiting years, however, the Ducks still felt as if there would be little drop-off at the position. Going into the summer after the Spring Game, Michael Clay (5-11, 225) and Kiko Alonso (6-4, 240) had separated themselves from the group of outstanding linebackers. With starter Joshua Kaddu (6-3, 235) returning, Oregon entered the off-season with great hopes.
Just after Spring, though, Alonso was suspended from the team. During fall camp, the question of who would step into Alonso's shoes was on everyone's mind. Up stepped Dewitt Stuckey (5-11, 221) a senior from Stockton. Clay and Stuckey did not disappoint in the season opener against LSU. Clay notched 9 tackles and Stuckey...
Wisconsin: Wisconsin lost two starters from their 2010 squad including their leading tackler and third leading tackler. In a run dominated conference, losing two linebackers can be devastating. Nonetheless, the group the Badgers were bringing back were talented and well received. Mike Taylor (6-2, 230) would be the only returning starter in this group. The weakside linebacker had done enough as a sophomore to be named a third team all Big 10 last season. 2011 would see Taylor have a monster season.
Taylor's season started out good, but no indications of just how special it would be until a little later in the season. Through three games, Taylor had notched a respectable 14 tackles with 2 tackles for loss and 1 sack. After that, though, Taylor really started to excel. Against Ohio State, Taylor...
Click here to read entire story
Saturday, December 17, 2011
Rose Bowl Match-Ups: Tight Ends
Breaking down the tight ends was not all that difficult. Oregon uses tehir tight ends more in the passing game than Wisconsin and the Duck tight ends are considerably more effective when getting the ball. But there is more to the tight ends than catching the ball and the Ducks have the advantage there as well... read on!
Oregon: As the Ducks went into summer, the tight end position was considered a strength for Oregon. Returning All Pac-10 first team tight end David Paulson along with play maker Brandon Williams and talented freshman Curtis White, the Ducks were adding two more talented tight ends with Colt Lyerla and Christian French.
Over the summer, though, the Ducks lost Williams to retirement. Yet, the Ducks still had quality with White and the two incoming freshman. Early in fall camp, Lyerla showed why he was so highly regarded and White showed great promise as the back-up to the always solid Paulson. Then White injured his Achilles and the Ducks were now down to Paulson and two true freshmen.
The one sure thing the Ducks had at tight end, though, was David Paulson. Continuing a long string of very successful tight ends, Paulson showed as a junior great hands, precise routes, an understanding of the offense, how to attack a defense and...
Wisconsin: The Badgers leading receiver in 2010 was their tight end. Unfortunately for the Badgers, Lance Kendricks graduated and took his team highs in receptions (43), yards (663) and touchdowns (5) with him.
Many have compared the Badgers to Stanford, but there is a major difference between Stanford and the Badgers; tight ends. Stanford, when healthy, employed 3 tight ends in their offense and used them all effectively. In 2011 Wisconsin, on the other hand, uses two tight ends, sometimes starting two at the same time, but only one of them is utilized in the passing game.
Click here to continue reading...
Oregon: As the Ducks went into summer, the tight end position was considered a strength for Oregon. Returning All Pac-10 first team tight end David Paulson along with play maker Brandon Williams and talented freshman Curtis White, the Ducks were adding two more talented tight ends with Colt Lyerla and Christian French.
Over the summer, though, the Ducks lost Williams to retirement. Yet, the Ducks still had quality with White and the two incoming freshman. Early in fall camp, Lyerla showed why he was so highly regarded and White showed great promise as the back-up to the always solid Paulson. Then White injured his Achilles and the Ducks were now down to Paulson and two true freshmen.
The one sure thing the Ducks had at tight end, though, was David Paulson. Continuing a long string of very successful tight ends, Paulson showed as a junior great hands, precise routes, an understanding of the offense, how to attack a defense and...
Wisconsin: The Badgers leading receiver in 2010 was their tight end. Unfortunately for the Badgers, Lance Kendricks graduated and took his team highs in receptions (43), yards (663) and touchdowns (5) with him.
Many have compared the Badgers to Stanford, but there is a major difference between Stanford and the Badgers; tight ends. Stanford, when healthy, employed 3 tight ends in their offense and used them all effectively. In 2011 Wisconsin, on the other hand, uses two tight ends, sometimes starting two at the same time, but only one of them is utilized in the passing game.
Click here to continue reading...
Thursday, December 15, 2011
Rose Bowl Match-Ups: Defensive Tackles
Okay, time for the next installment on the path to the Rose Bowl. I was pretty sure where this would lead with defensive tackles and was not surprised at the information I learned in looking at the defensive tackles of both teams.
I was surprised, however, at the conference statistics of the two teams. Read through the Duck Sports Authority article and at the end you will see some interesting numbers in the rush defense for both teams.
Oregon: During the Ducks run to the 2010 BCS National Championship Game, defense played a very big role in the team's success. Much of that success on the defensive side of the ball began with the defensive tackles. With the departure of Brandon Bair and Zac Clark to Graduation, the Ducks found themselves with another position that needed to be reloaded with new talent. Fortunately, the Ducks had rotated in a lot of reserve players getting just about everyone on the team important reps in meaningful games.
At the beginning of the year, the starters at defensive tackle were Taylor Hart (6-6, 283) and Isaac Remington (6-6, 286), a junior college transfer. Though they started, once again, Oregon defensive coordinator Nick Alliotti found himself...
The Badgers run out of a base 4-3 defense and are even more intent on occupying blockers and letting their linebackers make plays.
The defensive tackle group is led by Ethan Hemer (6-6, 300) a redshirt sophomore from Medford, Wisconsin. Hemer joined the Badgers as a lightly regarded defensive end. After adding 50 pounds to his frame, he has become a very good defensive tackle for Wisconsin. Hemer started out strong with 4 tackles against an over-matched UNLV squad to open the season. From there, Hemer was a little up and down, but closed out strong with 11 tackles over the final three games of the season. For the year Hemer leads the defensive tackle group for Wisconsin with 32 tackles and 1 tackle for loss against FCS opponent South Dakota.
Starting next to Hemer will be ...
Click here to continue reading
I was surprised, however, at the conference statistics of the two teams. Read through the Duck Sports Authority article and at the end you will see some interesting numbers in the rush defense for both teams.
Oregon: During the Ducks run to the 2010 BCS National Championship Game, defense played a very big role in the team's success. Much of that success on the defensive side of the ball began with the defensive tackles. With the departure of Brandon Bair and Zac Clark to Graduation, the Ducks found themselves with another position that needed to be reloaded with new talent. Fortunately, the Ducks had rotated in a lot of reserve players getting just about everyone on the team important reps in meaningful games.
At the beginning of the year, the starters at defensive tackle were Taylor Hart (6-6, 283) and Isaac Remington (6-6, 286), a junior college transfer. Though they started, once again, Oregon defensive coordinator Nick Alliotti found himself...
The Badgers run out of a base 4-3 defense and are even more intent on occupying blockers and letting their linebackers make plays.
The defensive tackle group is led by Ethan Hemer (6-6, 300) a redshirt sophomore from Medford, Wisconsin. Hemer joined the Badgers as a lightly regarded defensive end. After adding 50 pounds to his frame, he has become a very good defensive tackle for Wisconsin. Hemer started out strong with 4 tackles against an over-matched UNLV squad to open the season. From there, Hemer was a little up and down, but closed out strong with 11 tackles over the final three games of the season. For the year Hemer leads the defensive tackle group for Wisconsin with 32 tackles and 1 tackle for loss against FCS opponent South Dakota.
Starting next to Hemer will be ...
Click here to continue reading
Thursday Morning Rundown
It's been a few days since the last entry. Giving everyone time to absorb all that happens without building up too early to the game.
So the big news of course, was Aaron Fentress' reports about LaMichael James declaring that he was forgoing his senior season to enter the NFL draft. I am not sure who the source is, but this is still likely a decision that has not been completely made. I think it is likely that James is leaning towards that conclusion, but he also really loves college and college football. I think he knows that the team has a legitimate shot at another National Championship run next year when the defense will be a lot better and the offense will have another year together.
I have heard that he is also considering coming back to get his masters degree. Will he come back? OInly LaMichael knows at this point. However, this team is preparing for a Rose Bowl. At this point, it is best to let James make an announcement when he is ready to do so and not a minute sooner. he has earned the right to have this process respected.
Any reporter can get a scoop. And, that is their job. It's just too bad that their job is so often a conflict of interest with the team that they cover. in this case, at this point in time, it is in the best interests of the team to respect LaMichael James' wishes and leave the subject alone until he is ready to make an announcement.
James is only 600 yards away from the all-time Pac-10/12 rushing record and about 1300 yards away from the NCAA record. The Ducks are set up for a great run next season. James is one of the best ever in the Pac-10 conference. Whatever LaMichael chooses, I wish him the most success and health possible.
So the big news of course, was Aaron Fentress' reports about LaMichael James declaring that he was forgoing his senior season to enter the NFL draft. I am not sure who the source is, but this is still likely a decision that has not been completely made. I think it is likely that James is leaning towards that conclusion, but he also really loves college and college football. I think he knows that the team has a legitimate shot at another National Championship run next year when the defense will be a lot better and the offense will have another year together.
I have heard that he is also considering coming back to get his masters degree. Will he come back? OInly LaMichael knows at this point. However, this team is preparing for a Rose Bowl. At this point, it is best to let James make an announcement when he is ready to do so and not a minute sooner. he has earned the right to have this process respected.
Any reporter can get a scoop. And, that is their job. It's just too bad that their job is so often a conflict of interest with the team that they cover. in this case, at this point in time, it is in the best interests of the team to respect LaMichael James' wishes and leave the subject alone until he is ready to make an announcement.
James is only 600 yards away from the all-time Pac-10/12 rushing record and about 1300 yards away from the NCAA record. The Ducks are set up for a great run next season. James is one of the best ever in the Pac-10 conference. Whatever LaMichael chooses, I wish him the most success and health possible.
Sunday, December 11, 2011
Build Up to the Rose Bowl
ROSE BOWL THOUGHTS
As we build up towards the Rose Bowl I will do at least three position breakdowns each week culminating with the overall offense and defense with score predictions.
This has been a very interesting year for the football team for a multitude of reasons. Even though most were expecting 2011 to be a bit of a rebuilding year, the Ducks were not far off of a Championship Game return. Incredible, really, if you think about it deeper. If the Ducks 2011 schedule had not included the #1 team in the nation, then it comes down to how the team plays against USC. I like their chances undefeated with USC at home.
Of course, any team can play the woulda, coulda, shoulda game and come up with plausible scenarios for how their team could have had a better season, so I won't think back with too much regret. As I look back, the most important game the Ducks played was Stanford; and the Ducks won. Why was it the most important? Because without that win, the Ducks are not in the Conference Title game and have to HOPE that a BCS bid comes their way. I would prefer to see the team earn it with a victory.
Looking back, with everything that has happened this season, I think all Duck fans should be very happy with where we are at.
*-First game loss
*-Michael Clay injured early in season and missed time
*-Cliff Harris, though he played in six games, never really saw extensive playing time
*-LaMichael James dislocates an elbow, misses two games and plays only about one half of a third
*- Darron Thomas injures both knees and misses a game
*-Lose two senior wide receivers from 2010
*-Lose three offensive line starters from 2010
*-Lose two linebackers from 2010 who are currently playing in the NFL
*-Kenjon Barner misses time with an ankle injury
All of these and others could have caused many a team to fold; not the Ducks. The Ducks simply filled the holes and went out to win the day. For that, fans are now rewarded with a trip to Pasadena. I will be going and will bring some tailgate pictures and memories back with me to share.
REASON FOR THE DEPARTURES FROM BASKETBALL TEAM?
Looking at what Devoe Joseph did in his first game as a Duck, is there a reason that maybe Jabari Brown and Bruce Barron saw something that would limit their time this season?
I have no clue, neither have really given any indication as to why they left, but it seems that maybe Brown thought of himself as a one year player and the presence of a senior like Joseph was going to limit his playing time over the course of the season?
All I know is that Joseph played a heckuva game for the Ducks yesterday and Duck fans should be glad to have him for the one season he is in Eugene.
It seems short-sighted to transfer so early into a freshman season, but Brown and Barron have their reasons. I live by the motto "once a Duck ALWAYS a Duck" and I wish them well in their future and hope they have much success.
As we build up towards the Rose Bowl I will do at least three position breakdowns each week culminating with the overall offense and defense with score predictions.
This has been a very interesting year for the football team for a multitude of reasons. Even though most were expecting 2011 to be a bit of a rebuilding year, the Ducks were not far off of a Championship Game return. Incredible, really, if you think about it deeper. If the Ducks 2011 schedule had not included the #1 team in the nation, then it comes down to how the team plays against USC. I like their chances undefeated with USC at home.
Of course, any team can play the woulda, coulda, shoulda game and come up with plausible scenarios for how their team could have had a better season, so I won't think back with too much regret. As I look back, the most important game the Ducks played was Stanford; and the Ducks won. Why was it the most important? Because without that win, the Ducks are not in the Conference Title game and have to HOPE that a BCS bid comes their way. I would prefer to see the team earn it with a victory.
Looking back, with everything that has happened this season, I think all Duck fans should be very happy with where we are at.
*-First game loss
*-Michael Clay injured early in season and missed time
*-Cliff Harris, though he played in six games, never really saw extensive playing time
*-LaMichael James dislocates an elbow, misses two games and plays only about one half of a third
*- Darron Thomas injures both knees and misses a game
*-Lose two senior wide receivers from 2010
*-Lose three offensive line starters from 2010
*-Lose two linebackers from 2010 who are currently playing in the NFL
*-Kenjon Barner misses time with an ankle injury
All of these and others could have caused many a team to fold; not the Ducks. The Ducks simply filled the holes and went out to win the day. For that, fans are now rewarded with a trip to Pasadena. I will be going and will bring some tailgate pictures and memories back with me to share.
REASON FOR THE DEPARTURES FROM BASKETBALL TEAM?
Looking at what Devoe Joseph did in his first game as a Duck, is there a reason that maybe Jabari Brown and Bruce Barron saw something that would limit their time this season?
I have no clue, neither have really given any indication as to why they left, but it seems that maybe Brown thought of himself as a one year player and the presence of a senior like Joseph was going to limit his playing time over the course of the season?
All I know is that Joseph played a heckuva game for the Ducks yesterday and Duck fans should be glad to have him for the one season he is in Eugene.
It seems short-sighted to transfer so early into a freshman season, but Brown and Barron have their reasons. I live by the motto "once a Duck ALWAYS a Duck" and I wish them well in their future and hope they have much success.
Friday, December 9, 2011
Rose Bowl Match-Ups: Wide Receivers
This was another surprise to me as I looked at the statistics and depth charts for both schools. Wisconsin has NO depth at this position. They have their two starters and a back-up. That's it.
What's more, Duck wide receivers had more catches as a group than Wisconsin and just 19 less total yards..
Oregon: Wide receiver is another position that the Ducks found themselves needing to reload at in the 2011 season. Lost from the 12-1 national championship runners-up were Jeff Maehl and DJ Davis who completed their eligibility in 2010. Duck fans found themselves optimistic, though, as Lavasier Tuinei, a rangy receiver with good hands, returned. 2010 also saw the emergence of Josh Huff, the speedster out of Texas. The Ducks were looking for a breakout year from Huff. Coaches and teammates felt that there was only one starter that needed to be found.
Unfortunately, Huff found himself injured in fall camp. Without his speed on the outside, opponents would be better equipped to stack the box and play against the run. The Ducks signed 4 wide receivers in the 2011 class, three freshman and a junior college transfer. Early on in the season, though, it became clear that the three freshmen were going to need to redshirt. Someone else was going to need to step up if the Ducks...
Wisconsin: The Badgers faced a similar uncertainty in their wide receiver group coming into the 2011 season. The leading receiver in 2010 was the tight end. The one constant the team was sure they could count on was the son of former New York Jet All Toon. Nick Toon was a legacy player for Wisconsin following in his fathers footsteps to Madison. Nick had played well enough to be the second leading receiver for the Badgers as a junior.
Entering his senior year off of the frustration that came from a Rose Bowl loss to TCU in January, Toon started the season strong with...
Click here to read entire story
What's more, Duck wide receivers had more catches as a group than Wisconsin and just 19 less total yards..
Oregon: Wide receiver is another position that the Ducks found themselves needing to reload at in the 2011 season. Lost from the 12-1 national championship runners-up were Jeff Maehl and DJ Davis who completed their eligibility in 2010. Duck fans found themselves optimistic, though, as Lavasier Tuinei, a rangy receiver with good hands, returned. 2010 also saw the emergence of Josh Huff, the speedster out of Texas. The Ducks were looking for a breakout year from Huff. Coaches and teammates felt that there was only one starter that needed to be found.
Unfortunately, Huff found himself injured in fall camp. Without his speed on the outside, opponents would be better equipped to stack the box and play against the run. The Ducks signed 4 wide receivers in the 2011 class, three freshman and a junior college transfer. Early on in the season, though, it became clear that the three freshmen were going to need to redshirt. Someone else was going to need to step up if the Ducks...
Wisconsin: The Badgers faced a similar uncertainty in their wide receiver group coming into the 2011 season. The leading receiver in 2010 was the tight end. The one constant the team was sure they could count on was the son of former New York Jet All Toon. Nick Toon was a legacy player for Wisconsin following in his fathers footsteps to Madison. Nick had played well enough to be the second leading receiver for the Badgers as a junior.
Entering his senior year off of the frustration that came from a Rose Bowl loss to TCU in January, Toon started the season strong with...
Click here to read entire story
Thursday, December 8, 2011
Rose Bowl Match-Ups: Defensive Ends
Today's look is at the other side of the ball; the defensive ends. Wisconsin took a blow early this season when their best defensive end went down with a broken foot suffered in practice.
The Badgers have the better "ranking" defensively, but are they the better defense? Take a look at today's match-up article and decide for yourself.
Oregon: At the beginning of the season, the Ducks were looking to replace the multi-talented hybrid defensive end Kenny Rowe. A new position had been created to take advantage of Rowe's versatility on defense. During the season, the frenetic pace at which Oregon played, gave the Ducks a chance to see a potential replacement for Rowe; Dion Jordan. Jordan had a good year in a back-up role to Rowe recording 33 tackles and 2 sacks in 2010. Early in the 2011 season, it became clear that Jordan was more than capable of filling the shoes of the departed Rowe. Nonetheless, it was not until mid-season that Jordan really began to make his presence felt.
Jordan opened the season with 3 tackles against LSU...
Wisconsin: While much is made of the Wisconsin power offense, very few people know about their defense. The defensive ends fit the mold of the "no-name defense" that their coaches love to talk about. The early part of 2011 began with David Gilbert, a junior from Coral Springs, Florida, getting the nod at one of the defensive end positions. After impressive performances during the first 4 games of the season, Gilbert broke his foot in practice. Gilbert was projected to miss 6-8 weeks, but as a junior who has not yet redshirted, Coach Bielema is looking to use a redshirt for this season. It is very unlikely that Gilbert will come back for the Rose Bowl. In his first four games, Gilbert had recorded 10 tackles, 3.5 tackles for loss and 3 sacks.
In his place another junior, Brendan Kelly (6-6, 255) stepped ...
Click here to continue reading!
The Badgers have the better "ranking" defensively, but are they the better defense? Take a look at today's match-up article and decide for yourself.
Oregon: At the beginning of the season, the Ducks were looking to replace the multi-talented hybrid defensive end Kenny Rowe. A new position had been created to take advantage of Rowe's versatility on defense. During the season, the frenetic pace at which Oregon played, gave the Ducks a chance to see a potential replacement for Rowe; Dion Jordan. Jordan had a good year in a back-up role to Rowe recording 33 tackles and 2 sacks in 2010. Early in the 2011 season, it became clear that Jordan was more than capable of filling the shoes of the departed Rowe. Nonetheless, it was not until mid-season that Jordan really began to make his presence felt.
Jordan opened the season with 3 tackles against LSU...
Wisconsin: While much is made of the Wisconsin power offense, very few people know about their defense. The defensive ends fit the mold of the "no-name defense" that their coaches love to talk about. The early part of 2011 began with David Gilbert, a junior from Coral Springs, Florida, getting the nod at one of the defensive end positions. After impressive performances during the first 4 games of the season, Gilbert broke his foot in practice. Gilbert was projected to miss 6-8 weeks, but as a junior who has not yet redshirted, Coach Bielema is looking to use a redshirt for this season. It is very unlikely that Gilbert will come back for the Rose Bowl. In his first four games, Gilbert had recorded 10 tackles, 3.5 tackles for loss and 3 sacks.
In his place another junior, Brendan Kelly (6-6, 255) stepped ...
Click here to continue reading!
Wednesday, December 7, 2011
Rose Bowl Match-Ups: Quarterbacks
Okay, leading up to the Rose Bowl, I will be doing match-up article for Duck Sports Authority. I was a little surprised by some of the statistics as I did the research.
The most important difference I saw was that the Wisconsin QB has not been significantly better than last year's QB Scott Tolzien. Russell Wilson has a higher pass efficiency rating, mostly due to a higher number of touchdown passes. But he has thrown for what is essentially the same completion percentage. He has a similar yards per attempt number and yards per completion are close to Tolzien's. Wilson has passed for about 30 yards per game more than last season.
On the flip side, Darron Thomas, despite the noticeable slow starts in games has actually been MORE efficient this season. His Passer Efficiency rating this season is 155.2 compared to 151.0 last season. Thomas has completed essentially the same percentage of passes, for the same yards per attempt. he has just thrown much less this season. Part of that can be traced to Kenjon Barner being healthy in the middle of the season and De'Anthony Thomas' presence to help give LaMichael James more rest.
Basically, I see a lot of commentary that the Badgers have a huge edge at the QB position, and I just do not see it as that big of an edge. Both QB's are efficient and make very few mistakes. Both are mobile QB's who run their teams very well.
HERE IS AN EXCERPT:
OREGON
Darron Thomas began 2010 in a battle for the starting QB position for the Ducks. By the end of camp, the redshirt sophomore had won the position. As 2010 progressed, Duck fans began to understand why as Thomas led the team to it's second consecutive conference title, an undefeated regular season and a berth in the BCS National Championship Game. Though the Ducks lost 3 starters from the offensive line in 2011, they were favored to take a third consecutive conference title.
The 2011 season played out differently, though...
WISCONSIN
Wisconsin entered the off-season after the 2011 Rose Bowl in search of a new quarterback. Scott Tolzein, the 2010 starter was graduating after a stellar senior campaign that saw him complete nearly 73% of his passes for 2459 yards. Tolzein threw for 16 touchdowns and was sacked just 14 times in 13 games in 2010. Tolzien and the Badgers were very efficient in the passing game last season averaging 9.4 yards per attempt passing and 12.8 yards per catch for a QB Efficiency rating of 165.9. Replacing his production would be a tall order.
The Badgers found luck in the NCAA transfer rule for graduating seniors with eligibility remaining. Russell Wilson...
Click here to read the entire story
The most important difference I saw was that the Wisconsin QB has not been significantly better than last year's QB Scott Tolzien. Russell Wilson has a higher pass efficiency rating, mostly due to a higher number of touchdown passes. But he has thrown for what is essentially the same completion percentage. He has a similar yards per attempt number and yards per completion are close to Tolzien's. Wilson has passed for about 30 yards per game more than last season.
On the flip side, Darron Thomas, despite the noticeable slow starts in games has actually been MORE efficient this season. His Passer Efficiency rating this season is 155.2 compared to 151.0 last season. Thomas has completed essentially the same percentage of passes, for the same yards per attempt. he has just thrown much less this season. Part of that can be traced to Kenjon Barner being healthy in the middle of the season and De'Anthony Thomas' presence to help give LaMichael James more rest.
Basically, I see a lot of commentary that the Badgers have a huge edge at the QB position, and I just do not see it as that big of an edge. Both QB's are efficient and make very few mistakes. Both are mobile QB's who run their teams very well.
HERE IS AN EXCERPT:
OREGON
Darron Thomas began 2010 in a battle for the starting QB position for the Ducks. By the end of camp, the redshirt sophomore had won the position. As 2010 progressed, Duck fans began to understand why as Thomas led the team to it's second consecutive conference title, an undefeated regular season and a berth in the BCS National Championship Game. Though the Ducks lost 3 starters from the offensive line in 2011, they were favored to take a third consecutive conference title.
The 2011 season played out differently, though...
WISCONSIN
Wisconsin entered the off-season after the 2011 Rose Bowl in search of a new quarterback. Scott Tolzein, the 2010 starter was graduating after a stellar senior campaign that saw him complete nearly 73% of his passes for 2459 yards. Tolzein threw for 16 touchdowns and was sacked just 14 times in 13 games in 2010. Tolzien and the Badgers were very efficient in the passing game last season averaging 9.4 yards per attempt passing and 12.8 yards per catch for a QB Efficiency rating of 165.9. Replacing his production would be a tall order.
The Badgers found luck in the NCAA transfer rule for graduating seniors with eligibility remaining. Russell Wilson...
Click here to read the entire story
Monday, December 5, 2011
Oregon Will Lyles Investigation Update
Now that the regular season is complete and we await the Rose Bowl match with Wisconsin, the questions have begun to creep up about the investigation the NCAA is performing into Oregon's use of recruiting services.
My regular readers do not need to be inundated with a history lesson on this subject. To do so is lazy journalism that implies stupidity on the readers parts and fills pages with meaningless repetitive information.
The reason we have not heard yet from the NCAA with whether a notice of allegations is due soon is simple; the NCAA has not completed their investigation. I just received word today that the NCAA has another interview with a different former player this Wednesday. To the best of my knowledge, this will be the final interview of former players or current players and their dealings with Will Lyles.
There is no doubt, now, that prospects who were being mentored by Will Lyles received improper benefits. These players, including the player to be interviewed this week, have been granted full immunity for their information. At the moment, there seems no need for concern that the immunity is a sign of bad things to come for Oregon.
Players need immunity because, in the case of the players mentored by Lyles, the players come from families with very little means with which to repay the benefits they received. Without immunity, the players would be suspended for 4 games, but would not be eligible for reinstatement until the benefits had been repaid to charity. It is known that the Ducks discovered the improper benefits of at least one former player and suspended him for 4 games. The Ducks were working with the player to repay the benefits prior to his departure from the program.
The request for immunity does not signal doom, rather it signals the players admission that they did indeed receive benefits that fall outside of the scope of permissibility. Lyles gave many young men benefits that he knew were improper and the NCAA, for once, is doing an honorable thing and finding a way to allow these young men to continue playing football.
To the best of my knowledge, there is nothing the NCAA will learn this week that they did not already know. The player in question did not take any unofficial visits to Oregon. He did visit other schools for camps and that will likely be a point of emphasis in the questions. Though the NCAA is sure to also ask about Lyles' influence during the recruiting process, in this particular case, that influence was not as significant as with other players.
The sad truth is that Will Lyles did provide some true assistance to many of the young men he mentored. There are some that would never have made it into college without his assistance. That assistance was sincere and well intentioned. Unfortunately, Will Lyles also provided considerable improper benefits to many young men.
While the investigation appears to be winding down, the questions will likely persist for a long time to come. Rest assured, though, Duck fans, that the investigative process is almost complete. This Wednesday's interview is likely the last to be conducted of a player by the NCAA.
My regular readers do not need to be inundated with a history lesson on this subject. To do so is lazy journalism that implies stupidity on the readers parts and fills pages with meaningless repetitive information.
The reason we have not heard yet from the NCAA with whether a notice of allegations is due soon is simple; the NCAA has not completed their investigation. I just received word today that the NCAA has another interview with a different former player this Wednesday. To the best of my knowledge, this will be the final interview of former players or current players and their dealings with Will Lyles.
There is no doubt, now, that prospects who were being mentored by Will Lyles received improper benefits. These players, including the player to be interviewed this week, have been granted full immunity for their information. At the moment, there seems no need for concern that the immunity is a sign of bad things to come for Oregon.
Players need immunity because, in the case of the players mentored by Lyles, the players come from families with very little means with which to repay the benefits they received. Without immunity, the players would be suspended for 4 games, but would not be eligible for reinstatement until the benefits had been repaid to charity. It is known that the Ducks discovered the improper benefits of at least one former player and suspended him for 4 games. The Ducks were working with the player to repay the benefits prior to his departure from the program.
The request for immunity does not signal doom, rather it signals the players admission that they did indeed receive benefits that fall outside of the scope of permissibility. Lyles gave many young men benefits that he knew were improper and the NCAA, for once, is doing an honorable thing and finding a way to allow these young men to continue playing football.
To the best of my knowledge, there is nothing the NCAA will learn this week that they did not already know. The player in question did not take any unofficial visits to Oregon. He did visit other schools for camps and that will likely be a point of emphasis in the questions. Though the NCAA is sure to also ask about Lyles' influence during the recruiting process, in this particular case, that influence was not as significant as with other players.
The sad truth is that Will Lyles did provide some true assistance to many of the young men he mentored. There are some that would never have made it into college without his assistance. That assistance was sincere and well intentioned. Unfortunately, Will Lyles also provided considerable improper benefits to many young men.
While the investigation appears to be winding down, the questions will likely persist for a long time to come. Rest assured, though, Duck fans, that the investigative process is almost complete. This Wednesday's interview is likely the last to be conducted of a player by the NCAA.
Monday Afternoon Thoughts
Early Rose Bowl Thoughts:
I heard a strange phenomenon today. Listening to a Wisconsin reporter discuss the game, he picked the Ducks in a close battle... and then our local experts decide to weigh in with their opinions. I would say informed opinions, but it does not seem to be, and it occurred to me why our local journalists make such statements, they are simply reactionary. Rather than begin to dissect a game in-depth, they simply look at base generalities, then jump to a conclusion. Why? Simple; because it is easier than actually doing some research.
As an example, the local journalists will tell you that the Badgers are simply going to run all over the Ducks and dominate them on the ground. Statistically speaking, that looks semi plausible. But look a little deeper for some truth. As an offense this season, Wisconsin averages gaining 43% more yards than their opponents allow per game. the Badgers gain30% more per carry than their opponents allow (opponents allow 4.1 yards per carry, Badgers averaged 5.3 yards per carry). The Ducks defense, however, holds teams to 79.8% LESS total yards and 18.6% LESS yards per carry than the opponent averaged on the season.
Looking at the reverse, the Duck offense averages gaining 97% more yards per game and 51% more yards per carry than their opponents allowed. Meanwhile, the Wisconsin defense averages holding opponents to 19% less yards and only 7.2% less yards per carry than their opponents had averaged.
This tells us that the Oregon defense has had more success at holding opponents below their average than Wisconsin and that the Ducks running game has had more success against their opponents, by comparative performance than the Badgers. Certainly this does not guarantee a win, but it shows that the Wisconsin offense, though very large, was not able to simply impose their will on teams. At the same time, their defense was not effective in holding other teams down. They were simply "treading water" against their opponents basically allowing what the other teams averaged.
When calculating it out, that means that the Duck running game is likely to average between 5.3-6.5 yards per carry and gain 236-250 total yards on the ground. The Badgers, looking at these statistics, are likely to get in the range of 4.5-4.7 yards per carry and 179-189 total yards if statistical trends hold true. That gives a better picture of the game than "their guys big, Oregon guys small, Oregon in trouble." Come on local journalists, you get PAID to write about something, try to get informed before you spew mindless drivel!
Cliff Harris Dismissed
I would be remiss if I did not mention this here. Cliff Harris is an exceptionally talented individual on the field. i do not know what transgression transpired that resulted in his outright dismissal from the program and I am not going to speculate. To do so is unfair and unnecessary. As I say with all Ducks, once a Duck always a Duck. But I will say that no one player should be above the program.
I want to wish Cliff Harris luck in all his future endeavors and I will be cheering for his success. I hope not only that he succeeds on the field, but more importantly off the field.
I heard a strange phenomenon today. Listening to a Wisconsin reporter discuss the game, he picked the Ducks in a close battle... and then our local experts decide to weigh in with their opinions. I would say informed opinions, but it does not seem to be, and it occurred to me why our local journalists make such statements, they are simply reactionary. Rather than begin to dissect a game in-depth, they simply look at base generalities, then jump to a conclusion. Why? Simple; because it is easier than actually doing some research.
As an example, the local journalists will tell you that the Badgers are simply going to run all over the Ducks and dominate them on the ground. Statistically speaking, that looks semi plausible. But look a little deeper for some truth. As an offense this season, Wisconsin averages gaining 43% more yards than their opponents allow per game. the Badgers gain30% more per carry than their opponents allow (opponents allow 4.1 yards per carry, Badgers averaged 5.3 yards per carry). The Ducks defense, however, holds teams to 79.8% LESS total yards and 18.6% LESS yards per carry than the opponent averaged on the season.
Looking at the reverse, the Duck offense averages gaining 97% more yards per game and 51% more yards per carry than their opponents allowed. Meanwhile, the Wisconsin defense averages holding opponents to 19% less yards and only 7.2% less yards per carry than their opponents had averaged.
This tells us that the Oregon defense has had more success at holding opponents below their average than Wisconsin and that the Ducks running game has had more success against their opponents, by comparative performance than the Badgers. Certainly this does not guarantee a win, but it shows that the Wisconsin offense, though very large, was not able to simply impose their will on teams. At the same time, their defense was not effective in holding other teams down. They were simply "treading water" against their opponents basically allowing what the other teams averaged.
When calculating it out, that means that the Duck running game is likely to average between 5.3-6.5 yards per carry and gain 236-250 total yards on the ground. The Badgers, looking at these statistics, are likely to get in the range of 4.5-4.7 yards per carry and 179-189 total yards if statistical trends hold true. That gives a better picture of the game than "their guys big, Oregon guys small, Oregon in trouble." Come on local journalists, you get PAID to write about something, try to get informed before you spew mindless drivel!
Cliff Harris Dismissed
I would be remiss if I did not mention this here. Cliff Harris is an exceptionally talented individual on the field. i do not know what transgression transpired that resulted in his outright dismissal from the program and I am not going to speculate. To do so is unfair and unnecessary. As I say with all Ducks, once a Duck always a Duck. But I will say that no one player should be above the program.
I want to wish Cliff Harris luck in all his future endeavors and I will be cheering for his success. I hope not only that he succeeds on the field, but more importantly off the field.
Sunday, December 4, 2011
Monday Morning Quarterback: Championship Week
A Look Back the Pac-12 Title Game
Oregon-UCLA
Offense: The Ducks were able, for the most part, to impose their will on UCLA. There were some missed opportunities and some familiar traits to the start of this game that have garnered attention amongst some. Still, the Ducks led 21-7 at the end of the first quarter and this game was never really in doubt. UCLA played inspired early after feeling some new life granted by Utah's loss and pride/guilt at playing for Rick Neuheisel.
Oregon-UCLA
Offense: The Ducks were able, for the most part, to impose their will on UCLA. There were some missed opportunities and some familiar traits to the start of this game that have garnered attention amongst some. Still, the Ducks led 21-7 at the end of the first quarter and this game was never really in doubt. UCLA played inspired early after feeling some new life granted by Utah's loss and pride/guilt at playing for Rick Neuheisel.
Darron Thomas played good but not great and was not helped out by his receivers much early in the game. Late int he game, witha chance to put the nail in the Bruins coffin, Thomas threw a beautiful pass into the end-zone for Josh Huff that was dropped.
The rushing attack showed why it is the best in the conference as LaMichael James capped, possibly, his career at Autzen with his fourth 200 yard game of the season. Darron Thomas proved that even a few carries by him will keep an opponent honest and Kenjon Barner quietly surpassed 900 rushing yards this season.
Defense:UCLA gave Oregon a few troubles, but not as many as many might believe. The Bruins had two long drives in the game that gave them 168 yards. In their other 12 possessions, the Bruins accounted for only 169 yards. From the second quarter until the last drive by the Bruins, the Ducks limited UCLA to 158 yards on 34 plays for an average of 4.6 yards per play.
This UCLA team came in averaging 193.2 yards per game on the ground. The Ducks had held them to 126 yards. Overall, the Ducks still held the Bruins to just 160 yards. Considering the plan UCLA had to control the ball with the ground game, the defense played well. They gave up a couple of big plays, but it is tough to argue with the overall results.
Coaching: Chip Kelly was as aggressive as always and it turned out well for him in most cases. Chip used the clock effectively and managed the teams emotions very well. When De'Anthony Thomas went down, Kelly made the choice to use Kenjon at the tazer position rather than move Huff inside. Though many voiced the opinion that Huff should have been moved inside to the slot and let Hawkins fill Huff's spot, this was a better decision that allowed the best players to be on the field at the same time.
Around the rest of the conference:
Arizona State: ASU also fired their coach this week. There are a lot of benefits to coaching at ASU and if the next coach is good at exploiting those benefits, teh Pac-12 South may become a very tough place to win football games.
Arizona: Arizona made a home run hire. While the spread may not have worked in Michigane it will likely have great success in Arizona. Rich Rodriguez will have access tot he type of athletes he needs being so close to Texas and California.
California: The Golden Bears finished 7-5, but their play late int eh season gives them hope for next season. The defense played well at times this year, but the problem was their inconsistent QB play. As the season came to a close, Maynard looked to be "getting it" and that should give them some reason to believe next year will be better.
Colorado: The Buffaloes found that the Pac-12 is no easier than the old Big 12 was. They were able, however, to make a statement by winning their first road game in 24 tries as well as ruin Utah's dreams of a Rose Bowl.
Oregon State: The Beavers have had their worst season since 1997. With their second consecutive losing season, the Beavers will need to fill a lot of holes and do some serious soul searching as a staff int he off-season. Will Mike Riley be on a hot seat next season?
Stanford: The Cardinal once again finished 12-1 and will play ina BCS bowl. Their loss to Oregon, though, kept them from a conference title and probably National Championship Game match-up with LSU. Will Andrew Luck go to the NFL? Will Luck's departure send the team back to the middle of the conference? Time will tell.
USC: The Trojans have made their statement; they believe that they will be back next seasona nd contend for a national title. That hope, though, depends on Matt Barkley's decision. If he leaves for the draft, there is at least one other player, Ryan Kalil, who has said he will do whatever Barkley does. If that happens, expect the Trojans to take a small step backwards as there is no experience at the QB position behind Barkley.
UCLA: UCLA is now at a crossrods. Two consecutive bad coaching hires have left them rudderless. With USC still having not entered the worst part of their sanctions, one more bad hire could leave the Bruins permanently out of the picture in the LA sports scene for high school football players.
Utah: Utah learned that the Pac-12 is tougher than the Mountain West. You have to play your best every week to win in this conference. By losing to Colorado, the Utes also lost out ona Pac-12 Conference Championship Game match with the Ducks. But the Utes have a very good defense and will be a tough game for everyone next season.
Washington: Steve Sarkisian has done a great job turning around the Huskies. But to contend for division and conference titles, he is going to have to get a lot more depth. He has done a nice job of getting quality starters in Seattle, but they need depth to stay competitive throughout an entire season.
Washington State: The Cougars took a gamble and hired a coach with some baggage. But that is what they needed. Mike Leach is a brilliant football mind and will bring some instant credibility to their offense. Will he win? Not right away, but he will make every game they play exciting
UCLA: UCLA is now at a crossrods. Two consecutive bad coaching hires have left them rudderless. With USC still having not entered the worst part of their sanctions, one more bad hire could leave the Bruins permanently out of the picture in the LA sports scene for high school football players.
Utah: Utah learned that the Pac-12 is tougher than the Mountain West. You have to play your best every week to win in this conference. By losing to Colorado, the Utes also lost out ona Pac-12 Conference Championship Game match with the Ducks. But the Utes have a very good defense and will be a tough game for everyone next season.
Washington: Steve Sarkisian has done a great job turning around the Huskies. But to contend for division and conference titles, he is going to have to get a lot more depth. He has done a nice job of getting quality starters in Seattle, but they need depth to stay competitive throughout an entire season.
Washington State: The Cougars took a gamble and hired a coach with some baggage. But that is what they needed. Mike Leach is a brilliant football mind and will bring some instant credibility to their offense. Will he win? Not right away, but he will make every game they play exciting
PAC-12 Bowl Schedule: (All Times PST)
Las Vegas Bowl—Arizona State vs. Boise State (11-1) (5 p.m. ESPN)
Dec. 28Holiday Bowl—California (7-5) vs. Texas (7-5) (5 p.m. ESPN)
Dec. 29
Alamo Bowl—Washington (7-5) vs. Baylor (9-3) (6 p.m. ESPN)
Dec. 31
Sun Bowl—Georgia Tech (8-4) vs. Utah Utes (7-5) (11 a.m. CBS)
Kraft Fight Hunger Bowl—Illinois (6-6) vs. UCLA (6-7) (12:30 p.m. ESPN)
Jan. 2, 2012
Rose Bowl—Wisconsin (11-2) vs. Oregon (11-2) (2 p.m. ESPN)
Fiesta Bowl—Stanford (11-1) vs. Oklahoma State (11-1) (5:30 p.m. ESPN)
Saturday, December 3, 2011
Three Plays That Made the Difference: Pac-12 Championship Game
UCLA entered the inaugural Pac-12 Championship Game a wounded animal with a lame duck coach. After suffering a 50-0 drubbing to cross town rival, the Bruins backed into the title game when Utah could not beat conference cellar dweller Colorado. The Bruins came in 6-6 overall and 5-4 in conference play. The Ducks, meanwhile, had thoroughly dismantled in-state rival Oregon State in the annual Civil War match-up to push their record to 10-2 overall and 8-1 in conference play this season.
Looking back at Friday's game, there were three plays that changed the game.
TWO:
1st Quarter, 12:00
After two possessions, the Bruins had zero total yards on just five plays. The Ducks had scored once. On the second play of their second possession, Darron Thomas completed a pass to De'Anthony Thomas that gained 17 yards. What began as a very promising play ended with a fumble by De'Anthony and a head injury that would sideline him the rest of the game. This would be a key loss as DAT is an electrifying player who could not be replaced. Making matters worse, the Ducks were perilously thin at the wide receiver position with Justin Hoffman still out with apparent concussion like symptoms and Keenan Lowe out with a hand injury.
The turnover would not be converted to points by the Bruins, but the damage was done to some early momentum as well as a very valuable player lost for the rest of the game.
THREE:
4th Quarter, 9:44
On 2nd and 7 from the UCLA 43 yard line, LaMichael James took a hand-off and went to the left side for a 19 yard gain. Though the Ducks would ultimately turn the ball over on downs in this series, the play has meaning beyond this game. That play was, quite possibly, LaMichael James' last carry in Autzen Stadium.
A player whose rise to stardom came on the heels of Oregon's most embarrassing moment may have heard his last Autzen cheer. If James is to never play in Autzen Stadium again, we can still say that we had the chance to see one of the best ever. The first player in the conference to rush for 200 yards in three consecutive games since 1982, used the 19 yard run to secure his fourth 200 yard performance of the season. James is the first player in conference history to rush for 1500 yards or more in three different seasons. His play has been brilliant. Whatever stars Oregon brings out after his departure, none will be LaMichael James.
UCLA entered the inaugural Pac-12 Championship Game a wounded animal with a lame duck coach. After suffering a 50-0 drubbing to cross town rival, the Bruins backed into the title game when Utah could not beat conference cellar dweller Colorado. The Bruins came in 6-6 overall and 5-4 in conference play. The Ducks, meanwhile, had thoroughly dismantled in-state rival Oregon State in the annual Civil War match-up to push their record to 10-2 overall and 8-1 in conference play this season.
Looking back at Friday's game, there were three plays that changed the game.
ONE:
1st Quarter, 14:53
1st Quarter, 14:53
The Ducks, who like to play defense first to get a chance to gain an early possession advantage with a stop, were in business very early. On just the second play of the game, 2nd down and 5 yards to go, the Bruins quarterback, Kevin Prince, fumbled the ball giving possession to Oregon at the UCLA 39 yard line. Four plays later, LaMichael James rushed for a 30 yard touchdown to give the Ducks an early lead and a possession advantage.
TWO:
1st Quarter, 12:00
The turnover would not be converted to points by the Bruins, but the damage was done to some early momentum as well as a very valuable player lost for the rest of the game.
THREE:
4th Quarter, 9:44
A player whose rise to stardom came on the heels of Oregon's most embarrassing moment may have heard his last Autzen cheer. If James is to never play in Autzen Stadium again, we can still say that we had the chance to see one of the best ever. The first player in the conference to rush for 200 yards in three consecutive games since 1982, used the 19 yard run to secure his fourth 200 yard performance of the season. James is the first player in conference history to rush for 1500 yards or more in three different seasons. His play has been brilliant. Whatever stars Oregon brings out after his departure, none will be LaMichael James.
Thursday, December 1, 2011
Breaking Down Pac 12 Title Game Match-Ups: Defense
In the second part of our look at the Oregon-UCLA match-ups, today Duck Sports Authority brings you the defensive side of the ball.
DEFENSIVE ENDS
UCLA: The Bruins defense is more flexible in how they line up depending on the opponent. When the Bruins have faced pass heavy teams, they have used a 4-2-5 alignment as their base in order to have the extra defensive back on the field. Against more traditional offenses, the Bruins use a 4-3 base defense. As the Ducks are neither traditional nor a pass happy offense, it is difficult to predict how the Bruins will line up. They are a little short at linebacker and will feel a pressing need to contain the Ducks speed, so expect a variation of the 4-2-5 on Friday night.
The Bruins start Datone Jones (6-5, 275) and Damien Holmes (6-3, 270) at the defensive end positions. Both of their starters have similar statistical profiles with Jones recording 33 total tackles, 5.5 tackles for loss and 3 sacks. From the other side Holmes has 28 tackles with 5 tackles for loss and 1 sack. The primary reserves for the Bruins, Owamagbe Odighizuwa (6-4, 266) and Keenan Graham (6-3, 255) have seen action in all 12 games this season. Odighizuwa, the Portland native who chose UCLA over Oregon, has 16 tackles and 1 tackle for loss while Graham has 13 tackles, 2.5 tackles for loss and 1 sack.
Oregon: Oregon had seen a very steady group this season with Dion Jordan making a huge defensive impact all year; until being injured against USC and missing most of the game. For the season Jordan has 39 tackles with 12 tackles for loss and 6.5 sacks. Starting on the opposite side is another senior, Terrell Turner. Turner has provided veteran leadership and stability. In fact, Turner leads the group with...
Click here to continue reading...
DEFENSIVE ENDS
UCLA: The Bruins defense is more flexible in how they line up depending on the opponent. When the Bruins have faced pass heavy teams, they have used a 4-2-5 alignment as their base in order to have the extra defensive back on the field. Against more traditional offenses, the Bruins use a 4-3 base defense. As the Ducks are neither traditional nor a pass happy offense, it is difficult to predict how the Bruins will line up. They are a little short at linebacker and will feel a pressing need to contain the Ducks speed, so expect a variation of the 4-2-5 on Friday night.
The Bruins start Datone Jones (6-5, 275) and Damien Holmes (6-3, 270) at the defensive end positions. Both of their starters have similar statistical profiles with Jones recording 33 total tackles, 5.5 tackles for loss and 3 sacks. From the other side Holmes has 28 tackles with 5 tackles for loss and 1 sack. The primary reserves for the Bruins, Owamagbe Odighizuwa (6-4, 266) and Keenan Graham (6-3, 255) have seen action in all 12 games this season. Odighizuwa, the Portland native who chose UCLA over Oregon, has 16 tackles and 1 tackle for loss while Graham has 13 tackles, 2.5 tackles for loss and 1 sack.
Oregon: Oregon had seen a very steady group this season with Dion Jordan making a huge defensive impact all year; until being injured against USC and missing most of the game. For the season Jordan has 39 tackles with 12 tackles for loss and 6.5 sacks. Starting on the opposite side is another senior, Terrell Turner. Turner has provided veteran leadership and stability. In fact, Turner leads the group with...
Click here to continue reading...
Wednesday, November 30, 2011
Breaking Down UCLA Matchup: The Offense
In this continuing series from Duck Sports Authority we bring you the head-to-head match-ups of the Oregon Ducks and UCLA Bruins. Today the focus is on offense. QUARTERBACKS UCLA: Kevin Prince (6-2, 223) will get the start at QB for the Bruins. The junior has played up and down all season long with good games followed by bad games. Prince has completed just over 58% of his passes going 99-169 with 1463 passing yards on the season in his nine games played this season. He has 8 touchdown passes and 7 interceptions on the season. Prince has been sacked 16 times in his 9 games for a loss of 99 yards. Prince is a mobile QB, though. Not including sacks, Prince has 79 carries for 523 yards this season for a nice 6.6 yards per carry. The other quarterback with playing experience this season, Richard Brehaut, fractured his ankle in October and will not be available. There are no other quarterbacks on the UCLA roster that have playing experience.
Thomas has also not carried the ball quite as often as last season. Not including sacks, Thomas has 36 carries on the season for 225 yards, a very good 6.3 yards per carry. Behind Thomas, the Ducks have some experience with freshman Bryan Bennett having started against Colorado while Thomas recovered from a knee injury. Bennett has completed 24-45 for 361 yards and 6 touchdowns. Bennett has shown flashes with his speed having 23 carries for 200 yards this season. EDGE: Oregon UCLA gets a good running attack from their QB, but he is susceptible to turnovers, has been sacked frequently and has not been consistent this season. Darron Thomas, though his statistics are down, has managed his team well and is a very capable passer when needed. |
Monday, November 28, 2011
So Began the Fall of Rome
Today's meeting was a farce. There was never an intention to "decide" anything as the decision had already been made. In fact, the voice we have raised only hastened Lariviere's exit... originally his contract was not to be renewed in June... and now that several THOUSAND people have voiced support, that date got moved up.
This was about politics. Dr. L. did not play the game the way the politicians wanted him to play so they took their ball and went home. They are gutless cowards who know NOTHING about how to be great... being great requires a little intestinal fortitude and these scared bastards have little if any fortitude of any kind. I have tried to keep my cyber columns away from politics, but this is a time to speak on something other than sports...
The sad part is that the excuses they give for their decision are, business wise, justifiable. That is the reason that the support has fallen on deaf ears. Look, we all love his "gumption;" his guts. Nonetheless, he did violate direct mandates. It is irrelevant that the violation of those mandates was the right thing to do; as an employee, he violated the wishes of his boss. If the CEO of a major corporation is given a mandate to not raise salaries by his Board of Directors, then chooses to give those raises anyway; he would be fired. But if he gave those raises to keep the best people in the fold, it was the right move... even if the right move costs you your own job, if it makes the company stronger, you make the move. After all, that is his fiduciary responsibility.
The University of Oregon is, after all, a research institution. How on earth is it to meet its mandate if the best of the best professors leave the university because the university does not value their contribution and worth enough to give them what they have earned and what they deserve?
Unfortunately, this decision was not brought on just by the State Board of Education, it was brought to us by other universities whose Presidents were either unable to devise a plan to fund pay raises without public funds or lacked the guts to do what is right. Institutions like Oregon State, Portland State, Western, Eastern, and Southern Oregon University refused to follow suit and instead went to the State Board to complain. Their professors had caught wind and voiced their displeasure that ALL of the universities should be able to get creative like Oregon had done.
Once again, jealousy and pettiness rules when it comes to political aspirations. When those other universities cried fowl, the State Board felt that they had no other choice; they were cornered.
Today, the State Board of Education proved only one thing; they have absolutely no concern for higher education. Their only concern is appeasing the masses. So began the fall of Rome.
More to come tomorrow with a full "story" as these were just some thoughts I had today.
This was about politics. Dr. L. did not play the game the way the politicians wanted him to play so they took their ball and went home. They are gutless cowards who know NOTHING about how to be great... being great requires a little intestinal fortitude and these scared bastards have little if any fortitude of any kind. I have tried to keep my cyber columns away from politics, but this is a time to speak on something other than sports...
The sad part is that the excuses they give for their decision are, business wise, justifiable. That is the reason that the support has fallen on deaf ears. Look, we all love his "gumption;" his guts. Nonetheless, he did violate direct mandates. It is irrelevant that the violation of those mandates was the right thing to do; as an employee, he violated the wishes of his boss. If the CEO of a major corporation is given a mandate to not raise salaries by his Board of Directors, then chooses to give those raises anyway; he would be fired. But if he gave those raises to keep the best people in the fold, it was the right move... even if the right move costs you your own job, if it makes the company stronger, you make the move. After all, that is his fiduciary responsibility.
The University of Oregon is, after all, a research institution. How on earth is it to meet its mandate if the best of the best professors leave the university because the university does not value their contribution and worth enough to give them what they have earned and what they deserve?
Unfortunately, this decision was not brought on just by the State Board of Education, it was brought to us by other universities whose Presidents were either unable to devise a plan to fund pay raises without public funds or lacked the guts to do what is right. Institutions like Oregon State, Portland State, Western, Eastern, and Southern Oregon University refused to follow suit and instead went to the State Board to complain. Their professors had caught wind and voiced their displeasure that ALL of the universities should be able to get creative like Oregon had done.
Once again, jealousy and pettiness rules when it comes to political aspirations. When those other universities cried fowl, the State Board felt that they had no other choice; they were cornered.
Today, the State Board of Education proved only one thing; they have absolutely no concern for higher education. Their only concern is appeasing the masses. So began the fall of Rome.
More to come tomorrow with a full "story" as these were just some thoughts I had today.
Sunday, November 27, 2011
3 AND OUT
Three Plays That Made the Difference: Civil War
In the final regular season game of 2011, the Ducks needed a victory in the Civil War to advance tot he Conference Championship Game. Rivalries are usually very closely contested. Between 1997-2006 the Ducks and Beavers had traded off home victories. OSU ended that streak with an overtime 38-31 victory over a depleted Ducks squad down to a 5th string quarterback. The Ducks, though, returned the favor the next year spoiling the Beavers bid for a Rose Bowl berth en route to a 65-38 win. 2009 was closer, but the Ducks again took a Rose Bowl berth away from the Beavers. Last season and this season saw the Beavers attempting to take something away from the Ducks for a change, but they were unable to do so. This year, the final score is closer than the game really turned out as the Ducks won 49-21, but make no mistake, the Ducks dominated this game from the beginning.
ONE:
1st Quarter, 14:38
The Beavers opened the game with a 15 yard penalty. After a nice 14 yard gain on 1st & 25, Sean Mannion dropped back to pass and threw a very early interception to Michael Clay. Mannion, a freshman with a strong arm, was attempting to make a play early, but made a mistake misreading coverage and threw over the middle to a spot occupied by four Duck defenders.
TWO:
2nd Quarter, 11:58
During the first quarter, the Ducks dominated the Beavers statistically, but were unable to turn defensive stops into touchdowns after the first drive. The Ducks had held the Beavers to 49 yards on 19 plays, just 2.6 yards per play. The Ducks led just 7-0, though, and strange things happen in rivalry games.
After a short run on first down, Sean Mannion dropped back to pass, without much pressure, Mannion was able to wait for Jovan Stevenson coming across from the right to left side. Taking advantage of broken coverage by the Ducks, Stevenson burst up the left side of the field for a 58 yard touchdown. Suddenly, the game was tied and Beaver Believers thought that the impossible had become a realistic opportunity to ruin their hated in-state rivals season just as the Ducks had done in 2008 and 2009.
THREE:
2nd Quarter, 8:30
After the Beavers had tied it up, the Ducks looked to be in for a dogfight. But the Ducks took over at their own 21 and methodically marched down the field. After a brilliant third down run of 19 yards by De'Anthony Thomas took the ball inside the Beavers 20 yard line, Darron Thomas made a play fake to De'Anthony on the next play and threw a soft pass over the middle to David Paulson for the go-ahead touchdown. It was a lead the Ducks would never relinquish again. Oregon would go on to a 42-7 lead early in the fourth quarter before they would substitute liberally with everyone who was not red-shirting this season.
There were many other very important plays in the game, but these three stand out as important not only because of what they did for the outcome of the game, but because of what they will make others game plan for in the next two games.
In the final regular season game of 2011, the Ducks needed a victory in the Civil War to advance tot he Conference Championship Game. Rivalries are usually very closely contested. Between 1997-2006 the Ducks and Beavers had traded off home victories. OSU ended that streak with an overtime 38-31 victory over a depleted Ducks squad down to a 5th string quarterback. The Ducks, though, returned the favor the next year spoiling the Beavers bid for a Rose Bowl berth en route to a 65-38 win. 2009 was closer, but the Ducks again took a Rose Bowl berth away from the Beavers. Last season and this season saw the Beavers attempting to take something away from the Ducks for a change, but they were unable to do so. This year, the final score is closer than the game really turned out as the Ducks won 49-21, but make no mistake, the Ducks dominated this game from the beginning.
ONE:
1st Quarter, 14:38
The Beavers opened the game with a 15 yard penalty. After a nice 14 yard gain on 1st & 25, Sean Mannion dropped back to pass and threw a very early interception to Michael Clay. Mannion, a freshman with a strong arm, was attempting to make a play early, but made a mistake misreading coverage and threw over the middle to a spot occupied by four Duck defenders.
The Ducks won the toss and deferred. After the interception, the Ducks marched in for an early touchdown. The Ducks had successfully changed the possession game to their favor. Though it would be the second quarter before they scored again, this play set a defensive tone and let the Beavers know that it was going to be a long day and they were really going to have to work for every inch on this day.
TWO:
2nd Quarter, 11:58
After a short run on first down, Sean Mannion dropped back to pass, without much pressure, Mannion was able to wait for Jovan Stevenson coming across from the right to left side. Taking advantage of broken coverage by the Ducks, Stevenson burst up the left side of the field for a 58 yard touchdown. Suddenly, the game was tied and Beaver Believers thought that the impossible had become a realistic opportunity to ruin their hated in-state rivals season just as the Ducks had done in 2008 and 2009.
THREE:
2nd Quarter, 8:30
There were many other very important plays in the game, but these three stand out as important not only because of what they did for the outcome of the game, but because of what they will make others game plan for in the next two games.
Friday, November 25, 2011
Breaking Down Civil War Match-Ups: Defense
In the second part of our look at the Oregon-OSU match-ups, today Duck Sports Authority brings you the defensive side of the ball.
DEFENSIVE ENDS
OSU: The Beavers start two freshman at the defensive end position. Scott Crichton (6-3, 258), a redshirt freshman, will vie for top freshman defensive player in the conference. On the other side is Dylan Wynn (6-2, 240) is a true freshman from long time powerhouse De La Salle High School in California. Crichton has been a terror during his freshman season leading the conference with 5 fumble recoveries. In addition, Crichton has notched 62 tackles with 13.5 tackles for loss and 6 sacks. He ranks second in the Pac-12 in tackles for loss. On the opposite side, Wynn has come on strong late in the season having made six career starts including three straight starts. For the year Wynn has 40 tackles with 4.5 tackles for loss and 1 sack. Where Crichton leads the conference in forced fumbles, Wynn leads with 5 recovered fumbles.
Backing up the two freshmen are a couple of junior college transfers Rusty Fernando (6-3, 232) who has made his impact with 14 tackles including 3.5 sacks. Rudolf Fifita (6-3, 263) has seen some action and has 5 tackles this season.
Oregon: Oregon had seen a very steady group this season with Dion Jordan making a huge defensive impact all year; until being injured against USC and missing most of the game. For the season Jordan has 36 tackles with 10 tackles for loss and 3.5 sacks. Should Jordan not be able to go Saturday, senior Brandon Hanna has been a more than capable back-up. Hanna...
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DEFENSIVE ENDS
OSU: The Beavers start two freshman at the defensive end position. Scott Crichton (6-3, 258), a redshirt freshman, will vie for top freshman defensive player in the conference. On the other side is Dylan Wynn (6-2, 240) is a true freshman from long time powerhouse De La Salle High School in California. Crichton has been a terror during his freshman season leading the conference with 5 fumble recoveries. In addition, Crichton has notched 62 tackles with 13.5 tackles for loss and 6 sacks. He ranks second in the Pac-12 in tackles for loss. On the opposite side, Wynn has come on strong late in the season having made six career starts including three straight starts. For the year Wynn has 40 tackles with 4.5 tackles for loss and 1 sack. Where Crichton leads the conference in forced fumbles, Wynn leads with 5 recovered fumbles.
Backing up the two freshmen are a couple of junior college transfers Rusty Fernando (6-3, 232) who has made his impact with 14 tackles including 3.5 sacks. Rudolf Fifita (6-3, 263) has seen some action and has 5 tackles this season.
Oregon: Oregon had seen a very steady group this season with Dion Jordan making a huge defensive impact all year; until being injured against USC and missing most of the game. For the season Jordan has 36 tackles with 10 tackles for loss and 3.5 sacks. Should Jordan not be able to go Saturday, senior Brandon Hanna has been a more than capable back-up. Hanna...
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DSA Tailgate-CIVIL WAR Edition
Okay... after another round of turkey, it is time to plan for Saturday... game time is 12:30... so the tailgate starts at 8:30... for our specialty this time... Salmon Chowder should be excellent and a good day for something warm...
Last time out we had a HUGE turn-out with some NEWBIES... it was a blast... many different people were there... cannot name them all, but Brian Jackson's mom stopped by to say hello along with R2FireDuck's son-in-law who happens to play for the New Orleans Saints... had fronstythesnowman (DSA handle) out all the way from North Carolina where he is stationed...
MANY others showed up and we had a great time...
Okay all, THIS is the time of year where tailgating should be good...this game is HUGE and we need as many DSA'ers out in force as possible... do not worry about any of our disagreements on the boards because this is a place to get together and discuss the positives... there is ALWAYS good discussion and lots of food and beverages!
This time out we will be having something new as a specialty food... salmon choder... it will be made with fresh salmon... for those that do not like seafood... there will be regular tailgate fare as well!
We will be in our usual new spot at the Serbu Youth Center Directly across Centennial Blvd (MLK) from Autzen. We will have the flag up and the Banner attached... but we are also in spaces 222 & 223.
Let me give some easy to find directions to our spot.
There are TWO Entrances for the Serbu Parking... ours is the WESTERN most entrance. After you go in this entrance you should see a long field to your left... go down the road until you see a bunch of spaces to the LEFT, we are at the farthest end on the left hand side.
Below are the details!
What: DSA Tailgate - CIVIL WAR Edition
When: Nov. 26, 2011
Time: ~ 8:30AM local time tailgating lots open; I will be there!
Where: John Serbu Youth Campus, 2727 MLK Blvd
Spaces: 222 and 223
Donations: Donations may be made at the game with cash or through
PayPal: To pay with paypal you can use my email address:
Email Address: SReed39@canby.com
Cell Phone: 503-807-9543
Twitter: ScottReed_DSA
Facebook: http://facebook.com/ScottReedDSA
COMMENTS: Remember that we will have the following amenities:
*-TV with cable to watch games during tailgate
*-Food: Burgers, Hot Dogs, Brats
*-SPECIALTY APPETIZER: SALMON CHOWDER
*-Beverages: Beer, Sodas, Blended Drinks (thanks to the generator, we can use a blender and have fun with drinks!)
*-Burgers are hand made this year and should be VERY good!
AND... if there is a reason to celebrate after the game... I will probably have some brandy...
Last time out we had a HUGE turn-out with some NEWBIES... it was a blast... many different people were there... cannot name them all, but Brian Jackson's mom stopped by to say hello along with R2FireDuck's son-in-law who happens to play for the New Orleans Saints... had fronstythesnowman (DSA handle) out all the way from North Carolina where he is stationed...
MANY others showed up and we had a great time...
Okay all, THIS is the time of year where tailgating should be good...this game is HUGE and we need as many DSA'ers out in force as possible... do not worry about any of our disagreements on the boards because this is a place to get together and discuss the positives... there is ALWAYS good discussion and lots of food and beverages!
This time out we will be having something new as a specialty food... salmon choder... it will be made with fresh salmon... for those that do not like seafood... there will be regular tailgate fare as well!
We will be in our usual new spot at the Serbu Youth Center Directly across Centennial Blvd (MLK) from Autzen. We will have the flag up and the Banner attached... but we are also in spaces 222 & 223.
Let me give some easy to find directions to our spot.
There are TWO Entrances for the Serbu Parking... ours is the WESTERN most entrance. After you go in this entrance you should see a long field to your left... go down the road until you see a bunch of spaces to the LEFT, we are at the farthest end on the left hand side.
Below are the details!
What: DSA Tailgate - CIVIL WAR Edition
When: Nov. 26, 2011
Time: ~ 8:30AM local time tailgating lots open; I will be there!
Where: John Serbu Youth Campus, 2727 MLK Blvd
Spaces: 222 and 223
Donations: Donations may be made at the game with cash or through
PayPal: To pay with paypal you can use my email address:
Email Address: SReed39@canby.com
Cell Phone: 503-807-9543
Twitter: ScottReed_DSA
Facebook: http://facebook.com/ScottReedDSA
COMMENTS: Remember that we will have the following amenities:
*-TV with cable to watch games during tailgate
*-Food: Burgers, Hot Dogs, Brats
*-SPECIALTY APPETIZER: SALMON CHOWDER
*-Beverages: Beer, Sodas, Blended Drinks (thanks to the generator, we can use a blender and have fun with drinks!)
*-Burgers are hand made this year and should be VERY good!
AND... if there is a reason to celebrate after the game... I will probably have some brandy...
Thursday, November 24, 2011
Head-to-Head OSU-Oregon: Offense
In the final week of regular season conference play, the Ducks head into the Civil War with a berth in the Pac-12 Championship game on the line; another "big" game for the Ducks.
After a frenetic comeback attempt against USC fell short, the Ducks find themselves at 9-2 overall this season and 7-1 in conference play. Oregon State, meanwhile, has been struggling most of the season, but are coming off of an emotional senior day victory over Washington that brings their record to 3-8 overall and 3-5 in conference play.
In this continuing series from Duck Sports Authority we bring you the head-to-head match-ups of the Oregon Ducks and Oregon State Beavers. Today the focus is on offense.
QUARTERBACKS
OSU: Oregon State began the season with Ryan Katz returning at the quarterback position, but it became quickly apparent that Katz was no longer in their long term plans as the Beavers moved to the future with redshirt freshman Sean Mannion. Mannion is taller than Katz and has a very strong arm. He is, however, very young and has made many mistakes as would be expected of a freshman starter in the Pac-12 conference. Nonetheless, Mannion is fourth in the Pac-12 and 16th in the nation in total passing yards this season. Mannion has completed 278-429 passes for 3029 yards and 13 touchdowns. Mannion leads the conference and is tied for worst in the nation...
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After a frenetic comeback attempt against USC fell short, the Ducks find themselves at 9-2 overall this season and 7-1 in conference play. Oregon State, meanwhile, has been struggling most of the season, but are coming off of an emotional senior day victory over Washington that brings their record to 3-8 overall and 3-5 in conference play.
In this continuing series from Duck Sports Authority we bring you the head-to-head match-ups of the Oregon Ducks and Oregon State Beavers. Today the focus is on offense.
QUARTERBACKS
OSU: Oregon State began the season with Ryan Katz returning at the quarterback position, but it became quickly apparent that Katz was no longer in their long term plans as the Beavers moved to the future with redshirt freshman Sean Mannion. Mannion is taller than Katz and has a very strong arm. He is, however, very young and has made many mistakes as would be expected of a freshman starter in the Pac-12 conference. Nonetheless, Mannion is fourth in the Pac-12 and 16th in the nation in total passing yards this season. Mannion has completed 278-429 passes for 3029 yards and 13 touchdowns. Mannion leads the conference and is tied for worst in the nation...
Click here to continue reading
Monday, November 21, 2011
Monday Morning Quarterback: Week 12
A Look Back at Saturday around the Pac-12
Oregon-USC
Offense: Another week, another slow start for the offense. In reality, though, BOTH offenses started slowly. After three possessions each, the Ducks had 21 total yards while USC had 8 total yards. The difference in this game is that is simply took the Oregon offense a little longer to get into rhythm; in fact a lot longer as they really didn’t get fully into gear until somewhere in the third quarter. The Ducks offense still put up more rushing yards against the Trojans than anyone had all season, but it was not quite enough.
Oregon-USC
Offense: Another week, another slow start for the offense. In reality, though, BOTH offenses started slowly. After three possessions each, the Ducks had 21 total yards while USC had 8 total yards. The difference in this game is that is simply took the Oregon offense a little longer to get into rhythm; in fact a lot longer as they really didn’t get fully into gear until somewhere in the third quarter. The Ducks offense still put up more rushing yards against the Trojans than anyone had all season, but it was not quite enough.
Darron Thomas almost led an incredible comeback win after trailing by 24 points in the third quarter
Defense: For the first time in quite some time, the defense seemed to regress. To be fair, the defense was missing three starters with Anthony Gildon not playing at all and Dion Jordan and Dewitt Stuckey missing most of the game with undisclosed injuries. The defense did an adequate job against the Trojans running game holding them below their season average in total yards and yards per carry.
Unfortunately, the loss of Jordan and Stuckey really affected the Ducks ability to get pressure on Barkley as Barkely did not face any heat the entire game. He was sacked once and did throw an interception on a tipped ball. Nonetheless, Barkley sat back and completed over 76% of his passes for 9.5 yards per attempt. When a quarterback has the time to do those things, it is very difficult to win the game.
Coaching: For the first time this season, I will say Chip was outcoached. This team, as admitted by Josh Huff after the game, was looking ahead after the Friday night upset of Oklahoma State and was clearly not focused early in the game. There were some questionable time management issues as well as a couple of play calls that seemed odd. To give credit where it is due, though, Kelly did get the team to respond to the adversity; just a little too late. With maybe another minute on the clock, the Ducks could have scored and won the game.
Around the rest of the conference:
Arizona State: Twitter rumors have started that Dennis Erickson will be spending his last season as Arizona State’s coach. That is as it should be because this team has collapsed. After dismantling USC earlier in the season, Arizona State looked like a lock to win the South division. Now they have lost 4 of their last 5 games and must beat Cal this weekend and cheer for USC to beat UCLA to get into the Conference Championship game.
Arizona: The Wildcats pulled off the Territorial Cup win against their rival ASU Sin Devils and have one game left to this lost season. Louisiana Lafayette is a respectable FCS team and will pose some problems for Arizona, but the win over the Sun Devils will ease the pain of the season this has become.
California: The Golden bears put up a valiant effort against Stanford and actually led 13-7 in the second quarter, but were not able to pull off the upset in the Big Game. California is bowl eligible and will face a reeling Arizona State team for bowl positioning.
Colorado: Colorado’s introduction to the Pac-12 is mercifully almost over. Tyler Hansen tried to play Joe Namath and guarantee a win against UCLA over the weekend. Instead the Buffaloes gave UCLA their most productive game of the season in points and got crushed 45-6. All that is left for Colorado is the hope that they can ruin Utah’s dream of making it to the first Pac-12 Championship Game.
Oregon State: The Beavers responded well to their adversity and dismantled a Washington team that has fallen off of the cliff at the end of the season. Oregon State is left hoping to pull off a major upset against Oregon to knock the Ducks out of Rose Bowl contention. Odds-makers do not like their chances.
Stanford: The game against Oregon seems to have caused a little hangover for the Cardinal as they struggled to put away an average Cal tea,. It was a rivalry game, though, and those can go in any direction. Luck had a good game, but nothing spectacular. Next up for the Cardinal is Notre Dame and a faint hope of a Conference Championship game if the Beavers can pull off a monumental upset.
USC: It looks like the rest helped Robert Woods. He is still not 100%, but the emergence of Marquise Lee has lessened the burden on Woods’ damaged shoulder. The Trojans dominated early and then held on for dear life as Oregon mounted a furious comeback attempt that fell short. Matt Barkley showed why he is likely to be the second pick int eh dfraft next season; maybe even the second overall pick. Barkley played his best game of the year just when the Trojans needed it.
UCLA: The Bruins still have two paths to the Conference Championship game; which is amazing. The most direct path? Beat USC. In the very likely event that UCLA loses that game, they would then need Colorado to upset Utah. They are crossing their fingers in Westwood and hoping that their former assistant coach (Embree) can pull off an upset of Utah.
Utah: The Utes now have a very realistic shot at representing the South division in the Pac-12 Championship Game. If UCLA loses, as expected Saturday, and Arizona State loses, Utah will play the North winner on the road for the right to go to the Rose Bowl. The Utes need some help, but given how poorly the Sun Devils have played of late, that is a very real possibility.
Washington: After opening the season with rave reviews and a quarterback that was as hot as anyone in the country, the wheels seem to have fallen off of the Washington train. The Huskies are also bowl eligible but have a very much improved Washington State squad coming up in the annual Apple Cup. Keith Price came on in relief of Nick Montana Saturday, so I would expect the Huskies to pull out all the stops to get a 7th win in that game.
Washington State: The Cougars have improved this season, but still have just 4 wins to show for all of their hard work. They almost destroyed Utah’s dream on Saturday. Unfortunately, 4 interceptions by their third string quarterback who had played so well against Arizona State did the Cougars in against Utah. They still outgained Utah and took them to the edge before losing in overtime. Now they shoot for state bragging rights.
PAC-12 Schedule for Week 13:
Saturday
Colorado at Utah 12:30 PM
Oregon State at Oregon12:30 PM
LA-Lafayette at Arizona 1:00 PM
Washington State at Washington 4:30 PM
Notre Dame at Stanford 5:00 PM
UCLA at USC 7:00 PM
Cal at Arizona State 7:15 PM
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