SB Nation - Bo Thran

Morning Quack Fix: More "trash talk," Ducks prepare for opener, looking at the spread in the NFL

jtlight — Fri, 28 Aug 2009 14:56:43 -0000

It's game week! That's right, the Ducks are preparing for an actual football game. It's no longer September 3rd. It's now simply Thursday. Let's get to the quack:

The players are getting ready for the BSU game, especially Mark Asper, whose in-laws are huge Bronco fans. Asper claims that the BSU game is like his USC game. And LeGarrette Blount jumped on the "trash talk" bandwagon, saying that Oregon owed BSU an "ass-whuppin." So BSU fans have something else to get all indignant about.
But despite any talk that's happening, the Ducks are preparing with intensity and focus. The players are excited for the game, but know it's important to not be too excited. And the team has the senior leadership to make sure emotions stay in check.
In offensive line news, it sounds like Bo Thran is still struggling with injuries, though youngsters Darrion Weems and Nick Cody are pushing for playing time. Also, true freshman Everett Benyard III has been impressive, but will be playing with the scout team for the time being.
With the season starting, the depth chart is starting to be set, and the scout team has been named. The only real surprise is Diante Jackson being with the group, as I had thought he would see some playing time this year, though this could just be due to his being a freshman and missing most of fall camp. Also, the team captains have been named: Masoli, Holmes, Tukuafu, and Thurmond.
With more and more college teams running shotgun/spread offenses, Doug Farrar of the Washington Post is taking a look at what that means for the NFL. As Farrar points out, the most explosive offense in NFL history (2007 Patriots) ran over 50% of their offensive plays from a shotgun formation. Overall, Farrar does a good job of breaking down the good and the bad with these systems, and how they translate into the NFL. There is a lot of ridiculous claims about how the spread will translate into NFL success or failure, so it's nice to see someone take a deep look into this issue.
Lastly, Ken Goe gives from the Oregonian gives a little love to Oregon, says that Oregon is set up to push for a Pac-10 title.

GO DUCKS!

The Oregon Ducks Elevator - Football Preseason Week 3

dvieira — Mon, 24 Aug 2009 17:21:43 -0000

Welcome to the Oregon Ducks Elevator. Another week of practice and the news coming out of fall camp has been mostly positive.

Daryle Hawkins: Apparently Hawkins is showing so much promise at quarterback, Jeremiah Masoli commented that he "showed signs of greatness". I've even seen some comments around mentioning him as possibly beating out Darren Thomas. I understand that everyone is constantly on the lookout for the next big thing but come on. The guy is a true freshman with some talent and appears to be having a good camp so far but let's be a little realistic in our analysis. It does say something though when the starting quarterback single out a guy for working hard who's down the depth chart quite a bit. Elevator: Up 1 Floor

UO Women's Soccer: The fall season officially got underway this weekend when the Oregon Ducks took on the 4th ranked Portland Pilots. There was a big crowd out at Pape Field but the Ducks couldn't take advantage of the home field mojo as Portland won the game 3-0. The score doesn't reflect how the game truly went as Oregon had several chances to score but just couldn't capitalize. Most of Duck Nation is focused on September 3rd as the start of Fall Sports, but the UO Women's Soccer team has already gotten it started. Elevator: For starting the season off, despite the loss, Up 1 Floor

Morgan Flint: Reports seem to indicate that Morgan Flint is going to win the starting kicking job, beating out Rob Beard and Mike Bowlin. Flint took over the job late last year and performed well, hitting 7 of 9 field goals but his time in spring and fall camp seemed to be inconsistent. If he can improve during the first part of the season and become a consistent threat, our perceived weakness in this area may not turn out so bad. A redshirt year for Mike Bowlin wouldn't hurt anyone either. Elevator: Up 1 Floor

Bo Thran: Expected to be starting on the offensive line by now, injuries just seem to linger for the big man. At this point, we shouldn't expect him to be starting against Boise State next week and it might take him a bit longer to work off the rust. The much maligned offensive line could use his presence but injuries have a way of ruining those desires. Elevator: Down 1 Floor

Lou Holtz: He picked Notre Dame to get to the national title game. Although the Golden Domers play a patsy schedule, they aren't beating USC and without beating USC, they aren't going to the national title game. Elevator: Still trying to find the door

Morning Quack Fix: Competition day recap, Nick Reed continues to impress, assessing the Duck defense

jtlight — Mon, 24 Aug 2009 13:00:15 -0000

It's the home stretch everyone. 10 days til kickoff, and we must only endure one more weekend without college football. On to the quack! We have a lot of stories this morning so make sure to check out the ones after the jump.

The defense won the last competition day of fall camp, by a final margin of 66-63. It was a very competitive practice, with each side matching the play of the other throughout the day. One of the bright spots was the receiver play, and all of the receivers (minus Rory Cavaille) were practicing, which is very encouraging. And in injury news in general, Bo Thran seems to be the only main player whose status for the opener is in doubt.
One of the biggest stories of the fall camp is the play of the receivers. After having a good majority of the expected receiving corp unavailable during spring ball, D.J. Davis, Lavasier Tuinei, Diante Jackson, and Tyrece Gaines have been very impressive. After all the drop problems all receivers had last year, it's good to hear that this is a strength of this receiving corp, as well as blocking. I am really excited to see what this talented and deep group can do.
In more competition day roundup, check out this recap by 'FishDuck' from DSA. For those of you that couldn't make it to the competition, this is a lengthy piece that has a ton of info. Some highlights: The receivers (especially Diante Jackson) were very impressive, Jackson Rice is going to be a stud, and if LaMichael James can learn how to handle punts, he will be amazing.

On the schedule this week for the Duck football team, normal practice on Monday, scrimmage Tuesday, conditioning Wednesday, and the start of game prep on Friday. And with the end of camp, comes the secrecy, and not everyone agrees with the scrimmage on Tuesday being closed.
In alumni news, Nick Reed has continued to dominate. In Seattle's preseason game, he had 1.5 sacks, deflected a punt, and forced a fumble. While a roster spot is not yet certain, this showing seems to make it very likely. Meanwhile, Dennis Dixon showed flashes of his upside on consercutive plays, with a 17 yard pass followed by a 17 yard run on a broken pass play.
The buzz around the internet lately has been the state of the Oregon defense. Last week, John Canzano wrote a column that claimed that the fate of the defense rested in the Nick Aliotti and defense's hands, and Ken Goe responded with a defense of Aliotti and the Oregon defense. Then, AJ Jacobson of DSA wrote that the no-huddle offense has unfairly portrayed the Oregon defense. My take: The 2008 Oregon defense is incredibly hard to judge. They ended up with good yards per play averages, had poor poor 3rd down and red zone numbers (though oddly enough, good passing down numbers), and were a top 35 defense according to Close situation S&P+ (which is a widely used metric). Blaming TOP or ignoring it entirely won't accurately assess the defense, but I believe the truth, as usual, lies somewhere in the middle.
However, as much as some will want to rag on Aliotti, what is really important is where the defense will fare this year, and both the Register Guard and the Oregonian had weekend article on the speed of the defense. The speed and versatility at all positions will allow the Ducks to do a lot, and a lot of emphasis will be placed on pressuring the QB, especially from the linebacker positions. This will be a very fun defense to watch, with players like Kenny Rowe, Eddie Pleasant, and TJ Ward, that have the ability to play all over the field and in a large number of circumstances. I expect to see a versatile defense that is flying all over the place.

Got an opinion on the defense? Leave it, as well as any other Duck links, in the comments!

Morning Quack Fix: Getting to know Darron Thomas, more injury news, and looking at some California schools

jtlight — Fri, 21 Aug 2009 14:08:20 -0000

Happy Friday everyone! First, let's give a big congratulations to Brandon Bair, whose wife gave birth to a beautiful baby girl this week. On that happy note, let's get to today's quack:

Rob Moseley has a big piece on Darron Thomas this morning. Thomas is drawing praise across the board. He's being called a leader by other players, and is impressed Coach Helfrich with his football smarts. Moseley also makes sure to point out that Thomas is quite different in playing style than Dixon, who many of us always compare Thomas too, due to his similar build. And while Thomas knows redshirting is a possibility, he's preparing to be the No. 1. guy.
Guard Bo Thran has had his share of hardship this fall, as he's recovering from injury. Unfortunately, he's not recovering as fast as Duck fans would like, and Coach Greatwood won't play him until he's 100% percent, which may not happen until October.
Unfortunately, more injury news abounds. Senior WR Rory Cavaille will miss the BSU game due to a shoulder injury. While this is not a season ending injury, it is serious enough to miss a few games. While the coaches don't seem concerned about other WR injuries (this piece notes that Diante Jackson is back in action), this obviously does not help our WR depth.
It's Pac-10 week over at Doc Saturday, and Matt Hinton takes a look at Oregon, and gives three arguments for why Oregon will win the Pac-10:
In Pac-10 news, Matt Hinton is continuing Pac-10 week by looking at UCLA's running game. Final analysis: it can't really get much worse than last season, but any growth won't really help all that much this season, but will be foundation for the next. He also assesses Cal's chances of taking the Pac-10 title, and it all comes back to Kevin Riley.
Dave Consolazio of AllPac10.com continues their season preview by looking at the Oregon defensive line. While Dave is optimistic that the Ducks can have a very good line, that he thinks that may not happen until the second half of the season, which may be too late.
Standing Room tickets go on sale today. While not ideal, you do what you have to do be in Autzen.

Leave any other links below. GO DUCKS!

Morning Quack Fix: Camp continues on, both lines still a work in progress

jtlight — Fri, 14 Aug 2009 15:08:13 -0000

It's Friday, time to celebrate with some quack:

The offense did not get to don the black practice uniforms on Thursday after a poor ending to Wednesday's practice. However, despite the defense seeming to do better on the day, the offense earned praise from Kelly. During the practice, the team was going at a very fast tempo, getting in 22 plays during on 9 minute stretch. The pace reminded new WR coach Scott Frost of his practices at Nebraska in 1997, the year he led his team to a national title. Oregon will practice today and tomorrow, but will have Sunday off, the first off day during fall camp.
Unfortunately, both lines are still a work in progress. While there are flashes of greatness, consistency must still be seen, and the offensive line must walk the delicate line of nursing C.E. Kaiser and Bo Thran to full health while still making sure they shake off any rust. And with the offensive line growing, it's tough to gauge the defensive line. However, they are working hard, spurred on by Coach Azzinaro, and seem to be channeling their inner Nick Reed. I have a feeling that both lines will be fine, and that the hard work and repetition will pay off when the season starts.
The Oregonian has a couple of short pieces on D.J. Davis and Darron Thomas. Davis hurt his foot after a TJ Ward hit on Wednesday, which has brought back some bad memories. But Nate "Mr. Three Torn ACLs" Costa has been his mentor, with his example of working hard throughout his many injuries. Meanwhile, Thomas is looking to play, and has no thoughts at all about redshirting.
Rob Moseley rounds up some of the most embarrassing "trash talk" we've seen in some time. It's quite ridiculous that Masoli's, Dickson's, and now Kyle Wilson's comments are being construed as trash talk. However, what is encouraging is that while the Ducks are looking forward to the BSU game, it never comes up in practice, and isn't needed to create excitement. The Ducks are focused on the task at hand, and I believe will carry that attitude all season.
Chip Kelly has another post up on OregonGridiron.com. Kelly is really stressing "habits, discipline, and structure," and the team seems to be responding. It's at the point of fall camp where it becomes tough, and the team must battle through, and it looks as if they're doing just that.
Buster Sports picked Oregon at Number 12 in their preseason countdown, though I'm not sure that they've talked with Nick Daschel (their Pac-10 writer) on that, as he has not been excited about the Ducks in the offseason, and pegged them at 4th in his Pac-10 poll.

As always, leave your comments and links below! GO DUCKS!

Morning Quack Fix: Rounding up the first few days of fall camp

jtlight — Mon, 10 Aug 2009 14:32:26 -0000

Wow, what a weekend it was for the Ducks. With practice on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, there is a lot of quack to make your Monday better.

Let's kick things off with a blog post from the big man. He has a new blog post off titled, "There is no 'Hall of Average.'" The first thing that pops out, not only with the title, but with the whole post, is Kelly's intensity and focus on competition. This is really the main change he's brought to the program so far, as has really taken a page out of the Pete Carroll playbook. I like this shift in attitude. It's easy to get stuck in a rut, and if anything, the Kelly hire has changed that. The main downside is the possibility of the players getting burnt out. But I feel that players that have stuck around are the competitors, and those that will relish this environment. Players, such as Talmadge Jackson III are also learning not to cross Kelly, or else they will be running like crazy.
In practice news, the two names that jumped out were LaMichael James and Diante Jackson. Despite having clearance issues, Diante is making his presence known (this notebook also has some notes on Andre Crenshaw), not only with a big personality but with his abilities. He gained praise from both Masoli and Kelly. However, how we really know he's a duck is his style choice. Not only does he sport some awesome dreads, his mom will be dying them before every game to match the uniforms the ducks will be wearing. For more on Jackson, Moseley and Adam Jude have a video interview with him, as well as incoming players Mike Bowlin (K) and Andrew Iupati (DT). James was impressive as well, and displayed the speed that has been so tantalizing all offseason. He also spent a lot of time with the second unit on Sunday.
What may be most encouraging is the status of LeGarrette Blount. After being dismissed from the end of practice on Friday (over going too hard after a blown whistle), Blount came out in force on Saturday. George Schroeder also had a column up this weekend on Blount, and his tumultuous offseason. Though Blount has his personal issues, what is great about this team is that there are a lot of leaders, and Blount won't be able to get away with anything.
To quell another worry, Rob Moseley has a feature on the offensive line. And what will likely dispell any worries is Steve Greatwood saying, "I expect them to break every record of the group ahead of them." The group exudes a quiet confidence and they sound comfortable with each other. Most have been in the program for at least 2 years, and are ready to prove it on the field. As I've said before, this is a very physically talented line. That they seem to be coming together is incredibly encouraging. C.E. Kaiser, the leader of the line, said of the group, "People say we need to gel; we’ve already gelled."
The Oregonian also had a slew of videos up, including one on the first day of practice, one with Blount, and one with Will Tukuafu.
After Sunday practice, there are a few injury concerns. Jeff Maehl, Tyrece Gaines, and D. Jackson were all nursing knee issues (though it's nothing major at this point), while Bo Thran wasn't with the ones because of a knee injury. Meanwhile, Cliff Harris and Justin Brown have still not reported.
Lastly, George Schroeder tackles the question of expectations. Are they too high for this season? Well, no matter what, they can't be higher than Kelly's, who expects to win every game. There are definitely questions for this season, but there is also a lot of talent. Kelly has a lot to work with, and his long term success will be judged on his ability to bring talent to Oregon.

That's all for now. There is a lot of quack floating around today, so post it in the comments. GO DUCKS! 24 days!

Football Spring Preview: Offensive Line

jtlight — Tue, 10 Mar 2009 18:58:00 -0000

Over the next few weeks, before spring practice starts on March 30th, we'll be taking a look at each section of the team, assessing its strengths and weaknesses, and looking at any battles that will be taking place. Today we look at the offensive line.

One of the strengths of the Oregon team the past few years has been offensive line play. Oregon has recruiting the position incredibly well, and has the best position coach in the nation, Steve Greatwood, molding the individuals into a cohesive squad.

Despite the loss of many seniors this past season, I think the offensive line will be in good shape by fall. The Oregon offensive line, even without Hamani Stevens, is loaded with talent. Most of the guys are big time recruits that have had a year or two to learn under Greatwood, and have had very good experience in game situations.

Because of the interchangeability of the offensive line positions, especially at Oregon, we'll look at the top players, and look at the line depth overall.

The experience:

Unfortunately, Oregon's top lineman will be out for spring. CE Kaiser (Jr.)will be limited this spring due to ankle surgery. Kaiser, who started at right tackle for 10 games in 2008, will be starting at a tackle position, and could likely be moved to left. He has strength and the ability to move, which he showcased in the Civil War, despite battling injuries late in the season.

After Kaiser, Jordan Holmes (Jr.), Mark Asper (Jr.), and Bo Thran (Jr.) return after playing during the 2008 season. With the departure of Stevens, Holmes, who started 4 games at left gaurd, will almost definitely start at center. He backed up Max Unger last season, and worked his way into the rotation. While he may not have the upside of Stevens, he will be a solid player, and provide experience at the center position.

Mark Asper, though only a 2* recruit, worked himself into the rotation last season, and started at right tackle during the Holiday Bowl. Thran, Oregon's fastest offensive lineman according to GoDucks.com, will start at a guard position. Thran is talented, but has been limited due to injury.

The talented youngsters:

In the mix for starting spots are 4 underclassman who will push all of the experienced players for time. The top lineman in this group is most likely sophomore Darrion Weems, who will most likely hold down a starting spot due to Kaiser's injury. Also in competition with him will be Nick Cody (RFr.), Carson York (RFr.), and Charlie Carmichael (So.). All of these linemen but Carmichael were 4* recruits. While that in itself doesn't mean anything, it's clear that Oregon has a strong, big, quick linemen ready for a chance to play.

Conclusion:

Oregon's offensive line was stellar last year. However, there was one game where they failed miserably: USC. The rushing offense averaged only 1.54 ypc, the only game all season under 4. And there was a reason for this. Physically, the line was manhandled. For as good as they were at technique and fundamentals, they were dominated by the front 7 of USC. However, with this year's line, that talent gap will shrink. This upside for this line is greater than it has been in a long, long time. It is talented, and deep. Last year's line was incredibly consistent, and they could dominate anyone of nearly equal talent. If they consistency and cohesion can be approached, Oregon's line will be very, very good.

The spring will be a very good time to take a good look at the linemen. We haven't had a good look at the younger players, but there is little reason for them to not succeed. Also, though having Kaiser be missing for drills will be unfortunate, it will give the coaches a chance to really look at the other players, who have not had as much experience.

Lastly, we have Steve Greatwood, who has done wonders at coaching the line. Just look at what he's been able to do with players that don't have a built in physical advantage. He turned players like Unger into one of the best O-lines in the nation, through sound fundamentals and teamwork. On top of that, he didn't just do it with 5 guys that had played together for 4 years. He did it despite injuries, and with a rotation that included as many as 9 guys.

With a dose of experience, and a wealth of talent, I fully expect him to be able to turn the offensive line into a true unit by the time the season starts. Spring will be the first time we get to look at the progress.