Fourth-and-blog

17 days to Camp Rantoul

Posted by: Bob Asmussen

Sunday, July 19, 2009 2:42 PM

No. 17: Oregon

Why I like the Ducks: Quarterback Jeremiah Masoli is a dynamic thrower and runner, who gained 718 yards on the ground last season. He's got a big helper in the backfield, LeGarrette Blount, who set a school record with 17 rushing touchdowns last season. And he wasn't even the No. 1 tailback. Two starting linebackers are back from a unit that finished 23rd nationally against the run. The Ducks played great at the end of the season, closing with victories against Stanford, Arizona, Oregon State and Oklahoma State. The latter came in the Holiday Bowl. The Ducks put up 65 points against Oregon State, knocking the Beavers out of the Rose Bowl. Oregon plays five Pac-10 home games, including toughies Southern Cal, Cal and Oregon State.

Why I don't: Three starters need to be replaced on both the offensive line and defensive line. Chip Kelly is in his first year after taking over for Mike Bellotti, who stays as at athletic director. Sometimes, the transitions go well (see Wisconsin). Other times, not so good. If Bellotti still feels like he should be coach, there will be tension that the players will feel. The nonconference schedule is nasty, starting with a trip to Boise State on Sept. 3. The Ducks also host Utah and Purdue. Both specialists need to be replaced. And only one starting receiver returns.

To see No. 18, click here.

To see No. 19, click here.

To see No. 20, click here.

To see No. 21, click here.

To see No. 22, click here.

To see No, 23, click here.

To see No. 24, click here.

To see No. 25, click here.

To see No. 26, click here.

To see No. 27, click here.

To see No. 28, click here.

To see No. 29, click here

To see No. 30, click here

 

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