As the tension continues to build, the Ducks are starting to get the kind of media attention worthy of a top-10 team. Or, at least worthy of the next team to play USC on national TV. Whatever the case, it's nice to be getting the microscope treatment for all the right reasons. Here's your morning fix:

• The Ducks are front and center over at ESPN this week, including this Ivan Maisel piece about the unique environment that is Autzen Stadium.
• Here's ESPN's video preview for the upcoming game.
• Ted Miller likes the Ducks by a field goal, and suggests that USC's freshman QB Matt Barkley might be underestimating the hostile atmosphere in Eugene.
• Do you remember Akili Smith streaking straight up field to beat USC in 1998? The R-G's Ron Bellamy does, and today gives us an enjoyable reminder of the four dramatic victories Oregon has scored over USC in Eugene since 1998.
• Rob Moseley caught up with 2007 SC-game hero Matt Harper, who his game sealing interception of Mark Sanchez "...seems like it was yesterday."
• It sounds like the "Blackout" or "Lights Outs" theme for Saturday's Halloween is gaining momentum, but also some scrutiny from some who have concerns about the potential for racial implications (ask your favorite Beaver fan about how their blackout went over). I like the "Fright Night" reference, personally.
• Athletic Director Mike Bellotti is awaiting a recommendation regarding the status of LeGarrette Blount. It sounds like Pac-10 commissioner Larry Scott will be in town for the big game.
• In his latest diary entry at OregonLive.com, Oregon's Carson York relishes the beatdown of UW and looks ahead to a challenging match-up against USC. I enjoyed this line about Yorks experience in Seattle: "On the sideline guys were saying things like, 'I hate these guys,' even though we couldn't explain why." Behold, young Carson, the power of the almighty Juju.
• Jeremiah Masoli gives his knee a B. Sophomore lineman Mark Asper was back on the practice field Wednesday after nursing a bum ankle. Writer Mike Tokito takes a look at the USC defense, which can't afford their play to slide further in Eugene. Finally, that Paris Hilton quote often attributed to Kirk Herbstreit...turns out he never said it. Herby sets the record straight with The Oregonian's John Hunt.
• The first ESPN/USA Today men's basketball top-25 poll was released today. The Ducks aren't on it. Ernie Kent's Ducks are working hard on their full-court defense.

Whew...that's a lot of quack. Pace yourself Duck fans.