Morning Quack Fix: Camp continues on, both lines still a work in progress
by jtlight on Aug 14, 2009 8:08 AM PDT
in Morning Quack Fix
62 comments
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!
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Dennis Dixon
Also worth noting – Dennis Dixon threw for 112 yards on 10/19 passing in the Steelers exhibition win over the Cardinals last night.
by The Lexpatriate on Aug 14, 2009 9:04 AM PDT reply actions
He looked better than that, too
He was off on a few throws, but I also saw at least three drops, one of which would have earned them a first down in the red zone.
I didn’t watch the whole time, but I didn’t see any scrambling from Dixon. Seems like a waste of an asset.
I feel the need, the need...for speed!
He didn’t scramble, but he isn’t asked to. Though he did show some very nice moves in the pocket that set up the last Steeler’s TD.
"It’s spelled S-H-U-F-E-L-T-M-E-U-P"
That's my issue
I would think that the Steelers would have called a few plays that showcase his running ability, but I guess they’re just not going to mess around with that.
Like I said, seems a waste of an asset from the Steelers perspective, but what the heck do I know? They won the Super Bowl last year, so I guess they must know a little bit about football.
I feel the need, the need...for speed!
Dixon is, and always has been pass first. In a pro-system, he scrambles more like a Steve Young than a Mike Vick. Only when the play breaks down, not trying to force anything.
With that said, the Steelers did a lot of wildcat practice last year, and I hear they did the same this off season. If Dixon settles in at No. 2, I would expect to see an occasional wildcat set, and a few runs with him.
"It’s spelled S-H-U-F-E-L-T-M-E-U-P"
Hey, watched Dixon last night. Very impressive… that one drive he was hitting everybody… good pocket presence too. He did the Pac-10 proud.
Btw, where exactly is he on the depth chart?
Currently, he’s technically 3rd. He’s fighting for No. 2; I’d give him a 60% chance for it right now. Either him or Batch. If he gets more consistency over the next few games, I think it’s a sure thing. Batch is a great backup, but he’s also getting old. Dixon has more versatility. If he improves his long pass more, and release time, he’ll be an easy 2nd, possibly even a trade to a team for a chance to start in the next year or two.
"It’s spelled S-H-U-F-E-L-T-M-E-U-P"
It was pretty clear last night that the Steelers want to see Dixon get many snaps. I suppose everyone knows what Batch can do. I can only wonder what direction they would go if Big Ben was injured seriously to the point of missing a significant number of games. Dennis looked capable of leading the team, and in that scenario I think they’d consider going with him over Batch.
As for Dennis not getting runs called. Sure, I’d like to see that too. But this is the Steelers. They have a stable of powerful running backs who get paid a lot of cash to carry the ball. The coaches probably won’t gripe if DD pulls one down and takes off when no one is open, but I can’t imagine them exposing Dennis to more contact by calling run plays for him. He’s an investment, and they’re going to treat him as such.
I'm really tired of it not being football season.
I understand he’s an investment. I was just surprised, knowing that the Steelers had worked on the WildCat (rumors were that they were even one of the teams that was considering signing Vick), that we didn’t see it with Dixon last night. I’m not expecting the Steelers to design their offense around a backup QB’s running ability. But I was just surprised we didn’t see it at all.
Maybe they don’t want to open up that part of their playbook in preseason. And part of it is probably because the last time I saw him play, he was running all over the place for the Ducks.
Like I said, the Steelers know what they’re doing, so I’ll defer to them. I just like to wax nostalgic about Dixon’s last season with Oregon when he was running the spread.
I feel the need, the need...for speed!
Didn’t mean to imply that you didn’t understand that. Of course you do. Sorry for that.
Really, I agree that he has the ability to expand the playbook. Maybe the Steelers will go there at some point. It would be exciting. As Dennis’ passing skills have continued to evolve, he’s really become the ultimate dual-threat QB. Remains to be seen whether the Steelers are willing to change their conservative ways and use Dennis as a dual threat.
I’d sure like to see it.
I'm really tired of it not being football season.
What’s the hurry? I think the way they developed QBs in the old days was a better system. For instance what happened to Aaron at Green Bay was a blessing in disguise… he got to practice and learn behind someone that has done everything. When he finally got on the field, it was like nothing for him and he just executed calmly.
Dixon can learn behind big ben for a few years, get paid and then go out there when he’s over-prepared, not under.
Agreed. Dennis may be shoe-in for the no. 2 spot at some point, but there’s no guarantee he’ll ever be the no. 1. Staying healthy, getting reps and developing your skills along the way is a good formula for a lengthy, worthwhile NFL career. Who do you think has enjoyed his NFL career more, Joey Harrington or A.J. Feeley?
Also… Please explain quantum mechanics to us. I’m just curious.
I'm really tired of it not being football season.
I agree with that. But if Pittsburgh thinks they can get good trade value for a team that needs a QB that can either be a starter, or push someone to be a better starter – well, I wouldn’t be surprised to see him go somewhere else.
Ben isn’t going anywhere, and he’s not that much older than Dixon. I don’t think Dixon is a franchise player for them. But I could be wrong.
"It’s spelled S-H-U-F-E-L-T-M-E-U-P"
not even in disguise
As a Packer fan I was pumped to get Rodgers and think the timing was perfect. Love me some Aaron Rodgers.
Sleeping under an avalanche with Cartman, wake me Sept 3.
by trumpetduck on Aug 14, 2009 12:04 PM PDT up reply actions
Yeah, that’s the main worry. Being broken in half would put a significant damper on his future prospects as a QB.
I feel the need, the need...for speed!
Starting next year
our #2 team will be going to the Alamo Bowl and #3 to the Holiday Bowl….
This is a step in the right direction, but it still pisses me off that our #2 has to play the Big XII #3 in the Alamo, and our #3 has to play the Big XII #5. Why the inequity there?
--Dave
Addicted to Quack, SBN's Oregon Ducks blog
And still no second New Year's Bowl
That’s what I really want.
"Good evening Blazer fans, wherever you may be!"-Bill Schonely
Why? New Years is the most overrated football day of the year.
--AddictedToQuack, SBNation's Oregon Ducks blog
And interesting rankings from SI
The not only haveOregon ranked ahead of Cal, but Oregon State as well. They have SC at #4, Oregon at 11, OSU at 18, and Cal at 21.
FYI, Boise State is at #9 and Washington State ranks as the worst BCS team in the nation at 105.
--Dave
Addicted to Quack, SBN's Oregon Ducks blog
And they also have Cal getting 2nd in the Pac-10.
No consistency.
"It’s spelled S-H-U-F-E-L-T-M-E-U-P"
WTF? How is that even possible? They have an easier OOC than us…
--AddictedToQuack, SBNation's Oregon Ducks blog
It’s obvious you don’t understand quantum mechanics.
by danzig on Aug 14, 2009 10:19 AM PDT up reply actions 1 recs
SI's projected Pac-10 standings make no sense
They have USC losing once, and us losing twice, which I don’t see how that’s possible since we’re one of the two teams (Cal being the other) that has the best shot to beat USC this year.
"Good evening Blazer fans, wherever you may be!"-Bill Schonely
AllPac10.com has a preview of the Oregon linebackers. This group should be very, very good.
--AddictedToQuack, SBNation's Oregon Ducks blog
Sounds like the BSU running game had issues in their first scrimmage. As always, it’s tough to tell if this is a function of amazing defense or poor offense. Due to the issues the running game had last season, I’d say it’s mostly the latter. I’m really not expecting that unit to improve by much.
--AddictedToQuack, SBNation's Oregon Ducks blog
I'm gaining confidence too...
I have a feeling that both lines will be fine, and that the hard work and repetition will pay off when the season starts.
From what I’ve seen at three practices, I completely agree about the defensive line. Not just fine, maybe even pretty good. The offensive line does look good at times, especially run blocking. Pass protection and blitz pick-up take longer and the unit still has a ways to go. Getting and staying healthy is critical. There are a couple scrimmages coming up, so we’ll get a better feel soon.
I'm really tired of it not being football season.
And given the strength in RBs in this league
If we can slow the run, we’ll have a VERY good defense.
"Good evening Blazer fans, wherever you may be!"-Bill Schonely
JJ gets put on IR and released
Well, at least he’ll make half the rookie minimum since he’s on IR.
Link: Former Oregon RB Jeremiah Johnson placed on IR and released by Houston
The dislocated shoulder that bothered former Oregon running back Jeremiah Johnson last season apparently has not healed and it has cost him a shot with the Houston Texans.
The rookie free agent was put on injured reserve last week and later waived by the Texans. Houston signed free agent running back Andre Hall to replace Johnson.
"Good evening Blazer fans, wherever you may be!"-Bill Schonely
That's too bad
I would have liked to see JJ get a shot. Hopefully he’ll catch on with someone else.
I feel the need, the need...for speed!
Speed backs have a really hard time in the NFL. You usually need some good power with that speed. And with JJ, he’s more quick than fast. Sure, he made some great runs in the Pac-10 (And outside the Pac-10), but most secondaries could usually chase him down.
Even Reggie Bush squeaks by with a 3.7 average. He’s in no danger of losing his job because of: A. Great change of pace, and B. Great receiver from out of the backfield. (He also got his NFL groove for Punt Returns)
"It’s spelled S-H-U-F-E-L-T-M-E-U-P"
If only all of him was a beastly as that right arm
Agree, JJ just doesn’t quite have the nfl body or skill set. Its too bad because he was a hell of a back, but it just doesn’t translate.
Sleeping under an avalanche with Cartman, wake me Sept 3.
by trumpetduck on Aug 14, 2009 12:06 PM PDT up reply actions
he should just become a stiff arm guru, mentoring young backs on how to jack defenders up. I’d send my kids to Jeremiah Johnson Hand in Yo Face Camp for sure.
It's spelled "T-A-K-I-M-O-T-S-C-H-M-O-E."
I support inroywetrust in his support of The VD Special in his support of me supporting Roger Kieschnick in his quest to becoming the best Kieschnick ever to play professional baseball.
by Takimoto on Aug 16, 2009 9:41 AM PDT up reply actions 4 recs
Anybody playing on going to the scrimmage tomorrow?
I know a few of you have been frequenting practice, but a scrimmage, that is something im interested in. One of the articles said 2:15, anybody know the location? I’ll be there if I get of work early enough.
Sleeping under an avalanche with Cartman, wake me Sept 3.
I’m out of town for a few days, but will catch the next one. I believe Dom’s getting married. Quinn maybe? DonaldDuck is a local I think?
I'm really tired of it not being football season.
Damnit Donald!
I was just starting to get over Kelsi! Damnit!
It's spelled "T-A-K-I-M-O-T-S-C-H-M-O-E."
I support inroywetrust in his support of The VD Special in his support of me supporting Roger Kieschnick in his quest to becoming the best Kieschnick ever to play professional baseball.
seriously
Sleeping under an avalanche with Cartman, wake me Sept 3.
by trumpetduck on Aug 16, 2009 12:29 PM PDT up reply actions
Dude, is this for real?
http://doubleextrapoint.blogspot.com/2009/08/college-smokeshow-of-week-oregons.html
Holy… I think I under-shot it a bit when I ranked her a 9.3.
Why NSFW? Does this have anything to do with quantum...
Oh. I see. Carry on then.
I feel the need, the need...for speed!
rec’d. I love awful puns.
It's spelled "T-A-K-I-M-O-T-S-C-H-M-O-E."
I support inroywetrust in his support of The VD Special in his support of me supporting Roger Kieschnick in his quest to becoming the best Kieschnick ever to play professional baseball.
Amanda who?
Heeeeello Katelynn!
Addicted To Quack [dot] com; Six-hundred and ninety-four yards of total offense.
T-Duck’s gonna get pissed everybody’s ogling his girlfriend.
It's spelled "T-A-K-I-M-O-T-S-C-H-M-O-E."
I support inroywetrust in his support of The VD Special in his support of me supporting Roger Kieschnick in his quest to becoming the best Kieschnick ever to play professional baseball.
she is my favorite
Sleeping under an avalanche with Cartman, wake me Sept 3.
by trumpetduck on Aug 16, 2009 12:30 PM PDT up reply actions
I’m half convinced DONALDUCK is a comment robot who needs a tuneup, but is still all kinds of awesome.
It's spelled "T-A-K-I-M-O-T-S-C-H-M-O-E."
I support inroywetrust in his support of The VD Special in his support of me supporting Roger Kieschnick in his quest to becoming the best Kieschnick ever to play professional baseball.
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