Highlights (from Tuesday's official practice report)
- The Ducks have put a lot of emphasis on converting red zone opportunities this offseason. After converting over 75% of red zone chances into TDs in 2011 and 2012, the Ducks dropped all the way to 66% in 2013, with especially poor performances against Stanford and Arizona.
- In yesterday's practice, the offense scored on 5 straight possessions in the red zone drills, but the defense was able to bounce back with a couple turnovers.
- It's fun to hear about new guys that are making an impact. Austin Maloata has received a lot of priase early, which is very encouraging. Moseley also mentions that Arik Armstead looks like he's poised for big things.
- Tyson Alger has a few other notes from interviews after practice.
Tweet Of The Day
There's no way this can be real. Right? I think we see him by the 3rd series against South Dakota.
Oregon RB Coach Gary Campbell says Royce Freeman is in the mix to start at RB in opener. "I think he's in the mix, no question."
— Matt Prehm (@Prehmmr247) August 19, 2014
Links and Notes
- After practice today, Coach Greatwood had a few comments on the state of the offensive line. He said that Jake Pisarcik would start at right guard if the season started tomorrow, with Hamami Stevens holding down left guard. Part of Pisarcik getting the nod is that Cameron Hunt has been out the last week with an injury. However, still nice to see some new names in the mix for playing time.
- Here are Coach Helfrich's comments after practice yesterday. He talked about protecting Marcus, in light of Braxton Miller's season-ending injury.
- Only about 1000 seats left to the opener against South Dakota. I'm just surprised the athletic department hasn't yet been talking about the mythical sellout streak that I don't think anyone actually cares about.
- This will surprise no one: Chip Kelly acquired another Duck. Kenjon Barner is headed to Philly.