Happy Hump Day. Here's your mornin' fix:
- In case you haven't heard, the Ducks unveiled yet another set of new uniforms yesterday. Based on ATQ's poll results, it seems the consensus is positive. I'm definitely a fan, but that might have more to do with being able to finally say goodbye to that horrendous diamond plating. I won't, however, be downloading any desktop wallpaper, although you're welcome to. Meanwhile, ESPN.com's Ted Miller has a lighthearted piece on Kelly's reaction. And I'm sure there will be plenty of commentary around the Internets today, so make sure you post any relevant links in the comments.
- Amid all the uniform chatter, the R-G's Rob Moseley had a few other football-related tidbits: Summer conditioning workouts started yesterday; we might not have any academic casualties from the incoming recruiting class; and it sounds like placekicker Daniel Padilla is considering a transfer. The Ducks also announced a few advantageous tweaks to the 2010 schedule, ultimately shifting a few games around in order to move their bye week to the middle of the season.
- At ESPN.com, Miller continued with his "Don't Be Surprised If..." series with the Ducks yesterday, focusing on Oregon's defense. In brief, Miller doesn't think we should be surprised if the Ducks' D is better in 2009. His reasoning? Chip Kelly's confidence. I think it will be completely dependent on how successful Oregon's offense is. As Miller pointed out, the Ducks ranked last in the nation in time of possession last year, which means the defense spent far too much time on the field. If the offense continues to strike quickly and often, don't expect our D to be that much better, at least statistically.
- About 30 current, future and former Oregon track and field athletes will compete in this weekend's USA Track and Field Championships, which begin Thursday at Hayward Field in Eugene. Included in the field are current Ducks and recent national champions Galen Rupp, Ashton Eaton, Rachel Yurkovich and Andrew Wheating. Also, check out the Oregonian's John Hunt's piece on the State of Oregon's growing importance to the national running scene.
- Lastly, Nick Daschel over at BusterSports is continuing his Pac-10 coaches countdown, and Oregon legend Len Casanova comes in at number 8. Casanova was a great coach, and his efforts on the football field and in the athletic department helped to build what Oregon sports is today.
As I stated above, include any relevant links about the new unis or otherwise in the comments.
GO DUCKS!