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University of Oregon - Oregon Ducks The University of Oregon was founded in Eugene in 1876. With an enrollment of 18,814, Oregon’s fans cram the 54,000 seat Autzen Stadium and make it one of the most difficult home fields in the PAC-10. Coming off of a difficult season-ending four game losing streak, the Ducks hope to rebound this year and contend for the conference title. 2007 Oregon Ducks Outlook The key to the Ducks’ 2007 season comes down to one thing, turnovers. Quarterback Dennis Dixon’s 12/14 touchdown to interception ratio killed this team. Improvement in control of the ball is one of the factors that will determine whether Oregon finishes in the middle of the pack or contends for the conference title. With seven returning starters on each side of the ball, the Ducks have the ability to make noise in a tough division. One of their earliest tests will come on Sept. 8th in a tough road game against Michigan. With home games against California and USC, Oregon has the potential for upsets at their tough home field. 2007 Oregon Ducks Schedule Oregon Ducks Head Coach Profile Oregon coach Mike Bellotti has a record at the school of 97-48 and is considered one of the best offensive coaches in a conference full of them. Bellotti is the glue that holds the team together and his schemes always make Oregon a threat to win on any given Saturday. With plenty of offensive weapons at his disposal, the remedy to the turnover situation is his team’s most pressing concern. Look for a fairly short hook if Dixon’s struggles continue as Bellotti has a reliable backup in senior Brady Leaf. Oregon Ducks Key Departures/Players to Watch The Ducks return many of their skill players on both sides of the ball. Dixon and both running backs that make up Oregon’s platoon backfield return. Running backs Jonathan Stewart and Jeremiah Johnson will likely split the carries, and both look to have strong seasons in the Ducks’ newly installed spread offense. The biggest loss for this team lies at the heart of their offensive line. Center Enoka Lucas’ departure leaves a physical and emotional hole in the offensive unit and his leadership will be sorely missed. |
Oregon
