HappyToBeADuck

Always and in all ways fans are susceptible to any and all optimism. We need some hope. The double gut punch from WT and MC the last 5 years has reduced the flaming torch of promise to a flickering candle for many. We jump at any hope and promise. However....... In order for success to take place in any venture...... .. for hope to be realized! Then......... Opportunity and preparedness must meet........ The opportunity for these players to put their stamp on this season comes in the form of win #11. Are they prepared?

Definitely late to the party on this topic, for me...... Great posts for certain from multiple sides of the spectrum. Optimism, pessimism, uncertainty, confidence, excitement and frustration............ The forum pot is full. And everyone is safe to share. What a great forum this is. So much food for thought and consideration. Thanks to all............ I get the feeling that Coach Lanning has his own plan.......He will have plenty of film to review to see what the true talent level is on this team. Then all of sping ball to see how that talent level executes his plan. When I am hired to consult for our customers the owner(s) always want to know how I am going to fix their problems. My answer is as always...... I have know idea until I observe your team and see what I have to work with. From that observation I will discover if your team or your processes are the road blocks to your goals.......... In football terms do I need to bring in new personnel (coaches-players)? Do I need to change, modify or install a new process (systems-schemes) Once I make my discovery, then my group gets to work. Some existing team members quit or move on. (NFL-portal) So now I have to assemble the team I need(recruiting-portal) Also I have to rally the troops that remain (current roster) Everyone has to buy in to the plan or program. Victory comes with the team. But know this. Everyone on the team needs training. They gotta be taught, coached up and loved. (Player development) IMHO, Coach Lanning is in the observation and assembling faze. Some pieces will leave after the bowl game. Other portal pieces will come available right after the CFP is completed. Then the final assembly on National Signing Day. We will know much more about Coach Lanning and his staff then. As some have mentioned, after the Georgia game, when the Ducks take the field they will have the most talent against any opponent. Probably true. Coach Lanning inherits a young, experienced roster. Needs a few pieces and a new process. All three phases. And teaching, training, coaching and love for the team. Can they develop players? The jury will be out on the Coaching staff hires until this time next year. Coach Lanning and his staff will have growing pains thru their learning curve. It is inevitable. Some questionable hires? I expect mistakes. They will be out coached in a number of games by more experienced coaches. (Shaw, Whitt, Chip, Herm, Smart) Hec 8-4 is a possibility. So is 10-2. As long as Coach Lanning, staff and players learn from their mistakes then they will be ahead of MC. He just never learned or would make changes. If MC can win 37 games then Lanning can too. Slow start but strong finish in 2022. If they develop players, make good in game adjustments, then down the road Lanning will take us to the CFP. Natty? Well, if ifs and butts were candy and nuts then Everyday would be Christmas.

Just Ducky I don't think you're being negative. That non block was just one of a few plays or games that kept us out of the 2 or 4 team playoffs over the years. The ride has been magical since the pick. Filled with many ups and then those devastating losses. Part of the ride that comes with the amazing memories. The Black Mamba was lightning in a bottle. He just didn't execute on that play. Cost us big time. IMHO it didn't diminish his greatest accomplishment. He proved that 5 star athletes can come to Oregon. As I read the article I too thought of those few missed plays, injuries and losses that kept us from a potential Natty. Just reminds us of how narrow the path is for Oregon. The margin of error is minute........... Unlike for Bama.........

That stain will never leave the little puppies program. Never........ Not even "Shout" will cleanse that bad boy stain.......

David Lanning definitely is a high risk hire But it's a risk that needed taking MC was becoming a bit of an old record. Yes he won, won alot! But even I had run out of defending his excuses. The talent on the field the next 3 years should help with growing pains for Coach It's just a plus that the assembling of the new, young Duck coaching staff causes so much angst with Husky fans. Imagine their angst as that staff continues to out recruit them on the trail. Then whoop em on the field. Let's not forget we owe them a 70 spot stomping........

Not sure about dreamy or easy on the eyes....... However whenever my wife sits down to drink her morning coffee and SEC Game Day is on, if she sees Mr. Dreamy she sighs and Softy whispers yummy...... I asked her once if the yummy was for the coffee or Herbie? Her answer was, both... Never asked again! Guess Annie was on to something. Over the years Herbie has been pretty high on his praise for Oregon. Especially with the video game remote in Chip and Mark's hand.

Well at this fine Holiday Season as the Husky faithful gather around their doggy dish for dinner........ Ask yourself what do they have to talk about? What is truly positive about their program? Not much........... Next best thing......... Bad mouth your master?

One of the best Christmas gifts received today. Thanks Charles! Gosh the Huskies are the gift that keeps on giving. Merry Christmas OBD forum.......

The landscape of big time college football is changing so fast that its almost unrecognizable. As fans we have no say in these matters. College football will change as the money and opportunities arise. Most roller coaster rides have sections that are difficult and stressful. G force pressure..... For some it's exhilarating, for others it's painful and upsetting. The transfer portal is just that, a roller coaster ride. As soon as the bowl games are completed their will be hundreds of players entering the portal. Get ready....... The rules have always allowed for players to transfer. They just had to sit out a year. That may make some fans happy but it was unfair to the player. None of us and I mean none of us know each and every players reasons for playing football. If that player cannot achieve or satisfy that reason. ... Well they should have the right to move on. And I wish them the best. Afterall, they play for themselves and family. Maybe Mom or Nana missed Jayson. Maybe Jayson missed them. Consider that Coach Lanning talked with each player or recruit on the plane ride to Eugene. Or in person. Pethaps Jayson didn't feel he would fit in Coach Lannings scheme. Either way, to me, the human element of the players and coaches outweighs the loyalty to school nonsense. Or loyalty to the fans. If we want Oregon to succeed and win a Natty then change is necessary. And change is coming.... Good luck to all who leave for the NFL or another school. Life is a journey and each of us has to live with the consequences of our decisions and actions. As a fan, I truly don't like this but I sure hope your replacement is better. Sooner or later, a group of Duck players and coaches are gonna walk off the field with a Natty. Hope it's sooner.........

Jon, as we all know, leadership in the PAC was woeful. Why is our 2nd best team playing outside of the PAC foot print. But consider this..... With all the money and billionaires in California why is their not a Second New Years Six Bowl in Socal? 2nd place team should be showcased in the PAC foot print. Theirs plenty of money, hotels and potential sponsors to make a big payday possible. I mean Rose Bowl type money. Maybe the new council can get with it. If influemce and name recognition is all the council has, then use it. The Jimmie kibble and bits bowl is just underwhelming.........

Well done Coach...... Keep the gifts coming this Holiday Season...... Get that Natty for Georgia and come out west and get a handful for Oregon and OBD.......

It's so wise and Necessary to keep politics or any potential " Forum Launch Points" under control. Normally I am long winded but this post has one point. Hope you can take it under consideration. In the middle of the last century when the world was in three colors, black, white or gray ( especially TV sets) sports were just starting to creep on the small screen. When my Father bought the first color TV set in our neighborhood an interesting thing happened. Neighbors, friends and relatives came to our house to watch TV with us. Some brought dinner but ALL brought dessert. YUMMMMMMM Sunday was special. With the formation of the AFL there was now 2 to 4 games on every Sunday. It was heaven. Food, family, neighbors and friends with a common goal. The color TV Set. So it was football from 1-7 est. If the late afternoon game went past 7, well tough. (Look up Heidi Bowl) The networks cut to their National Night Time broadcasts. Walt Disney, Ed Sullivan Hour then Bonanza of Gun Smoke. Dad bought a 2nd color TV for the family room so you could choose between games and shows. My fellow forum members it was a time I wish I could bring back. Sundays were wonderful. 2 things broke the fun up. By the time MNF came around most people had a color TV set in their own home. The second was political talk. Gosh the anger and harshness was frightening to a child. Some Dads got banned. Moms rule...... No one is welcome in my Brothers home today unless you agree to his wife's politics. WTH. It only ends bad when politics get discussed. Don't you feel their are plenty of sites to argue endlessly and yet change no ones mind? So in my family since the 1950's sports has been a safe haven. Politics a foolish venture into nothingness. Thanks Charles and team for getting that aggravation to the curb.

Just an additional thought. Non scholarship kicker sets up for a game winning field goal in a P5 conference championship game. Make the kick and you send your team to the CFP. The school and conference divide up millions of dollars. Reap the recruiting rewards that follow, yet........ We can't carve out a scholarship because of rules. If we can have NIL dollars flowing then why not target specific scholarships..... Maybe I am bitter because my son played 3 years of D1 ball while on a full ride ACADEMIC SCHOLARSHIP. IMHO, The school and coaching staff had no problem with that..... Just saying.

Charles and forum members Merry Christmas.......... And once again and always, thank you Charles, writers, moderators and contributors for this wonderful, safe haven. It's a one of a kind. I don't think I have a problem with being kind and considerate, so this forum and the rules are easy to follow and enjoy. I was raised by and taught from a national union negotiator. A master at seeing both sides of the discussion. Here's some of his advice: Always remember you are a guest in all doors you walk thru except your own. I consider myself a guest on this forum. IMHO, we are all guests on this forum. When I am invited to someone's home, as a guest, I am on my best behavior. I treat the host(est) and their guests with respect and kindness. I am not more important than anyone that was invited. Nor are my thoughts and opinions. There will always be more than one opinion. Usually multiple opinions... Listen intently with respect. You have 2 ears and 1 mouth for a reason. Be informed before you speak. Openly admit when you are mistaken or wrong. I try to recognize that the party that is this forum is a house full of Charles guests. Multiple view points are expected and welcome.. I would never berate, belittle or try to show up one of his quests. We have the huskies and beavs for that. All opinions are worthy of thought and consideration. I hope that other forum members give me the same courtesy. The multiple view points have helped me change my opinions. Not just sometimes but many times I am wrong. That was easy. Most important advice was to never show or say anything in anger or too harshly. The world may look different in the morning. I never hit submit reply or send until I proof read my typed words. I respectfully take out any direct harshness directed to a writer or commentator. I don't have the right as a guest to purposely hurt the writer or guest. Nor would I ever touch the keyboard while drinking, excessively. More wisdom next morning even with a hangover...... Best advice as always came from my Mother. If you can't say something nice then don't say it at all. Does that need any explaining? There are so many sites to express anger and show one's superiority. This isn't one of them. IMHO.... Hope I never hurt anyone on this site. It's truly one of a kind. Yes there are membership rules, but don't we think they are worth it? Hope this post doesn't get banned?

The article was pretty accurate. As always, when's it's your turn, take advantage of the opportunity. It's exciting that even after all the departures and season ending injuries that most of the back ups are 4/5 stars. Stars mean nothing but these youngsters are talented. Very talented. Only 8 juniors and seniors are listed on the 2 deep roster. That means 40 plus youngsters will be playing in the Alamo bowl. That bodes well for the future. Hope Coach Lanning keeps the top talent coming to Eugene and they coach them up. I take one exception in the article. I just don't see where KT was dominant after his return. He had his moments but was not a dominant force. At times he was double and triple teamed. Something just wasn't right.......

Very strict rules or regulations have to be in play. Keep the 85 scholarship limit in place..... Then offer 6 special team scholarships for kicker, punter and long snapper. And as you pointed out those should be the only positions they can play. These young men have to come to work at specific days and time. They have to practice their trade. They need fair compensation. And the coaches need clear, concise and binding rules in place on these scholarships.

David thanks for shedding some light on the subject. After reading it again it chaps my ...... that those in power aren't fighting for a fair solution. Any player who is controlled by rules especially the rules of the coach should be compensated with a scholarship. If they step on the field, for just one play, and take any risk they should be compensated. In layman's terms if they have to show up for work (practice) and put in the time....they need to be compensated. IMHO, the schools president, AD and HC should have been up in arms against the NCAA to make adjustments to the scholarship rules....... All the schools should have been involved to facilitate a change. Why didn't they? All those in power constantly spout off what's in the best interest of the student athlete. If they even remotely cared they would have championed a change. Let me see if I got this straight...... Son, parents, we want your boy to come to our school. Practice all year long and then win us some games. Be the hero, show team and school spirit. We want him bad and for this great privilege it will only cost you this much money........WTH I get that rules are the rules. But if those in power truly cared they would fight for change. In this day and age, thru social media, any change can happen. But somebody has to get the ball rolling. Now that the NCAA has been effectively neutered this should be eady.

I wonder how many college football coaches wish they had a QB on their team like JH? What a gem of a hidden talent he was. Small town, Pacific Northwest diamond in the rough 7 years ago. How did all the great recruiters miss him? If I recall he was injured his junior year and fell off the map. But still........... Hope Coach Lanning and staff find a few more like Justin.

For me, it's always sad to see people or coaches leave or get the boot. Familiarity makes us feel comfortable. Maybe safe from the unknown... Wish nothing but the best for all the coaches in their future endeavors. As I look at the company, I founded 42 years ago, I see no one on the staff from 14 years ago. That's when I turned the company over to my youngest son. He was young, energetic, creative and fresh out of college with 2 degrees. He systematically eliminated the geritol staff he inherited from me. He hired like minded, young energetic, creative, workaholics to continue to build the company. He and his team do in a business quarter what my team did in a year. Here's to the new youth movement taking place on Oregon football. I wish Coach Lanning the same success my son has had. 35 years old is a great number. PS: Coach, during my son's learning curve he sought our my advice, often.

Alex thank you for taking the time to write the article. Whats been going on in the QB room at Oregon is truly one of 2 - 64,000 dollar questions. While there can be outside or inside situations that influence actual playing time during a game, it really boils down to a few things..... In the frenzy of recruiting have Oregon coaches been good at judging the potential talent of the QB position? Thru the numerous practices from spring ball thru the usual bowl game have the coaches developed that potential talent in QB room? I have no answers......... Since Marcus arrived on campus to this very moment theirs been very little back up QB success. A very talented, successful starter left the program because Marcus arrived. There wasn't even a chance for that QB competition to take place. After Marcus goes to the NFL Incomes Vernon, he gets hurt and we all know the painful outcome when his back up took the field in the bowl game. Incomes Dakota and as an experienced transfer he was in over his head. So the coach throws Herbert into the mix. Justin struggles a little with his chance but he grows with his in game experiences. You can see and feel his potential. Justin succeeds in spite of the coaches around him. Next season gets off to a good start then Justin gets hurt. Braxton plays his heart out but he was not ready. He was not prepared. The coaches had done little to help Braxton get ready. Fortunately, for MC and Oregon, Justin stays another season. In spite of coaching, Justin leads the team to a 12-2 season. I don't remember seeing a great deal of Tyler during that season, do you? But the coaches did......so they brought in Anthony. Another transfer. In fairness Tyler got his chance. He showed undeveloped promise and then the wheels came off. Whatever happened, Tyler lost his confidence and transferred out. Another transfer took the reigns. There were games that AB really struggled in and the back up should have been brought in. Not our coaching staff. No risk taking here. Or perhaps the back ups were not prepared by the coaches? Riley didn't hesitate to bench Rattler and take a chance on a freshmen. Do the coaches at Oklahoma prepare their back ups better than Oregon does? Don't know because coaches didn't take a chance. So here we go again, another transfer. Granted Bo and our new OC have a relationship. Bo should have an understanding of the schemes. But I hope that there is competition in the QB room right up to the Georgia game. The new coaching staff should develop at least 3 players as starters. Develop that unrealized potential....... Then one or 2 of our QB's will enter the portal. All that unrealized potential will play somewhere else. Such is the state of the QB rooms in college football. But one thing is certain, if Coach Lanning and his staff don't develop the QB's, we will be looking to the portal again........

Old mo is a fickled beast. Now you have it, now you don't....... MC has recruiting momentum. Like very few before him. Yet his teams rarely build and sustain momentum. No better example than the bowl game with TCU. Old MO was on steroids that night.

It's certainly possible more bowl games could be canceled. After almost 2 years it's part of the landscape. First hope all the A & M players and staff move thru this safely and quickly. Sorry the youngsters will miss out on THEIR bowl experience. Was looking forward to the game. Hope Wake can pick up an opponent......

Saint Puddles welcome. Post often and understand someone will let you know if you break the rules. Enjoy the forum. Kind of get the feeling that the amateur ship has sailed. However we will probably see an FCS type championship playoff with the have nots. When the insanity levels off there will be plenty of schools who will let the ship sail without them. And then offer a great amateur athletic experience for their student athlete. If you watched the FCS Semifinals last weekend you saw passionate players and rabid fans. Change will always come in many packages.

Jon one more thought about the Super League developing in the near future. IMHO, The PAC and its commissioner made a lethal mistake by not expanding. They could have ended the BIG 12 in one move. The PAC could have laid the foundation for a 18-20 Mini Super League. Not as glamorous as SEC, for sure. But positioned to cover 3 time zones, including Texas. TV money, lots of money, would have followed. ould have eliminated a CFP competitor. Hec the last 3 weeks, after the Utah loss the narrative was all about Baylor, OU and Oklahoma State and the. CFP.. .. 2 of those teams should have been invited to the PAC. I believe a 4 conference set up with 72-80 schools will come first. Test the waters first. See how rating meters move. TV is and will always be the cash cow....... The PAC could have made the first move. But didn't. Eventually 4 to 6 PAC teams will jump to a bigger pond.

Glad JM has recovered from surgery. Glad JM gets to go back home. Best wishes for he and his family at Akron. Hope he calls a great game in the Alamo...... Go Ducks.........