9-14-23 Emerald Media Group - Gameday

Page 1

BILL BOARD BO

OREGON’S CAMPAIGN FOR THE 2023 HEISMAN TROPHY IS SCALING GREAT HEIGHTS ACROSS THE NATION

GAMEDAY AROUND THE PAC WEEK 2 PG. 7 • DUCKS FACE HAWAII IN SECOND HOME GAME PG. 12 • LOOKING BACK ON THE PAC-12 PG. 18 9.14.23
PAGE 2 EMERALD GAMEDAY EDITION | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 14, 2O23 WE’VE GOT YOU COVERED. UODuckStore.com ALWAYS SOMETHING NEW

GAMEDAY

GAMEDAY, the Emerald’s football edition, is published by Emerald Media Group, Inc., the independent nonprofit news company at the University of Oregon founded in 1900.

EMERALD MEDIA GROUP

1395 University St., rm.302, Eugene, OR 97403 541.346.5511 | dailyemerald.com

NEWSROOM Editor in Chief

Evan Reynolds

Print Managing Editor

Emma J Nelson

Sports Editors

Nina-Grace Montes

Brady Ruth

Copy Chief

Olivia Ellerbruch

Reporters

Emma Logan

Jack Lazarus

Ruby Wool

Joe Moore

Jonathan Suni

Photo Editor

Molly McPherson

Design Editor

Liz Blodgett Designer

Ryan Ehrhart

Payton Liebelt

Esther Szeto

BUSINESS

President & Publisher

Bill Kunerth x317

Vice President, Operations

Kathy Carbone x302

Creative Director

Anna Smith x327

ADVERTISING

Director of Sales and Digital Marketing

Shelly Rondestvedt x303

Account Executives

Lola Tagwerker

Cori Caplinger

ON THE COVER

The Oregon Ducks stamp their starting quarterback in one of the biggest cities for football in the nation, Dallas, Texas.

(Jonathan Suni/Emerald)

The Oregon Ducks mascot dances during the third quarter. (Ali Watson/Emerald)

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 14, 2023 | EMERALD GAMEDAY EDITION PAGE 3
GAMEDAY

OREGON OFFENSE

TROY FRANKLIN

TRAESHON HOLDEN

TEZ JOHNSON

JOSH CONERLY JR.

JUNIOR ANGILAU

JACKSON POWERS-JOHNSON

STEVEN JONES

AJANI CORNELIUS

TERRANCE FERGUSON

BO NIX

BUCKY IRVING

KYLER KASPER

KRIS HUTSON

GARY BRYANT JR.

GAAOPE LALOULU

MARCUS HARPER II

NISHAD STROTHER

GEORGE SILVA

OREGON DEFENSE

BRANDON DORLUS

POPO AUMAVAE

CASEY ROGERS

JORDAN BURCH

JEFFREY BASSA

JESTIN JACOBS

MASE FUNA

KHYREE JACKSON

TYSHEEM JOHNSON

EVAN WILLIAMS

NIKKO REED

COLE MARTIN

JOHNNY BOWENS III

TAKI TAIMANI

KEYON WARE-HUDSON

MATAYO UIAGALELEI

JAMAL HILL

CONNOR SOELLE

JAKE SHIPLEY

TRIKWEZE BRIDGES

BRYAN ADDISON

STEVE STEPHENS IV

OREGON SPECIAL TEAMS

HAWAII OFFENSE

FELIX-FUALALO

ARASI MOSE

SOLO VAIPULU

KA’ENA DECAMBRA

DEVON TAUAEFA

JAKE FARRELL LANDON SIMS

JONAH PANOKE

HAWAII DEFENSE

ANDREW CHOI

KUAO PEIHOPA

JOHN TUITUPOU

JONAH KAHAHAWAI-WELCH

ISAIAH TUFAGA

LOGAN TAYLOR

VIRDEL EDWARDS II

PETER MANUMA

MEKI PEI

CAM STONE

ELIJAH PALMER

TARIQ JONES

ANTHONY SAGAPOLUTELE

EZRA EVAIMALO

WYNDEN HO’OHULI

NOAH KEMA

JALEN SMITH

CALEB BROWN

MATAGI THOMPSON

JUSTIN SINCLAIR

JOJO FOREST

CJ

HAWAII SPECIAL TEAMS

MATTHEW SHIPLEY

BEN FALCK SOLOMON LANDRUM

KAI KLUTH

HUNTER HIGHAM

JAKE FARRELL

TYLAN HINES

CHUUKY HINES

KANSEI MATSUZAWA

PAGE 4 EMERALD GAMEDAY EDITION | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 14, 2O23
# POS YEAR
PLAYER
THOMPSON
PATRICK HERBERT TY
WR-X WR-Z WR-F LT LG OC RG RT TE QB RB WR-X WR-Z WR-F LT LG/OC RG RT TE QB RB No. 11 No. 5 No. 15 No. 76 No. 54 No. 58 No. 74 No. 65 No. 3 No. 10 No. 00 No. 17 No. 1 No. 2 No. 75 No. 55 No. 50 No. 71 No. 88 No. 13 No. 6 JR SR/TR SR/TR SO RS SR/TR JR RS SR RS JR/TR JR SR/TR JR/TR RS FR JR RS JR/TR RS SO JR RS SR/TR JR/TR RS JR RS SO JR/TR PLAYER # POS YEAR PLAYER # POS YEAR
NOAH WHITTINGTON
DE NT DT JACK WLB MLB SLB FCB FS BS BCB NB DE NT DT JACK WLB MLB SLB FCB FS BS No. 3 No. 50 No. 98 No. 1 No. 2 No. 4 No. 18 No. 5 No. 00 No. 33 No. 25 No. 21 No. 91 No. 55 No. 95 No. 10 No. 9 No. 22 No. 90 No. 11 No. 13 No. 7 SR RS SR RS SR/TR SR/TR JR RS SR/TR SR SR/TR JR/TR RS SR/TR JR/TR FR FR RS SR/TR RS JR FR SR RS SR/TR JR RS JR RS SR RS SR PLAYER # POS YEAR PLAYER # POS YEAR
DUNNE
JOHNSON BUCKY IRVING MATTHEW RIGNEY PT PK/KO KO/PK LS H/PT PR KR PT No. 45 No. 49 No. 98 No. 43 No. 92 No. 15 No. 00 No. 84 FR SR RS SR/TR RS SO RS SO/TR SR/TR JR/TR GR/TR PLAYER # POS YEAR
LUKE
CAMDEN LEWIS ANDREW BOYLE LUKE BASSO ROSS JAMES TEZ
STEVEN MCBRIDE KARSYN PUPUNU POFELE ASHLOCK JOSH ATKINS SERGIO MUASAU ELIKI TANUVASA MAURICE TA’ALA GREYSON MORGAN BRAYDEN SCHAGER TYLAN HINES ALEX PERRY CHUUKY HINES KOALI NISHIGAYA LUKE
WR-X WR-Z WR-SL LT LG OC RG TE QB RB WR-X WR-Z WR-SL LT/RT LG OC RG TE QB RB WR-Z No. 7 No. 83 No. 86 No. 54 No. 66 No. 61 No. 51 No. 17 No. 13 No. 2 No. 88 No. 84 No. 23 No. 72 No. 77 No. 52 No. 78 No. 87 No. 5 No. 30 No. 1 SR/TR RS JR/TR RS FR RS SO/TR RS JR RS SR/TR RS JR JR/TR JR SO RS FR SO RS JR RS SR/TR RS SR SR RS SO RS FR RS JR RS SO RS SR
DE NT DT EDGE MLB WLB LCB SS FS RCB NB DE NT DT EDGE MLB WLB LCB SS FS RCB NB No. 96 No. 58 No. 90 No. 6 No. 17 No. 16 No. 23 No. 1 No. 7 No. 00 No. 28 No. 43 No. 95 No. 52 No. 12 No. 18 No. 3 No. 13 No. 25 No. 21 No. 8 No. 9 RS SR RS SO/TR RS SR/TR RS SR RS SR/TR SR/TR RS SR/TR SO RS JR/TR SR/TR FR RS SO JR/TR RS JR RS SO/TR SR/TR RS SO/TR JR/TR RS FR JR/TR SR/TR JR/TR
WILLIAMS
PT/PK KO/PT LS PK/KO LS H PR/KR KR PK No. 2 No. 69 No. 44 No. 33 No. 35 No. 5 No. 2 No. 84 No. 12 SR RS SR/TR SR/TR FR FR RS JR SO SO JR
a more in-depth chart on both teams, visit ESPN.com
For
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 14, 2023 EMERALD GAMEDAY EDITION | PAGE 5 www.lookingglass.us/employment Looking Glass is hiring Mental Health Therapists! Join a passionate workforce dedicated to serving youth, adults, and families in our community www.lookingglass.us/employment Looking Glass Counseling Program embraces a healthy, balanced work environment for staff and values the importance of culture and community. 2022 At Looking Glass our mental health therapists enjoy training and support from a diverse and committed team. Apply Now!
PAGE 6 | EMERALD GAMEDAY EDITION THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 14, 2O23 Email Roy Susuico at rsusuico@uoregon.edu or visit goarmy.com/bme1 530 BLAIR BLVD EUGENE 390 Lincoln St. @4th 541.735.3860 LUNCH & DINNER EVERYDAY DINE IN | CARRY OUT thewheelapizzapub.com pub brewed beer HERBIVORE CARNIVORE LOCAVORE (541) 735-3520 TACOVOREPNW.COM 530 BLAIR BLVD EUGENE 390 Lincoln St. @4th 541.735.3860 LUNCH & DINNER EVERYDAY DINE IN | CARRY OUT thewheelapizzapub.com New Haven inspired apizza, pub brewed beer HERBIVORE CARNIVORE LOCAVORE (541) 735-3520 TACOVOREPNW.COM 530 BLAIR BLVD EUGENE 390 Lincoln St. @4th 541.735.3860 LUNCH & DINNER EVERYDAY DINE IN | CARRY OUT thewheelapizzapub.com New Haven inspired apizza, pub brewed beer HERBIVORE CARNIVORE LOCAVORE (541) 735-3520 TACOVOREPNW.COM 530 BLAIR BLVD EUGENE 390 Lincoln St. @4th 541.735.3860 LUNCH & DINNER EVERYDAY DINE IN | CARRY OUT thewheelapizzapub.com New Haven inspired apizza, pub brewed beer HERBIVORE CARNIVORE LOCAVORE (541) 735-3520 TACOVOREPNW.COM DINNER EVERYDAY LUNCH FRIDAY & SATURDAY DINE IN | CARRY OUT

LOOKING AROUND THE CONFERENCE AFTER AN UNPREDICTABLE WEEK 2

Few could have been prepared for several of the Pac-12’s outcomes this week

After the second week of the football season, a record eight teams from the Pac-12 cracked the AP Top 25. It’s the most teams the Pac-12 has ever seen on the poll at the same time. Oregon snuck out of Lubbock, Texas, with a win. But what did the other teams do?

WASHINGTON STATE (2-0) STUNS NO. 19 WISCONSIN (1-1) 31-22 FOR ANOTHER UPSET-WIN OVER THE BADGERS

Fans rushed the field in Pullman after beating a ranked Wisconsin team for the second straight season. Washington State — now ranked No. 23 — pounced on three fumbles to pull off a thrilling win and build some series momentum for its Week 3 game against Northern Colorado (0-2).

NO. 22 COLORADO (2-0) ROLLS PAST NEBRASKA (0-2) IN 36-14 HOME OPENER

The Buffaloes are alive! After a slow first start against the Huskers, the Colorado offense got going in the second frame for its second straight win. Both Fox’s Big Noon Kickoff and ESPN’s College Gameday will be in Boulder for the Buffs’ Week 3 matchup against Colorado State (0-1). The Rams were initially the only game Colorado was supposed to win in a season in which it’s already surpassed its 2022 win total.

NO. 8 WASHINGTON (2-0) THUMPS TULSA (1-1) 43-10

It would be foolish for any team to overlook what the Huskies are doing right now. A Washington offense that’s expected to be one of the nation’s best this season impressed again by collecting 563 yards and six scoring drives against Tulsa. The Huskies’ first real test will come next Saturday as they play Michigan State (2-0) on the road.

NO. 12 UTAH (2-0) ESCAPES WACO WITH 20-13 WIN OVER BAYLOR (0-2)

Oregon’s win over Texas Tech wasn’t the only nail-biter that the Pac-12 came out on the right side of in Texas this week. A late score, interception and another score turned what seemed like an impending loss into a surprising win. The Utes are desperate to get quarterback Cameron Rising back from his lower body injury, and hope he can return for next week’s game against Weber State (2-0).

NO. 6 USC (3-0, 1-0 PAC-12) EARNS FIRST CONFERENCE WIN 56-10 OVER STANFORD (1-1, 0-1 PAC-12)

So far, the biggest question in the conference is whether any other team can catch the Trojans. Quarterback and Heisman-favorite Caleb Williams had more total touchdowns (four) than incompletions (two) on another night where Lincoln Riley’s squad balled out. Stanford will look to regroup next week against Sacramento State (2-0) while USC enjoys a well-deserved bye week.

NO. 16 OREGON STATE (2-0) ROLLS PAST UC DAVIS (1-1) 55-7 FOR SECONDSTRAIGHT 2-0 START

So far, D.J. Uiagalelei has been the leader the Beavers were needing in 2023. He

led his new squad in an offensive explosion that’s setting Oregon State right up there with all the contenders the 2023 Pac-12 has to offer. The Beavers host San Diego State (2-1) next week as they look to continue to rise in the national rankings.

UCLA (2-0) HANDS SAN DIEGO STATE ITS FIRST LOSS IN 35-10 WIN

Dante Moore’s second game went much better than his first. UCLA’s freshman quarterback racked up 290 passing yards and three touchdown passes on Saturday evening while the Bruin defense held the Aztecs to just 259 yards of total offense. Now ranked No. 24, UCLA will look to stay undefeated against North Carolina Central (2-0) next Saturday.

ARIZONA (1-1) FALLS 24-31 IN OVERTIME TO MISSISSIPPI STATE (2-0)

Too many Wildcat turnovers — four interceptions and a fumble — sunk Arizona in its first loss of the 2023 season. Despite being underdogs, the Wildcats hung with the Bulldogs until the end, but their mistakes were just too severe to overcome. Arizona can bounce back in Week 3 with a win over the University of Texas El Paso (1-2).

CALIFORNIA (1-1) LOSES LOW-SCORING GAME TO AUBURN (2-0) 14-10

A sloppy game that saw just 503 yards of total offense and nine punts went the way of the Tigers on Saturday night. A very winnable game fell through Cal’s grasp as a team needing every win it can get for bowl-eligibility hopes turned the ball over thrice. The Golden Bears will host Idaho (2-0) next week.

ARIZONA STATE (1-1) DROPS 27-15 LOSS TO OKLAHOMA STATE (2-0)

Kenny Dillingham suffered the first loss of his head-coaching career as his Sun Devils fell to a talented Cowboys team on the road. ASU looked better than last week and are on the right path for a challenging matchup with Fresno State (2-0) next Saturday.

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 14, 2023 | EMERALD GAMEDAY EDITION | PAGE 7 GAMEDAY
Kenyon Sadiq avoids the tackle. The University of Oregon Ducks Football team defeated the Portland State University Vikings in a home match at Autzen Stadium in Eugene, Ore., on Sept. 2, 2023. (Eric Becker/Emerald)

RUTH: A TENSE ROAD GAME AND A WILD ENVIRONMENT

THE CHANCE TO EXPERIENCE A HIGH-SCORING OREGON GAME FROM A VISITING STADIUM WAS ONE I WON’T SOON FORGET.

When the 2023 Oregon football season’s schedule was released, I immediately had my eye on four or five games that I knew would be crucial for the Ducks’ success in quarterback Bo Nix and head coach Dan Lanning’s second season.

One such game was a Week 2 road test in Lubbock, Texas, against Texas Tech. Living in Denver — and the game occurring well before the academic school year actually started — the game was drivable. So, I took advantage of it.

I was smack in the middle of a tense 38-30 Oregon victory, soaking in the atmosphere of a Red Raider home game all night long.

I have to say, it was incredible. Texas Tech knows how to throw together quite the stadium, environment and traditions.

STADIUM

Jones AT&T Stadium — despite being under construction — was really neat. The turf area behind one endzone popped out in the Lubbock night until it was overrun by an oversold student section.

The tall and long sections were themed by color, with red and white-dressed Red Raider fans alternating every other section. It was one of the best executed themed games I’ve ever attended. It looked awesome.

The stadium had an older feel, but the energy and technology were incredibly modern and alive. A large video board and brand-new LED lights around the stadium lit up and electrified Jones AT&T Stadium. Light shows, hype videos, fan shots and music echoed throughout the stadium and amplified the intensity and fun of a thrilling night.

The only knocks I can give the stadium were the narrow walkways and the construction in one end zone. But from what I can tell, and the renderings I’ve seen, Texas Tech fans will have quite the home stadium to boast about when it’s completed.

TRADITIONS

Lubbock was full of odd, yet exciting, gameday traditions.

For one, there were tortillas everywhere. Yes, you read that right. Every time the Red Raiders kicked off, scored or picked up a first down, a downpour of tortillas filled the skies. I talked to a couple

fans to try and get a reason as to why, but nobody seemed to know. It was just a thing that everyone does. I was shocked and found it odd, but I’d be lying if I said I didn’t chuck one myself in response after Jeffrey Bassa’s game-sealing interception.

The other was the bell. Bertha, they called it. Bertha had an honorary ringer for the evening, and she rang on big plays and when the team took the field. In the end, though, her clangs fell dead as the Ducks escaped Texas with a win.

Texas Tech also had no shortage of mascots. A costumed mascot, Raider Red, roamed the stadium not unlike The Duck — although Raider Red didn’t do any push-ups. Tech also had the “Masked Rider,” a woman on horseback dressed like a true western raider. Finally, what appeared to be a student in a cowboy hat was constantly shooting off rifles with blanks on kickoffs and Texas Tech touchdowns.

It seemed a little complicated as to who the one true mascot was, but maybe I’ve become accustomed to Oregon’s one large, feathered friend.

ENVIRONMENT

Everything I had read, and everyone I talked to,

told me that the game was going to be loud. At times, it certainly was. Early in the game, and when Tech was playing well, the sold-out stadium was rocking. But in the fourth quarter, when the team needed the noise the most, Red Raider Nation was uneasily quiet — as if they sensed their impending doom.

There were a fair amount of Duck fans. Although I wasn’t sitting directly in one of the two designated away-fan sections, I was still in a small puddle of Oregon fans, and many like mine could be found scattered in the sea of red.

The Texas Tech fans were incredibly kind and hospitable. There were plenty of opportunities where they could have taken their frustrations out on anything green they could find. Instead, there were lots of “good games” and “best of luck”s exchanged throughout the night.

One of the best things about the night was the “Beat Oregon, Duck Hunting” shirts all the fans were wearing. They were creative and extremely well done. I actually bought one on my way out as a reminder of an incredible trip and a trophy from an instant classic in Oregon history.

PAGE 8 | EMERALD GAMEDAY EDITION | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 14, 2O23 GAMEDAY
The iconic “Masked Raider” leads the home team down the field to kick off the Texas Tech home opener. The Oregon Ducks battled in a close fight to ultimately beat the Texas Tech Red Raiders in their home opener at Jones AT&T Stadium in Lubbock, Texas, on Sept. 9, 2023. (Jonathan Suni/Emerald) Well-known long-time Duck fan “Mimi” cheers on with fellow Oregon supporters after the Ducks gain a more comfortable lead. The Oregon Ducks battled in a close fight to ultimately beat the Texas Tech Red Raiders in their home opener at Jones AT&T Stadium in Lubbock, Texas, on Sept. 9, 2023. (Jonathan Suni/Emerald)
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 14, 2023 EMERALD GAMEDAY EDITION | PAGE 9 beer hall whiskey lab 5 food vendors LIVE MUSIC & TRIVIA co-work & meeting space 777 W. 6th avenue, eugene. beergardenme.com beer BAR COCKTAIL BAR 6 food carts LIVE MUSIC, bingo & TRIVIA beer hall whiskey lab 5 food vendors LIVE MUSIC & TRIVIA co-work & meeting space

BO NIX TAKES THE BIG SCREENS

The Ducks are making a big publicity push to increase Nix’s odds and bring the Heisman Trophy back to Oregon

Murals of Oregon quarterback Bo Nix tower over Manhattan’s Park Avenue and Dallas’ Live Oak Street. The bright yellows and greens beam for several blocks in New York City and Dallas. The two-part installation of Nix throwing a football catches people’s eyes hundreds of yards away. Meanwhile, ostentatious electronic billboards illuminate downtown Los Angeles and Penn Station, with the tagline “BOdacious” accompanying the visuals.

The digital marketing of the “BOdacious” brand is a part of Oregon’s publicity push to grow the Nix 2023 Heisman Trophy campaign. The promotional efforts have reached fans across the nation and provided Nix with visibility in a larger-than-life way.

The bold ads headline football-related pages on the ESPN website and take up entire pages of the New York Times. More subtly, the campaign appeared on Sept. 2 at the site of ESPN’s College Gameday in Charlotte, North Carolina, as fans held up “BOdacious” signs in the packed crowd. Nix seems to

be everywhere off the football field, while he has been covering great ground on the turf.

The last time Oregon invested in a Heisman campaign was in 2001 for Joey Harrington, who ultimately finished fourth in Heisman voting. Harrington, or “Joey Heisman,” as it was declared, had his full-length picture plastered across from Manhattan’s Madison Square Garden. The single 80-by-100 foot billboard attempted to put Oregon at the forefront of football. Two decades later, the Ducks have reestablished their national presence in more than one state and on more than one platform — seemingly important as Oregon athletics will be traveling coast to coast in 2024 following its move to the Big 10 conference.

Week 1 saw the Ducks kick off their season with a historic 81-7 victory over Portland State. Nix threw for 287 yards and three touchdowns, completing 23 of his 27 passes before Lanning benched him to avoid injury early in the third quarter. Their home

opener victory set an Autzen Stadium modern era scoring record. With the season underway, Nix will need to continue to break career and team records if he wants to contend for the most prestigious individual award in college football.

Saturday’s game versus Texas Tech had a much more slim score differential –– the Ducks eventually rallied past the Red Raiders 38-30. This on-theroad Oregon victory marked Texas Tech’s first loss in a home opener since 1999. Nix threw for two touchdowns and 359 yards, without an interception. The fifth-year quarterback passed former Red Raider and two-time Super Bowl champion with Kansas City, Patrick Mahomes, on the career list for yards passing. Nix is at 11,490, while Mahomes tallied 11,252 yards over his collegiate career.

Nix transferred to Oregon from Auburn University in 2022 to exhaust his last two years of eligibility. As a true freshman, Nix led the program to a 9-4 record season and was named the SEC Freshman of the Year.

PAGE 10 | EMERALD GAMEDAY EDITION | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 14, 2O23 GAMEDAY
Bo Nix (10) looks to create some offensive impact in the game to build the lead out of reach for the Red Raiders. The Oregon Ducks battled in a close fight to ultimately beat the Texas Tech Red Raiders in their home opener at Jones AT&T Stadium in Lubbock, Texas, on Sept. 9, 2023. (Jonathan Suni/Emerald)

However, over the next two seasons, Nix and the Tiger offense had trouble improving on the success they achieved in 2019.

A large part of Nix’s transferring decision was to reunite with Kenny Dillingham, who joined Dan Lanning’s team in 2021 as the offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach. Dillingham held the same position at Auburn in 2019, during Nix’s standout first-year, but left the Tigers for Florida State in 2020. Following his departure, Nix struggled to advance his statistics, so the Oregon transfer opportunity afforded Nix the chance to pick up where he had left off with Dillingham.

The reunion of Nix and Dillingham evidently rejuvenated Nix’s career. As of 2022, Nix became Oregon’s single-season record holder for completion percentage, 71.9. He also became the first UO starting quarterback to post a completion percentage of 70.0 or better in a season.

However, the dynamic duo faced a similar situation in November of 2022. Dillingham would leave Nix for the head coaching position at Arizona State University. In a scramble to replace Dillingham, Lanning hired Will Stein with the approval of Nix. Stein joined the Ducks as offensive coordinator and quarterback coach after spending three seasons at the University of Texas at San Antonio.

Stein has just two weeks under his belt as a Duck, and so far his leadership has proven to be promising. Stein will have to do his best to integrate himself with the Oregon offense and deliver on the ground and in the air for the Ducks. Hopefully, Stein brings the same spontaneous and creative play calling that Oregon fans grew accustomed to with Dillingham; a system that Nix clearly thrived in.

Meanwhile, it is imperative for Nix, a prospective Heisman frontrunner, to remain healthy throughout the season and avoid any serious injuries. Last year, Nix was one of the top contenders to win the Heisman before he suffered a costly ankle injury against the Washington Huskies that derailed his odds, and Oregon’s season.

Going into the third week of the 2023 fall season, BetMGM’s Heisman odds ranks Nix in sixth place, with odds +1,900. In addition to Nix, the pool of potential award winners is highly competitive, with top candidates from within the Pac-12 and throughout the nation.

Currently, USC’s quarterback Caleb Williams is the betting favorite to win a second-straight Heisman. The Trojan junior threw for 47 touchdowns, completed 296 of 448 passes for 4,075 yards and rushed for 372 yards on 109 carries in the 2022 season.

Nix will need to light up the stat sheet to keep Williams from becoming the second player ever — after Archie Griffin in 1974 and 1975 — to win two Heisman Trophies.

According to BetMGM, Nix is also campaigning against Florida State’s quarterback Jordan Travis, +950; Washington’s quarterback Michael Penix Jr., +950; University of Texas Austin’s quarterback Quinn Ewers, +1,100 and University of Michigan’s quarterback J.J. McCarthy, +1,500.

Eight quarterbacks have won the Heisman Trophy in the last ten years, and on average these eight award winners threw for 43 touchdowns, completed 304 of 448 attempts for 4,515 yards with 128 rushes.

Last season, by comparison, Nix completed 71.9% of his passes and accumulated a total of 3,593 yards and 29 touchdowns. Nix will need to work with Stein to find ways to advance his rushing ability and build on his passing success from last season.

In addition to improving his statistics, Nix will have to help lead the Ducks to the final Pac-12 Championship and contend for a spot in the College Football Playoff. Ultimately, Oregon must reach new heights this season if they want to increase Nix’s odds in the Heisman Trophy watch, and his probability of becoming the first Duck to win the coveted award since Marcus Mariota in 2014.

The anticipation is building in Autzen and across the country, as Duck fans wish for the opportunity to see Nix standing next to his New York City billboard in December for the Heisman Trophy ceremony.

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 14, 2023 EMERALD GAMEDAY EDITION | PAGE 11 GAMEDAY
Along with New York, Dallas is another major metroplex dawning the newly created “BoDacious” promotion. (Jonathan Suni, Emerald)

DUCKS FACE HAWAII IN SECOND HOME GAME

After a week on the road and an exciting win in the south, No. 13 Oregon returns home to improve their record against the Rainbow Warriors

In Week 3 of the season, the No. 13 Oregon Ducks (2-0) make their return to their Autzen Stadium after a week on the road to face the Hawaii Rainbow Warriors (1-2).

So far this season, Oregon has faced off against two different teams, ending in dramatically different scores but two victories nonetheless.

The Ducks traveled to Lubbock, Texas, last week to face the Texas Tech Red Raiders, leaving with a 2-0 record and a 38-30 final score. The game ended in excitement where the victory was solidified in the final minutes of the game. While the game raised some potential areas for improvement in the coming weeks, the Ducks proved they can perform in a tough away environment.

In their season opener and 2023 Autzen debut, the Ducks dramatically defeated the Portland State Vikings 81-7. The Vikings did not test the Ducks on either side of the ball,ultimately leading to their record-breaking win. Most notably, the Vikings did not throw the ball. Quarterback Dante Chachere led the team in passing yards with only 35 yards for five completed passes and one touchdown.

When they make their return to home after an exciting road win and a commanding home victory under their belts, it can be expected that the Hawaii team should not provide any issues, giving Oregon an easy path to victory.

The Rainbow Warriors have played three games this season. Their most recent game against Albany ended in a score of 31-20 and gave them their first win of the season.

In that game, quarterback Brayden Schager threw a career high four touchdown passes as well as completed 23 passes for 266 total yards. This is the third straight game that Schager has thrown for at least three touchdowns. The Oregon defense should be aware that Schager is not afraid to throw the ball as they prepare for this matchup.

In the Rainbow Warriors’ defeat over Albany, running back Jordan Johnson led the Rainbow Warriors in rushing yards with 11 carries totaling 76 yards. Meanwhile, wide receiver Pofele Ashlock led the team in receiving yards with four receptions for 74 total yards.

The Rainbow Warriors play in the Mountain West Conference, but their preseason schedule has seen some bigger names than they are used to.

When they travel to Oregon to take on the Ducks, it will be Hawaii’s third Power Five matchup of the season. The game will kick off at 5 p.m. and will air on the Pac-12 network as the Ducks attempt to bring their preseason record to 3-0 in front of a home crowd.

PAGE 12 | EMERALD GAMEDAY EDITION | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 14, 2O23 GAMEDAY
Oregon players celebrate in the end zone after scoring. The University of Oregon Ducks football team defeated the Portland State University Vikings in a home match at Autzen Stadium in Eugene, Ore., on Sept. 2, 2023. (Eric Becker/Emerald) Gary Bryant Jr. evades a defender. The University of Oregon Ducks football team defeated the Portland State University Vikings in a home match at Autzen Stadium in Eugene, Ore., on Sept. 2, 2023. (Eric Becker/Emerald)

Unscramble these Jumbles, one letter to each square, to form four ordinary words.

FINSF VRAYIA

CANNUE CANNUE

Now arrange the circled letters to form the answer as suggested by the cartoon.

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 14, 2023 | EMERALD GAMEDAY EDITION | PAGE 13
ANSWERS
Across 1 Purview 6 Novelist Leon 10 Disapproving noises 14 “The Bare Necessities” bear 15 Salade niçoise ingredient 16 Still abed 17 See 54-Across 19 Weigh in 20 Jag 21 Long-winded 22 See 54-Across 27 Snares 28 Overhead 29 Hubbubs 30 Candlelit ceremony, e.g. 32 “Affirmative” 35 Pay-__-view 36 See 54-Across 39 Khan who founded Khan Academy 40 Texter’s “My bad” 41 Actress Shire 42 Tuscany town 43 Cyber Monday sector 45 Presidential advisory group 48 See 54-Across 51 Black Sea peninsula 52 Principle 53 Mandolin kin 54 “I love this song!,” and what might be said about 17-, 22-, 36-, and 48-Across? 59 “Don’t push that button!” 60 Low-carb diet 61 In unison 62 “Stars on __”: reality show hosted by William Shatner 63 About 64 Fabric fold Down 1 “Notorious” SCOTUS justice 2 Musical gift 3 Selma’s st. 4 Prune 5 Sitcom role for Brandy 6 Embryo’s home 7 Yardstick, e.g. 8 Small bay 9 For instance 10 Fill to the brim 11 Laundry room convenience 12 Forum top 13 X-ray __: gadget advertised in classic comic books 16 City with the world’s largest naval complex 18 Genre that’s an element of Kawaii metal 21 Monty Python alum Michael 22 Realizes 23 Below 24 Production team member who shapes narratives 25 Slugger’s stat 26 Mama’s Special Garden Sauce maker 30 ROTC school near D.C. 31 Civil rights pioneer __ B. Wells 33 Art studio stand 34 Online magazine with a “Dear Prudence” advice column 36 Least original 37 Undefeated boxer Ali 38 Friend 42 Insta upload 44 Stopwatches 45 “Just watch me!” 46 Mimics 47 JPEG alternative 48 Island birthplace of shortstop Xander Bogaerts 49 Catchall check box 50 Achievements 51 Happy as a __ 54 Possible UFC match ender 55 Designer label initials 56 Java 57 California’s Santa __ Mountains 58 Joined
SUDOKU
WORD JUMBLE CROSSWORD
THAT SCRAMBLED WORD GAME By
David L. Hoyt & Jeff Knurek
Tribune Content Agency, LLC All Rights Reserved.
©2023
DRRAA Jumbles - SNIFF, RADAR, AVIARY, NUANCE CARTOON CAPTION - UNFAIR AIRFARE
PAGE 14 EMERALD GAMEDAY EDITION | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 14, 2O23 Eugene’s Weekly Handcrafted Marketplace Every Saturday X Rain or Shine X 10am-4pm X 8th & Oak eugenesaturdaymarket.org 541-686-8885 Outdoors April thru Early November

WILL STEIN SEES MIXED RESULTS IN FIRST TWO WEEKS

The new Oregon offensive coordinator had a blowout win against Portland State followed by a nail-biter against Texas Tech, but even with two wins on the board, there are changes to be made

Oregon has started the season 2-0, and through that they have been one of the highest scoring teams in the country. Even with their strong start, the Ducks offense has been a mixed bag in terms of execution on the field.

Even with the absence of standout coordinator Kenny Dillingham, Oregon’s offense didn’t miss a beat in Week 1. The Ducks offense, led by new offensive coordinator Will Stein, was firing on all cylinders in their matchup against Portland State.

Star quarterback Bo Nix had a short day at the office, only playing in the first half and the opening series in the third quarter and completing 23 of 27 pass attempts for 287 yards and three touchdowns. When Nix was in the game, Oregon put the ball in the end zone in all of the first eight possessions, putting up 57 points.

Standout receiver Troy Franklin caught two of those touchdowns, as did Gary Bryant Jr., and both amassed over 100 receiving yards in the blowout victory. Bryant and Franklin have proven to be Nix’s go-to receivers and will see a lot of touches when Oregon moves into conference play and the schedule gets rougher.

The ground game was also very effective for the Ducks, as they scored seven times while running the ball last weekend. Bucky Irving had two lengthy touchdown runs of 52 and 56 yards, which accounted for half of his four carries against the Vikings.

Sophomore Jordan James also added three of his own touchdowns, along with 86 yards, contributing to the total of 387 yards on the ground.

Against a Power Five opponent in Texas Tech, the Ducks offense seemed much more subdued and had a lot of trouble establishing their bread and butter — the run game. It was weak, mostly due to the reliance of RPOs (Run-Pass Option) that took a lot of time to set up. This allowed the Red Raiders to stack the box, be patient and find the ball carrier behind the line of scrimmage every time.

It seems as if they are going with a three-man backfield with Irving taking the lead while James and Noah Whittington mainly do their work in short yardage situations. While Whittington didn’t play in Week 1 due to coaching decisions, his role was clearly established against Texas Tech as the secondary guy to Irving.

The Oregon offensive line had a

difficult time creating holes for their runners, especially in short yardage situations where the Ducks failed to convert on multiple third-andone or fourth-and-one plays. The pass protection held up during the majority of the game, only allowing one sack, but there were multiple third down plays where Nix had to escape the pocket and use his legs to make something happen.

One of the more glaring issues was the lack of offensive line discipline. Oregon had 14 penalties for 124 yards in Lubbock, a lot of which were caused by lapses in the offensive line. They need to be far more disciplined if the Ducks are going to compete with the best in the Pac-12 or in the playoffs. They have all the potential to be really effective and powerful; it just needs to click.

One of the bright spots of the offense was the Nix-to-Franklin connections, which have accounted for over 100 receiving yards in each of Oregon’s games so far. It seems that, when the offense is in trouble, Nix often looks for No. 11 downfield to get the ball moving. After a lackluster first drive, Nix wasted no time and on the second play launched a 72-yard strike to Franklin to get the Ducks started.

Nonetheless, while the offense needs to be better moving forward into Pac-12 play, there are some encouraging signs. Head coach Dan Lanning has often stated that one of his go-to strategies when coaching his defense is doing the most without overthinking. Stein needs to take that mentality to his offense. It seems as if many of the early-down plays, especially the run plays, are run way too slow, which gives time for players to overthink.

Many of the successful pass plays were ones where the main option was ready to receive the ball almost as soon as Nix dropped back. Quick throws and short run plays were the most reliable for this offense when in trouble against Texas Tech, and if these plays are run more on earlier downs, then the RPO and deep passing game open up much easier for the Ducks.

Although the first couple weeks have been a mixed bag for the Oregon offense, there is a lot to be excited about going into Pac-12 play. Behind a star like Bo Nix, the Ducks could see a lot of success this season.

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 14, 2023 EMERALD GAMEDAY EDITION | PAGE 15 GAMEDAY
Quarterback Bo Nix speaks with offensive coordinator Will Stein on the sidelines. The Oregon Ducks battled in a close fight to ultimately beat the Texas Tech Red Raiders in their home opener at Jones AT&T Stadium in Lubbock, Texas, on Sept. 9, 2023. (Jonathan Suni/Emerald)

STORY:

TEXAS TECH HIGHLIGHTS

THE DUCKS TRAVELED TO LUBBOCK AND TOOK ON TEXAS TECH ON SEPTEMBER 9, 2023.

Oregon defensive lineman Taki Taimani (55) looks to get to former Oregon quarterback Tyler Shough (12) before he throws the ball downfield on the opening drive. The Oregon Ducks battled in a close fight to ultimately beat the Texas Tech Red Raiders in their home opener at Jones AT&T Stadium in Lubbock, Texas, on Sept. 9, 2023. (Jonathan Suni/Emerald)

PAGE 16 | EMERALD GAMEDAY EDITION | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 14, 2O23 GAMEDAY
PHOTO
The Oregon football team prays at their respective end zone as they look to return to Oregon with another victory. (Jonathan Suni/ Emerald)
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 14, 2023 | EMERALD GAMEDAY EDITION | PAGE 17 GAMEDAY
Newly transferred Oregon receiver Tez Johnson (15) breaks a tackle to double the Oregon Ducks’ lead. (Jonathan Suni/Emerald) Oregon center Jackson Powers-Johnson (58) lifts Bucky Irving (0) up in the air to celebrate an important touchdown to cut the Texas lead to just one point. (Jonathan Suni/Emerald) Noah Whittington (6) leaps over a Texas Tech defender in order to gain extra yardage. (Jonathan Suni/Emerald)

LOOKING BACK ON THE PAC

The Oregon Ducks are currently in the midst of their final season as members of the Pac-12 before they join the Big Ten along with the Washington Huskies, UCLA Bruins and USC Trojans.

Here’s a look at how the Ducks have fared against every Pac-12 school heading into their final season of Pac-12 matchups, and a look back at some of the best moments in Oregon Pac-12 history.

UNIVERSITY OF ARIZONA

All-Time Record: 29-17

Fresh off of a major upset over Washington in 1994, the Ducks found themselves massive underdogs for the second straight week. However, Oregon’s defense had an elite showing and upset No. 11 Arizona 10-9, improving to 6-3 on the season and winning six consecutive games on their way to Oregon’s first conference championship since 1957.

ARIZONA STATE UNIVERSITY

All-Time Record

Oregon took on Arizona State in 2015 with both teams sitting at 4-3 coming into the game. When the dust settled, a booth review upheld an Oregon touchdown to take a 61-55 victory over the Sun Devils in a tripleovertime thriller.

UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, BERKELEY

All-Time Record

42-42-2

In 2005, the No. 15 Ducks took on the No. 23 Golden Bears in a game that would prove to have a large impact on the Pac-10 standings. Oregon and Cal both held the other scoreless in the fourth quarter to send the game to overtime, where Oregon prevailed 27-20.

UCLA

All-Time Record

The Ducks and Bruins played each other as the No. 10 and No. 9 ranked teams in the country respectively last season. The two teams entered the game with one combined loss. The game was predicted to be a very tough game for the Ducks, but Oregon cruised to a 45-30 win to hand the Bruins their first loss.

UNIVERSITY OF COLORADO

All-Time Record

The Buffaloes and the Ducks have only met nine times as members of the Pac-12, and Oregon has won eight of those nine contests. However, this season seems like it could be a competitive contest following very strong showings from Colorado in its opening games.

OREGON STATE UNIVERSITY

All-Time Record

The Beavers will not be moving with the

Ducks to the Big Ten, making this rivalry now a non-conference matchup. One of the all-time great moments from this rivalry came in 2009, a game that was nicknamed the “War for the Roses.” The winner of the game won a berth in the 2010 Rose Bowl. The Ducks won a close game 37-33 to win the right to play in the Rose Bowl.

USC

All-Time Record: 22-38-2

The No. 10 ranked Ducks played No. 5 ranked USC on Halloween in 2009 in a game that would give the winner the lead in the Pac-10. Although USC was favored, Oregon collected over 600 yards of total offense in a dominant 47-20 victory in a season that would eventually see the Ducks make their first Rose Bowl appearance since 1994.

STANFORD

All-Time Record: 35-50-1

PAGE 18 | EMERALD GAMEDAY EDITION THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 14, 2O23 GAMEDAY
Highlights from decades of Pac-12 history show an eventful tenure for the Ducks.
DESIGNED
Troy Franklin is lifted up by Marcus Harper II after scoring. The University of Oregon Ducks Football team defeated the Portland State University Vikings in a home match at Autzen Stadium in Eugene, Ore., on Sept. 2, 2023. (Eric Becker/Emerald)
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 14, 2023 | EMERALD GAMEDAY EDITION | PAGE 19 WE’RE HIRING • Youth Sports Lead • Youth Sports Referee • Youth Sports Clinic Staff • Afterschool Program Leader • Youth Development Cook • Youth Development Program Coordinator • Youth Development Staffing & Licensing Coordinator Be a part of our all-star team opening the new Y this year! Eugene Family YMCA | 541.686.9622 | eugeneymca.org FINDYOURPURPOSE... APPLY TODAY FINDYOURY! Make a difference in the lives of youth in our community!
PAGE 20 EMERALD GAMEDAY EDITION | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 14, 2O23 A debit card for Duck fans Or visit MyOCCU.org/GameDayDuck

Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.