GAMEDAY WASHINGTON STATE FOOTBALL PREVIEW PG.7 THE UPS AND DOWNS OF WEEK THREE COLLEGE FOOTBALL PG. 9-10 NEW FACES, NEW PLACES PG.16 9.22.22 NO. 4 A WORTHTOUCHDOWNWAITING FOR Oregon tight end Cam McCormick’s first touchdown in five years honored the memory of his late friend Spencer Webb and showed that he remains an asset to the Ducks football team.
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Oregon
COVER Ducks tight end Cam McCormick (84) watches his teammates perform tackling drills and waits his turn. The Oregon Ducks football team holds practice during their spring season at the Moshofsky Sports Center in Eugene, Ore. on April 16, 2019. (Maddie Knight/Emerald) 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., #302, Eugene, OR 97403 541.346.5511 | dailyemerald.com GAMEDAY
claiming
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The University of Ducks defeated the Oregon State Beavers 38-29, the Pac-12 North THE
Duck joins Oregon cheerleaders as they sing and dance to Oregon’s third quarter tradition, “shout.” The
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 22, 2022 | EMERALD GAMEDAY PAGE 3
champions title. (Emerald/ Ian Enger) NEWSROOM Editor in Chief Hannarose McGuinness Print Managing Editor Brandon Roth Digital Managing Editor Sarah Matlick Copy Chief Amanda Lurey Sports Editors AaronMojoHeisonHill Reporters KeijiAaronPattersonHeisenBradyRuthJackAaron Photo Editor Maddie Stellingwerf Design Editor Liz Blodgett Designers Payton Liebet Mia EstherRadostitzSzeto 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 Student Sales Manager Amy Menendez Account Executives Riley Valle Keaton Roberts MaxJoshGoldenbergDelapena ON
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PAGE 4 EMERALD GAMEDAY | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 22, 2O22 DJ JAMALDONTAETRIKWEZEBRYANCHRISTIANJUSTINNOAHBRADYNBRANDONTAKIJOHNSONTAIMANIDORLUSSWINSONSEWELLFLOWEGONZALEZADDISONBRIDGESMANNINGHILL No. 2 No. 55 No. 3 No. 44 No. 1 No. 10 No. 00 No. 13 No. 11 No. 8 No. 19 STARBCBBSFSFCBWLBMLBJACKDTDTDE RS JR/TRSR/TR RSJR FR FRSO SO/TR RSJR SO JRSO ANDREW BOYLE CAMDEN KRISSEVENKARSTENLEWISBATTLESMCGEEHUTSON No. 98 No. 49 No. 45 No. 7 No. 1 PK/KOPT/H KRPRLS SO/TR SOSOSRJR PLAYER OREGON # POS YEAR WSUWSUDEFENSEOFFENSEOREGON OFFENSE OREGON DEFENSE WSU SPECIAL TEAMSOREGON SPECIAL TEAMS OREGON PLAYER # POS YEAR PLAYER # POS YEAR PLAYER # POS YEAR No. 88 No. 6 No. 5 No. 9 No. 52 No. 61 No. 77 No. 76 No. 66 No. 42 No. 1 No. 25 WR-HWR-YWR-ZWR-X RBQBTERTRGOCLGLT RSSO SO SR/TR RSGR SR RS FR RS JR RS SR/TR RS JR RS RSJR/TRSO/TRESR/TR RON STONE JR CHRISTIAN MEJIA ANTONIO PULE III BRENNAN JACKSON DAIYAN SAMJORDANDERRICKFRANCISCOHENLEYMAUIGOALANGFORDJRLEELOCKETTIII CHAU SMITH-WADE ARMANI MARSH No. 10 No. 92 No. 42 No. 80 No. 1 No. 51 No. 5 No. 13 No. 00 No. 6 No. 8 NBCBFSSSCBMLBWLBEDGEDTDTEDGE RS SR RS SR SR/TR RS SR RS SR/TR SO RSSR/TRSR/TRJR/TR RSSO SR NICK RENARDSIMONCOLTONDEANHABERERJANIKOWSKITHEAKERSAMARZICHBELL No. 38 No. 49 No. 19 No. 34 No. 9 PT/H PRLSKOPK RSSO JR JR/TR GRSR PLAYER # POS YEAR PLAYER # POS YEAR TROY T.J.STEVENSEVENDONT’EFRANKLINTHRONTONMCGEEJONESBASS ALEX FORSYTH RYAN WALK MALAESALA AUMAVAE-LAULU TERRANCE FERGUSON BO NIX BRYON CARWELL WR-SLWR-ZWR-X RBQBTERTRGOCLGLT No. 11 No. 2 No. 7 No. 74 No. 56 No. 78 No. 53 No. 71 No. 3 No. 10 No. 21 RSSOSOSO JR SR/TR RS SR RS SR RS SR/TR SO JR/TR SO DE’ZHAUN STRIBLING DONOVAN OLLIE LINCOLN VICTOR RENARD BELL JARRETT NAKIACAMERONVILLEYMA’AKEGRANTKONNERCHRISTIANKINGSTONHILBORNGOMNESSSTEPHENSFIFITARIVIEREIIIWARDWATSON WSUWSUWSUOREGON
Ducks safety Jordan Happle (32) celebrates after a successful takedown. Ducks football take on the Washington State Cougars at Autzen Stadium in Eugene, Ore., on Nov. 13, 2021. (Maddie Stellingwerf)
Fans wave their Ducks flags after a successful touchdown by Ducks offense. Ducks football take on the Washington State Cougars at Autzen Stadium in Eugene, Ore., on Nov. 13, 2021. (Maddie Stellingwerf)
Ducks Jayson Jones (93) takes down Cougar quarterback Jayden De Laura (4). Ducks football take on the Washington State Cougars at Autzen Stadium in Eugene, Ore., on Nov. 13, 2021. (Maddie Stellingwerf)
Ducks running back Byron Cardwell (21) celebrates with a teammate after scoring a touchdown. Ducks football take on the Washington State Cougars at Autzen Stadium in Eugene, Ore., on Nov. 13, 2021. (Maddie Stellingwerf)
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 22, 2022 EMERALD GAMEDAY | PAGE 5 GAMEDAY THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 8, 2022 | EMERALD GAMEDAY | PAGE 5 From working at our counters to studying in the classroom; from directing our stores to cheering in the stands; the people we serve — the students — are the very people who are The Duck Store. Vivian b. Team Member since Aug 2021 Majoring in General Music UODuckStore.com GAMEDAY LOOK BACK AT WAZZULOOK BACK AT WAZZU
Cougar defenses stop Ducks offenses through a tackle. Ducks football take on the Washington State Cougars at Autzen Stadium in Eugene, Ore., on Nov. 13, 2021. (Maddie Stellingwerf)
PAGE 6 | EMERALD GAMEDAY | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 22, 2O22 GAMEDAY PAGE 6 | EMERALD GAMEDAY THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 8, 2O22
The Cougars of Pullman, Washington, have started the 2022 season on an impressive tear. An opening win against Idaho, followed by an upset win over Wisconsin and a beatdown of Colorado State have put the Cougars in an ideal 3-0 stance to enter conference play.
Bo Nix was brilliant against the Cougars. In just under three quarters of play, the transfer quarterback had 222 passing yards and picked apart BYU’s defense drive after drive. It wasn’t until after Nix had been sidelined that any glimmer of hope for the Cougars emerged.
The defense was solid and the offense was great. Oregon walked all over BYU to regain the attention of the nation. Now, enough about the Cougars from Provo.
The main reason for Washington State’s success has undoubtedly been its resilient defense. Senior Daiyan Henley poses the largest threat for the Oregon offense on Saturday. The linebacker from Los Angeles has already collected 30 tackles, four sacks, an interception and two forced fumbles just three games into the young season. The Ducks’ offensive line, as well as Nix, need to make it a point to know where Henley is at all times because he’s already proven that he will hurt an offense that gives him the opportunity to.
The quarterback comparison between Nix and Washington State’s Cameron Ward is very similar. Nix has 672 yards; Ward has 727. Nix has thrown two interceptions; Ward has thrown three. The Cougar quarterback has eight touchdown passes; Nix has seven. Both quarterbacks have been solid; both transfers have something to prove in their first Pac-12 conference game.
Both of the games that Oregon has looked solid have come at home. his will be a good road test for the Ducks against an opponent that has already been tested and proven.
Oregon holds a 52-42-7 record all-time against Washington State. But this Cougars team looks very sharp and could pose an early threat to the Ducks’ hopeful Pac-12 dominance.
The bottom line is that neither quarterback nor offense has played a conference game like this before, and with the new Pac-12 championship format, every game is that much more important.
From Cougars in blue to Cougars in red, Oregon has a lot to do to prepare for its matchup in Pullman. FOOTBALL PREVIEW
WASHINGTON STATEWASHINGTON STATE
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 22, 2022 | EMERALD GAMEDAY | PAGE 7 GAMEDAY
Pac-12 play officially kicks off for the Ducks this weekend, and Oregon’s first task appears to be against one of the hottest teams in the conference: Washington State.
Oregon Ducks quarterback Bo Nix (10) passes the ball during the Chick-Fil-A Kickoff Game against the Georgia Bulldogs on September 3, 2022 at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia. (Joe Robbins via Abell Images for the Chick-fil-A Kickoff Game)
An early season win over a sturdy Washington State defense is exactly what this Oregon team is looking for to establish to the rest of the conference that the Ducks are serious contenders in 2022.
The Ducks are soaring after a huge win over No. 12 BYU. After much concern from Oregon’s week one fiasco, fans are able to breathe again knowing that the Ducks can compete against highcaliber teams.
BY BRADY RUTH • TWITTER @BRADYRUTH10
The Cougars have forced seven turnovers through their first three contests. However, it’s really been the run defense that’s had the most success for Washington State. Allowing just 272 total rushing yards in 2022 (90.6 per game), the Cougars have allowed the third fewest rushing yards of any Pac-12 defense. This can certainly pose a challenge for an Oregon offense that had success last week running the ball against BYU.
Washington State has been very sharp on the defensive side of the ball. The recently high-flying Ducks offense could certainly be challenged by the team that’s allowed the second fewest total points in the Pac-12.
It began with Mar’Keise Irving taking his first carry for 36 yards to set up a first-and-goal. It kept the Cougars’ defense guessing on option-run plays — three of which turned into rushing touchdowns by quarterback Bo Nix. It trickled down the depth chart to James, who took three of his six carries for first downs and played the majority of his snaps on third down.
Not only did the Ducks punch the ball up the gut to earn that first down, but the between-the-tackles running attack was the focal point of finding offensive success.
The head coach saw it as a chance to establish his personal philosophy of football at Oregon: a thought process unknown to anyone outside of the Ducks’ locker room following an opening day drudge against Georgia and an unsubstantial victory against Eastern Washington.
The same couldn’t be said for Saturday’s blowout as the Ducks showed they’re creating an identity that each player on the roster has bought into. They’ll continue to build on that foundation on Saturday, Sept. 24 against the Washington State Cougars.
PAGE 8 | EMERALD GAMEDAY THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 22, 2O22 GAMEDAY
Fewer questions will be asked about what this Oregon football team is all about under Dan Lanning.
Each one knew Lanning wouldn’t blink twice. The decision to go for it had been made well before Saturday.
Through his first two seasons, Harper saw minimal playing time. However, he earned the nod as a starter last week against Eastern Washington after Ryan Walk sustained a left knee injury. He didn’t miss a beat and felt comfortable as Lanning put the game on the back of the offensive line.
“I think everybody in the stadium at some point probably realized what we were doing,” Lanning said. “We didn’t really care if you knew what we were going to do. You had to stop us.”
Dan Lanning didn’t hesitate.
The Oregon Ducks faced fourth-and-1 on their own 30-yard line with under 4 minutes remaining in the first half — the security of a 10 point cushion and a second half kickoff coming its way.
The Ducks accumulated 212 yards on the ground. Their running back by committee approach and two tight end sets consistently gashed the Cougars’
The conversion was one of many plays in No. 25 Oregon’s 40-21 win over No. 12 BYU which displayed the brand of football Lanning wants this iteration of the Ducks to embody. It’s an approach built on physicality and toughness meant to intimidate their opponents and prioritizes defending home field. The Ducks earned their 21st consecutive win at Autzen Stadium on Saturday — a streak that began the last time they hosted a ranked opponent, in 2018.
Ducks sophomore tight end Terrance Ferguson (3) battles Cougar defense for a touchdown in endzone territory. University of Oregon Ducks Football defeat the BYU Cougars in a home match at Autzen Stadium in Eugene, Ore., on Sep. 17, 2022. (Maddie Stellingwerf/Emerald)
“If you had told me I was going to play a little bit of fullback at Oregon, that would have been crazy,” Herbert told his teammates after the game.
Oregon’s 13-personnel scheme called upon players similar to Harper, who many wouldn’t have assumed would find the field against a ranked opponent. Freshman offensive tackle Josh Conerly Jr. lined up as a sixth offensive lineman, while senior tight end Patrick Herbert saw snaps at fullback.
“That happens in our staff meeting, a pregame meeting, before we ever arrive at that moment,” Lanning said. “So every one of our coaches had confidence in our players to go execute and every one of our players had confidence in the plan.”
“We want to be the type of team that you don’t want to play against,” Lanning said. “We want to dictate the tempo.”
Entering Week 3, a number of unanswered questions plagued Oregon’s football program. And, rightfully so, as it can be tough to gain any sense of a team’s direction when it plays in back-to-back blowouts.
“It’s called the big boy package,” offensive lineman Marcus Harper said as he flashed a wide grin.
They never did.
Why did its defense lack discipline despite hiring a defensive-minded head coach? Would the Auburn transfer quarterback find success in the Pac-12?
BY AARON HEISEN • TWITTER @AARON_HEISEN
Sophomore running back Noah Whittington (22) continues to jump over Cougar defense in order to make a first down. University of Oregon Ducks Football defeat the BYU Cougars in a home match at Autzen Stadium in Eugene, Ore., on Sep. 17, 2022. (Maddie Stellingwerf/Emerald)
He elected to keep the offense on the field, turning to a formation foreign to Oregon football teams of the past which were predicated on speed. One that included a sixth offensive lineman and a fullback. The formation helped the Ducks outmatch the BYU Cougars at the line of scrimmage as running back Jordan James ran for the first down.
front seven.
Oregon’s smashmouth mentality was maximized by its players buying in. Those who got in on the act enjoyed it; those who didn’t supported it.
It’s a mindset that helped convince each of the Ducks’ coaches to follow Lanning to Eugene: one that they’ve begun to instill in the players who already played at Oregon prior to the new coaching staff’s arrival –– and one they sought out in each player they recruited and brought in through the transfer portal.
DAN LANNING BEGINS INSTILLING HIS MENTALITY IN OREGON’S 41-20 WIN
Sophomore running back Noah Whittington (22) leaps over Cougar defense in order to make a first down attempt. University of Oregon Ducks Football defeat the BYU Cougars in a home match at Autzen Stadium in Eugene, Ore., on Sep. 17, 2022. Stellingwerf/Emerald)(Maddie
Neither complained about their role. Both helped the Ducks earn the win and improve to 2-1.
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 22, 2022 | EMERALD GAMEDAY | PAGE 9 GAMEDAY THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 8, 2022 | EMERALD GAMEDAY PAGE 9 530 BLAIR BLVD EUGENE 390 Lincoln St. @4th 541.735.3860 LUNCH & thewheelapizzapub.comDINEEVERYDAYDINNERIN|CARRYOUT 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 & thewheelapizzapub.comDINEEVERYDAYDINNERIN|CARRYOUT New Haven inspired apizza, pub brewed beer HERBIVORE CARNIVORE LOCAVORE (541) 735-3520 TACOVOREPNW.COM530 BLAIR BLVD EUGENE 390 Lincoln St. @4th 541.735.3860 LUNCH & thewheelapizzapub.comDINEEVERYDAYDINNERIN|CARRYOUT 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 & thewheelapizzapub.comDINEEVERYDAYDINNERIN|CARRYOUT 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 & thewheelapizzapub.comDINEEVERYDAYDINNERIN|CARRYOUT New Haven inspired apizza, pub brewed beer HERBIVORE CARNIVORE LOCAVORE (541) 735-3520 TACOVOREPNW.COM530 BLAIR BLVD EUGENE 390 Lincoln St. @4th 541.735.3860 LUNCH & thewheelapizzapub.comDINEEVERYDAYDINNERIN|CARRYOUT 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 & thewheelapizzapub.comDINEEVERYDAYDINNERIN|CARRYOUT New Haven inspired apizza, pub brewed beer HERBIVORE CARNIVORE LOCAVORE (541) 735-3520 TACOVOREPNW.COM GAMEDAY 530 BLAIR BLVD EUGENE 390 Lincoln St. @4th 541.735.3860 LUNCH & thewheelapizzapub.comDINEEVERYDAYDINNERIN|CARRYOUT pub brewed beer HERBIVORE CARNIVORE LOCAVORE (541) 735-3520 TACOVOREPNW.COM 530 BLAIR BLVD EUGENE 390 Lincoln St. @4th 541.735.3860 LUNCH & thewheelapizzapub.comDINEEVERYDAYDINNERIN|CARRYOUT New Haven inspired apizza, pub brewed beer HERBIVORE CARNIVORE LOCAVORE (541) 735-3520 TACOVOREPNW.COM530 BLAIR BLVD EUGENE 390 Lincoln St. @4th 541.735.3860 LUNCH & thewheelapizzapub.comDINEEVERYDAYDINNERIN|CARRYOUT 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 & thewheelapizzapub.comDINEEVERYDAYDINNERIN|CARRYOUT New Haven inspired apizza, pub brewed beer HERBIVORE CARNIVORE LOCAVORE (541) 735-3520 TACOVOREPNW.COM DINNER EVERYDAY LUNCH FRIDAY & SATURDAY DINE IN | CARRY OUT
No. 14 Utah (2-1) rolls past San Diego State (1-2) 35-7
BY BRADY RUTH • TWITTER @BRADYRUTH10
The No. 1 ranked team in D I subdivision was handed its first loss of the season in Tucson as the Wildcats strung together a solid 3 point win. The ninetime FCS champions led the back-and-forth battle heading into the fourth, but Jayden de Laura led Arizona to its sixth scoring drive of the game and the Wildcats held off the Bison to take a winning record into conference play. The difference in Saturday’s contest ended up being the 6 points of turnovers that Arizona captured from North Dakota State. The Wildcats will play California (21) next Saturday to begin their conference season.
Washington (3-0) topples No. 11 Michigan State (2-1) at home with 39-28 victory Mel Tucker’s return to Pac-12 play didn’t go quite as Spartan fans would have liked. In his first game against the Pac-12 since leaving Colorado for the Big Ten, he brought his ranked squad into Seattle for a Saturday night showdown. Queue Michael Penix Jr. The Washington quarterback popped off for nearly 400 yards and four touchdowns. The Huskies jumped out to a 22-0 lead and secured their first win over a ranked opponent in three years. Washington opens conference play against Stanford (1-1) in the late window next Saturday night.
The Fighting Irish were almost 0-3 for the first time since 2007. An offenselacking game saw the Golden Bears clinging to a three-point lead in the fourth, but Notre Dame scored 10 unanswered and Cal’s Hail Mary fell on deaf ears as the Bears’ perfect start came to a close. In a game that saw 13 of the 24 total drives end in punts, the California offense was responsible for just 296 total yards. The boys from Berkeley will look to bounce back next week against Arizona (2-1).
Utah walked all over the Aztecs Saturday night on the backs of Cameron
The Cougars are making a strong case to be ranked. After a huge upset win in week two, Washington State took it to the Rams in Pullman. Three first quarter touchdown passes from Cameron Ward had the Cougars right where they wanted to be as they coasted to victory over Colorado State. The Washington State defense has allowed just 38 points through its first three games. Conference play for the Cougars kicks off against Oregon (2-1) at home next weekend.
Arizona (2-1) earns hard-fought 31-28 win over North Dakota State (2-1)
21-point first quarter propels Washington State (3-0) to 38-7 win over Colorado State (0-3)
GAMEDAYTHE UPS AND DOWNS OF WEEK THREE COLLEGE FOOTBALL
The Pac-12 closed out non conference games this week; how did each team fare?
California’s (2-1) comeback collapses as Notre Dame (1-2) picks up first win 24-17
Duck fans enthusiastically show of their Oregon gear between huddles. University of Oregon Ducks Football defeat the BYU Cougars in a home match at Autzen Stadium in Eugene, Ore., on Sep. 17, 2022. (Maddie Stellingwerf/Emerald)
COLLEGE FOOTBALL
Rising and the strong Ute defense. Rising had over 220 passing yards and four touchdown strikes while San Diego State’s Kyle Crum was held to just 53 passing yards on the night. The Aztecs posed no threat through the air and didn’t have much going on the ground either. It wasn’t until the fourth quarter that San Diego State even found the end zone, and by that point the Ute offense had accumulated five scores and the game was very much in hand. Utah travels to Tempe for a matchup with the Sun Devils (1-2) next Saturday night.
PAGE 10 | EMERALD GAMEDAY THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 22, 2O22
With conference play looming next week, Pac-12 teams had one final chance to prove they’re ready to compete in the Conference of Champions. Of the 11 teams competing on Saturday, eight were victorious and made statements as the Pac-12 preseason came to a close.
No. 7 USC (3-0) takes care of Fresno State (1-2) with 45-17 win
Many fans at Autzen Stadium arrived in costume, due to Halloween being the following day. The University of Oregon Ducks defeated the University of Colorado Buffaloes 52-29 at Autzen Stadium on October 30, 2021. (Will Geschke/Emerald)
Providence Park became the host site for a historic night for Beavers football. The 40 point margin of victory stands the largest differential in a win since 2012. The 68 points that Chance Nolan’s offense racked up is also the highest since that same season. Oregon State trampled the Bobcats to improve to 3-0 for the first time in eight years. The Beavers received votes to be ranked in last week’s BCS results and could potentially sneak into the top 25 over the next few weeks. Oregon State starts Pac-12 play with a big test as it hosts No. 7 USC (3-0).
Despite being a three-score favorite, the Sun Devils struggled on Saturday and never so much as led the Eagles in their first home loss of 2021. Eastern Michigan’s running back trampled straight through the Arizona State defense for 257 ground yards in the first ever matchup between the two schools. The Sun Devils have a lot of catching up to do and no easy task comes with next weekend’s meeting with No. 14 Utah (2-1).
The 2012 season was the last time the Buffaloes started 0-3. During that season, Colorado finished 1-11 and tied for last in the Pac-12. 2022 isn’t going any better. After a brutal loss to Minnesota in which Colorado had just 226 yards of offense, the Buffaloes have a 128-30 point differential on the year. Colorado was 1-12 on third down and surrendered 500 yards to the Gophers. The Buffs remain the only winless team in the conference. They host UCLA (3-0) next Saturday.
Oregon cheerleaders perform acrobatics after a touchdown. The University of Oregon Ducks defeated the University of Colorado Buffaloes 52-29 at Autzen Stadium on October 30, 2021. (Will Geschke/Emerald)
Arizona State (1-2) upset at home by Eastern Michigan (2-1) 30-21
UCLA (3-0) narrowly escapes South Alabama (2-1) with 32-31 win
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 22, 2022 | EMERALD GAMEDAY | PAGE 11 GAMEDAY
The conference’s highest ranked team continued to show why they have the eyes of the nation on Saturday night against the Bulldogs. USC quarterback Caleb Williams had two passing scores and two on the ground as he alone outscored Fresno State. With 152 points in its first three games, the USC offense has been putting on a show and taking some serious pressure off the defense. Still having yet to trail in a game at any point in 2021, the Trojans look to have a statement season in their final season as part of the Pac-12. USC travels to Corvallis to play 3-0 Oregon State next Saturday.
In front of a fairly empty Rose Bowl, the Bruins edged out a rather worrisome 32-31 comeback win. UCLA was a heavy favorite over the Jaguars but still found itself trailing 31-23 headed into the fourth quarter. Longtime quarterback Dorian Thompson-Robinson strung together two scoring drives in the final 13 minutes of the game. A 24-yard field goal as time expired snuck UCLA past Southern Alabama to remain unbeaten. UCLA opens conference play with a chance to dominate Colorado (0-3).
Oregon State (3-0) dazzles Portland with 68-28 victory over Montana State (2-1)
Colorado (0-3) manhandled 49-7 by Minnesota (3-0) in humiliating fashion
“I feel like he was there watching over me, cheering me on,” McCormick said. “We were waiting to share that moment together. So I’m super thankful that I was able to share that moment wearing his jersey.”
Along with its sentimental value, the touchdown was a strong foundation for McCormick’s prove-it tour. On Saturday, everyone on the Ducks sideline wanted
After scoring the touchdown, McCormick retained the ball — a keepsake to remember Webb’s impact on the Ducks’ team and the journey they shared together. The touchdown acted as a culmination to McCormick’s recovery process, but it also marked the start of something new.
BY AARON HEISEN • TWITTER @AARON_HEISEN
However, it certainly wasn’t the perfect catch and run. And they wouldn’t get the chance to share a pat on the helmet.
He’s off to a solid start.
Something was definitely missing: Spence was supposed to be there with him.
“I wanted to show a lot of people that, through these injuries, I still have it,” he said.
The time finally came on Sept. 10: Oregon tight end Cam McCormick caught a touchdown pass early in the third quarter in Oregon football’s 70-14 win over Eastern Washington. His first since 2017. A hiatus from the end zone no more.
As McCormick crossed the goal line, the ball popped out. An ensuing review confirmed the touchdown, yet distracted from the flow of the moment. His teammates gathered around him to celebrate, tears flooding his eyes.
Webb was well-liked throughout Oregon’s roster. But to McCormick, he was like a little brother. He was “Spence.”
FINALGAMEDAY SEASON, NEW BEGINNINGS
No longer hindered by injuries, Cam McCormick is on the brick of a break out season.
Oregon Ducks tight end Cam McCormick (84) reaches up to make a catch over Arizona Wildcats safety Demetrius Flannigan-Fowles (6) The Oregon Ducks host the Arizona Wildcats at Autzen Stadium in Eugene, Ore. on Saturday, Nov. 18, 2017. (Adam Eberhardt/Emerald)
Spencer Webb passed away on July 13.
McCormick decided he’d wear Webb’s old No. 18 jersey solely for the Ducks’ home opener. As an older brother figure, McCormick usually had Webb’s back. However, on McCormick’s road to recovery, the roles were flipped. Webb was with him each step of the way. He was certainly there for the touchdown.
At first, it felt like something was missing.
PAGE 12 | EMERALD GAMEDAY | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 22, 2O22
They had agreed to celebrate this moment together, right? They had waited five years for it: a milestone that would validate two rehabs from back-to-back season-ending injuries. They had envisioned the perfect catch and run. Maybe a broken tackle. Then, they’d pat each other on the helmet, to signify that the accomplishment was earned together.
At that moment, he realized Spence wasn’t missing. He was just present in a different form. Still, McCormick longed for that pat on the helmet, knowing it couldn’t come.
Webb’s happiness for McCormick permeated throughout Oregon’s sideline after the touchdown. It was present in each one of his teammates who joined the celebration. Linebacker Noah Sewell ripped off his helmet and ran over to McCormick. Nix and tight end Moliki Matavao did the same.
McCormick’s knack for being a big brother figure extended beyond Webb. His magnetism has definitely impacted Ferguson. While the two stood just outside the end zone waiting for their teammates to join the celebration, McCormick told Ferguson he loved him.
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 22, 2022 | EMERALD GAMEDAY | PAGE 13 GAMEDAY
While the touchdown play was manufactured by the coaches, McCormick said he didn’t know it was coming. He helped the Ducks drive down the field and get in position to score. He put in the work to return to the field and earned that opportunity.
“Cam is a physical blocker,” Oregon running back Noah Whittington said. “When he blocks, you know it’s going to be a good block.”
On Saturday, not only did he find the end zone, but he was a starter; McCormick captured this title during fall training camp after showing that he was no longer hindered by his past injuries, but could be an asset for the Ducks as both a pass catcher and a blocker.
As a tight end, pass-catching can get you onto the field, but blocking helps to solidify your role. A healthy balance of the two lends itself to an expanded playbook, keeping opposing defenses on their toes.
McCormick’s presence as a pass catcher and blocker has helped Nix and Whittington feel comfortable in their first three starts as Ducks. It’s a chemistry that will only grow as the season progresses and McCormick earns additional snaps.
“It was really about Spence being there, knowing he’s watching over us,” Ferguson said. “Spence would have been really excited to see Cam score a touchdown and see him bounce back from all those injuries.”
him to find the end zone. They wanted him to bask in his glory while wearing Spence’s old threads. Offensive coordinator Kenny Dillingham had stored the touchdown-potential play-call for McCormick, waiting for just the right moment to implement it.
“IT WAS REALLY ABOUT SPENCE BEING WATCHINGKNOWINGTHERE,HE’SOVERUS,”
It’scan.what Spence would have wanted.
The Ducks had driven 73 yards on the opening drive of the second half, needing just two more to extend their lead. McCormick lined up to the left of quarterback Bo Nix. Just after the ball was snapped he darted across the field to his right, Nix hitting him in stride. He fended off contact from two Eagles defenders narrowly crossing the plane of the end zone before the ball came free.
It was a message that conveyed how grateful McCormick was for Ferguson’s presence at the game and throughout his recovery process. The message also meant that it’s their duty to continue playing in Webb’s memory for as long as they
In July, soon after he transferred in Eugene, Whittington was enlightened by the Ducks’ medical staff of McCormick’s story — his quest to return to the playing field after breaking his fibula and tearing his deltoid ligament in 2018, then sustaining a season-ending leg injury in 2021.
Webb certainly did.
Oregon Ducks Cam McCormick (84) jogs down the field after com pleting agility drills. The Oregon Ducks football team holds practice during their spring season at the Moshofsky Sports Center in Eugene, Ore. on April 16, 2019. (Maddie Knight/Emerald)
The Western Kentucky transfer was in awe that his counterpart still had the drive to compete on the football field. However, McCormick’s teammates, who have been at Oregon and witnessed the trials and tribulations of his collegiate football career, remained confident that he’d find his way back to the field.
Prior to McCormick’s season-ending injury in 2021, Webb expressed content rather than surprise as he watched his friend practice for the first time in years.
TERRANCE FERGUSON Oregon Tight End
Despite the chaos, six is six.
“I’m so happy to see him out there,” Webb said, flashing his contagious grin. “Me and Cam have a good relationship; he’s like a big brother to me; he’s always had my back. Just to see him out there, running around, having fun is awesome.”
McCormick was certain that Webb was flashing that smile after the touchdown on Saturday. Fellow tight end Terrance Ferguson — who was the first to greet McCormick after the touchdown — confirmed his notion.
“Obviously, when you’re just one-sided you can tell the defense what the play is,” Nix said. “If you can run, catch the ball and also block, you’re going to be doing a lot of good things on the field.”
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Ducks’ offensive line prepares to make a move towards the goal line. Ducks football take on the Washington State Cougars at Autzen Stadium in Eugene, Ore., on Nov. 13, 2021. (Maddie Stellingwerf)
At an unprecedented time, Washington State made an unprecedented decision. On Oct. 18 of 2021, the school fired head coach Nick Rolovich for failing to comply with the vaccine mandate after going 5-6 over two seasons as head coach. He was in the second year of a five-year contract with the Cougars. Along with Rolovich, four other position coaches were also let go for similar reasons.
Rolovich attempted to get a religious exemption from Washington’s governor, yet it was Rolovich’sunsuccessful.lawyerfiled an appeal with the university, which was ultimately denied.
Ducks players run back to their respective locker rooms as half time begins. University of Oregon Ducks Football defeat the BYU Cougars in a home match at Autzen Stadium in Eugene, Ore., on Sep. 17, 2022. (Maddie Stellingwerf/Emerald)
It is unclear when this lawsuit will get resolved.
BY JACK AARON • TWITTER @JACKMAARON
Anyone can see that this distraction is one of the last things Washington State and the Pac-12 need. This rings especially true for a school like Washington State, which isn’t commonly at the top of the Pac-12 hierarchy.
It was revealed last August that the former head coach was suing Washington State for $25 million under a wrongful termination claim.
“I want to thank Athletic Director Pat Chun and his staff for keeping the health and wellbeing of our student-athletes front and center as we navigate this needed change,” Washington State’s President Shultz said after the firing. “Washington State University has been clear from the beginning that vaccines and masks are important tools to help us return to in-person learning…”
AS OREGON LOOMS OVER WASHINGTON STATE, SO DOES THEIR FORMER COACH
Jake Dickert now serves as the Cougars’ head coach and seems to be handling the situation well. His team knocked off the 19th-ranked Wisconsin Badgers in week two.
The Ducks will travel to Pullman, Washington to compete on the gridiron against the Cougars on Saturday, Sept. 24, at 1 p.m.
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 22, 2022 | EMERALD GAMEDAY | PAGE 15 GAMEDAY
Will the Cougars be able to put this tumultuous situation behind them?
Nix hails from Auburn University, where his father played, in their home state of Alabama. In his time with the Auburn Tigers, Nix threw for 7251 yards, 39 touchdowns and 16 interceptions. Now with the Ducks, he is off to a solid start (450 yards, five touchdowns passing) with his freshman year offensive coordinator Kenny Dillingham calling plays.
“Each and every year they are a team you know could be in the college football playoff,” Nix said in his first Oregon press conference. “When Dillingham got the job, we already had that connection, that great relationship when he coached me in the past. That had a lot to do with it. Why not Oregon. It’s a great opportunity.”
A few days prior to Nix, on Dec. 9, Ward entered the portal December 9, 2021. Just over a month later he transferred to Washington State under first year head coach Jake Dickert. Ward’s decision pushed Washington State’s former starting quarterback Jayden de Laura out the door and to conference foe, the University of Arizona.
Now in his second season, Ward is adjusting to the NCAA Division I Football Bowl Subdivision and has thrown for 428 yards, four touchdowns and two interceptions. His former head coach at Incarnate Word, Eric Morris, serves as the offensive coordinator and quarterback coach at Washington State. The addition of Morris has aided Ward in his transition to the FBS level, and perhaps this is the reason Ward ultimately chose the Cougars.
BY KEIJI PATTERSON TWITTER @PATTERSON_KEIJI
NEW PLACES
“With the recent change to our head coach who recruited me and provided me with my only college scholarship offer, I’m facing much uncertainty,” Ward wrote on Twitter.
All eyes will be on the matchup between these two when the Ducks travel to a hostile Pullman, Washington, environment. Washington State has spoiled Oregon’s season in the past and will look to again in the Ducks’ first true away game on Sept. 24 at 1 p.m.
Oregon Ducks quarterback Bo Nix (10)) scrambles against the Georgia Bulldogs during the 2022 Chick-fil-A Kickoff Game, Saturday, Sept. 3, 2022, in Atlanta. (Paul Abell via Abell Images for the Chick-fil-A Kickoff Game)
“[Rice] set multiple UIW single-game and single-season passing records in just six games… finished the season with 2,260 yards passing and 24 touchdowns… [and] threw for a career-high 470 yards and six touchdowns at Nicholls on March 27,” the UIW football site wrote.
Ward is a journeyman from the University of the Incarnate Word of the NCAA Division I Football Championship Subdivision. Despite not being rated as a high school prospect, Ward dissected opposing defenses en route to receiving the 2020 Jerry Rice award: FCS Freshman of the Year.
Which transfer will have the better day?
Dec.12, 2021 marks the day that Nix entered the portal. On Dec. 19, 2021, he announced via Twitter his commitment to new head coach Dan Lanning and the Ducks after he graduated from Auburn.
NEWGAMEDAY FACES IN NEW PLACES
This past college football offseason mirrored one of the NFL. The transfer portal acted like a free agency frenzy, with over 2,000 players having entered their names to find a fresh start. Two of those athletes, Bo Nix and Cameron Ward, joined programs amidst coaching turnover.
PAGE 16 | EMERALD GAMEDAY | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 22, 2O22
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 22, 2022 | EMERALD GAMEDAY | PAGE 17 GAMEDAY THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 8, 2022 | EMERALD GAMEDAY | PAGE 17 GAMEDAY
PAGE 18 | EMERALD GAMEDAY | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 22, 2O22 GAMEDAY WASH ST. GAMEDAY EDITION PICK’EM No. 5 Clemson (3-0) @ No. 21 Wake Forest (3-0) No. 17 Baylor (2-1) @ Iowa State (3-0) No. 10 Arkansas (3-0) @ No. 23 Texas A&M (2-1) Notre Dame (1-2) @ North Carolina (3-0) No. 20 Florida (2-1) @ No. 11 Tennessee (3-0) COLLEGE GAMES: Baltimore (1-1) @ New England (1-1) San Francisco (1-1) @ Denver (1-1) Los Angeles Rams (1-1) @ Arizona (1-1) Green Bay (1-1) @ Tampa Bay (2-0) Kansas City (2-0) @ Indianapolis (0-1-1) No. 15 Oregon (2-1) @ Washington State (3-0) NFL TIE-BREAKER:GAMES: Ducks junior kicker Andrew Boyle (98) kicks off to Cougar offense during the third quarter. University of Oregon Ducks Football defeat the BYU Cougars in a home match at Autzen Stadium in Eugene, Ore., on Sep. 17, 2022. (Maddie Stellingwerf/Emerald) Oregon cheerleaders cheer on the Ducks from the sidelines while hyping up the crowd. The University of Oregon Ducks hosted and defeated the Oregon State Beavers 38-29, claiming the Pac-12 North champions title. (Emerald/ Ian Enger)
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