University of oregon
Vs.
UNIVERSITY OF NEW MEXICO
Oregon Daily emerald
dailyemerald.com
Game Day FRIday, september 3, 2010
Vol. 112, Issue 11
Thomas takes the helm of Oregon’s offense PAGE 3
IVAR VONG | ph oto ed i to r
Game preview
Oregon notes
New mexico notes
Despite wildly disparate 2009
Winners selected in heated position
Young Lobos squad relying on
seasons, Ducks and Lobos give
battles at kicker, linebacker, cornerback;
linebacker Carmen Messina to
sophomores starting quarterback
offensive linemen Kaiser, Asper
anchor their defense while trying to
positions in season opener
switch roles on right side
rebound from 1-11 2009 season
PAGE 2
PAGE 6
PAGE 6
Âť Check out dailyemerald.com for real-time updates from the game
2 Oregon Daily Emerald Friday, September 3, 2010
CATCHING UP WITH »
BRANDON WILLIAMS
Oregon Daily Emerald 1222 E. 13th Ave., #300, Eugene, OR 97403 541.346.5511 NEWSROOM Editor in chief x325 Nora Simon Sports editor x322 Lucas Clark Sports reporters Robert Husseman Patrick Malee Copy chief x323 Kenny Ocker Design editor x326 Emily Papp Photo and Web editor x327 Ivar Vong Photographer Aaron Marineau
The Oregon Daily Emerald tracked down junior-collegetransfer tight end Brandon Williams after practice this week to discuss things outside the Oregon playbook — from the recruiting process to the kitchen.
Business
Publisher x317 Kellee Weinhold Manager x302 Kathy Carbone Delivery Richard Griscom, Brian Leeson, Chris Massaad, Kyle Scott, Molly Simas
ADVERTISING Advertising executives Daniel Bonner Leighton Cosseboom x307 Ben Roan x310
creative Services Director x330 Michele Ross Designer Taylor Engel
The Oregon Daily Emerald is published by the Oregon Daily Emerald Publishing Co., Inc. at the University of Oregon, Eugene, OR. The Emerald operates independently of the University with offices in Suite 300 of the Erb Memorial Union. The Emerald is private property. © 2010
TheKeystoneCafe.com
Serving breakfast & lunch for vegans/vegetarians/meat lovers
Oregon Daily Emerald: When did you first get to Eugene? Brandon Williams: I came out on an official visit for the Arizona State game, and I moved here officially Jan. 2. ODE: What was the recruiting process like coming out of junior college? BW: It was very different. Out of high school I didn’t take too many visits or anything, had a few offers and stuff like that, and this was my only visit, so it was pretty exciting. ODE: Was Coach Kelly pretty involved in the process? BW: Somewhat, yeah. Before I took my official, I didn’t talk to him too much. I talked to like Coach Frost and Coach Osborne and stuff like that. Then after I came on my visit, he came and made a trip out and stuff like that and talked with my mom. ODE: What are your first impressions of Eugene? BW: It’s great. I love it. I like how
I va r Vo n g | PHoto editor
Oregon junior college transfer Brandon Williams has worked his way into the No. 2 tight end position since arriving in Eugene in January. His powerful build and soft hands offer yet another explosive threat to an already-potent offense.
everybody’s real laid back and show a lot of hospitality to the students and athletes. ODE: So what have some of the guys told you about playing in Autzen Stadium? BW: I’ve been hearing a lot of great things. You know, it’s pretty amazing. Great experience that I’m looking forward to. ODE: You close with any of the guys on the team in particular? BW: I’m pretty much close with all the guys. We’re all like a big family, you know. We hang out a lot. ODE: You live with any of those guys?
BW: Yeah, I live with Ryan Clanton. ODE: How’s that? BW: Oh it’s pretty good. We’re both from the same situation coming from a junior college. It was pretty good because we got to go through the same things together. ODE: Who does the cooking between you two? BW: Me, of course! ODE: Oh yeah, what’s your specialty? BW: I’d have to say chicken alfredo. — Luc a s C l ark
Game preview
Ducks, Lobos face off to open 2010
We serve locally brewed Wandering Goat coffee, mimosas, Oakshire & Ninkasi brews
Oregon trying for two straight Pac-10 championships; New Mexico seeks multiple wins LUC AS CLARK | SPORTS EDITOR
– Corner of Lawrence since 1979 –
24166
395 W. 5th • Eugene, OR • 541-342-2075 Open Daily, 7 am. -3 p.m.
Nine months after their first Rose Bowl appearance in 15 years, the No. 11 Oregon Ducks look ready to begin defending their Pac-10 Conference title. First up is the New Mexico Lobos. Saturday’s matchup marks the first-ever meeting between the two programs, which sit at two very different ends of the college T u r n to preview | Pag e 8
Game forecast Forecast: 76 degrees. Sunny with clear skies.
At A Glance Who: No. 11 Oregon Ducks vs. New Mexico Lobos What: The 2010 season opener When: 12:30 p.m. on Comcast SportsNet Where: Autzen Stadium
The No. 11 Oregon Ducks host Mountain West Conference opponent New Mexico in the 2010 season opener. Redshirt sophomore running back Kenjon Barner will shoulder the majority of the carries with last season’s leading rusher, LaMichael James, sidelined from action as he serves a one-game suspension. Sophomore quarterback Darron Thomas will make his first collegiate start for the Ducks.
Friday, September 3, 2010 Oregon Daily Emerald 3
ROSTER
T u r n to Thomas | Pag e 6
Pac-10 Preview
No. 24 Beavers go to Texas to face No. 6 Horned Frogs Only game with two ranked teams in new Cowboys Stadium Patrick Male e Sports R eporter
Arizona at Toledo (5 p.m. Friday on ESPN) The 2010 Wildcats season begins in Ohio as they face off with Toledo. Junior quarterback Nick Foles will pick up where he left off last season, taking the reins for his first full season as a starter. The returners are ready for a fresh start after the Wildcats embarrassment in last December’s Holiday Bowl. That game will be best remembered as the first shutout in Holiday Bowl history, with Nebraska winning 33-0. Luckily
for Foles and the rest of nine returning offensive starters, Toledo is no defensive juggernaut. The Rockets struggled on defense last year, giving up 37.7 points per game en route to a 5-7 record. Sophomore Austin Dantin earned the starting quarterback job for the Rockets after starting three games last season, throwing for four touchdowns and 962 yards. Toledo led the Mid-American Conference in total offense last season. Key Stat: Toledo has yet to record a win in four total appearances against Pac-10 teams.
UCLA at Kansas State (12:30 p.m. Saturday on ABC) Rick Neuheisel and the UCLA Bruins may be in a position to
Get immunized for the flu before it gets you! Available in October
NEED SOMETHING? YOU’LL FIND IT AT GOODWILL
Lunch Monday through Sunday Dinner 7 Nights a Week
18th Ave.
849 E. 13th Ave
Keeping you healthy in body & mind Doctors & nurse practitioners Annual exams for men & women Low-cost prescriptions & over-the-counter products Tobacco cessation support Nutrition education and counseling Dental health clinic Physical therapy & sports medicine X-ray services Lab and much more
27205
23806
Present this ad to receive listed prices.
541-485-5946
T u r n to Pac-10 | Pag e 7
343-9661 Conveniently located at 435 E. Broadway (next to Bates Steakhouse) Mon. - Fri. 9 AM to 9 PM Sat. 9 AM to 8 PM Sun. 10 AM to 7 PM 27210
BE HEARD.
Our business is changing lives.
Churchill High School
health center
and so much more
editor@dailyemerald.com
American Mattress
Your Campus Outdoor Sto re!
Clothing Furniture Electronics Household Items
d_1x4p_1
Buy Factory Direct & Save 4075 W. 11th • 343-2690 Open Mon.-Fri. 9 a.m.-8 p.m. Sat, 9 a.m.-7 p.m., Sun 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
Bailey Hill
(valued at $14)
INDUSTRIES
Write a letter to the editor.
Double frame and mattress. Cover not included.
and receive a FREE stainless steel mug
surprise this season. After a rocky start, UCLA won four of its last five games in 2009, including a 30-21 win in the EagleBank Bowl over Temple. Though just five starters return on defense, the unit should be strong under the leadership of junior safety Rahim Moore and senior linebacker Akeem Ayers. Both have been listed as players to watch, both for national awards and the NFL Draft. The starting quarterback situation is less certain, with Neuheisel set to choose between sophomores Kevin Prince and Richard Brehaut just before game time. For Kansas State, senior Carson Coffman has earned the starting job at quarterback. Returning in the backfield is senior Daniel Thomas, a star
992 Willamette Eugene, OR 97401
Renelle DENMAN $279
(chiropractic recommended)
OF LANE AND SOUTH COAST COUNTIES
Traditional Greek & Indian Food
Chambers St.
Get your North Face Daypack
GOODWILL “The Land East”
twin set $89 full set $99 queen set $129 FUTONS
W.11th Ave.
346-5511
D
d_1x3p_1
Pitch us your story ideas.
Mac Court
FREE RY E ELIV
Summer Hours: M – F, 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Closed Sept. 4-20. Fall hours begin Sept. 21. Located on the corner of 13th & Agate Appointments or After-Hours Nurse Advice Line, call (541) 346-2770. Please see http://healthcenter.uoregon.edu for Urgent Care instructions during Health Center closures.
21541
After practice on Friday, Aug. 27, Oregon head coach Chip Kelly and offensive coordinator Mark Helfrich called them in. Darron Thomas and Nate Costa entered the office separately, with the two coaches outlining their ultimate decision. “We were honest. That’s what we’ve tried to do all through this, just keep those guys abreast of where we are,” said Helfrich, who doubles as the Ducks’ quarterbacks coach. “As we approach a game week, we need to hone things in.” Thomas, a redshirt sophomore from Houston, and Costa, a fifth-year senior from Hilmar, Calif., were informed of their fate. Kelly then left Eugene for a function in Portland; the rest of the team would find out with the first snap of Saturday’s practice. So too would the media, whom Kelly led to believe that Saturday would mark the announcement.
about how you and your teammates handle it. They both did great, and the team ended up doing really well.” So what swung the coaches in favor of Thomas over Costa? “One of the things with both those guys, it was a body of work through the spring, through preseason camp,” Kelly said. “We sat down with the staff, had a long discussion about it, and we just feel for where we are offensively and what we’re going to do that he’s the best choice. “You only can pick one. If I could pick two, I would’ve picked two. And it’s a tough thing because I care so much about Nate. I know what Nate means to this program, but you can’t play two quarterbacks.” Thomas said he received “a lot of support from the guys, just saying ‘get ready, let’s go, step it on.’” “I’m just thankful to be here and to be in this position,” he said. “But it’s just the beginning. I haven’t did nothing yet; this is just one fall camp. Now it’s on to games and leading the team through games.” And what of Costa? The fifth-year senior fought back
The Other Guys [PG-13] 1155 235 510 755 1030 Piranha (3D) [R] 1255 315 535 755 1015 Salt [PG-13] 1150 220 450 720 950 Scott Pilgrim vs. the World [PG-13] 1125 200 435 710 945 The Sorcerer’s Apprentice [PG] 200 710 The Switch [PG-13] 745 1015 Takers [PG-13] 1150 225 500 735 1010 Toy Story 3 (3D) [G] 1205 245 Vampires Suck [PG-13] 1130 135 340 545 750 955
Here’s what we can offer to you:
Rob ert H u s s e man Sports R eporter
“We felt it was very important to inform those two guys first, then come out on the field and practice,” Helfrich said. At 5:34 p.m. that evening, the athletic department’s official Twitter account for publicly released information linked to a press release, saying simply, “Thomas Named Ducks Quarterback.” Word spread like wildfire through local media channels, the general public and the football players themselves. “Somebody texted me and told me,” said running back LaMichael James, whose first chance at working with Thomas will come September 11 at Tennessee. “One of my friends told me, ‘Hey, Darron’s the quarterback.’ I was like, ‘Really?’” Thomas did his repetitions with the first team in Saturday’s practice to confirm beyond all possible doubt. Costa worked with the second team. The practice was Oregon’s first of the “game week,” with scout team members donning red jerseys and lining up in expected formations. “Darron had a good practice, and Nate had a good practice,” Helfrich said. “That tells a lot
27237
Redshirt sophomore wrested role from senior Nate Costa
Starting Friday, September 03, 2010 The American [R] 1205 240 515 750 1025 Despicable Me (3D) [PG] 1210 235 455 715 935 Eat, Pray, Love [PG-13] 1250 400 700 1005 The Expendables [R] 1140 220 505 740 1020 Going The Distance [R] 1200 230 500 730 1000 Inception [PG-13] 140 455 810 Inception (Digital) [PG-13] 705 1020 The Last Exorcism [PG-13] 1250 305 520 735 950 Machete [R] 125 355 625 855 Machete (Digital) [R] 1210 240 510 740 1010 Nanny McPhee Returns [PG] 1120 155 430
27266
Quarterback contest ends with Thomas named starter
4 Oregon Daily Emerald Friday, September 3, 2010
Players to Watch KENJON BARNER (24)
ba r n e r p h oto by I va r Vo n g | P h oto EDITOR m e s s i na p h oto c o urt e s y o f J U N F U H AN | Da i ly LO B O
One of the few bright spots in an disappointing Rose Bowl last season was a play by running back Kenjon Barner, who shredded Ohio State’s defense for 227 all-purpose yards. Now, as LaMichael James serves his one-game suspension, Barner will finally have the opportunity to spin his wheels in the starting lineup. Looming on the other side, however, will be standout linebacker Carmen Messina. The junior led the nation with 162 tackles last year and will likely be keyed on Barner for much of the game. The anchor of an otherwise-shaky defense, Messina will be relied upon heavily to keep an explosive Oregon running game at bay. As the Buckeyes learned last January, this is easier said than done. And yet, Messina has another favorable asset on his side. A native of Addison, Ill., he led Addison Trail High School with more than 3,000 career yards as the team’s running back. Standing 6’2” and weighing in at 236 pounds, he also runs the 40-yard dash at a respectable 4.76 clip. Though surely not as speedy as Barner, Messina is no deadweight, and few players are more dangerous than a power linebacker with the instincts of a running back. The matchup between Barner and Messina should be fascinating, and could have a substantial impact upon the outcome of the game.
RUNNING BACK
CARMEN MESSINA (58) LINEBACKER
starting lineups NEW MEXICO DEFENSE DE: Johnathan Rainey DT: Peter Gardner DT: Ugo Uzodinma DE: Jaymar Latchison OLB: Spencer Merritt MLB: Carmen Messina OLB: Joe Stoner CB: Anthony Hooks SS: Bubba Forrest SS: Freddy Young CB: DeShawn Mills
SPECIAL TEAMS PK: James Aho KO: Garrett Hentrup P: Ben Skaer KR: Bryant Williams PR: Ty Kirk LS: Evan Jacobsen HLD: Ben Skaer
oregon OFFENSE WR: Chris Hernandez LT: Byron Bell LG: Karlin Givens C: Dillon Farrell RG: Mike Cannon RT: Maurice Mears TE: Lucas Reed WR: Bryant Williams WR: Ty Kirk QB: B.R. Holbrook RB: Demond Dennis
DEFENSE DE: Terrell Turner DT: Brandon Bair DT: Zac Clark DE: Kenny Rowe OLB: Josh Kaddu MLB: Casey Matthews OLB: Spencer Paysinger CB: Anthony Gildon FS: John Boyett ROV: Eddie Pleasant CB: Talmadge Jackson III
SPECIAL TEAMS PK: Eric Solis KO: Eric Solis P: Jackson Rice KR: Kenjon Barner PR: Kenjon Barner LS: Drew Howell HLD: Nate Costa
OFFENSE WR: D.J. Davis LT: Bo Thran LG: Carson York C: Jordan Holmes RG: C.E. Kaiser RT: Mark Asper TE: David Paulson WR: Lavasier Tuinei WR: Jeff Maehl QB: Darron Thomas RB: Kenjon Barner
SACRAMENTO STATE AT STANFORD
UC DAVIS AT CAL
PORTLAND STATE AT ARIZONA STATE
OREGON STATE AT TCU
OKLAHOMA STATE AT WASHINGTON STATE
washington AT BYU
UCLA AT KANSAS STATE
ARIZONA AT TOLedo
Emerald sports writers predict the winners of this week’s games
USC AT HAWAII
Week 1
NEW MEXICO AT OREGON
Pick the PaC
LUCAS CLARK SPorts Editor
Patrick Malee SPorts reporter ROBERT HUSSEMAN SPorts reporter
Toddler and Preschool Openings And then go to A CAmpus museum. It’s free! Visit us on home game weekends during the 2010 ducks football season and receive free admission! Jordan schnitzer museum of Art
museum of natural and Cultural history
find us at facebook.com/ JordanschnitzermuseumofArt
find us at facebook.com/uofomnch
1430 Johnson Lane 541-346-3027 jsma.uoregon.edu
First Priority for UO Students with student discounted tuition, second priority for UO Faculty/Staff. The Co-op is an UO affiliated program focusing on parent Involvement and inspired by the Reggio Emilia philosophy.
1680 east 15th Avenue 541-346-3024 natural-history.uoregon.edu
The Co-op serves infants through school age.
Give us a call at 541-346-7400 27194
go ducks!
ANDY DRUKAREV SPorts reporter
http://sites.google.com/spencerviewcoop/ Located in Spencer View Family Housing
Friday, September 3, 2010 Oregon Daily Emerald 5
35.9
Points per game allowed by the New Mexico defense in 2009, ranking last in the Mountain West Conference and 113th in the nation
36.1
Points per game scored by the Oregon offense, ranking No. 1 in the Pac-10
41
Sacks allowed by the Lobo offense in 2009, most in the Mountain West Conference
36
Sacks recorded by Oregon defense in 2009, most in the Pac-10
6.0
Yards per carry averaged in 2009 by running back Kenjon Barner, who will start in place of LaMichael James
0
Number of times Oregon and New Mexico have faced off
2
Margin of victory in New Mexico’s sole 2009 victory, against Colorado State
162
Number of tackles recorded by junior Lobo linebacker Carmen Messina last season, leading the nation
2010 uo schedule
2010 UNM schedule
september
september
4 11 18 25
4 11 18 25
vs. New Mexico, 12:30 p.m. at Tennessee, 4 p.m. vs. Portland State, 3:15 p.m. at Arizona State, 7:30 p.m.
at Oregon, 12:30 p.m. vs. Texas Tech, 5 p.m. vs. Utah, 5 p.m. at UNLV, 7 p.m.
October
October
2 9 21 30
2 9 23 30
vs. Stanford, 8:15 p.m. at Washington State, TBA vs. UCLA, 6 p.m. at USC, 5 p.m.
November
6 13 26
6 13 20 27
December 4
2 tacos & a Pacifico $7
vs. UTEP, 3 p.m. at New Mexico State, 5 p.m. vs. San Diego State, 7 p.m. at Colorado State, 3 p.m.
November vs. Washington, TBA at California, TBA vs. Arizona, 4 p.m.
Taco Tuesdays
Econo Pint Wednesdays All draft beers only $2.50
Drink Wheel Thurdays
vs. Wyoming, 3 p.m. at Air Force, 3 p.m. at BYU, 3 p.m. vs. Texas Christian, 1 p.m.
$2.50 drink specials starting at 10pm
at Oregon State, TBA
Been to
2009 Oregon Returning leaders
yet?
Pacific NW fare With hisPaNic aNd asiaN iNflueNces
Rushing
ATT
yds
Avg
TD
LONG
L. James
230
1546
6.7
14
60
K. Barner
61
378
6.0
3
48
passing
cmp
att
PCT
YDS
TD
N. Costa
20
33
60.6
197
1
receiving cat
YDS
AVG
TD
LONG
J. Maehl
53
696
13.1
6
73
L. Tuinei
24
217
9.0
-
37
D.J. Davis
23
233
10.1
2
23
Defensive
Tkl
ast
INT
TFL/YDS sacks
J. Boyett
62
28
3
2.0-6
-
S. Paysinger
45
36
-
8.0-16
1.5-3
C. Matthews
40
41
1
4.5-25
3.0-22
J. Lewis
54
24
2
4.5-20
2.0-12
E. Pleasant
37
17
1
8.0-29
4.5-20
2009 New mexico Returning leaders
Rushing
ATT
Yds
aVG
TD
Long
D. Dennis
78
454
5.5
3
62
J. Wright
50
320
5.8
2
84
passing
CMP
ATT
PCT
YDS
TD
B.R. Holbrook
19
34
55.9
170
1
receiving CAT
YDS
AVG
TD
LONG
T. Kirk
36
427
11.9
2
59
V. James
35
398
11.4
3
45
D. Jones
35
369
10.5
3
31
Defensive
TKL
AST
INT
TFL/YDS sacks
C. Messina
80
82
1
8.0-50
3.0-32
F. Solomon
53
32
1
0.5-1
-
T. Hardaway
37
38
-
6.5-15
-
F. Beca
37
29
1
1.0-2
-
J. Rainey
30
22
-
15.5-117
9.5-93
1461 East 19th Avenue • 541.485.8887 www.agatealley.com
27244
BY THE NUMBERS
PIZZA & A PINT ALL TUESDAY NIGHT!
8.95
$
Every Tuesday night is Pizza and a Pint Night! From 5 PM to close for only $8.95 you can get any 10” regular size pizza with your choice of any Steelhead micro-brew or our famous draft rootbeer.
• MAGHERITA PIZZA • HAWAIIAN • GREEK • BARBECUED CHICKEN • FOUR CHEESE • BREWHAUS SPECIAL • PEPPERONI • CALZONE
199 E. 5th. Ave. • Eugene Restaurant: 686-2739 Keg Hotline: 341-1330 www.steelheadbrewery.com
NEWS NOW. NEWS NOW. NEWS NEWS NOW. NEWS NOW. NEWS NEWS NOW. NEWS NOW. NEWS NEWS NOW. NEWS NOW. NEWS www.dailyemerald.com NEWS NOW. NEWS NOW. NEWS
d_2x7p_1
Von Klein Property Management, LLC
Campus Rentals
Find the home that fits you.
Largest Selection • Personal Service 27180
Come visit us today! 541-485-7776 • 1301 Ferry
www. von k l ei n r en t a l s. com
6 Oregon Daily Emerald Friday, September 3, 2010
New mexico notes
Oregon notes
Downtrodden New Mexico Solis, Kaddu, Gildon win recovering from dismal year starting position battles Lobos had one win, negative-235 point differential in 2009
Rob Beard expected to regain kicking role after suspension ends
LUCAS CLARK | SPORTS EDITOR
As the New Mexico Lobos prepare to enter Autzen Stadium for the first time in program history this Saturday, second-year head coach Mike Locksley will have his hands full with an eager Duck faithful itching for a new year in Oregon football. The Lobos finished their 2009 campaign with a 1-11 record overall, while their lone win, a 29-27 defeat of Colorado State, didn’t surface until late November. Starting the 2010 season, New Mexico features an influx of new blood throughout the program, with 31 underclassmen on the 55-man depth chart. The program has a 2-21 all-time record facing nationally ranked opponents on the road. “They’re a very athletic team,” Oregon linebacker Spencer Paysinger said. “They have a big offensive line; you know, some of them are returning. “They have a fresh quarterback coming in, so hopefully we can use that to our advantage.” That quarterback, sophomore B.R. Holbrook, will be making his first career start for New Mexico after seeing limited action during his redshirt freshman year in 2009. Similar to the Ducks’ quarterback competition between Darron Thomas and Nate Costa, Holbrook was not named the starter until the conclusion of fall camp. Holbrook will head a Lobo attack in its second year as a no-huddle spread offense, which Locksley implemented when he arrived in 2009. The new-look offense showed mixed results, however, as New Mexico was outscored 431-196 on the season. They averaged just 16.3 points per game, while giving up more than 35. “Anything can happen, you know what I mean,” Oregon junior rover Eddie Pleasant said. “We’ve got to go out and look at it as any game. If it was Ohio State, if it was USC, they college Jesseplay Davis 04.03.09
Rob ert H u s s e man Sports R eporter
C o urt e s y o f K e rr A da m s | Dai ly Lobo
New Mexico sophomore quarterback B.R. Holbrook will make his first collegiate start against the Ducks on Saturday. Appearing in five games last season, Holbrook completed 19 passes for 170 yards and one touchdown.
football just like we do — I’m sure they’re going to be ready too.” Defensively, the Lobos will show a 4-3 front, with one of the nation’s top linebackers anchoring the unit. Junior Carmen Messina — named to the Bronko Nagurski Trophy watch list for the nation’s best defensive player — returns from a stellar sophomore campaign. In 2009, Messina paced New Mexico as the leading tackler in the country, accumulating 162 total stops, 68 more than his secondleading teammate, Clint McPeek, who tallied 94 takedowns. Messina, an honorable mention All-American selection, averaged 13.5 tackles per game in 2009, including a stint of eight straight games in which he recorded just fewer than 15 tackles per outing. The 6-foot-2, 236-pounder has the speed (4.76 in the 40-yard dash) and athletic ability (33.5-inch vertical jump) to contain some of the nation’s top offensive weapons. This offseason, the Lobos were able to ink one of the highest rated recruits the program has ever seen, tying down four-star defensive lineman prospect Calvin Smith. Smith, a two-time first team 6A all-state selection in Florida, turned down
a slew of scholarship offers from the nation’s traditional powers to play for New Mexico. During the recruiting process, Locksley understood Smith would be the headliner of his first recruiting class at New Mexico, and he felt he couldn’t have picked a better young man for the job. “I said, ‘Calvin, how are you going to justify coming to New Mexico to all the negative people?’ He said, ‘Coach, I’m a leader, not a follower,’” Locksley said during his national signing day press conference. “To me, those are the type of kids that you’re going to win with. It speaks volumes about his character, his family and the way he’s been brought up.” Smith was a U.S. Army All-American Bowl nominee after posting 50 tackles, eight sacks, and scoring three defensive touchdowns during his senior season. He will likely see consistent action on the interior alongside junior defensive end Johnathan Rainey. Rainey was one of the most productive defensive linemen in the conference last season, recording 9.5 sacks and 15.5 tackles for loss. lc l ark@dai lye m e r ald.com
23103
PLUMBING HOUSEWARES ELECTRICAL HARDWARE LAWN & GARDEN TOOLS PAINT
2825 Willamette • Eugene, Oregon • 342-5191
Because senior placekicker Rob Beard is suspended for No. 11 Oregon’s season opener against New Mexico, the Ducks have named a freshman to the starting spot. “I talked to Coach (Tom) Osborne after practice (on Friday),” true freshman kicker Alejandro Maldonado said. “He said that he decided that he wants to redshirt me.” That leaves the job of kickoffs, extra points and field goals to walk-on freshman Eric Solis. The 5-foot-10, 182-pounder from Sherman Oaks, Calif., is the only left-footed kicker on the team. Maldonado, who verbally committed to Washington before signing with the Ducks, will back up Solis along with punter Jackson Rice in case of emergency. Beard’s suspension stems from a guilty plea to a misdemeanor charge of physical harassment, after a Jan. 24 street fight that left him in critical condition. The sophomore from Fullerton, Calif., would have to undergo facial reconstructive surgery. Former Oregon kicker Mike Bowlin was also involved in the fight and pled guilty to one count of harassment; he left the
Thomas From Pag e 3
physically and mentally from three devastating knee injuries. His leadership and presence on the team, many figured, would be valuable for a starting quarterback. “Nate took it the way I would anticipate Nate to take it. Nate’s awesome,” Kelly said. “I’m sure he’s disappointed, and it’s gotta be tough when you’re told you’re not going to be the guy right now.” Costa admitted to reporters after Saturday’s practice that he was “a little bit disappointed.” “I feel pretty confident in Darron’s abilities to lead this team, and I’m going to follow
J ac k H u n t e r | Photog r aph er
Oregon offensive lineman Mark Asper blocks Arizona State defensive tackle Saia Falahola on Nov. 14, 2009. Asper has flipped positions with Duck lineman C.E. Kaiser and will be the starting right tackle this Saturday.
team in February.
Cornerback Junior Anthony Gildon, who started three games for the Ducks last season, was tabbed to start opposite senior cornerback Talmadge Jackson III against the Lobos. “I don’t think there ever was a decision for us,” Oregon secondary coach John Neal said. “Anthony’s been the starter since the Rose Bowl.” Sophomore Scott Grady and senior Chad Peppars were listed as the second string, with redshirt freshman Avery Patterson and sophomore him,” Costa said. “He had a better fall camp, when you look at it. That’s why he won the competition.” The oft-acknowledged elephant on the field is the prospect of quarterback injury. Costa, who said he expects quite a bit of playing time, knows this all too well. If not for a knee injury suffered in 2008 fall camp, Duck fans would have never known about Jeremiah Masoli, or deeply missed him. There is, of course, more to the depth chart than what lies on the surface. Oregon’s No. 3 quarterback this fall will be Bryan Bennett, a true freshman from Encino, Calif., who wowed spectators and earned praise from coaches for his fall camp performance.
Cliff Harris the third-string cornerbacks. Neal made no commitment to the depth chart, saying he plans to play all his cornerbacks as often as he can. “The other two are twos also. It’s not a two-three position,” he said. “It’s a two-slash-two position until I know who’s going to step up in a game situation.”
Outside Linebacker In a position battle that often resulted in highlight reels for spectators, Josh Kaddu held off redshirt freshman Boseko T u r n to Oregon | Pag e 8
“I feel like it went pretty good. It’s just a lot of hard work and, you know, picking up this playbook to kind of be comfortable with what we’re doing,” Bennett said. “That’s all going to come with time and I’m getting to feel a little more comfortable as the days come.” Bennett, looking at times like the best quarterback on the Ducks’ roster, has a better feel for the college game after watching an intense, month-long competition for the starting spot. “You know, I thought either one of those guys were capable of getting it done,” he said. “I’m excited for Darron, hoping he goes in there and does well, which I think he will.” rhu s s e m an @dai ly e m e r a ld.co m
Friday, September 3, 2010 Oregon Daily Emerald 7
pac-10 From Pag e 3
running back who gathered 1,265 yards and 11 touchdowns in 2009. Key Stat: The Bruins have won their last five season-opening games.
UC Davis at California (1 p.m. Saturday) After ending the 2009 season with two disappointing losses, the Golden Bears return to action at home against the Aggies. Perennial Heisman candidate Jahvid Best may be gone, but head coach Jeff Tedford appears to have found an able replacement in junior Shane Vereen. Replacing an injured Best in the team’s final four games in 2009, the explosive tailback averaged 141.5 yards per game and scored six touchdowns. With the backfield all to himself this year, the sky appears to be the limit for Vereen. Also returning for his senior year is quarterback Kevin Riley. UC Davis, meanwhile, is coming off a 6-5 season under veteran head coach Bob Biggs. Key Stat: Of California’s eight wins against UC Davis, six have been shutouts.
(3:30 p.m. Saturday) Though unranked to start the season, many have picked the Cardinal as a dark horse candidate for the Pac-10 title. Star running back Toby Gerhart may now be playing with Brett Favre in the NFL, but redshirt sophomore quarterback Andrew Luck and
Washington State at Oklahoma State (4 p.m. Saturday) After a 1-11 2009 season that could only be described as dismal, the Cougars look for a fresh start in 2010. The road will not be easy, however, and Oklahoma State is certainly no pushover. Cougars sophomore Jeff Tuel will start at quarterback, looking to improve upon an uneven performance in 2009. The likely starter at running back will be senior James Montgomery, who returns from an injury-plagued 2009. Meanwhile, Oklahoma State begins what may be a transition year after the departures of quarterback Zac Robinson and wide receiver Dez Bryant. Stepping in at quarterback will be 26-year-old junior Brandon
Weeden, who will be expected to lead an offense that averaged 28.4 points per game last year. Key Stat: The Cougars were outscored by an average of 24.3 points in 2009.
Washington at Brigham Young (4 p.m. Saturday) All eyes will be on senior quarterback Jake Locker, whom many analysts consider the top overall NFL Draft prospect in the class of 2011. In 2009, under the tutelage of first-year head coach Steve Sarkisian, Locker threw for 2,800 yards and 21 touchdowns, while also rushing for 388 yards and seven scores. The Huskies compiled a 5-7 season, which included a stunning upset of then-No. 3 USC and a 42-10 whipping of then-No. 19 California to cap it off. On the Cougars’ side, junior Riley Nelson and freshman Jake Heaps will lead a two-headed attack at quarterback, replacing standout Max Hall. Key Stat: Locker scored three times in his last meeting with BYU in 2008, a 28-27 loss.
No. 24 Oregon State at No. 6 TCU (4:45 p.m. Saturday on ESPN) In an otherwise mundane opening weekend for the Pac-10, this matchup stands out. Beavers head coach Mike Riley made the bold decision to accept a week one face-off with a powerhouse Horned Frogs squad, a choice that could make or break Oregon State’s season. Without former quarterback Sean Canfield, both Jacquizz and James Rodgers will be relied upon more heavily than ever. Running back Jacquizz’s star was
officially born in 2009, when he rushed for 1,440 yards, totaled 78 receptions for another 522 yards, and scored 22 total touchdowns. Wide receiver James, meanwhile, led the Beavers with 91 receptions in 2009 while also returning kickoffs and punts. Promising sophomore Ryan Katz takes over at quarterback, while dominant tackle Steven Paea anchors the defense. Still, the Horned Frogs present a significant challenge with a defense that held opponents to just 12.8 points last season. Key Stat: The Beavers find themselves in the preseason AP top 25 for the first time since 2001.
TM
®
Portland State at Arizona State (7 p.m. Saturday) A disappointing 2-7 Pac-10 season now in its rearview mirror, Arizona State looks for a fresh start against Portland State. Michigan transfer Steven Threet earned the starting job at quarterback, beating out junior Samson Szakacsy and sophomore Brock Osweiler. Sophomore linebacker Vontaze Burfict, meanwhile, looks to improve upon an impressive freshman season during which he earned Pac-10 Defensive Freshman of the Year honors. Portland State enters 2010 looking for redemption as well, having finished 2009 with a 2-9 record. The defense is in particular need for improvement, having given up 33.8 points per game in 2009. Key Stat: Though Arizona State and Portland State have never met, Sun Devil head coach Dennis Erickson is undefeated (4-0) against the Vikings. pm ale e@dai lye m e r ald.co m
Nude Hours
12pm - 2:15am Daily Full Bar • Lottery • Outdoor Patio Champagne Room
Dancer $ auditions. Call 517-7196 1836 South ‘A’ St., Spfld • 541.762.1503 Only 5 mins from campus!
24372
Sacramento State at Stanford
head coach Jim Harbaugh remain a source of genuine optimism around Palo Alto. After passing for 2,575 yards last season and throwing just four interceptions, Luck has even made it into the Heisman conversation, while Harbaugh is considered one of the better coaches in the nation. With Gerhart gone, look for Luck to take the reins of what should be an upstart team in the conference. Meanwhile, senior McLeod Bethel-Thompson will start at quarterback for the Hornets. A UCLA transfer, Bethel-Thompson will certainly face a challenge in his first ever season-opening start. Key Stat: Junior wide receiver Chris Owusu has averaged 29.3 yards returning kicks for his career, best in Stanford history.
Franklin Blvd. turns into South A St., Spfld
PRINT: from 25¢ word / day ONLINE: free! call 541.346.5511 or visit dailyemerald.com
employment
rentals/real estate
205 Help Wanted
235 Duplexes for Rent
26976
230 Rooms Quiet ,responsible male to share small 3/1 furnished home in Springfield / Thurston area with male professional. Unfurnished bedroom to rent for 500 inclusive. Near Main St. busline. WIFI, W/D.Call TIM at 541324-1884 or respond to timyp69@ yahoo.com.
BARTENDING! Up to $300/day. No experience necessary. Training available. 800-965-6520 x118
26707
193 Internships Lead nature walks for k-5 grade students at Mt. Pisgah Arboretum. Flexible hours. Great Experience! Orientation: Sept 7, 6-8:30pm, Morse Ranch Park, 595 Crest Drive, Eugene. 541-747-1504, mtpisgfr@ efn.org, www.MountPisgahArboretum.org
Environmental Education work-study position at Mount Pisgah Arboretum, 7 miles from UO. Assist with school field trip program. 12-15 hours. Flexible. 541-747-1504, mtpisgfr@efn. org, www.MountPisgahArboretum. org. Send cover & resume.
3 bedroom duplex with 1 and 1/2 baths. Living area, dining, kitchen and lots of storage. Enclosed garage. Large lot on bus line and connects to LCC and EMX to U of O. Invest, don’t flush your rent money ! Great tax advantages and 1/2 the duplex pays 1/2 the mortgage ! A no brainer ! Call 541-510-1966 for details
ADULT CHEWERS NEEDED FOR RESEARCH Daily tobacco chewers & snuff users can receive $100 for two visits to Oregon Research Institute in Eugene. This is not a quitting study. The Novel Smokeless Tobacco Study is funded by the National Cancer Institute. Call Julia at (541) 434-1545 or 1(800) 903 5449. Administrative Assistant Now hiring for fall term. Friendly and professional demeanor. Computer savvy – spreadsheet skills a plus. Comfortable with basic math and able to check own work. Two positions - must be available to work a 2.5 hour shift either morning or afternoon every Mon-Fri when school is in session. Must be a UO student, work study preferred. Pick up application at 300 EMU or download online at dailyemerald.com. EOE Committed to a culturally diverse workplace.
events 312 Community Events
If you’re moving, we want to make changing your utility service quick and easy. That’s why the Eugene Water & Electric Board provides our “Start/Stop Service” link that’s available online. It’s a fast and free way to begin or end your EWEB electric and water service. Just click and go. Plus, you can get energysaving tips for renters. It’s all at eweb.org.
Amazon Community Center has a new pre-school called Mr Jim’s Exploratorium. Starting September 13 our pre-school will focus on art and nature to develop the whole child. Come see our beautiful mural and meet artist/educator Jim Robinson. Open house Thursday September 9 5-7pm at 2700 Hilyard, Bldg B. 541682-5373.
rentals/real estate 210 Houses for Rent 1942 Emerald. 4+ bedrooms, 2 bath. Near Campus. 4 off-street parking spaces. $1,800. No pets. 915-3101.
220 Apartments Unfurnished Studio near Eugene Library. 1057 Charnelton. Newly remodeled, parking, no pets. $415/mo. w/s/g paid. Avail now. 541-514-2259.
2110 Birchwood, Ferry St. Bridge area, off Gilham. New kitchen, interior paint, floors, lights, ceiling fans. Spacious 2bd, 1 updated bath, one car garage. $895. Call 541-9533699.
255 Housing Wanted Cozy 3-bedroom, Close to UO. New windows, bamboo flooring. 1500.00 1st, last & dep. No pets. 2560 Kincaid St. 541-342-5354.
253 Boarding Houses 2 large bedrooms available in the Odd Fellows Lodge, located in Oakridge, Oregon. Looking for respectul, eco-green folks wanting to contribute to the well-being of the place. On bus line to Eugene. $350.00 per month, pet’s negoitable. Please contact, Debora at 541-7825825 or tyke@efn.org
services 105 Typing/Resume EXPERT THESIS/DISSERTATION Editor, Grad School approved since 1974! Papers, resumes. ON CAMPUS! ROBIN, 344-0759
110 Instruction/Tutoring John Sharkey privately teaches/tutors piano, guitar, bass & songwriting students. 541-342-9543. All ages, levels, styles.
290 Health & Fitness
Attn Grad Students!
You may qualify to get a massage and/or an adjustment for as little as $14! Call 541-484-5777 now for details or go to www.awceugene.com
DayorNight Place your ad online dailyemerald.com
c_1x4p_3
8 Oregon Daily Emerald Friday, September 3, 2010
Oregon From Pag e 6
Lokombo for the final starting linebacker spot. Kaddu, a junior from Vacaville, Calif., who recorded 21 tackles in seven games before a foot injury ended his season, joins Casey Matthews and Spencer Paysinger in the middle of the defense. “Kaddu has a little more experience. He was playing really
well last year until he went down with that injury,” linebackers coach Don Pellum said. “I think Bo was probably one of the most impressive guys on our defense through fall camp. I think that’s a very healthy, good competition for us.” Senior Bryson Littlejohn, initially considered for the outside linebacker slot, will instead back up Matthews at middle linebacker. Sophomore Michael Clay is listed as the backup
to Paysinger. “I think our depth is pretty good,” Pellum said. “I don’t think we have a whole lot of guys, but I think the guys we have know the scheme, know the system.”
Offensive Line The Oregon offensive line returns all five of its starters (63 of 65 possible starts) and many of its backups, but offensive line coach Steve Greatwood made an adjustment with the hope of
improved results. Senior C.E. Kaiser and junior Mark Asper will start at right guard and right tackle, respectively, against New Mexico. Kaiser started 12 of 13 games at right tackle in 2009, while Asper started 12 of 13 games at right guard. Kaiser is seen as the more physically explosive blocker in the running game, while the 6-foot-7 Asper’s mobility is important in pass protection. rhusseman@dailyemer ald.com
8TH & LINCOLN ★ 687-2746 ★ WOWHALL.ORG ★ ALL AGES ★ TTICKETS: ICCKETS CD & GAME EXCHANGE EXCHANGE, CD WORLD WORLD, D HOUSE OF OF RECORDS, RECORRDS UO TICKET OFFICE, TICKETWEB.COM, WOW HALL BOX OFFICE
preview From Pag e 2
football spectrum. Oregon, coming off another 10-win season, returns 17 starters from last year’s Rose Bowl team. “One thing I love about this football team is the depth we have right now,” second-year Oregon head coach Chip Kelly said. New Mexico is looking to build off its 1-11 finish a year ago, but the Lobos are projected to finish last in the Mountain West Conference this season. Both Oregon and New Mexico endured the challenge of naming a new starting quarterback this offseason, with a pair of sophomores getting the nod. For Oregon, the lanky Darron Thomas will get his first starting bid at the offensive helm, while B.R. Holbrook receives his first starting job for the Lobos. “You know, I think it’s a good thing for our team,” junior tight end David Paulson said. “You know, the coaches decided (Thomas) was the best fit for our team for us to be successful, and I trust our coaches made the right decision. I think he’ll do great.” In addition to Thomas, a trio of other Duck players captured their first collegiate starts: junior defensive end Terrell Turner, senior defensive tackle Zac Clark and freshman kicker Eric Solis. It’s expected, however, for sophomore Rob Beard, currently serving a one-game suspension alongside star running back LaMichael James, to reclaim the starting kicker spot when the Ducks travel to Tennessee next week. In place of James, the Pac-10 Freshman of the Year last season, fellow redshirt sophomore Kenjon Barner will get his first opportunity as the Ducks’ No. 1 running back. On Monday, Barner was named to the Paul Hornung Award watch list for the most versatile player in college football. His mark of 1,553 all-purpose yards ranked eighth in the conference last season,
while also setting the Oregon single-season record for kickoff return yardage with 1,020. New Mexico gave up 5,024 yards of total offense last fall, putting even more pressure on the Lobo offense. The unit did feature the nation’s leading tackler in junior Carmen Messina with 162, but the Lobos experienced relatively little success on that side of the ball in 2009. For both teams, however, Saturday couldn’t come soon enough. “I’m tired of going against our offense,” senior linebacker Spenser Paysinger said. “Our offense is one of the most complicated in the country. So when we can finally start toning it down and start focusing on New Mexico, it’s a good day.” With James out of the lineup and true freshman Bryan Bennett surpassing redshirt freshman Daryle Hawkins as the Ducks’ No. 3 quarterback on the depth chart, New Mexico will look to contain Hawkins as a triple threat. “Daryle’s going to play everyone,” Kelly said. “He’s learning how to play running back — he’s still learning how to play receiver — but he’s a dynamic guy MIKE with the ball LOCKSLEY in his hands ... UNM HEAD COACH we need to get him on the field because of what he can do for us.” Hawkins has seen time with the first and second teams in practice and will likely spend some time at the slot receiver position on game day. He still considers himself a quarterback at heart, but he admitted he’s willing to do whatever he can to help the team. “Yeah, I mean, to get on the field it’s great experience.” Hawkins said. “I’m happy. It’s my redshirt freshman year, it’s been a whole year off since I really got to be on the field in a live situation, so I’m excited.” lc l ark@dai lye m e r a ld.co m