Speculation on the Reinstatement of LeGarrette Blount

I’ve only been awake for a little over an hour this morning and I have already read a half a dozen articles and opinions on the subject of Oregon running back LeGarrette Blount and his possible reinstatement. 

For a quick reminder, though I doubt anyone needs it, Blount was the player that punched an opposing player after the first game of the season and the following day received a suspension for the season. 

I have read from people on both sides of the argument that this is a good move and this is a bad one. 

First I have to say “what move?”

There has been nothing said so far.  It is all speculation. 

However, going along with that, here is my opinion.

I don’t care either way.  And I am a Duck fan. I was born and raised in Eugene. 

I felt like he should be suspended, and he was.  I didn’t necessarily think the entire season was the right call, but I was ok with it. 

Now here we are, three games later.  Three wins later.  Coming off a huge win over then sixth ranked California, which was preceded by a win over a ranked Utah team. 

Three wins in a row, including back to back wins over ranked teams?  Does Oregon need Blount?  Clearly the answer is no. 

My answer is also, not as much as Blount needs and needed Oregon.

This may have been the plan all along as some are suggesting.  If it was, I don’t think Blount was in on it. 

I could see where this was a wake up call and a test for Blount. 

Him believing that he was out for the season sends a message of “everything you thought you had, everything you have worked hard for can be taken away.”

Seeing how he responds to that is the test.  Blount continued to go to class.  After a week he returned to practice.  He accepted his new role on the team and did his part. 

He didn’t pout. He didn’t quit.  He could have.  He stayed the course and showed who he really is.  Not the guy that threw the punch.  Instead, the guy that did everything that was asked of him without expectations to be given another chance.