Oregon Football: What NCAA Sanctions Could Mean for the Future

If there is one thing Oregon has to fear, it is an NCAA beat down similar to that of USC.

Oregon is already in hot water, but it’s still too early to tell if their goose—er, duck—is cooked yet.

Oregon fans are gearing up for another season, but the NCAA decision still looms over the heads of the Quack Attack. 

Here is a look at what sanctions could mean for the Ducks in the coming years. 

Recruiting

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The immediate effects on recruiting will be obvious—if Oregon is hit with anything remotely like USC’s penalty (10 scholarships/year for three years), their recent recruiting boom will hit a recession.

A high-powered offense requires good depth, which will take a blow if the Ducks can only take 15-20 total recruits per year. 

Major Setbacks in Years to Come

This is where reduced recruiting will take its toll.

Not only would Oregon take a step back during the three years of lost scholarships, but their program going forward would have to play catch-up with future recruits.

As other schools have found out, the recovery period after major NCAA sanctions can be lengthy. 

Championship Eligibility

Probably the most noticeable outcome of this NCAA action would be a denial of the opportunity to make a return to the BCS Championship game.

The Ducks acquitted themselves very well against Auburn last year, and Chip Kelly believes his team can make a return trip.

Oregon fans are crossing their fingers that the NCAA does not blow up the road leading back to the ultimate game. 

Coaching Questions

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Chip Kelly may have the team, but he doesn't have the guarantee that HE will make it through the upcoming season.

There are many people calling for his head right now, even before the NCAA has come to a decision.

For his part, Kelly steadfastly denies any responsibility and refuses to believe that Oregon did anything wrong.

Kelly must be clinging to a four-leaf clover for a little good luck. 

Uber Booster Phil Knight

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If it weren't for Phil Knight, it could be argued that the Oregon football program would still be relegated to obscurity (and slightly less garish uniforms).

He has poured his heart and soul (and MILLIONS of dollars) into his beloved alma mater; however, questions have arisen concerning the legality of his actions.

If the NCAA deems his connection to the Ducks football program to be in any way inappropriate, will it lead to a lessening of his generosity?