Oregon Ducks Football Campus Voice: Thoughts on One-Trick Ponies and Cal Bears

If you recall my last article, I had made a prediction about what would happen for the rest of the season depending on the outcome of the Utah game. Basically, we win and rejoice, or lose and the season is lost.

I think that that is what has happened; many people rejoiced and took a huge sigh of relief. However, there were a few more questions raised because of this weekend’s performance.

I was hoping that the Oregon offense would find some traction to get themselves out of first gear. The running game did just that with the little man LaMichael James stealing the show. 

However, the passing game looked worse than ever, which has led to much criticism here around the UO campus. People here are calling for Jeremiah Masoli’s head and begging Chip Kelly to make the switch to either Nate Costa or Darron Thomas.

I can understand the frustration Duck fans have with Masoli. After all, he was just 4-of-16 with 95 yards and an interception against Utah. He has also yet to throw a passing touchdown on the season.

Yes, these numbers are terrible, and no, the Oregon offense cannot continue in this manner for this season to be a success, but the Ducks MUST stay with Masoli.

Masoli is not a one-trick pony. He is not just a passer. He can run with power, speed, and agility and has also been a proven winner and leader here at Oregon. In the last two games, for how bad they may have looked or been played, Masoli has found a way to win and get Oregon back to a respectable record. 

Also, another huge factor that benefits Masoli is that Cal is coming to town. I cannot see Kelly changing the starting quarterback just a few days before a top-10 team comes a-knockin’ at Autzen.

So, besides the whole Masoli mess, what other thoughts are floating around campus?

For one, everybody is in love with Walter Thurmond III. His performance last weekend has put him in the limelight here in Eugene. His punt return for a touchdown and the numerous plays he made downfield really energized Autzen and lifted the spirits of his teammates.  

Even during the Utah game, Thurmond was being recognized. During punt returns, the student section held up three fingers in honor of Thurmond as he attempted to maneuver through the opposing players.   

Secondly, what’s the deal with all the rain? I mean, the motto for Oregon games is that it never rains at Autzen Stadium, but for the second week in a row it HAS rained here. Well, for what it's worth, the Ducks have won both games, so it doesn’t bother me.

Lastly, a very good team Cal team arrives in a few days. This is a chance for Oregon to make a HUGE upset and continue their winning ways of late.

I will see you all again shortly, but until then...GO DUCKS!!!