The veteran Register-Guard reporter lays out a projected lineup for the Ducks, based on his observations in the first two weeks of camp. Follow all his Duck football coverage at Register-Guard Oregon football with Rob Moseley and follow him on Twitter at Duck Football.
Don’t see anything to quibble with. Based on these projections, Devon Blackmon could make the plane as the 6th or 7th wide receiver. Hroniss Grasu looks like the starter at center. Will Hamani Stevens travel? Fall camp injuries to Ricky Heimuli and Wade Keliikipi are a big concern in the middle of the defensive line as LSU looks to pound the ball behind four returning starters on the offensive line with 225-pound tailback Spencer Ware toting the rock, especially if starting quarterback Jordan Jefferson has to sit out due to his role in a bar brawl this week. Some reports have Jefferson as likely to be arrested on charges of second degree assault. Hate to see the game marred by off the field stuff, particularly if it gives SEC fans a ready-made reason to discount the result.
The development of the offensive line is very encouraging. After two weeks Steve Greatwood has put together what looks to be a solid rotation, and the unit has been free of injuries, which has allowed them to practice as a group and work on their cohesion. Carson York expressed optimism about their development in an interview this week.
Based on both the injuries and his development, junior college transfer Jared Ebert is certain to make the bus and contribute. At 6-5, 285, he’s mobile enough to also fill in at defensive end, and has the good lateral quickness to be very tough in run defense. Taylor Hart also has good versatility, able to play strong either inside or out.
At linebacker, Derrick Malone looks to see the field as a redshirt freshman, both in special teams and the linebacker rotation. With Alonso probably out for at least LSU, it’s likely Anthony Wallace gets some playing time in relief. Clay, Kaddu, Lokombo and Stuckey have to be iron men early, as the rest of the linebacker corps remains young and inexperienced. They need Alonso back soon, provided he’s climbed his ladders.
The secondary remains the strength of the defense, even with Harris’ suspension. Terrance Mitchell and Avery Patterson have had great camps.
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