For the first time all season, the Ducks have won consecutive games. It just so happens it was against two teams that haven’t beaten Oregon since 2003 and 2004 — Washington and Arizona State — respectively.
Maybe it had to be that way for Oregon to find its rhythm, but regardless, it has found momentum from back-to-back victories. With it, the team has recovered its lost confidence.
“I think we kind of took the losses as they were and decided to have fun, that’s what football is about,” wide receiver Devon Allen said. “I think we are changing to where we’re working hard but also having fun and making sure we’re doing it for the reason we all started doing this.”
The return of quarterback Vernon Adams Jr. has made a significant difference for the offensive unit. His elusiveness and ability to extend a play has caused problems for opposing coverages. But it’s not just Adams causing the change in play.
The receiving unit, though missing Byron Marshall to injury, has become a real threat downfield — especially with a quarterback who can get the ball to them. Bralon Addison, the recent return of Darren Carrington, and a number of other capable players, have taken pressure off of the running back trio of Royce Freeman, Kani Benoit and Taj Griffin.
“You can see everybody in the games excited when someone makes a big play,” Allen said. “It’s just fun to see [a big play,] it’s more fun for us because we’re in the game than it is for coaches and fans.”
On the other side of the ball, the defense’s confidence appears to be rising as well. Tyson Coleman, who’s played in 48 games since 2012, says the coaching staff simplified the defense to clear up miscommunication.
“We got a lot of young guys out there, and it’s not an excuse, but it’s something to be aware of,” Coleman said. “We had to simplify things so that everybody understands. People were on different pages, and now we’re back on the same page.”
With the improved understanding, the defensive backs can play their positions more freely.
“Confidence comes with knowing what you’re doing,” Coleman said. “Say a [cornerback] has no idea what he’s doing, he’s probably not going to make a break and pick a ball. Now dudes know what they’re doing, so they feel comfortable making the break [on the ball] because they know the safety’s over the top or they know the outside backer is coming to their side.”
The result:
“I think we are a lot more confident now and guys know they’re capable,” the senior linebacker said. “Simplifying things and obviously winning games brings confidence to the table.”
Enter Saturday, when Oregon will take on an offensive juggernaut in the Golden Bears, a team that hasn’t beat the Ducks in six years. And meeting them is a team with the most confidence it’s had all season.
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