**Editor’s Note: This story first appeared in the Emerald’s “Gameday” edition, which was released on Aug. 27. Copies are available on stands throughout Eugene.
Oregon sophomore cornerback Arrion Springs was listed as a starter when the Ducks’ two-deep depth chart was released Aug. 28. Springs, along with redshirt sophomore Chris Seisay, are tasked with replacing cornerbacks Ifo Ekpre-Olumu and Troy Hill — both of whom could make NFL rosters for the upcoming season.
Springs talked with Emerald sports reporter Will Denner following Tuesday’s practice regarding the upcoming games, the mentality of the secondary and who is winning FIFA in the locker room.
Will Denner: What does it mean to you to be a starting cornerback for the Ducks?
Arrion Springs: I’m still kind of processing it all. We’re a pretty big program, so I’m just trying to take it all in.
D: You also have have Ugo [Amadi] right behind you. How is it having him on defense?
S: It’s good. I help him get better, he helps me get better. It’s like I’m Kanye [West] and he’s Big Sean. We’re pushing each other to get better.
D: Do you see any similarities between you and Ugo, particularly when you were a true freshman?
S: Nope, ’cause he cheated. He came in early, so he got a little head start on the playbook. But that’s all good because he gets to play now. I’m on him more trying to help him get better and help him practice.
D: In the secondary, what’s your guys’ mentality going into week one? Do you guys play with a chip on your shoulder?
S: Definitely. Coach [John] Neal is like that as well. We feel like we have something to prove. Everybody is preparing to have a great game [against Eastern Washington].
D: Why should fans buy into this young secondary right now?
S: We’re super athletic and very confident. We can make any play. We all can catch. We want to make plays this year.
D: What are your impressions of this Eastern Washington offense?
S: They’re very dynamic. They got some guys that can play. I think they’ll challenge us and give us a good test to see where we’re at.
D: How do you guys stay focused on this Eastern Washington game with Michigan State looming the following week?
S: Honestly, for [the secondary], this is the bigger game because [Eastern Washington] is going to throw the ball and challenge us. Michigan State likes to run a lot more. This game is the biggest game right now. We have to be able to execute this week.
D: You talk a big FIFA game. Is there anybody on this team that can beat you?
S: Pssh, I’ve answered this question a million times. I. Am. The. Best. On. The. Team. In. FIFA. Period.
Follow Will Denner on Twitter @Will_Denner