Tra Carson had no illusions about playing time this year. Coming in as a new addition to an Oregon backfield that already boasted a Heisman candidate in LaMichael James as well as versatile talents like Kenjon Barner and De’Anthony Thomas, it would have been foolish for the freshman running back to expect a starring role right off the bat. Yet with the first month of the season in the books, Carson has played in all four of Oregon’s games, and ranks third on the team with 116 rushing yards. He has impressed coaches both on and off the field and proven to be a quick study in learning the complex Oregon offense. The Oregon Daily Emerald caught up with Carson after practice this week to talk about his progress this season and how he is adjusting to life in Eugene.
ODE: You played a significant amount of time against Missouri State, and a few of the other games too. Are you happy with what you’ve been able to do on the field so far in your freshman year?
TC: Yeah, I’m pretty excited. You know I just try to come out and work hard every day and continue to get better. I really don’t pay too much (attention) to what I’ve done.
Coming in, did you expect to redshirt in your freshman year or did you think that you’d get to play right away?
I really didn’t know, I just wanted to come in and show the coaches what I could do, and maybe they could utilize my talents.
So what brought you to Oregon?
Just the coaching staff; it’s like a close-knit family here, family atmosphere, and that’s really what I was looking for.
You’re from Texarkana, Texas, the same place LaMichael James is from. Did that help, knowing him coming in?
It helped me once I got here. It didn’t play any part in my decision.
Did you know him pretty well?
Yeah, he lived in the same neighborhood I lived in, so I knew him.
In general, how are you liking Eugene so far?
I’m getting used to it, so I can say it’s getting better.
What do you like to do outside of football in your spare time?
Around this time, it’s homework (laughs). But I like to play basketball.
What position do you normally play?
Actually I’m the point guard.
Have you played at the Rec Center at all?
Yeah, I’ve played there like twice.
Do you play with guys on the team?’
Yeah, De’Anthony (Thomas), Ifo (Ekpre-Olomu), and Anthony Wallace plays. A lot of guys play.
How’s De’Anthony on the court?
He’s pretty good. He’s got some skills.
Class-wise, what are you taking right now?
Just some freshmen transition classes to help us get used to the college atmosphere and how things go.
Do you know what you want to major in?
I’m undecided at this point.
What about music? Do you have anything that’s been getting a lot of run on the iPod lately?
Not really, just a lot of Lil Wayne and Drake.