Saturday’s home game against UCLA will mark the final time Oregon seniors suit up for a game at Autzen Stadium.
I don’t have enough room to mention everyone, but here are some memories of a few elder Ducks.
Michael DeLaGrange, offensive tackle, No. 77: At 6-foot-6, 350 pounds, “DeLa” is one of the biggest players in Oregon history. The Grants Pass native has filled in nicely when not injured.
Robin Knebel, offensive lineman, No. 79: The Roseburg native has been one of Oregon’s most valuable linemen, as he is able to play all five positions. He was the top prep offensive lineman prospect in the state during his senior year at Roseburg High School in 1999.
Jerry Matson, inside linebacker, No. 52: One of the hardest working players in Oregon history laughed in the faces of those who told him he wasn’t big enough, fast enough or strong enough to play at the Division I level. He leads the Ducks with 50 tackles this season, after amassing 81 as a junior. His hit on Oregon State kick returner Harvey Whiten during the 2003 Civil War — which made SportsCenter’s Top 10 list — will be etched in the minds of Oregon fans forever.
Ramone Reed, outside linebacker, No. 18: Reed overcame the death of his mother last season and continued to work toward earning a starting role this year. He has more than earned the respect of his coaches and teammates, while collecting 46 tackles and a pair of interceptions this season.
Jared Siegel, kicker, No. 25: The most successful kicker in Oregon history, Siegel set school records for most points and most field goals made in a career this season. In all, he holds or shares 15 Oregon kicking records. His best season was arguably his sophomore campaign, when he connected on 49 of 50 extra points and 20 of 24 field goals.
Adam Snyder, offensive lineman, No. 72: At 6-foot-6, 320 pounds, Snyder has been dominant at both guard and tackle. A first-team All-Pacific-10 Conference performer last season, Snyder has protected three different quarterbacks during his Oregon career.
Chris Solomona, defensive end, No. 47: The San Pedro, Calif., native has stepped up this season with 31 tackles after earning a starting position. He has returned a pair of interceptions for touchdowns, including one against rival Washington.
Nick Steitz, offensive guard, No. 74: At 6-foot-4, 319 pounds, Steitz has been solid at left guard for several seasons. When the Ducks need a tough yard, they usually run right behind the duo of Steitz and Snyder.
Marley Tucker, rover, No. 23: Coming off a solid junior season in which he started all 13 games, Tucker’s senior campaign was slowed by an elbow injury he suffered against Arizona State. He intercepted two passes during his freshman season and logged a career-high 55 tackles as a junior.
Robby Valenzuela, defensive tackle, No. 99: One of the most overlooked performers in Oregon’s recent history. While not as hyped as the likes of Igor Olshansky, Junior Siavii or Haloti Ngata, Valenzuela has helped cause mayhem in opposing backfields for three years. He delivered a thunderous blow to Stanford quarterback Trent Edwards this season, which knocked him out of the game with a bruised left shoulder and hand.
Kenny Washington, running back, No. 20: A dependable backup, who has supplied the Ducks with depth, Washington is most noted for his skills as a kick returner. He garnered first-team All-Pac-10 honors as a junior, averaging 31 yards per kick return.

[email protected]