As the weather shifts towards rainier days, the Ducks are preparing for their week eight showdown with rival Washington. With an expected overcast set for game day, Oregon has practiced outside in the rain in hopes of being prepared for the soggy conditions.
Oregon quarterback Marcus Mariota spoke with the media after practice today, discussing the inclement weather expected Saturday, his memories on the monsoon during the Cal game last year and his awareness of the 20th anniversary of the pick.
Have you played many games in the rain?
Yeah. I mean throughout my career here I have. Even back home (in Hawaii), there are a lot of passing showers.
Remembering the Cal game from last season — in those situations, what do you differently or do you have to do anything differently?
My coach back home used to always tell me to loosen up my grip a little bit (because) that will help a little bit with throwing the ball in the rain. I always try my hands warm, so that you can feel the ball. Little stuff like that will really help us.
This is the 20th anniversary of a real seismic play in Oregon Ducks football program — are you familiar with it?
The pick? Yes. I mean, we see it all the time on the jumbotron. You know, that play kind of signifies a huge turnaround in this program and was very significant.
Going off of that, have you seen the uniforms yet? Have you guys gotten to try them on — what do you think of them?
I haven’t seen them, but we kind of know what we are wearing. It’s going to be pretty cool — it’s going to be an opportunity to pay homage a little bit.
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