Even without quarterback Vernon Adams leading Eastern Washington’s offense, Oregon’s defense recognizes the challenge of facing Adams’s former team, led by quarterback Jordan West.
“They have a very good (offensive) system,” Oregon defensive coordinator Don Pellum said after Wednesday’s practice. “I think their system allows them to compete with anyone because it’s wide open throwing the ball, so they have a chance to make big plays. When they need to bring it in tight and slow the game down, they have that capacity.”
Eastern Washington’s pass-heavy attack has drawn comparisons to Washington State’s system. The Ducks’ pass defense struggled against Washington State last season, as they narrowly defeated the Cougars 38-31. That game was Oregon’s fourth of the season, and an early indication of where the Ducks needed to improve. Eastern Washington may not be Washington State, but the Ducks expect to be tested right away in their season opener.
“They’re very dynamic,” cornerback Arrion Springs said. “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.”
Oregon’s defense is most experienced in its front seven, but its young secondary is replacing three of four starters from last year, including both starting cornerbacks. Cornerbacks Springs, Chris Seisay and safety Tyree Robinson have all played meaningful snaps in the past, but this is their biggest collective test to date.
Pellum likes what he’s seen from his inexperienced secondary through fall camp and into this week, though he will have a much better idea of where it stands come game time Saturday.
“I think right now we’re primed to go out and have a good performance,” Pellum said. “It’s how well do we adjust in the game, how well do we adapt once we see something. I think we’re prepared to do it.”
Listed as a backup cornerback on the depth chart, Ty Griffin, who recently switched to the defensive side of the ball, is making big strides, according to Pellum.
“Ty has made some real nice strides in the secondary,” Pellum said. “Had he been in the secondary for a year, he would be really special. But he’s been progressing. I think he’s going to be a vital part of what we’re doing in the back end.”
Though he’s only been playing the position for two weeks, Griffin echoed the same confidence about the Ducks’ secondary as everyone else in the group.
“A lot of guys are new, but we just want to go out there and prove to the nation that we can play with everybody else,” Griffin said. “A lot of people are sleeping on us, but I think we’re gonna come in and shock everybody.”
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Oregon secondary prepares for “dynamic” Eastern Washington offense
Will Denner
September 1, 2015
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