Better know a conference foe: Oregon

Continuing our season long intro to our new associates, today we'll focus on the University of Oregon at Eugene.

Look familiar?

Duck facts:

• Nobel laureates: 2 (CU has 8)
• Astronauts: 0 (CU has 18)
• National Championships in Football: 0 (CU has 1)
• Heisman Trophies: 0 (CU has 1)
• National Championships in skiing: 0 (CU has 17)
• Famous alums: Howard Hesseman (Dr. Johnny Fever), Phil Knight (founder of Nike), Dan Fouts (man-bear), Steve Prefontaine (running legend).  Common thread among these famous Oregonians - crazy sexy facial hair.

What it used to be like to watch a Ducks game

"Children of Cambodia, these sneakers will not make themselves!"

Not shown: paw stuck in honey pot

The Man

Historically, Oregon football had been a weak to middling program.  Then Phil Knight got filthy rich and started pumping cash into the UO athletic department.  The team has steadily improved ever since, culminating last season when the Ducks played for the the national title - falling to Auburn.

Papa Phil has also spent his wealth assaulting the eyes of college football fans.  Just when you think the Oregon uniforms can't get any uglier...

BAM!

This year Oregon appears to be every bit as good as last year.  They lost a single game to LSU early in the season but have been obliterating all comers ever since.  Last week I watched in stunned amazement as they lost their starting quarterback Darron Thomas and starting tailback (and Heisman candidate) LaMichael James to injury yet STILL clobbered undefeated ASU.

These Ducks are wicked good.  How good?  Their star true freshman, DeAnthony Thomas, is known as Black Mamba.  That's how good.

Black Mamba!  I don't know what that means, but it frightens me.

Meanwhile the Buffs' star freshman, Brady Daigh, is known as "Just Brady".

Just Brady

By the way, young Brady will likely start at middle linebacker for the Buffs thanks to a season ending injury to Douglas Rippy.  Rippy is only the latest of a stunning rash of CU injuries.  I've never seen anything quite like it.  Not only have we lost our best two offensive players (Speedy & Richardson) we've also lost half of the offensive line, the best defensive player (the aforementioned Rippy) and 9 (yes NINE) cornerbacks.

Saturdays with the Buffs

But does that mean that the Buffs have no chance against the Ducks?  Probably.  But, hey, punchers chance.

Go Buffs!