Oregon Ducks
2000 overall record: 10-2
Conference record: 7-1 (t-1st)
Returning starters
Offense: 8
Defense: 4
Kickers: 0
2000 statistical leaders (* - returners)
Rushing: Maurice Morris* (1,188 yds)
Passing: Joey Harrington* (2,967 yds)
Receiving: Marshaun Tucker (882 yds)
Tackles: Matt Smith (90)
Sacks: Saul Patu (11)
Interceptions: Rashad Bauman* (5)
What's new
For the first time since Oregon did not field a team during WWII, the Ducks will not play a game against rival Washington. The Pac-10's rotating schedule created this omission, which so aggravated fans that the conference placed the rivalry back on the schedule for 2002.
Battling it out
The wide receiver spot vacated by Marshaun Tucker will be contested between former walkon Jason Willis and Samie Parker. Willis had a strong spring, but the decision will be delayed until fall because Parker was held out of contact while recovering from a shoulder injury sustained in the Holiday Bowl.
Eye catcher: FS Keith Lewis
Lewis was such a presence on special teams as a true freshman last season that one of goals this spring was to get him on the field. He looked good in significant action at free safety and figures to play a lot at one of the safety positions. He proved he can make big plays on defense with a fourth-quarter interception vs. Texas in the Culligan Holiday Bowl.
Budding star: QB Joey Harrington
Marques Tuiasosopo got all of the attention last year, but it was Harrington who led the league in both passing yards and total yards. Harrington won the starting QB job last fall and led the Ducks to a share of the Pac-10 title. His continued improvement suggests that he could be one of the nation's best signal callers in 2001.
Brad Edwards researches college football for ESPN and is a contributor to ESPN.com throughout the year.
