The biggest question heading into this year’s media day wasn’t whether or not Marcus Mariota was going to win the Heisman. It also wasn’t about Oregon earning a bid to the inaugural NCAA playoffs.
These are all things that will be in order in due time.
Since the loss of Bralon Addison, Oregon’s biggest question has been on its offensive end, specifically at the wide receiving position. After saying their goodbyes to Josh Huff, Oregon has been in search of their next guy and with Addison’s sudden injury, all eyes have been on Keanon Lowe and what is now an intriguing group of receivers.
“I anticipate that someone will rise to occasion,” Mark Helfrich said. “We’re going to force-feed these guys and see how it turns out.”
From the team’s perspective, this inconvenience has turned into a blessing in disguise. With the advantage of opposing defenses not being able to key on one or two players, the Ducks are looking forward to grooming their younger talent on the offensive end as well as maintaining their aspect of surprise.
“It’s pretty awesome knowing that the defenses won’t know what to expect because we got guys that are going to step up that they haven’t heard about,” Johnny Mundt said. “We’re definitely disguised heading into the season.”
Among Oregon’s new faces at wide receiver, Chance Allen is most looking forward to the new opportunity. The sophomore receiver, who is viewing this year as his first full season, has the platform to get involved right away.
“Ready for my chance to shine,” Allen said. “They (underclassmen) are looking at me, so now I have to go out there and show my abilities.”
Allen intends to take full advantage of it as he prepares to step up as a vocal leader.
“Just got to be a leader now,” Allen said. “Just stopped acting immature and just started realizing the bigger things. Helping the young guys learn the offense and just getting to the groove of things. Being more vocal, talking to my teammates and just showing them my voice on the team.”
As Mariota and Co. prepare for another eventful season, their offense will once again be under the spotlight. Huff and Addison may not be there on the field with them, but their capable teammates will be.
This may or may not be to their advantage.
Follow Hayden Kim on Twitter @HayDayKim