Happy Thanksgiving from One Click Sports News!

And thank you for visiting, making this year, and this month, the best ever for One Click Sports News.

Jay Jones, Manager
One Click Sports News

Ryan Welch, Manager
One Click Sports News

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By Jay Jones
One Click Sports News

Saturday night, Oregon State quarterback Lyle Moevao tweeted (@MOEVAO3):

This is what I’ve been waitin for. Payback is a b”#+@!

Sports writer Lindsay Schnell retweeted it on her account (@LindsayRae19).

We retweeted it last night on Duck Sports News (@DuckSportsNews).

This morning, ESPN’s Ted Miller named it the “Civil War ‘tweet’ of the day”.

Now, his Twitter account is gone.

Another example of when bad tweets happen to good athletes.

Where’s the next bit of smack-talk going to come from? Who will be the next Civil War Twitter victim?

We’ll let you know on Twitter.

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By Jay Jones
One Click Sports News

How do you follow up the success of the hot-selling Grim Reaper “Welcome to Autzen: Where Teams Go to R.I.P,” black T-shirts and sweatshirts?

More t-shirts!

And a once-in-a-lifetime Civil War for the Rose Bowl helps, too.

Here is a sneak peak at the new t-shirt designs available tomorrow in-store only at Oregon Sports at the Gateway Mall (they sell both Ducks, and Beavers, gear).

These t-shirts will not be available online through Oregon Sports at the Gateway Mall. If you’re not in the Eugene/Springfield area , have a friend or family member in the area pick up one for you.

Oregon Sports at the Gateway Mall is located at 3000 Gateway St # 530, Springfield, OR.‎

[Disclaimer: Oregon Sports at the Gateway Mall is an advertiser on Duck Sports News and Beaver Sports News.]

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By Jay Jones
One Click Sports News, Co-Owner & Co-Founder

The Pac-10 and Oregon Ducks fans both have the same problem: college football fans don’t think much of you.

SI.com released the results of their 2009 college football fan survey today. For Pac-10 fans, there are a few surprises. For Ducks fans, there are a few things that should have been expected.

SI.com’s Andy Staples summary of the results and methodology yields a couple of interesting points.

Pac-10 fans, you aren’t all that different than your brethren in the other major conferences.

You aren’t as different as you think, Big Ten fans and SEC fans. Same goes for you, Big 12 fans. And those Pac-10 fans over there may crave spicy tuna rolls instead of brats or barbecue, but they consider Saturday just as sacred as you do.

I don’t think this is entirely true. Pac-10 fans, and the most passionate of those fans, are not as passionate about college football as their counterparts in the SEC, Big12, and Big Ten. But I don’t think that difference is as big as some believe it to be.

Take a look at these indicators across the four major BCS conferences:

Big Ten

Big 12

Pac-10

SEC

Pac-10 fans enjoy feeling slighted in favor of the SEC by the “sports media industrial complex” and their “East Coast bias” in a self-loathing way. But as Andy points out, the media isn’t the one responsible for overhyping the SEC (actually, yes, the media does overhype the SEC – but that’s not the point here), it’s the fans that overhype the SEC.

One chunk of data jumped off the spreadsheet. We often hear fans from the Big Ten, Pac-10, Big East, ACC and Big East complaining that the media overhype the SEC. Well guess what? It isn’t us. It’s you.

And when it comes to college football fans, it’s clear that they think more of the SEC and Big 12 than they do of the Pac-10.

Big Ten

Big 12

Pac-10

SEC

Despite the Pac-10’s success against both the SEC and Big 12, it obviously has not had an affect on its standing in the eyes of SEC and Big 12 fans.

Here in the Pac-10, there is one program that does not sit well in the eyes of conference fans: Oregon.

Even though the Oregon fans are viewed as rude and impolite, Autzen Stadium is still the third most favorite stadium to visit in the conference.

Are Ducks fans rude and impolite?

I don’t know.

In my experience attending Pac-10 college football games, I have not seen or experienced more than a handful of scenes of fans (of any school) being rude or impolite to other fans (of any school).

But the evidence (quantifiable, anecdotal, and unscientific) portraying Oregon fans as rude and impolite continues to mount.

Regardless of the evidence’s veracity, Oregon, and Ducks fans, have a perception problem. And in this world where perception is reality, it’s a real problem.

Ducks fans, Pac-10 fans don’t think much of you. What do you think?

Pac-10 fans, is this survey about right?

All I can say is that the first step to recovery is acknowledging that you have a problem.

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By David Melo
Contributor, Duck Sports News

Six interceptions made by Oregon. 24-0 lead right before halftime. Seems pretty easy to win a game when that happens. Not so ten fast-flying years ago on this day! Especially against a very determined Cal Bear defense with an all-star guy named Delta O’Neal. Not until the sixth interception was made, was it clear that Oregon truly had the game in hand!

It was Saturday, November 13, 1999. Oregon traveled to California to face the Bears for the first time in three years, and the first time in Berkeley in four years. Oregon was entering the game still in the hunt for the Pac-10 title game, well recovered from a mid-season slump and on a three game winning streak. Early in the first quarter, now-NFL QB Kyle Boller rolled back to throw and had an open receiver. Little did he know the danger of Oregon corner Steve Smith, a sophomore who was just beginning to shine and went onto have an oustanding career. Smith made his second interception in as many weeks to give Oregon great field position. Oregon was unable to move the ball on third down, and went back to punt when…. FAKE! Upback Justin Wilcox (former QB) took the snap, ran the option into traffic, pitched the ball back to the dangerous Kurtis Doerr, who beautifully ran for his third first down on a fake that year. Deep into Bear territory, Oregon would face another fourth down on the same drive. On fourth and one, Cal looked for an option, but Harrington rolled back to pass and found Fullback Chad Chance wide open in first down territory. Chance not only converted, but had enough blockers to take it into the end zone for a twenty yard touchdown to give Oregon an early lead. 7-0 Oregon. The score remained 7-0 for some time. Late in the first quarter, Smith had another terrific defensive play. Cal attempted a trick play, by going for the “flea-flicker.” Boller was latteralled the ball from the tailback and went to throw, when Smith hit him as he threw. Smith’s hit caused a wild ball to fly right into the hands of Rasuli Webster, who made his first of many career interceptions for Oregon. Webster’s interception set up a field goal by Josh Frankel, who was doing very well that season in place of injured Nathan Villegas. His field goal was good to give Oregon a 10-0 lead, and to make him 11-13 on the year in field goals.

As the second quarter went on, the defensive battle continued. Cal stopped Oregon, Oregon stopped Cal. Mid way through, the legendary Peter Sirmon came through for Oregon as always, coming out of nowhere and making an amazing interception in Cal territory, almost running it back. He was unable to score, but the very next play saw Joey Harrington fire a perfect strike to LaCorey Collins for a touchdown. 17-0, Oregon. The battle continued down to under a minute in the half, when excitement really began. Reuben Droughns used his amazing physical power to plow his way into Bear territory. One run after another led Oregon into the red zone. With less than fifty seconds remaining, Harrington ran the option from inside the five yard line. As he was hit, he desperately pitched back an ill-advised option pitch to Herman HoChing, who bobbled the ball but managed to hang on and somehow find the end zone for the score. 24-0, Oregon. Cal took the kickoff and made their way to midfield with only fifteen seconds to in the half. Three plays failed, and with only a few seconds left, Cal only had one final play and their only prayer was a Hail Mary. Their Hail Mary was answered full of grace!!!! With four Oregon defenders covering, the intended receiver was too well covered and fell, and Michael Fletcher tipped the ball away. Somehow, the bounce off his hand was in Cal’s favor, bouncing right into a receiver’s hands in the end zone for the score! 24-6, Oregon, with the missed PAT heading into the half.

The second half was simply a defensive battle and an interception show. Early in the third quarter, Boller was knocked out for Cal by the hard-hitting Michael Fletcher. Cal’s reserve Wes Dalton was an Oregon native. He had a fairly good game, but first came in to throw an interception read beautifully by Brandon McLemore, an oustanding senior leader in the secondary who made a terrific dive to come up with the pick. Harrington, Droughns, and company seemed to be in control as they drove right downfield and into the red zone. Droughns had one run after another, and Harrington threw on the money. It appeared Oregon was going to take control of the game from there. Harrington found Marshaun Tucker at the goal line who had it. Tucker had it in his hands, when Deltha O’Neal made one of the year’s most remarkable plays, stealing the bobbling ball from Tucker in his end zone. O’Neal gave many Ducks a taste of Kenny Wheaton, running the ball 100 yards for the score. Cutting off one Oregon player at a time, only Harrington was left, who was blocked by a Bear to give Cal the score and keep them in the game. The two-point conversion failed, so Oregon still held a two-touchdown advantage. Later, Linebacker Matt Smith made another one of his many terrific interceptions, but sustained a knee injury.

Early in the fourth quarter, Dalton led a Bear drive. From the Oregon 40, Dalton threw a strike to a wide open receiver who broke free for a sixty yard touchdown. 24-19 Oregon. Only three big plays had led to Cal scores, and all the momentum. Many Oregon fans feared the worst, as they still had the bitter taste of the 1993 loss at Cal after a 30-0 lead was blown. To make matters worse, star linebacker Matt Smith was injured for the rest of the game. However, the Bears were unable to do anything on their next drive, thanks to their illness of “Fletcherism!” Michael Fletcher made two terrific plays, making a terrific blitz on third down to prevent the first. On the next play, Cal faked a punt. Punter Nick Harris (now a pro) threw it long downfield to a receiver, but should have known Fletch was already deep to make a punt return anyway. Fletch intercepted (though it counted for statistical purposes, letting it drop would have given Oregon the ball anyway and better field position!) With under five minutes to play, the score remained 24-19. Quarterback AJ Feeley was called upon on Oregon’s next possession. Feeley had opened the year as Oregon’s successful QB, but had lost the starting position after playing injured and success by Harrington. On third down, Feeley had a receiver, but was read by Cal and intercepted in Bear territory. Though outplayed and outgained in every category, Cal was then deep in Oregon territory with under three minutes to play and ready to steal the game.

Cal failed to convert, and faced third and goal from inside the five yard line. The Bears went to the bag of tricks and called for a “swinging gate” play. Dalton went in shotgun formation, all five linemen rolled right, and the tight end and receivers were the only men in front of the defensive line. Oregon read the play well, and were not fooled enough to send the defensive unit right (as even when rolling right, offensive linemen are still ineligible receivers.) The Tight End snapped the ball, and Dalton went back to throw. Dalton sailed the ball up for the Tight End who tripped in the end zone. Corner Brian Johnson had read the play beautifully, and jumped in front of the fallen Tight End to make a terrific interception at the one yard line and return to the three yard line. Johnson’s interception secured the victory with less than thirty seconds remaining, and saved the game to earn the top moment of the game. History did not repeat itself from 1993, as the Ducks held to win. 24-19, Oregon.

At 8-3, Oregon was guaranteed a bowl bid and a finish in the first division of the Pac-10. They had to continue to win to keep their slim Rose Bowl hopes alive, and had an outside shot with a Civil War win the following week (which they won but didn’t get the Rose Bowl since they didn’t play Stanford that year.) Luckily, each Pac-10 team does play the round robin now, so that is no longer of concern. Today’s Oregon team is facing similar circumstances, but still in control of their own destiny and not dependent on other teams. With good leadership and solid play like the USC game earlier (and the 1999 team’s solid five-win finish,) one can almost guarantee they’ve got what it takes to be the true Pac-10 champions and represent the conference in the Tournament of Roses!

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By David Melo
Contributor, Duck Sports News

Ten years to the day, Joey Harrington pulled off his second straight comeback in as many weeks. Not to be confused with the famous 2000 “Desert Miracle,” Joey Harrington led a comeback in 1999 over Arizona State at Autzen Stadium.

It was Saturday, October 30, 1999. Arizona State came to town for the second consecutive year. The Ducks were getting back on track coming off a terrific win over Arizona in the desert. Arizona State had struggled all year, but had beaten conference leader Washington, and posed a threat to Oregon. On a cold fall afternoon, the battle was underway.

The entire game until the tail end was fairly sloppy by both teams. They both shot themselves in the foot often, failing to score on many possessions and turning the ball over. Both teams only managed a field goal each in the first half. Oregon almost held ASU scoreless in the first half, but they capitalized off a turnover to tie the game right before the half. 3-3, halftime. Harrington was given a chance for the second consecutive week in the second half, and made the most of it. Prior to the end of the third, the Ducks had fallen behind 10-6, but Harrington brought the lead back to Oregon’s favor with a drive capped by then-true Freshman Keenan Howry’s touchdown catch. 13-10 Oregon, heading into the final quarter.

Not too much of a memorable day until the final minutes. Oregon lead 13-10, when Arizona State got the ball within the final five minutes to assemble a drive. The Sun Devils converted on two third downs to remain in the game. They milked the clock well from five minutes down to less than two, when they moved the ball into the red zone. A few plays later, the Devils punched in the go-ahead touchdown with only 1:04 left to play. The PAT put Arizona State up by four, which meant it would take a touchdown for Oregon to win. For the second consecutive week, Oregon would have to pull a fourth quarter comeback. The Ducks had an 11 game home winning streak, which was in serious jeopardy.

Trailing 17-13, the Ducks had all three of their timeouts and remained calm the entire time. Following the kickoff, Joey Harrington immediately went to work, throwing a perfect strike to Tight End LaCorey Collins. He then threw a deep out pattern to receiver Tony Hartley for another first down on the sidelines, who ran out of bounds in ASU territory. On second down, Harrington found Hartley again outside, who simply ran out again at the ASU 30 yardline. On first down, Harrington was under pressure but found first year JC transfer receiver Marshaun Tucker and threw a strike right to him at the 15… but he dropped it! It was then second down from the 30 with only 15 seconds to play. Harrington rolled back, threw a spiral to the end zone… and a wide open Tucker atoned for the previous play, making a terrific catch in the end zone for the score! 20-17, Oregon, with only nine seconds left. ASU had only one chance to throw a hail mary, but before he could get it off, Defensive End Saul Patu delivered a huge sack on their QB to end the game! 20-17, Ducks.

Joey Harrington won the starting job from there, and went 23-3 as a starter, leading to 10 more come-from-behind victories. Reuben Droughns was an unsung hero of the game, rushing for many first downs and almost 200 yards while still not 100% healthy, paving his way for a 1,000 yard season. Senior Brandon McLemore earned defensive MVP of the game, recording 14 tackles. The Ducks were then on a two-game winning streak, and began to prove they were unstoppable and too good to let adversity get to them.

Ten years later, today’s Oregon team looks to battle in a Trojan war tomorrow. That same Oregon team in 1999 pulled off a triple overtime victory over USC at Autzen. One never knows, it could possibly be another overtime game. As long as Oregon wins, they’ll be happy whether it is de ja vu all over again, or a new classic. Hopefully, they can prove ESPN gameday belongs in Eugene; and in the process–give USC tricks and fans treats at Autzen on Halloween night! GO DUCKS!

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By David Melo
Contributor, Duck Sports News

A classic defensive battle took place at Autzen Stadium exactly fifteen years ago to the day. It was Saturday, October 29, 1994. The Oregon Ducks were coming off one of the most remarkable wins in school history, capped by the classic Kenny Wheaton interception return for a touchdown. Flying high from that game, Oregon was 3-1 in conference entering the game, with many already beginning to talk about a Rose Bowl berth. The Arizona Wildcats came to Eugene flying high with their memorable “Desert Swarm” defense. Picked by many pollsters to will the Pac-10 conference title, Arizona was 4-0 in conference play entering the game, having only lost a last-minute non-conference game. For the second consecutive week, unranked Oregon was facing top-10 nationally ranked team with the the national television cameras on hand.

Two of the nation’s best defenses were primed and ready to go. Arizona’s “Desert Swarm” had many defensive weapons in to-be NFL stars such as Teddy Bruschi, Charlie Camp, Gary Taylor, and Joe Salavea. Oregon’s “Gang Green” defense quickly began to take effect. Arizona used their weapons to march downfield, but were unable to make it into the red zone. Rich Ruhl and Kenny Wheaton had great backfield hits, and held Arizona to only a long field goal. 3-0, Arizona. Oregon attempted a drive, but the Desert Swarm forced a punt. That happened off and on between defenses. Arizona assembled several drives into Oregon territory with star running back Antwan Carter, but the Gang Green was too tough, forcing them to attempt only another field goal. 6-0 Arizona. Later on, the Wildcats were pinned early deep in their own territory. Long before instant replay reviews existed, Oregon’s Reggie Jordan delivered a terrific hit on Arizona QB Dan White, causing him to fumble as he failed to protect the ball. The loose ball was then recovered by Bryant Jackson at the Arizona 9. However, due to poor officiating and no reviews at the time, White was ruled down–but Oregon was credited a sack and Arizona was forced to punt. O’Neil and the Oregon offense put together good drives, but Arizona’s “Desert Swarm” proved itself, not allowing Oregon into scoring range in the first half. Prior to the end of the first half, another poor call went in Arizona’s favor. Leading 6-0, Arizona had the ball in the red zone with seconds remaining, and threw to the corner of the end zone. Oregon tailback Herman O’Berry made remarkable coverage of the receiver, making a terrific diving interception and clearly landing his knee in the end zone. Video replay clearly showed O’Berry in bounds, but the referee standing right there ruled the pass incomplete–giving Arizona one final play before the half. Arizona took advantage by attempting another field goal to take a 9-0 halftime lead.

In the second half, Oregon’s defense became too strong for Arizona. One drive after another, Arizona could not get beyond midfield. While Oregon’s offense struggled against a tough Arizona defense, Quarterback Danny O’neil led his offense downfield just as in the previous week to keep the game in the balance. Just as in the previous week, O’Neil found a hole and took off running for a first down. Desert Swarm would then stall the drive at the Oregon 15, but kicker Matt Belden connected on a field goal to pull the Ducks within six. 9-3 Arizona, meaning a touchdown plus the PAT would put Oregon ahead. After the third quarter ended, the Ducks would be faced with a second-consecutive week challenge of rallying in the fourth quarter. After O’Neil had led only his first fourth quarter comeback the previous week, he was well up to the challenge of doing it two weeks in a row. First, it was a matter of getting the ball back. Piece of cake for the Gang Green. Reggie Jordan made another terrific sack, then Alex Molden broke up a pass against the much taller Richard Dice to force a punt. Early in the fourth quarter, O’Neil rallied his offense downfield on another remarkable drive. Just as in the previous drive, Oregon was at the Arizona 15. Only this time, a perfect play allowed more. When called a widespread and for the Tight End to roll wide right, Tight End Josh Wilcox remarkably raced down the sidelines to beat the famous Arizona secondary to the end zone, when O’neil delivered a perfect strike right to him for the tying score. Matt Belden then split the uprights on the PAT to take Oregon’s first lead of the game. 10-9 Oregon.

Once they had the lead, Oregon took full control of the game. One blitz after another prevented Arizona from any big play. Arizona was pinned deep in their own territory when Defensive End Mark Schmidt had a terrific sack deep in Arizona territory (similar to his sack against Cal), charging right through the Arizona line and put Arizona even farther away from a first down. Late in the game, Arizona was faced with the ball, when Arizona became one of the first ever opponents to realize how loud a packed Autzen stadium can get! The noise was so loud, a miscommunication took place with the center and White in shotgun formation–and the snap flew right by White who had to go back 15 yards to recover the loose ball. Even once Arizona was able to handle the snap, they were unable to handle the defense. White had a receiver wide open in first down territory, but Isaac Walker delivered a huge hit as he was catching it to pop the ball right out and force Arizona to punt. With less than ten seconds left, Arizona’s only prayer left was a Hail Mary. Just as in the previous week, an interception at the end saved the game. Chad Cota’s interception sealed the victory–a hard earned 10-9 triumph. Just as Oregon contained the Pac-10 leader Washington’s Napoleon Kauffman, they held second best Antwan Carter to 78 yards on the day, and never allowed Arizona a drive in the second half beyond midfield. Things were looking very rosy in Eugene! That left Oregon tied for first place in the Pac-10 at 4-1.

This weekend should be de ja vu all over again. Hopefully, the 2009 Ducks can put together as dominating of a performance against USC as the 1994 team did; or a close victory as in 2007. Should be a terrific game with ESPN Gameday visiting. Cheer on the Ducks this weekend, but never forget the 1994 “Gang Green” and company who planted the seeds for today’s successful team. GO DUCKS!

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By David Melo
Contributor, Duck Sports News

It was Saturday, November 19, 1994. Anyone who slept through the mid season was shocked to know a win would automatically send Oregon to the Rose Bowl. Oregon had come so far from where they began the season. After beginning only 1-2, only the most loyal and true Oregon supporters would have believed their team would be sitting atop of the Pac-10 heading into the Civil War. To begin the day, Oregon and USC were both tied at 6-1 in conference play. Having defeated USC, an Oregon win would guarantee Oregon the Rose Bowl regardless of USC’s performance against UCLA the same day.

Throughout the 70’s and 80’s, the classic rivalry was only about bragging rights, pride, and often which team would stay out of last place in the final Pacific 8/10 rankings! It had been decades since the Civil War meant so much to both teams. An Oregon win would automatically send them to their first Rose Bowl since 1958. Oregon State had also improved. They had pulled a major upset the previous week over ranked Washington State, and a win would give the Beavers their first five-win season in 24 years. The talk of the year’s matchup began as soon as talk about Oregon’s run for the roses began. So many wondered about the game up at Oregon State, and how each team would handle each other. Both teams were very strong defensively and dominant in many categories. The day had finally arrived, and the entire state was watching.

As a signature to the state of Oregon, the day in Corvallis was cold and rainy. To every player/attendee’s luck, the day before was mild and clear. The day after was mild and clear. However, any Oregonian knows to be prepared, and not one empty seat was left due to bad weather conditions. The game featured the ABC national television cameras on hand. Oregon State kicked off to begin the game, and “Civil War ‘94″ was underway. Two of the nation’s best defenses were primed and ready to go, with both making their presence felt immediately. Oregon went three-and-out on their very first drive, as two of Danny O’Neil’s passes to dominant Dameron Ricketts were broken up. Oregon State then featured a Wishbone Offense attack, which often struggled to move the ball consistently. Oregon was well prepared for their QB option attacks, and prevented a fourth down conversion. On Oregon’s second possession, O’Neil and company immediately moved the ball down field. O’Neil and the offense marched right down into the red zone. From the 19 yard-line, O’Neil faked two handoffs and rolled back to pass. A wide open tailback Dino Philyaw was open all alone on the flap, and Philyaw caught the bootleg pass and ran right into the end zone. 7-0 Oregon, early in the first period. Oregon fans were going nuts, and so many thought their beloved Ducks were going to be as dominant as the previous week versus Stanford. Oregon State, however, would immediately prove that they were going to be no pushover on the day. From there, Oregon State began its attack. After pinning Oregon deep in its own territory, one play after another found Oregon only going backwards against Oregon State’s strong defense (two rushes for loss, one sack on O’Neil.) On fourth and long deep in its own territory, Oregon went back to punt. Oregon State’s safety Larry Bumpus was much like Oregon’s current safety T.J Ward, very fast and hard-hitting. Bumpus made it through the line untouched to block Matt Belden’s kick. An Oregon State special teams member came up with the ball in the end zone to give Oregon State a touchdown. The PAT failed, so Oregon would retain the lead at 7-6.

The first half was dominated by defense as well as cold and rainy weather. Each team’s defense prevented any major drive in the second quarter. A field goal attempt by Belden was wide following a drive could not get by OSU’s solid defense. “Gang Green” was alive on the day and continued its dominance against Oregon State’s usually tough run, and forced several sacks on OSU. O’Neil was sacked three times in the second quarter. Right before half-time, O’Neil and company marched into Oregon State territory, but were stopped again by OSU and forced to settle for a field goal. 10-6 Oregon, heading into halftime.

To start the second half, both teams came out strong on defense, preventing any type of scoring drive. Mid way through the third quarter, Oregon drove into Oregon State territory, but would then face fourth down. Not in field goal range, they were forced to go for the first down. A bad snap created a fumble. Though recovered by Oregon, Oregon State would take over on downs around their own 40 yard line. If things weren’t bad enough for Oregon, wide receiver Cristin McLemore had injured his wrist on the drive and had to be taken for X-rays. Oregon State suddenly gained momentum. The typically run-happy Beavers began stunning the Ducks by going through the air. An unexpected long pass from the OSU 35 was completed into Oregon territory to allow OSU even more momentum. Another pass alowed OSU deeper into Oregon territory. From their, OSU ran the ball past the “Gang Green” for one first down after another, and into the red zone. OSU completed three third-down conversions, including one to the Oregon one yard line. On the very next play, OSU’s line paved way for QB Don Shanklin’s bolt into the end zone for the score. 13-10, Oregon State. Oregon began a drive of their own from the 20 to the 50, but Oregon State held. From there, Oregon State’s defense dominated the remainder of the third quarter, not allowing Oregon beyond midfield the rest of the quarter.

Oregon State put together another drive, and marched into scoring territory. “Gang Green” held Oregon State, and OSU faced a fourth down situation. Instead of going for the field goal, OSU foolishly attempted to convert on fourth and two. Oregon lucked out as QB Don Shanklin fell down behind the line, so Oregon’s defense walked away unharmed, and the score remained 13-10. Meanwhile, Oregon State’s training staff was more than kind and unselfish with the injured McLemore. They courteously rushed him all the way across the OSU campus to examine his injured wrist so that he could return if x-rays were negative. X-rays proved negative, so the staff rushed McLemore back as quickly as possible. The Oregon training staff wrapped his bruised and swollen hand carefully to return him to play. Even with McLemore’s return, Oregon was unable to put a ding in Oregon State’s defense. Both teams continued to move the ball proficiently, but came up short of points. O’Neil led Oregon downfield again, but OSU’s offense held to a field goal attempt, which Belden missed. If things weren’t bad enough, O’Neil was shaken up from a big hit. Oregon State kept its 13-10 lead, and appeared ready to spoil Oregon’s Rose Bowl hopes. It remained that way until it was announced that UCLA had come from behind to take a large lead over USC toward the end of their game. The crowd of Oregon faithful erupted in applause, as Oregon was Pasadena-bound regardless of the Civil War outcome. However, Oregon wanted to prove that they were for real and had come so far for a reason. They weren’t about to stop fighting, and knew earning the Rose Bowl would not mean nearly as much without a final victory over arch-rival Oregon State. Oregon was not about to give up, and continued its fight in the cold harsh rainy conditions.

Oregon State attempted to milk the clock, but Rich Ruhl and “Gang Green” stuck to their toughness standards and moved them backwards. OSU was then forced to punt with only four minutes left in the game, pinning Oregon around its own 30. According to Danny O’Neil, “it was our last opportunity. I felt this was definitely it, if we don’t score here–OSU’s offense is probably going to run this thing out.” Despite being shaken up, O’Neil came back. For the third time in five weeks, O’Neil (who before the season never led a comeback) was called upon to lead Oregon to a fourth quarter come-from-behind victory. On first down, O’Neil found McLemore on a crossing-route at mid-field before for a 30 + yard gain before McLemore was shoved out of bounds. The two injured players combined to prove their injuries were just part of their game. On 3rd and 6, the two teamed up again. McLemore ran the same route for another huge gain until being shoved out of bounds again at the OSU 14. On first down, McLemore went in motion when suddenly… Wilcox had the low point of his career, missing the snap count and trying to keep his balance until he lost it and fell on his rear end prior to the snap. (OOPS!) Oregon was penalized for illegal motion, but as they had all year, the Ducks overcame adversity. On 1st and 15 from the 19, O’Neil passed to open Dino Philyaw again on a quick screen pass. Just as in the first quarter, blitzers were coming towards O’Neil and failed to cover Philyaw in motion. Philyaw caught it and thanks to two great blocks by former Center Mark Gregg and Guard Bob Baldwin, Philyaw had nothing but the end zone ahead of him. Coincidentally enough, it was a 19-yard touchdown pass just as Philyaw’s first touchdown in the first quarter, on a similar type of play. Matt Belden’s PAT put Oregon up by four, meaning a field goal would do OSU no good. 17-13 Oregon, with three minutes remaining. In barely over a minute, O’Neil had led Oregon over 70 yards for the score.

OSU attempted to mount a comeback, but Gang Green held one time after another. With under two minutes to play, Shanklin fumbled the ball, which Rich Ruhl recovered to (righftully) give Ruhl a completion of his outstanding day of 17 tackles and winning Pac-10 defensive player of the week. However a very poor call (before instant replays existed) gave Oregon State back the ball, having the refs call Shanklin down. The call did allow for continued excitement until the final minute. Shanklin and company moved the ball on the ground, but were not a passing team and were unable to move through the air. Out of timeouts, Oregon State lost several downs with spiked balls. After OSU failed to convert, they faced a fourth down situation. Shanklin went back to throw, but found no open receiver and was being blitzed. Shanklin’s fourth down desperation pass fell incomplete, and the celebration was on! Oregon ran out the clock, and secured a hard-earned 17-13 victory.

Oregon was Rose Bowl Bound. Rich Brooks was carried onto the field by his players in celebration of: Oregon’s first nine-win season in over forty years, the THIRD come-from-behind victory in FIVE weeks, an overcome of a 1-2 start, the overcome of countless injuries, and many many doubters who picked Oregon to finish no higher than 8th place in preseason polls! As “icing on the cake,” UCLA’s upset of USC put the Trojans at 6-2 conference; meaning Oregon (7-1 with the Civil War victory) would not have to share the conference title with USC and would win their first ever outright Pac-10 title. A true reflection on the 1994 Oregon Football team’s strength and resiliency!

Fifteen years later, Oregon Football has come very far with improved facilities, improved recruits, three Pac-10 titles, rise to national prominence, etc. However, the 1994 “Cinderella Team” remains as one of the most special in Oregon history. Rightfully inducted into the Oregon Hall of Fame in 2005, a team with such heart and character rose from the ashes to enable Oregon to where it has risen. The 1994 Oregon team has a special place in any true Oregon Duck’s heart, and will forever be remembered for its true heart of gold and outstanding achievements.

” ‘Twas Civil War Gameday” posted in the Register Guard 1994 (unknown author):

Twas Civil War gameday and all through Eugene,
The Duck fans were shouting “Go Get ‘Em Gang Green!”

The Beavers were huddled ‘Round Coach Pettibone,
In hopes that the Ducks would forget and stay home.

And I in my Duck cap with a bright yellow bill,
I entered Parker Stadium all pumped for a thrill.

The Ducks and the Beavers came out on the field,
Each team determined that they wouldn’t yield.

But with Danny O’Neil there so lively and quick,
We knew in a moment the Ducks were our pick!

More rapid than eagles, our team took the lead…
With superior skill and cunning and speed.

Coach Brooks risked a smile, the fans were so wired…
The team heard our roar and it got them inspired.

On Danny, on Cristin, On Dino, on Josh;
Keep making those touchdowns, we’ll whip ‘em by gosh!

Then hand it to Ricky, or Dino and the rest;
We’ll see in a moment who’s really the best!

‘Twas down to the wire, the Beavers had scored;
The game was so close as a looked at the board.

When what to my wondering eyes should appear…
but the Gang Green defense, all decked out in their gear.

The look in their eye and the set of their head,
soon led us to know we had nothing to dread

They jumped to the line as the Beavs called their play,
But from Chad, Paul, and Alex–they could not get away!

Belden’s kick split the uprights, the point after good;
The clock ticked its last and the Duck fans all stood.

And we heard them them exclaim as they gave us their last cheer,
we knew you could do it, IT’S DUCK ROSE BOWL THIS YEAR!”

DSN NOTE: In case you missed them, here are a few more of David’s posts:
15th Anniversary: “Gang Green” Vs “Desert Swarm” defense
10 year anniversary of Duck comeback
Decade anniversary: Very close Duck/Cal game

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You can’t stop Supwitchugirl. You can only hope to contain them.

The music video “I love my Ducks”, featuring a controversial appearance by the Duck, was mentioned on Thursday’s The Dan Patrick Show.

Here’s the audio:

I know some of you are tired of this story. But I would like to make one more note about all of this nonsense.

In “Does the Duck mascot’s hip-hop act put UO’s deal with Disney in peril?” posted on KVAL.com, Dave Williford with the UO Athletic Department commented in regards to the use of the Duck:

“Anything other than use for sporting events, we need to request permission from Disney in advance.”

That might be true now. But all I know is that I’ve attended non-sports functions, like weddings (or birthdays) of children of high-profile donors, with the Duck in attendance.

So, either it’s a new policy, or a policy that is conveniently ignored for the right people.

Or Disney approves every…single…one of these appearances.

If that’s the case, supwitchudisney?

And here’s one more question: who approved the use of the Duck costume (because it’s not like the thing is library book for anyone to check out)?

By the way, the video is back up on YouTube. Happy “I love my Ducks”-hunting, UO Athletic Department!

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REWARD: The UOSportsDude got the $20 Gift Card to Oregon Sports at the Gateway Mall. Nice job on tracking down the video.

UPDATE: Well, I think this little episode is coming to an end. The video is now posted on a service that is not YouTube. And if it is removed from there, it will pop us somewhere else. So, have fun playing this game of cat and mouse.

Until then, enjoy the video.

(I’ll sort out who gets the gift card tomorrow.)

UPDATE: Looks like Supwitchugirl has posted the video on Facebook.

UPDATE: While the Athletic Department does not want “I love my Ducks” on YouTube, they don’t seem to mind it making an appearance on GoDucks Live with Jerry Allen.

Skip to the last few minutes for the video.

Let me just make one note about this video being a part of Jerry’s show: if the video was OK for the show, why isn’t it OK for YouTube?

I think this is a case of the left hand not knowing what the right hand is doing.

I should have done a better job of looking into where this video originated from before I posted this entry. But the fact that it was on Jerry’s show this morning makes everything that follows all that much more perplexing.

Again, supwitchuoregon?

Here’s the original post…

By Jay Jones, One Click Sports News

Earlier today, Duck fans visiting YouTube got to smell the Roses.

Then Duck Sports News linked to the music video, featuring the Duck mascot, produced by the group Supwitchugirl.

Once DSN linked to it, everyone in the University of Oregon’s Athletic Department knew about it (because Duck Sports News is the home page for quite a few in the Athletic Department at the Cas Center).

And that included the Marketing Department.

From @AndrewGreif.

While the Marketing Department did not approve, Coach Kelly seemed to like it.

Again, from @AndrewGreif.

But within a couple of hours, it was gone, made “private” on YouTube.

More from @AndrewGreif.

However, it seems that the Athletic Department was willing to play the mother of all trump cards: contacting YouTube.

This lead to a reasonable question from @AndrewGreif:

(Note: Link on UOSportsDude.com does not work, either.)

Self-proclaimed insider @MightyOregon suggests it was a chain-of-command issue:

And then @MightyOregon goes on to make a legitimate, albeit decidedly unfun, point:

Leaving no room for interpretation, the group Suwitchugirl created a Twitter account and posted the following tweet this afternoon:

And their position was further clarified with a comment on YouTube:

Is it the best music video in the world? No. But it’s probably the best one these kids have ever produced.

Is it fun? Yes. A lot more fun than the countless “O”s and Ducks that adorn many a local business store front in the Eugene-Springfield area (most certainly without permission).

Is it good for Oregon? Sure. Fans seem to like it. And it is a much better use of Oregon imagery on video than the numerous occasions it pops up on local commercials (in the form or a hat here or a shirt there – again, probably without permission).

In the great tradition of Carroll-Harbaugh, I have to ask the University of Oregon Athletic Department, what’s your deal?

Or as the kids like to say, supwitchuoregon?

Help Duck Sports News (along with Robert Stack) find this missing video. Duck Sports News is offering a $20 gift card to Oregon Sports at the Gateway Mall for a working link (that remains working) to the “I love my Ducks” music video.

If you have any information leading to the safe return of this missing video, please email us here.

We thank you for your cooperation.

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