On paper, the Oregon Ducks defense set to take the field in 2024 is among the most talented we’ve seen in Eugene in quite some time. With a mix of transfer portal stars and homegrown talent, Dan Lanning has the unit ranked among the nation’s best so far this preseason.
If there is a vulnerability, it is the very last line of the defense on the field (safety), at least according to ESPN.
It’s not for the lack of talent, however.
Oregon’s so-called safety problem is inexperience and bringing in newcomers such as transfer Kobe Savage from Kansas State and true freshman Kingston Lopa. ESPN’s Paolo Uggetti says the present and future are very bright for the Ducks.
Oregon’s safeties are not so much a weakness as much as they are a question mark. The Ducks lost Evan Williams, Steve Stephens IV and Bryan Addison at the position from last year but added Kobe Savage, who should slide into a starting spot, from Kansas State. After Savage, however, the depth is murky. Tysheem Johnson has shown potential but also of lackluster play, which could open up a window for a younger player to step up this season. — Paolo Uggetti
It’s fair to question the unit right now as we wait to get a feel for how developments shake out and see what the production will be like. But it wouldn’t come as any surprise to see the Ducks’ safety unit quickly establish itself as elite early in the season.
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