The Oregon Ducks are set to face off in what is being billed as the biggest game of the decade this Saturday against the USC Trojans. Chip Kelly has been masterful at keeping his team focused on the task at hand and I don’t think this week will be any different. That being said my weekly “Locker Room Speeches” could also be the reason that the team hasn’t lost since I started doing this every Thursday starting with the
“I don’t think I have to remind you guys how important this game is for us, our fans and the entire nation. The PAC10 championship hinges on this game.
USC is arrogant and with reason. Pete Carroll has built a dynasty. The entire conference has been in their shadow for the last decade. They have won 7 straight PAC10 conference titles at our expense.
Today is our day, today is the day the Ducks shine.
USC is deep, we are deeper. USC is tough, we are tougher. USC is fast, we are faster.
O-line; be powerful, be nasty and be hungry. This might be best front 4 you will ever face during a game. The good news is you face a better one every day in practice. Explode out of your stance on every snap. I want you to be looking down at them every time that whistle blows.
D-line; Matt Barkley is a Freshman QB, who has had success because no one has been able to get to him. His offensive line is heralded. They are big, strong and fast. Keep them on their heels and moving backwards. Force them to react, don’t let them set the tone. Every one of you went against Max Unger last year and there is not a single Max on that team.
Linebackers; they have a stable of running backs who each have a different style. They will try to beat you up using Allan Bradford and then try to catch you sagging with Joe McNight. Lane discipline and gap assignments have never been this crucial. Don’t be a hero out there, be where Allioti wants you and someone will be in position. Once contact is made any where on the field, get there. They may break a tackle or two, but they can’t break 11.
Running Backs; no dancing in the backfield, USC is too fast to wait for holes to open up. Make a decision before the snap. Know where you are going. Protect the football, but fight for every inch. This game may come down to 1.
DB’s; they are going to come after you early. Set the tone. Make the low risk choice. Be opportunistic when you have help, but play the Receiver when you’re on an island. They run a lot of double moves and will pump fake often. The D-line will shut that down as the game goes on once they wear them out, but again set the tone early. Be in position every play. Don’t get caught watching the game.
WR’s; today we will throw the ball more often to set up the run. When Masoli throws to you fight for the ball. When you’re blocking down field keep your feet moving and your hands legal. No illegal blocks no, dropped passes and no fumbles.
Masoli; make them afraid of every snap. Keep them confused and out of position. Don’t be afraid to throw it away if the play isn’t there. There isn’t going to be as much time as you’re used to today, but there is going to be enough. When making your reads, make sure you know where the safeties are, make sure your running backs are on the same page. Go out there and show them who you are.
Special Teams; you can win us this game. Every time you are on the field, be perfect. No turnovers and no penalties. And if you feel like getting some more TD’s today, that would be ok too!!!
Everyone take deep breath and relax because in 20 minutes the war begins.
Be Proud!
Be Great!
Be Ducks!
Now go out there and remind them why they hate coming to this state and our stadium!”
- Kurt Valentine
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