Football Practice Report: Aug. 26
08/26/17 | Football, @GoDucksMoseley
Willie Taggart's Ducks ready for opener by simulating pregame routine in Autzen.
Venue: Autzen Stadium
Format: Helmets
The team entered the field via the west tunnel of the stadium, with the players each touching the new "Do Something" placard before stepping out onto the turf. Coaches then put the team through a variety of pregame paces so that players can be accustomed to them by next Saturday. One routine that didn't change was veteran defensive back Tyree Robinson leading the team through its "fired up" chant during the large pregame huddle.
The remainder of practice saw all three units - offense, defense and special teams - going over sets and plays against scouts, with the primary differences from the prior day's practice being a faster pace and balls actually being thrown through the air. Punt and kickoff units saw a significant amount of work. With kickoff specialist Matt Wogan and punter Ian Wheeler now departed after graduating, both roles will have new faces next Saturday. Wogan's prowess will be difficult to replace, having ranked third nationally in kickoff average (64.60 yards per kickoff) and ninth overall in touchbacks (52) last season.
Highlights: As was the case on Friday, due to the format, there were no true on-field highlights. I can say that Justin Herbert's arm was live, with the sophomore quarterback tossing darts around the field with seemingly little effort. Charles Nelson is still fast, Royce Freeman is still a handful to take down, yadda yadda yadda - you get the drift.
Other observations: Former head coach Rich Brooks took in practice. ... The Ducks broke in a new set of helmets that will be worn in the opener vs. SUU. ... A work crew was busy installing seat backs throughout the stadium for season ticket holders who ordered them.
A new era of Oregon Football begins September 2 when your Ducks take on Southern Utah. Let's sell out Coach Taggart's first game in Autzen Stadium. Tickets start at $36. Do Something. BUY TICKETS NOW.
