With the conclusion of what seemed like an extended and exciting offseason with two spring practices, the Oregon Ducks got started early this month. Early in March, Dan Lanning and his squad finally took to the practice fields at the Hatfield-Dowlin Complex and put on their helmets.
After that, they took another break.
The University of Oregon’s academic calendar caused the Ducks to postpone their two practices in March in order to accommodate the students’ final examinations and spring break. Although some may believe that the amount of time that has passed would cause the momentum to slow down, Lanning told us earlier this month that the players used the extra time to review their work from the offseason and make improvements moving forward.
“I’m not sure if there’s a significant advantage,” Lanning remarked following the Ducks’ inaugural practice this month. “It extends the spring window, giving you a little extra time in between to reflect on your accomplishments and areas for improvement.”
But more than that, it’s an opportunity for other players who have committed to the Ducks to join the squad. Enrolling in the University wasn’t possible until after spring break because other schools are either on trimesters or semesters, but Oregon follows the quarter system.
It is known that former Texas A&M wide receiver Evan Stewart joined the team during this two-week break, and it is anticipated that Duke transfer Brandon Johnson and Washington transfer Jabbar Muhammad will play through the end of the spring season.