Eugene, OR – With an overall record of 4-4 and a reputation of being the second worst team in the Pac-12, the Oregon Ducks are struggling to stay out of their own way, according to head coach Willie Taggart. Coming off of a hard loss to UCLA Oregon gears up to play Utah (4-3, 1-3) this weekend. Taggart stresses they must play the best they can, regardless of the multiple injuries they have suffered this season.
At this time, there is no say if Justin Herbert will be suiting up. Herbert has been out with a collarbone injury as of Sep. 30th when the Ducks’ won 45-24 against the California Bears. Since Herbert’s absence, Oregon has accumulated a three game losing streak.
When Taggart was asked if Herbert plans to return to the field, “Justin’s throwing passes, he’s doing whatever Justin like to do right now… don’t tease me”, Taggart teases with a smirk.
When asked how Oregon plans to take control, Taggart stresses forcing turnovers, playing solid defense and making progressive improvements daily. On offense, taking care of the football is the main objective. Taggart expresses worry over proper preparation with formulating 15 play drives when he sees his team not running the correct routes. “We got to find ways to get those explosive plays that we were getting earlier in the year and that will help our football team out tremendously”, said Taggart.
Struggling to find their offensive identity and power plays, Taggart has high hopes for his Ducks this weekend. Tune in as Oregon hosts the Utah Utes (4-3, 1-3) this Saturday at 2:45 p.m., televised on Pac-12 Networks.
