Oregon Ducks Quarterback Vernon Adams Is Right Where He Belongs
By Steve Olson
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Vernon Adams proved he does belongs on the big stage. Oregon didn’t win, but they came close, falling to the Michigan State Spartans 31-28. Adams missed a wide open Byron Marshall on second and six with 1:27 to go in the game. Then, he was sacked on the following play, to make it fourth and 16 on MSU 43. He then under-threw a diving Bralon Addison to end any chances of a Ducks’ comeback.
Must Read: Report Says Oregon Quarterback Adams Has Broken Index Finger
Although Vernon Adams had many mishaps on the final drive, he played extremely well against a top five team in the nation. He finished 22 out of 39, for 309 yards, one touchdown, two interceptions and one rushing touchdown. One of his interceptions looked like it was taken off the facemask of Charles Nelson. His other interception he should have never thrown. Adams did looked lost at times, dancing around in the pocket, over-throwing or under-throwing receivers and being sacked four times. It’s easy to forget he only played his second game as a Duck and that he is still learning the offense. He threw more yards then Connor Cook, to go along with putting up 309 yards on a top ranked defense. Had he not thrown two picks, the outcome might have been different. As in any sport, momentum is key to any game, and momentum killing drives can kill any hope for a win.
The blame can’t all rest on Adams shoulders either. Oregon made some questionable calls, going for it on a couple of fourth and goals when they could have kicked a field goal. Most notably, Royce Freeman was stopped at the MSU one on fourth and goal. Some Duck fans are sure to challenge it, yes it was close, but he did look short. The Ducks gave up a big play when the Spartans went for it fourth down, which resulted in a touchdown on the next play. Oregon’s defense did force a three and out to give them them a chance to win the game. They also held Connor Cook under 2oo yards passing, so there is plenty of upside to the Oregon Ducks defense.
There are reports of an injury to the index finger of Vernon Adam’s throwing hand. That is no excuse, the Ducks lost to a good team. One has to wonder how bad it is, the Ducks’ next game is a tune up game against Georgia State. So whether the Ducks use this game to get more reps for Adams or rest him, there is a possibility they play Jeff Lockie. Duck fans should keep their heads up, although the Oregon Ducks lost, they have plenty to be excitied. Vernon Adams shows he belongs playing against the nation’s best teams.
Oregon will look to rebound this week hosting Sun Belt foe Georgia State at Autzen Stadium on Saturday at 11am Pacific Time on Pac-12 Networks.