Oregon releases depth chart ahead of Alamo Bowl
The Oregon Ducks have released their organizational chart ahead of the Dec. 29 Alamo Bowl against Oklahoma.
The first two-deep of the post-Mario Cristobal era is noticeably different from the vague, inaccurate depth charts Oregon’s former head coach tended to release.
It also reflects the sheer amount of firepower the Ducks are missing on the defensive side of the ball.
The Ducks’ latest depth chart is a true two-deep and lists just two players at every position with the exception of quarterback. Robby Ashford has been listed with an “or” caveat by his name at quarterback all season but is absent from this depth chart.
Trey Benson was listed as an “or” option at running back all year, too, but is also absent. Both omissions seem to simply indicate that Ashford and Benson are down the pecking order at their respective positions.
Troy Franklin has been elevated to the starting “X” receiver after Devon Williams declared for the NFL Draft last week.
There are no new absences along the offensive line, but it is worth noting that Ryan Walk is not listed. He has been battling a long-term injury, and it seems as though he may not be healthy enough to play the bowl game.
On the defensive side of things, the absences of Kayvon Thibodeaux (edge), and Mykael Wright and DJ James (cornerback) loom large. Bradyn Swinson, Dontae Manning, and Trikweze Bridges have slotted into the starting lineup to replace them.
Keyon Ware-Hudson is also missing from the depth chart, which seems to indicate he will not be healthy enough to play against Oklahoma. Instead, Kristian Williams is listed as the starter at defensive tackle.
The loss of Jayson Jones, who entered the transfer portal last week, also hurts Oregon’s depth along the interior defensive line.
There is no sign of defensive back Bennett Williams, running back Sean Dollars, or linebacker Dru Mathis on the depth chart. Cristobal said earlier this season that all three players could potentially return for the postseason, but it isn’t immediately clear if any of them will suit up against the Sooners.
Linebacker Keith Brown and safety Steve Stephens IV are also missing from the depth chart after battling injuries recently.
Oregon interim head coach Bryan McClendon said earlier this week that all of the Ducks’ injured players are “questionable at best” to play in the bowl game.
