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By Sam Saig, August 14, 2009 8:34 am

The Oregon Ducks had a strange season on defense in 2008. Rarely could a team finish 5th nationally in tackles for loss (104.5), 8th nationally in sacks (38), and 11th nationally in turnovers gained (31) but still manage to end the year ranked 82nd in total defense (including 111th against the pass).

Part of the blame for the strange stat line can be placed on the explosive Oregon offense, which overwhelmed opponents early and often. Because of that, many opposing offenses had to throw the ball more frequently than normal just to stay in the game. The quick-burst scoring also led to a low time of possession, which meant the defense was spending most of the game on the field.

Although the Ducks are quite comfortable playing any team in a shootout, the D will need to tighten up a bit for Oregon to reach it’s true potential as a championship level football team.

Defensive coordinator Nick Aliotti has a very talented group returning in 2009, with all-conference caliber playmakers at all three levels. The most exciting unit may be at the second level, where an extremely athletic group of linebackers should wreak havoc all season long. Many believe this could be the program’s best group of LBs in years, led by two outstanding juniors.

Spencer Paysinger tries to strip the ball while making the tackle

Continue reading 'Pac-10 Position Breakdown: Linebacker – Oregon Ducks'»