After a strong road victory over Michigan, the Oregon Ducks are preparing to defend their undefeated season at home against Maryland. Recently, the College Football Playoff selection committee released its first rankings, placing Oregon at the top. The Ducks aim to maintain their top spot despite dealing with injuries to some key players.
In the upcoming game, Oregon will be without star receiver Tez Johnson, who sustained an injury following an 11-yard catch against Michigan. Johnson exited to the locker room and later returned to the sideline with his arm in a sling.
Ducks head coach Dan Lanning commented on Johnson’s recovery, saying, “I’ll tell you the same thing I always do. When they’re ready, we’ll have them back. Player safety is our priority. Tez will be out for now, but I expect he’ll return soon.”
Johnson wasn’t the only Duck to get injured at Michigan. Senior right guard Marcus Harper II also suffered an injury against the Wolverines, remaining on the field briefly before heading to the medical tent. Coach Dan Lanning later provided an update on Harper’s condition.
“Same with Marcus. I don’t think either injury was as serious as it appeared on the field, and I believe we’ll get them back, but I’m not sure when,” Lanning said. “We’ll do what we always do—prioritize player health. Both of them are working hard to return as soon as possible.”
In Oregon’s recent game against Michigan, tight end Terrance Ferguson (back from an appendectomy) and defensive end Jordan Burch (knee) made their returns. Neither appeared on Oregon’s official injury report before the game, and both are expected to see more play against Maryland.
After a successful road win against Michigan, the Oregon Ducks are aiming to keep their undefeated season alive in a home game against the Maryland Terrapins. The College Football Playoff committee ranked Oregon in the top spot in its initial CFP rankings on Tuesday, a position they hope to maintain with a victory over Maryland, despite several key injuries.
Oregon will have to play without star receiver Tez Johnson, who was injured during an 11-yard catch against Michigan. Johnson left the field, later returning to the sidelines with his arm in a sling. Coach Dan Lanning emphasized the priority of player safety, saying they would get Johnson back on the field when he’s ready.
Johnson isn’t the only injured Duck. Senior right guard Marcus Harper II also sustained an injury in the Michigan game, which left him temporarily sidelined. Lanning expressed optimism about Harper’s recovery, noting the team’s commitment to supporting their injured players.
Some Ducks, however, are returning from previous injuries. Tight end Terrance Ferguson and defensive end Jordan Burch, both absent earlier due to an appendectomy and knee injury respectively, played in the Michigan game and are expected to see more action against Maryland.
In Johnson’s absence, wide receiver Gary Bryant Jr., who has been recovering from a leg injury since August, might step up. Lanning hinted that Bryant is close to being ready to return, as he’s eager to get back on the field.
Other injured Ducks, such as offensive lineman Dave Iuli and cornerback Jahlil Florence, may also return for the Maryland game. Lanning confirmed their expected comeback. However, offensive lineman Mathew Bedford, who has been out most of the season with a knee injury, remains uncertain for a return.
