After consecutive seasons that ended with Oregon’s defense at the bottom of country in nearly every statistical category, 2017 brings new head coach Willie Taggart along with new defensive coordinator Jim Leavitt to Eugene with improvement on that side of the ball as the emphasis. Leavitt brings back the 3-4 scheme, reverting to a similar style the 2015 Ducks played after one year in the 4-3. The shift presents changes for players like Henry Mondeaux and Jalen Jelks along the defensive line, compounded with the challenges of a unit largely inexperienced at the collegiate level.

The Duck Defense Shifts to the 3-4 (by Alex Castle)