Oregon’s offensive line suffered a devastating blow this week, with starting left guard Trent Ferguson officially out for the entire season due to a knee injury. Coach Dan Lanning confirmed the news on Monday, a tough pill to swallow after the Ducks were embarrassed on the road in a Week 2 loss to Oklahoma State. Ferguson, who started Saturday and played most of the second half against Boise State, won’t be back.
A Massive Hole on the Offensive Line
This is a brutal loss for the Ducks. Lanning himself said, “We won’t probably get to see (Ferguson) again,” and you can feel the frustration. He added, “I feel bad for that kid because he’s worked really hard.” With Ferguson gone, the Ducks are looking at Douglas Utu to step up at left guard. Utu didn’t play in the second half against Boise State and was a total no-show in Stillwater, so he’s got to be ready to return and fill that critical spot. Oregon desperately needs him back on the field, especially with the O-line already under pressure.
Jamari Johnson’s Undisclosed Mystery
As if the offensive line wasn’t enough, the tight end situation is a huge question mark. Jamari Johnson, who traveled to Stillwater and warmed up, surprisingly did not play against Oklahoma State. The ESPN broadcast reported it as kickoff approached. Lanning clarified Johnson suffered an undisclosed injury against Boise State and couldn’t practice before the Oklahoma State game. Now, Lanning is “still evaluating it with Jamari,” hinting he “might be down for a few (games).” If Johnson is sidelined for weeks, Oregon will have to rely on unproven options. Penn State transfer Andrew Olesh started against Oklahoma State and made one catch. Freshman Kendre Harrison also played, while Clemson transfer Markus Dixon got just one snap.
Then there’s Carl Williams IV. The dude launched himself into Oklahoma State quarterback Drew Mestemaker at the goal line, fell motionless, and did not return to the game. Lanning didn’t specify Williams’ injury, and he’s now being monitored by medical staff, much like Johnson. Talk about a physical game!
This team is banged up and reeling. With a short week ahead, the Ducks are hosting Portland State on Friday night at 7:30 p.m. from Autzen Stadium, airing live on Big Ten Network. Oregon needs to get some of its top playmakers back on the field and healthy. They’ll be hoping for some good news on the injury front, and fast, if they want to get this season back on track.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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