Duck Stuff: Morning Mud

• Here is one of my favorite articles so far this year. George Schroeder writes on Jeremiah Masoli's leadership qualities.

He calls his leadership style “proactive.” And you ought to be more encouraged by hearing about it than by recalling any of the highlights he produced late last season.

Because Masoli’s skill set is perfect for the Ducks’ spread option, but quarterback is more than talent. We’ve all seen kids with rocket arms or quick feet, guys who can diagram plays and dissect defenses.

All of that’s necessary, and important for winning football games.

But the quarterback had better have more. Work ethic and determination. Hard-to-define stuff like moxie, grit and fire. Charisma, and a desire to lead.

All of which, it seems, Masoli is showing this summer.

Be sure to read the complete article, it is a gem.

• Andy Mac has a piece on the returning starters and looks at all of the pre-season predictions for the Pac-10. Also of note in this article is the news that place kicker Daniel Padilla has been granted his release in order to explore playing opportunities elsewhere.

• Ted Miller continues his "don't be surprised if" series and this time concludes that the Pac-10 final standings are closely tied to how good a team is at stopping the run. Good read if you have a couple of minutes.

GO DUCKS!