Duck Stuff: Morning Mud

• Featured in the R-G yesterday is Rob Moseley's story on a new breed that is hitting the secondary. Now that Walter Thurmond III and T.J. Ward have moved to the NFL, who will win  a starting role come fall?

The most familiar will be that of junior Eddie Pleasant, a 12-game starter at outside linebacker last season. Coaches thought his speed and tackling ability would translate well to safety.

Having replaced Ward as the No. 1 rover, Pleasant has quickly adjusted and is operating at a level Neal described as “90 percent efficient.”

For a player new to the position, “that’s off the charts,” Neal said.

• Not attending the Spring Game in person? All of your TV and radio options are at GoDucks.com.

• Three Oregon players have made the Lombardi Trophy watch list.

The senior trio consists of linebacker Casey Matthews, end Kenny Rowe and guard/tackle Bo Thran.

The 41st Rotary Lombardi Award will be presented to college football's outstanding lineman or linebacker Dec. 7-8 in Houston.

GO DUCKS!