David Lombardi, ESPN Staff Writer 9y

A look at the music man that makes Oregon practices tick

Spring ball rolls on for Oregon, and the offseason has afforded Andrew Greif an opportunity to examine unique facets of the "program's eardrum-rattling, decibel-cranking sound of success." He takes a special look at undergraduate assistant Tyler Osborne, who serves as the DJ in charge of assembling the musical playlist for the Ducks' fast-paced practices.

So far this offseason, quarterback Jeff Lockie has impressed in these practices, although Oregon's defense reportedly came on strong during the second half of a recent one. Mark Helfrich reported that the Ducks offense converted a third-and-50 during the session.

Reports indicate that Lockie has maintained a steady hand so far in spring ball, enough to position himself as the frontrunner among the present crop of Oregon quarterbacks. Of course, that's only step one in a longer process to earn Helfrich's nod as Marcus Mariota's successor: The top man from this spring will have to beat out Eastern Washington transfer Vernon Adams Jr., who has not yet arrived in Eugene.

This article reflects that truth: Though position battles rage, Oregon spring practice can only bring limited satisfaction, since true resolution won't come for another four months or so.

Meanwhile, following Ohio State's celebratory visit to the White House, The Register Guard's Austin Meek keeps his eyes on the big picture: The Ducks still have a title to chase.

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