By Jay Berry
Entering their first season in the Big Ten, the Oregon Ducks have one of, if not the best, offensive lines in the conference, with a combination of experience, athleticism, and raw power.
The Ducks offensive line unit was a finalist for the Joe Moore Award last season for a good reason: the team averaged nearly six yards per carry in 2023 and only allowed five sacks.
The unit includes two of the best offensive tackles in the country, who both have potential to be a first-round draft pick. Four starters are back for Oregon this season, along with Indiana transfer Matthew Bedford, which should certainly help veteran quarterback Dillon Gabriel. Ducks’ Offensive line Coach A’Lique Terry and Strength & Conditioning Coach Wilson Love have developed an experienced unit who should compete in the upper echelon of the Big Ten, in year one.
In the Trenches – Meet Our Projected Starters
LT Josh Conerly Jr
6’4 305 lbs
Conerly received only an all-conference honorable mention in the Pac 12 last season. He is considered one of the best natural athletes and pass blockers in the class of 2025. His foot speed is impressive, and he plays with a strong base, displaying great fluidity in lateral movement. Conerly excels at reaching defenders outside and climbing to the second level, beating defenders to the spot and has great field vision. With a strong lower body and excellent footwork he is among the top prospects in next year’s offensive line draft class.
Oregon tackle #76 Josh Conerly is going to be a high first round pick. Arguably best prospect on the west coast per the tape and scouts I know. Look at him get out to the second level on this run play. Outstanding athlete. Still scratching the surface. pic.twitter.com/ZUPxm8e4wl
— Brentley Weissman (@Brentley12) May 5, 2024
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RT: Ajani Cornelius
6’5 310 lbs
Cornelius, who transferred from Rhode Island, has improved each season and consistently demonstrates his athleticism. He excels in pass protection, and his agility is evident in his smooth lateral movement. In the 2023 season, Cornelius allowed zero sacks and just 11 total pressures in 512 pass-blocking snaps. He is aggressive and has a tenacious attitude when finishing blocks.
LG: Marcus Harper II
6’3 325 lbs
Started all 14 games last year at left guard for Oregon. Harper is a fifth-year senior with the Ducks. He is a solid run blocker with a mean streak. He utilizes his strong lower body well, enabling him to pack a strong punch into the defender’s chest.
Oregon Guard Marcus Harper II Since 2022:
🟢 819 Pass Block Snaps
🟢 Zero Sacks Allowed
🟢 One QB Hit Allowed pic.twitter.com/aoImhb2Ump— PFF College (@PFF_College) June 3, 2024
C: lapani Laloulu
6’2 325 lbs
In 2023, as a true freshman, he played in all 14 games for the Ducks, taking on roles at right guard, left guard, and center. He allowed zero sacks and two QB pressures throughout 413 total offensive snaps. His first career start at center was in the Fiesta Bowl against Liberty.
RG: Matthew Bedford
6’6 305 lbs
Bedford was a three-year starter at Indiana, before transferring to Eugene. Being on an Oregon team with plenty of playmakers, experienced offensive line, and a solid offensive identity will help Bedford excel in 2024. He possesses pure strength that can be overwhelming for opponents at times. In 2023, he allowed just one sack in 755 pass plays.
— Matthew Bedford (@MatthewBedfor14) May 25, 2023
The Ducks have some highly anticipated matchups this season, including a home game against a loaded Ohio State team on October 12. With the recruiting wins Dan Lanning has had, Oregon is poised to be a consistent contender.
Mark it down.
The full 2024 Oregon Football schedule has arrived 🦆#GoDucks x @B1Gfootball pic.twitter.com/4ZOp2vulFF
— Oregon Football (@oregonfootball) November 2, 2023
