Duck Football Profiles: Cliff Harris

Offense, offense, offense!  Most of Oregon’s national attention comes from what the Ducks are doing offensively.  Their full-throttle, spread offense is typically the star of the show and one of the reasons why Oregon is so deep at the running back position this year.  Sure, Oregon’s offense can be quite the feature presentation, and there will be a lot to talk about, but games will not be won without a solid defense.  So for this week’s Duck Football Player Profile AuztenZoo.com is featuring a well-known face in Oregon’s defense, junior cornerback Cliff Harris.

In 2010 Harris really stood out as a superstar for the Ducks – the most decorated return man in a single season in Oregon history and named All-America by the Football Writers Association of America, Sporting News, SI.com and ESPN.com.  He also earned second-team All-America status as a cornerback according to the Associated Press and SI.com.  Among many highlights over last season, during the BCS Title game Harris gained his first career fumble recovery, an interception returned for 22 yards, two breakups and three solo tackles.  He’s even getting early talk for the 2012 NFL draft predictions…

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This year Harris has shown signs of maturing according to the coaching staff; special teams coach Tom Osborne comments, “He’s not even the same guy he was a year ago, let alone two years ago.’’  Maturity is good; it helps team unity, leadership and performance and that can only help the Ducks this year.  An immature player can cause havoc among any football team and that is the last thing the Ducks need right now.  If Harris is truly harnessing in his immaturity while still showcasing his confidence it could be a lethal combination for Oregon’s opponents.

Harris is absolutely one of Oregon’s stars and we are sure to see great things from him this season.  Our first preview will come against LSU; leadership, maturity, skill and confidence are always keys in college football and Harris has the huge potential to contribute perfectly in each category.

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