Oregon Football Has Sense Of Competitive Togetherness Entering 2017 Season

Last season it was clear from the start of Fall Camp there would be problems with leadership which is not the case entering 2017.

Oregon Football Head Coach Willie Taggart was fired up and ready to begin Christmas in July following Media Day on Sunday. Over the summer, the communication has been better. Players have made it a point to talk to and work with one another rather than on their own. The new Oregon Head Coach has the team living in the University of Oregon Dorms during Training Camp to continue bringing a better understanding of the culture he is trying to bring.

Running Back Royce Freeman discussed why he returned for his Senior Season and appeared very comfortable in speaking with the media cracking jokes at times. He wanted to come back stronger and leave a better player than he did during an injury plagued 2016 season. Freeman also had high praise for Quarterback Justin Herbert.

"He’s definitely giving off a lot of confidence to the rest of the players to show that he is that guy. We’re following behind him and trust in him fully.Royce Freeman on Quarterback Justin Herbert"

Willie Taggart touched on several players that could step up for a newly developed Defense. Oregon will return to the 3-4 and Troy Dye, AJ Hotchkins and Jalen Jelks could easily fall into a leadership role according to Taggart. Passion for the game of football may be enough to be a trusted voice.

"I think these guys enjoy being around each other. I’m just excited about their commitment to getting better and the commitment to making this a great year for us.Willie Taggart on what he has seen betwen Spring Ball and now"

Herbert, Freeman and Dye said that the feeling of family surrounded this team over the last few months compared to last season. It should hopefully push them to play for each other entering Fall Camp on Monday.

Next: Oregon Football Camp Key For Relationship Building and Recruiting Success

Autzen Zoo will have coverage throughout Fall Camp as Oregon Football prepares for the 2017 season that starts on Saturday, September 2nd against Southern Utah (5:15pm PT, Pac-12 Network)

Quotes obtained first hand on site.