Deuce Geralds opts for LSU, leaving the Ducks searching for one more big body

Oct 4, 2024; Eugene, Oregon, USA; Oregon Ducks defensive lineman Jamaree Caldwell (90) chases after Michigan State Spartans quarterback Aidan Chiles (2) during the second half at Autzen Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Troy Wayrynen-Imagn Images
Oct 4, 2024; Eugene, Oregon, USA; Oregon Ducks defensive lineman Jamaree Caldwell (90) chases after Michigan State Spartans quarterback Aidan Chiles (2) during the second half at Autzen Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Troy Wayrynen-Imagn Images | Troy Wayrynen-Imagn Images

Elite defensive tackle Deuce Geralds elected to stay in SEC country, announcing his commitment to LSU Saturday afternoon. The Ducks pushed hard for him but came up short.

Recruiting doesn't stop, even with fall practice in its fourth day. Now Oregon will have to pivot to other targets after losing out on Geralds and having Viliami Moala decommit last month.

They still have 2026 four-star Tony Cumberland of Willamette High School in Eugene, a 6-5, 285 inside rusher prep coach Josh Line calls "the best athlete I have ever coached."

The three-deep in the trenches for the Ducks is young too with Aydin Breeland, Jericho Johnson and Tionne Gray entering their redshirt freshmen years.

Geralds earned Defensive MVP at the Polynesian Bowl last January and spoke highly of Dan Lanning and the Oregon program. Missing out on him stings, but Lanning and Lupoi added Tank Jones on Thursday and may pick up elite corner corner Davon Benjamin this afternoon.

Recruiting is neither a marathon or a sprint. It's more like a grueling 800 meters where a runner gives everything he has, almost to lose consciousness on the last turn. A coach pushes until he has nothing left, spending all the oxygen capacity he has by the finish.

Now Oregon has to be alert for the flip and an unexpected opportunity.