Jordon Davison highlights a core strength of the Oregon program

Dan Lanning constantly preaches connection and one of the things that stands out in the "Ducks vs Them" series is how authentic it is within this team.

They're pulling for each other. They draw strength from each other. On the sidelines after a big play it's visible.

On Tuesday freshman running back Jordon Davison spoke to the media for the first time and he talked about his relationship with fellow freshman Dierre Hill.

"It's kind of crazy because coming in they was like 'Who do I want to play with?' We was watching each other's film, and there were a couple of backs, and I actually chose Dierre," Davison said.

"His film stuck out to me. We were connecting before we got here and then as soon as we got here, it just clicked. That's my right hand man. People probably think it's just on the field, but we're together every day off the field all the time."

The two freshmen rank second and third on the team in rushing with 329 (Hill) and 250 yards. Normally a committee approach has drawbacks, but it's worked beautifully for the Ducks. Noah Whittington has averaged 9.1 yards a carry, Hill 9.7, Davison 7.1.

Those are video game numbers, but the team has sustained that productivity through a 6-1 start. Wisconsin has been strong against the run this year despite being 2-5, but Iowa ran for 210 yards on 36 carries with four rushing touchdowns, and No. 25 Michigan averaged 5.2 yards a carry while piling up 175 yards.

The Ducks should be able to move them off the ball, continuing the momentum they regained against Rutgers. On the season Oregon ranks second in the nation in scoring at 44.1 points per game, third in yards per play offense at 7.65.

Connection allows a team to hang together under pressure. It's a huge benefit in recruiting also. Players on visits witness it in the locker room, and it makes a strong impression. Top recruits want a family atmosphere that fosters their growth and development.