Signing Day drama as Oregon Ducks come up short on 5-star wide receiver

Wednesday morning as the Early Signing Period unfolded, USF sent another shockwave through college football by announcing Ohio State offensive coordinator Brian Hartline as the new head coach.

Hartline played at OSU on the 2008 team that went to the BCS National Championship, played seven years in the NFL with the Dolphins and Browns before joining the staff at his alma mater. His move to the Bulls is another blow in the Penn State coaching search, which has gotten a little embarrassing for athletic director Pat Kraft.

Hartline's move added a glimmer of momentary hope for the Ducks, as they were hard in pursuit of a flip by Chris Henry Jr., the 5-star, 6-5 wide receiver from Mater Dei, who decided moments ago between Oregon, USC and the Buckeyes, where has been committed since June.

Ducks push hard, but can't pry Henry loose from Bucks

In spite of Hartline saying "Good-bye Columbus," Henry Jr. stayed with his decision, joining a program that has dominated elite receiver recruiting over the last several years.

Though Oregon is well-stocked at receiver with Dakorien Moore and Jeremiah McClellan still completing their freshmen seasons, and Gaitlin Bair, Messiah Hampton and Jalen Lott set to join them, Henry Jr. offered a dimension they don't yet have, the big receiver with size, the Red Zone threat. It's something to watch for in the portal.