Just over two weeks ago, Traeshon Holden was ejected from the Oregon-Ohio State game for spitting on defensive back Davison Igbinosun. The following game, when the Ducks dominated Purdue, Holden stood on the sidelines and didn't earn a single stat.
Leading up to Oregon's eighth game of the season, head coach Dan Lanning shared that Holden was available for the Ducks' matchup against Illinois.
#Oregon 🦆 veteran wide receiver Traeshon Holden will be available for the Ducks when they face the No. 20 Illinois Fighting Illini on Saturday.
— Max Torres (@mtorressports) October 24, 2024
Holden traveled but didn't play against Purdue last week following his ejection in the Ohio State game.https://t.co/N8mdDrL31J pic.twitter.com/M3s8nCc9eA
While Lanning never confirmed nor denied that Holden's lack of snaps during the Purdue game was an internal punishment for the wideout's ejection during the Ohio State game, many experts and fans alike have come to that conclusion.
Following the Ohio State, Holden released a personal statement, apologizing for his actions during the game against the Buckeyes and his subsequent reaction when he was ejected.
Psalm 37:24 pic.twitter.com/VOyhBxo9WG
— Traeshon Holden (@Traeski11) October 13, 2024
Holden's return to Oregon's depth chart at the wide receiver position should be huge for the Ducks as they prepare to take on, yet another, top-20 team in the Fighting Illini. However, if Holden can maintain his composure in the high-stakes game, he will once again become a distraction from his team's success.
Alongside fellow wideouts Tez Johnson and Evan Stewart, Holden has become a part of the formidable Oregon receiving corps this season.
Before his ejection from the Ohio State game and absence from the Purdue game, Holden had amassed 20 receptions for 306 yards and 3 touchdowns, as well as a 21-yard run against Oregon State.
No. 1 Oregon and No. 20 Illinois are scheduled to kick off at 12:30 p.m. PT on Saturday, Oct. 26 from Autzen Stadium. The game will be broadcast on CBS.