Originally Published: November 19, 2003

After slump, Oregon turns it around

Share

STAY AHEAD OF THE GAME arrow Become an Insider Today

By Ted Miller
Special to ESPN.com
Oregon lost four of five games from Sept. 27 to Nov. 1, three of which were blowout defeats. Now it has won three of four, completing a turnaround just when everyone thought the Ducks were headed for another late-season slide. Coach Mike Bellotti doesn't think the Ducks talent just kicked in -- it was more mental and emotional.

"The leadership on this team is different (than last year)," he said. "They have worked hard and rebounded in a sense." He said they might even be less talented than last year, particularly with all the injuries this season. "But the kids who are here are warriors," he said.

  • Bellotti said he used a combination of tough love and ego massaging to get his team back on track. And, more practically, he's made sophomore quarterback Kellen Clemens a clear No. 1 at quarterback over senior Jason Fife. "We feel Kellen is a better quarterback and gives us a better chance to win," he said.

    To continue reading this article you must be an Insider

    • MORE COLLEGE FOOTBALL HEADLINES

    Insider

    MOST SENT STORIES ON ESPN.COM

    Most Sent »

    TOP STORIES FROM ABC NEWS