Ducks could be role model for Hawks

Oregon is a state without professional sports just like Iowa. In their case, they don't need pros. They have a football team at the University of Oregon that outstrips about everything else.

The excitement they create is unparalleled. They are smart, fast, unpredictable, love to come from behind, and best of all are football crazy. Eugene is home for the Ducks. It's a religion out there.

For example, on Saturday they were in Utah. Up in the mountains with the altitude and cold. No matter, Utah completes a 67 yard pass for a touchdown. The crowd (Utah) goes crazy.

Wait a minute, while the crowd is on its feet cheering for the home team, something has happened, Oregon is running the opposite way with a large portion of the team going 100 yards for a touchdown. The cheering comes to a belated halt. The Utah player had dropped the ball on the one yard line and then ran into the end zone. The officials stood by and quietly watched the proceedings.

This is Oregon football. They will run a fourth down play with 30 yards to cover or go for the extra 2 points after a touchdown when not expected. The defense goes nuts trying to keep up with them. And also consider a Heisman Trophy candidate quarterback in the mix. You don't know what is coming next. Iowa would do well to take some schooling here. I'm sure we can do better.

John Carver

Decorah