The Cignetti Way + Dusty Joins the Show to Talk Ducks

·24 min·2 clips

Kurt Cignetti ripped a transfer for wearing gold shoes before practice even started.

The episode begins with host-led discussion about college football spring practices ramping up. It first delves into Indiana football under coach Kurt Cignetti, highlighting his no-nonsense attitude exemplified by calling out transfer Nick Marsh for wearing gold shoes before practice. The host analyzes Cignetti's pressure to succeed after losing key players like a Heisman-winning quarterback. The conversation then turns to quarterback Josh Hoover, who transferred from TCU to Indiana, and TCU coach Sonny Dykes' criticism of Hoover's 42 turnovers in 31 starts. Cignetti defends Hoover, noting he'll benefit from a great defense and run game. The episode transitions to an interview with Dusty Harrell, Oregon Ducks sideline reporter and the host's boss. Harrell discusses Oregon coach Dan Lanning's approach to learning from past losses, like the playoff defeat to Ohio State and loss to Indiana, while flushing them for spring practice. He notes Oregon's significant roster turnover, with three offensive linemen and players like Malik Benson and Kenyon Sadiq departing, but also many returners. Harrell explains how Oregon retains talent through NIL resources and culture, contrasting with programs like Alabama and Georgia. He mentions Oregon's defensive line returning intact, including Matayo Uiagalelei and Bear Alexander. The interview covers Oregon's new coordinators, Chris Hampton on defense and Drew Mehringer on offense, with expectations of tweaks rather than wholesale changes. Harrell details Oregon's offensive speed with players like Evan Stewart, Iverson Hooks, and Decorian Moore, and tight end additions like Jamari Johnson. He highlights returning running backs Ajani Hill and Jordan Davison, and quarterback Dante Moore's experience compared to peers. The episode ends with light banter about a viral recruiting pitch involving 'chocolate or vanilla' questions and Harrell reflecting on his job's memorable moments, like Penn State whiteout games.

As heard by us

A brisk Oregon spring reset ties Lanning's lessons from past losses to the roster questions waiting on the practice field.

Oregon's spring reset is the episode's real subject: a look at how a program carries the bruises of Ohio State, Indiana, and Washington into another changing roster.

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Why you'd press play

Want Oregon spring practice with Lanning's learn-and-flush mindset plus a draft-board detour? Press play.

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