Oregon Preps for Orange Bowl Without Evan Stewart as Key Players Return to Practice
MIAMI - As Oregon gears up for its College Football Playoff quarterfinal showdown against Texas Tech, the Ducks hit the practice field Tuesday morning in Miami still without wide receiver Evan Stewart. Stewart, officially ruled out for the Orange Bowl earlier this week, was again absent as Oregon continued preparations at Barry University.
While Stewart’s absence is a blow to the Ducks’ receiving corps, there was some good news on the injury front. Wide receivers Dakorien Moore and Gary Bryant Jr., both of whom saw action in Oregon’s last game against James Madison, were full participants in the early portions of Tuesday’s practice. Neither appeared on Monday’s availability report, signaling they’re trending toward being ready for Thursday’s game.
Running back Jordon Davison was also a full-go. Davison exited the James Madison game with what looked like a lower-body injury, but his presence on the field - and absence from the injury report - is a strong indicator he’ll be ready to contribute in the quarterfinal matchup.
One of the more intriguing storylines heading into this week has been the status of backup quarterback Austin Novosad. Despite reports swirling about a possible transfer, Novosad was present and active at practice. His participation suggests that, at least for now, he remains locked in with the Ducks as they chase a national title.
On the defensive side, freshman safety Trey McNutt - who has yet to appear in a game this season - was seen taking part in early contact drills. Though he’s listed as questionable, his involvement in physical portions of practice points to a potential debut, or at least a deeper role in the rotation, should Oregon need depth in the secondary.
What’s Next
Oregon (12-1), the No. 5 seed in the College Football Playoff, is set to face No. 4 Texas Tech (12-1) in a high-stakes Orange Bowl matchup.
- When: Thursday, January 1
- Time: 9 a.m.
PT
- Where: Hard Rock Stadium, Miami Gardens, Fla.
- Watch: ESPN
- Stream: Available via DIRECTV (free trial) or Sling (day pass for $4.99).
Streaming availability may vary by region, particularly outside the Pacific Northwest.
The Ducks are looking to make a statement on the national stage, and while they’ll be without Stewart, the return of key contributors like Moore, Bryant Jr., and Davison keeps their offense in strong shape heading into Thursday’s clash. With both teams sitting at 12-1, this one has all the makings of a classic - and Oregon’s depth could be the difference.