The Oregon Ducks football team is gearing up for their second game of the 2024 season, set to play against the Boise State Broncos at 7 p.m. PT in Autzen Stadium. Currently 1-0 after narrowly defeating the Idaho Vandals 24-14 in their season opener—despite being favored by 44.5 points—the Ducks are hoping for a stronger showing this week.
Injury concerns have affected the team, with key players like wide receiver Gary Bryant Jr. and offensive lineman Matthew Bedford missing the game against Idaho. Coach Dan Lanning remains hopeful that both will be available for the upcoming match. While both were listed as questionable on the injury report before the Idaho game, they were seen in uniform on the sidelines.
When asked about the prospects of Bryant and Bedford playing this week, Lanning expressed optimism. “Yeah, I am,” he confirmed.
Both players participated in full-pad practices on August 28. Although Bedford did not engage in all drills, Bryant, who was seen in pregame drills before the Idaho game, has been practicing in full pads this week. His return could strengthen an already talented receiving corps featuring Tez Johnson, Evan Stewart, and Traeshon Holden. Last season, Bryant played in all 14 games, starting 12 and finishing with 30 catches for 442 yards and four touchdowns.
Bedford, a transfer from Indiana, was expected to be a significant addition to the offensive line but sustained an injury during fall camp. While his availability for Saturday’s game is still uncertain, Lanning noted that Bedford is showing improvement.
With Bedford absent, the Ducks have had to make adjustments on the offensive line. Iapani Laloulu stepped in at right guard, and walk-on Charlie Pickard took over at center. Lanning acknowledged that the offensive line struggled in the Idaho game and suggested there might be further changes as the season progresses.
“Once we have more people available, there are always opportunities to evaluate and adjust the lineup,” Lanning said during Monday’s press conference. “Regardless of Matt’s availability, creating competition at every position is important to improve and ensure we have players who can contribute to winning football. We’ll see how things evolve.”
Bedford was brought in to replace Jackson Powers-Johnson, who was drafted by the Las Vegas Raiders in the 2024 NFL Draft, as a multi-year starter from Indiana.
While the Ducks secured a win in their opener, the return of Bryant and Bedford would provide a significant boost to the offense, enhancing depth and experience and potentially making the team more competitive in the Big Ten Conference.
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