What We Learned: More to Oregon’s Kelly than meets the eye

Tue, Oct 27, 2009

Forget Oct. 3 when thinking of Chip Kelly. Sporting News‘ Dave Curtis analyzes what Tuesday’s buzz means to college football.

1. Chip for coach of the year?

For most of the nation, the name Chip Kelly means two things — LeGarrette Blount, and losing to Boise State. His 10-month coaching career at Oregon has been defined by Blount’s punch and the fallout.

To be fair, let’s give as much attention to the Boise game and its fallout. Sure, the Ducks stunk on the blue turf, needing 37-plus minutes to get a first down in Sept. 3’s 19-8 loss. But Kelly’s team hasn’t lost since, and it could sneak into the national championship chase with a win over Southern Cal on Saturday night.

Even without Blount, Oregon averages better than 200 rushing yards per game. The defense, led by star pass rusher Kenny Rowe, is among the top 20 nationally in yards allowed and scoring. And the special teams rock as well, with freshman Kenjon Barner emerging on kick returns.

The developments have left Kelly a coach of the year candidate and might add a third prong to his legacy: Pac-10 champion.