The Oregon Ducks have dealt with injuries for much of the season, with several key offensive contributors sidelined at various points as they pushed toward the College Football Playoff. As they get ready for a Peach Bowl rematch against the Indiana Hoosiers, injury concerns have surfaced again—most notably in the running back room.
True freshman Jordon Davison has been ruled out with a collarbone injury, and veteran back Noah Whittington was added to the injury report Thursday night as questionable. Compounding the issue, Makhi Hughes, Jaydin Limar, and Jay Harris have all entered the transfer portal in recent weeks, though head coach Dan Lanning has indicated Harris will be available for the game.
With depth thinning rapidly, Oregon has taken an unconventional approach. According to ESPN’s Pete Thamel, the Ducks have shifted defensive players to offense to help fill the void. Safety Kilohana Haasenritter, who previously played running back, and linebacker Brayden Platt, a former standout high school running back, have both made the move to tailback.
ESPN’s Katie George also confirmed on SportsCenter that Oregon transitioned the two defenders to running back this week in response to the mounting injuries at the position.
Earlier this week, the possibility of Haasenritter and Platt shifting to offense was already discussed, so Oregon’s decision to use them in that role comes as no real shock. It also wouldn’t be surprising if players such as Kenyon Sadiq or Roger Saleapaga are called upon to contribute if the need arises.
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