Bo Nix praises versatility, experience of running back Sean Dollars

After a rough season opener against Georgia in which Oregon was behind from the outset and playing catch-up most of the game, the Ducks didn’t get much of a chance to see what they had to work with in the run game. First-year coach Dan Lanning has a better idea after a comfortable home win over Eastern Washington, one in which veteran running back Sean Dollars began to assert himself.

Though Lanning has made it clear he’ll happily run a running-back-by-committee operation if necessary, he’s also not opposed to riding the hot hand.

Dollars might be the closest thing to it at the moment.

The fourth-year sophomore saw 10 touches against the Eagles, racking up nine carries for 58 yards and a lone catch for 39 yards. Quarterback Bo Nix raved this week about the understanding Dollars brings to the table.

“Yeah, he’s just very versatile,” Nix said. “He does a good job out of the backfield catching the ball and running after the catch. Obviously he runs really hard, and then he’s a really good pass-protector as well. He’s kind of like me, he’s been playing for a while, seen a lot of different looks. So obviously with his experience it’s good to have him in the backfield.”

In a young backfield, Sean Dollars’ experience pays

The Ducks got things rolling offensively against the Eagles last week in a 70-14 win. Keeping it going this week will be extremely important.

No. 12 BYU is headed to town for a clash that could regain Oregon some respect on the national scene or turn the start of Lanning’s first season into a forgettable experience.

Dollars might have a lot to do with that.

BYU hasn’t been great against the run, ranking 70th in yards per game allowed at 129.5. However, that total for opponents has been at least somewhat difficult to come by. Opponents have averaged 3.32 yards per carry against the Cougars, which would rank 52nd nationally.

In any case, Nix is grateful to have at least one veteran in the backfield with him.

While transfer Noah Whittington is in his third year in college, backs Mar’Keise Irving (13 carries for 87 yards, 1 TD) and Byron Cardwell (11 carries for 76 yards, 1 TD) are both second-year players.

Not only does he have the versatility, Sean Dollars has the upper hand in experience in the group. He’s been a steadying presence for Nix.

“Just because I think him being a veteran and him being around a lot, he’s just kind of at that point to where he’s able to do that,” Nix explained. “He’s able to be on the field in a lot of different situations, and when you’re on the field good things happen.”