>RB LaMichael James, Oregon (5'9, 185) -- Tremendous
>acceleration. He sees a crease and gets to the second level
>immediately, which is really fun to watch. Lacks NFL strength
>but a surprisingly tough runner who takes on linebackers and
>secondary players. Probably too small for a starter, but could
>really do well in a zone scheme.

I'm not sure how much of LMJ you've seen, but one of the things that hasn't been on display as much lately, is how ridiculously shifty he can be. He's getting the opportunity now to just bust through the tiny creases but if you actually get a chance to watch a replay when he's trying to find the way through a mess of players, it's incredible to watch. The way he can pick his feet up and burst a few yards sideways by slamming them down again, is just crazy. He's got ludicrous "lateral" speed. I will also note that seeing him refuse to be tackled until the 3rd and 4th and 5th guys are on the scene is kind of a regular event at this point.

>
>WR Jeff Maehl, Oregon (6'1, 184) -- I'd say he could be a
>potential inside receiver on four-wide sets, but his hands
>looked awfully shaky in this game. Seems to relish blocking
>despite his size. He better love being on a coverage unit,
>because special teams value will be his best chance.
>

He was uncharacteristically poor in the Stanford game. He's a rock of a receiver for this team otherwise. And besides just being consistent in catching the ball, he makes some really difficult catches - diving and leaping. Given his slight frame he's also surprisingly physical - you mention his blocking but beyond that he takes the punishment from safeties and stands right back up. His speed is improved this year, also.

>ILB Casey Matthews, Oregon (6'2, 235) -- While I whiffed
>pretty badly in evaluating his brother, I don't think he's as
>good. Seems instinctive, challenged Marecic in the hole and
>had a pretty active first half. Could be a quality back-up.
>

No argument...

>QB Andrew Luck, Stanford (6'4, 235)
>...but he moved the safety by looking to the other side of his field
>during his entire drop. Safety stepped that direction, and
>boom -- Luck turns and fires a beautiful strike. If I was a
>Bills fan I would've gotten wood watching that play.

Ridiculous conversion.