Oregon offers Norco RB with Duck ties

Oregon head coach Willie Taggart wants to build a recruiting fence around the state and northwest, locking up the region’s top football talent. Extending the metaphor further, convincing the athletes with existing Duck ties, like a brother or a father associated with the program, is another step towards the program’s goals.

Earlier this month Oregon made a scholarship offer to Norco (Calif.) running back Travis Dye, whose brother Troy was one of the Ducks’ defensive standouts in 2016 starting at linebacker as a true freshman. The elder Dye led Oregon with tackles (91), tackles for loss (12) and sacks (5.5) on the season.

For the rising Norco junior, his first scholarship offer was satisfying.

“I’m very blessed and humbled to get the offer,” Dye told Duck Sports Authority. “I love the new staff.”

His take on the University is also positive.

“My opinion of Oregon is that it is a great school,” Dye said.

The Ducks are not alone in pursuit of the 5-foot-11, 190-pound athlete. In addition, several other top programs are recruiting him the hardest. Which ones?

“Michigan, Texas A&M, Boston College and UCLA,” Dye replied.

Oregon’s lead recruiter for Dye is Donte Pimpleton the new running backs’ coach, the positon the Ducks have offered him at. During his junior campaign at Norco, Dye amassed 1878 yards averaging 7.3 yards per carry, along with 15 rushing and six receiving touchdowns.

Though he has been to Oregon several times unofficially his official visit schedule is open.

“I don’t know what trips I’ll be attending,” said Dye.

At this point in his recruitment, having his older sibling star for the Ducks does not make his signature a slam dunk.

“My brother loves Oregon but that does not dictate my decision,” said Dye.

And with almost a year until his decision is due and his recruitment heating up, he does not anticipate making his pick any time soon. In the meantime, Duck Sports Authority will keep track of this Oregon target with a deep Duck tie.