The Oregon Ducks were embarrassed on the road in a Week 2 loss to Oklahoma State. And, to add injury to insult, the Ducks were down a key weapon on offense and lost more important pieces as the game went on.
Tight end Jamari Johnson made the trip to Stillwater and warmed up with the team, and there was no reason to believe he wouldn't suit up and take the field. However, as the game kicked off, the ESPN broadcast reported that Johnson wouldn't play against the Cowboys.
After the upset loss, Dan Lanning clarified that Johnson suffered an injury against Boise State, which remains undisclosed, and he was unable to practice before the Oklahoma State game. On Monday, with a short week of practice ahead of a Friday night game against Portland State, Lanning gave
an update on Johnson's status.
"Still evaluating it with Jamari," Lanning said. "We'll see what that looks like. I think I mentioned last week he might be down for a few (games), so we'll see if he's able to get back to where he's able to perform."
If Johnson is unable to play for a few weeks, Oregon will have to lean on its unproven options at tight end. Penn State transfer Andrew Olesh drew the start against Oklahoma State and made one catch. Freshman Kendre Harrison also played, while Clemson transfer Markus Dixon played one snap.
Carl Williams IV was another notable injury the Ducks suffered on Saturday. Williams launched himself into Oklahoma State quarterback Drew Mestemaker at the goal line and fell motionless to the turf. He did not return to the game. Lanning didn't specify Williams' exact injury, and Williams will be monitored by the medical staff, similar to Johnson.
Unfortunately, the Ducks also appeared to lose one of their offensive linemen for the season. Trent Ferguson, who started on Saturday and played most of the second half against Boise State, is likely done for the season with a knee injury, according to Lanning.
"We won't probably get to see (Ferguson) again," Lanning said. "I feel bad for that kid because he's worked really hard."
Taking his place could be Douglas Utu, who didn't play in the second half against Boise State and didn't play at all in Stillwater. Lanning believes Utu could return this week against Portland State and fill in at left guard.
Oregon will hope to get some of its top playmakers back in the fold this Friday when they host Portland State. Kickoff is set for 7:30 p.m. from Autzen Stadium, and the game will air live on Big Ten Network.
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This article originally appeared on Ducks Wire: Oregon LG Trent Ferguson out for season, TE Jamari Johnson progressing
