A Closer Look at Jordon Scott, the Heart of Oregon's Defense

The Oregon Ducks defensive unit is arguably one of the best in school history. At the center of it all, both literally and figuratively, is nose tackle Jordon Scott.

It is rare for a nose tackle to command attention, but Jordon Scott is one of the few exceptions. At 6’1” and 345 pounds, Scott has been an immovable force on the Ducks’ defensive front since he arrived in Eugene and immediately entrenched himself as a starter and fan favorite. 

So far in the 2019 season, Scott has had an immeasurable impact on the success of the defensive unit. His efforts rarely show up in the stat sheet, but a star nose tackle quite literally changes how a defense can operate.

To understand how a dominant player in this unheralded position can change the game, look at the example of another Oregon great, Haloti Ngata. Ngata’s imposing presence on the interior line in college and in the NFL required opposing teams to double team him. If you left him with a one-on-one, he would win. Simple as that. Ngata’s ability to dominate and fill gaps would essentially neutralize an opposing team’s running attack before it had a chance to get going.

Scott mandates the same type of attention. 

Opponents seldom leave him with one-on-one opportunities, and with good reason. The focus on Scott opens up opportunities for linebackers and edge rushers to fill in behind him and make plays. The emergence of Gus Cumberlander, Mase Funa, Kayvon Thibodeaux, and others as difference makers is attributable – at least in part – to the attention that Scott requires from opposing blockers.

Scott's explosiveness in the interior line is easy to overlook, but it has played a crucial role in leading the Oregon defense to a top-25 standing in the nation in rushing yards allowed and yards per attempt. 

The next time you tune in to watch the Ducks, make sure that you pay close attention to No. 34 for at least a few plays. Then, you will surely understand why he is the anchor of the Oregon defensive unit.