Jahlil Florence, Jordan Burch Game-Time Decisions for Oregon in Fiesta Bowl

Two of Oregon's most important defensive starters could return to action next week.

Oregon's defense may be getting some reinforcements when the Ducks kick off against the No. 23 Liberty Flames next week in the Fiesta Bowl.

Starting cornerback Jahlil Florence and defensive end Jordan Burch are game-time decisions, according to Oregon defensive coordinator Tosh Lupoi, who spoke with the media on Thursday in Arizona.

"They are involved every day. So it will be game-time decisions," Lupoi said. "It's great to see them out there and moving around. So I think they are doing a really good job preparing mentally, not getting all the physical reps, but being out there mentally, having a script in their hand and preparing quarterly."

Oregon Ducks cornerback Jahlil Florence at the Oregon vs. Oregon State game in Eugene :: Scott Boldt/Ducks Digest

Oregon Ducks defensive end Jordan Burch against the USC Trojans :: Darby Winter/Ducks Digest

Florence, who's been one of Oregon's top two cornerbacks this season, missed each of the last two games for the Ducks. He last played on November 18 against Arizona State and logged four total tackles and one tackle for loss.

The San Diego native has excelled in pass coverage and would be a big addition for the Ducks if available. Demetrice Martin and the defensive staff will likely be leaning on players like Dontae Manning, Nikko Reed and Rodrick Pleasant against Liberty with veteran Khyree Jackson declaring for the 2024 NFL Draft and opting out of the Fiesta Bowl.

Looking to the front seven, Burch would also be a major boost for the Ducks defensively. He last played in the Pac-12 Championship game against Washington on December 1 and suffered an early injury that sidelined him the rest of the game.

He's been both a top pass rusher and run stopper for Tosh Lupoi and Dan Lanning all year. 

Fortunately for the Ducks, veteran defensive lineman Brandon Dorlus will finish off his college career with one more game against the Flames on New Year's Day.

Burch has yet to announce his plans for the 2024 season ahead of the NFL Draft declaration deadline of January 15. He has one more year of eligibility remaining should he choose to use it.

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