One of the most important tasks for Oregon's coaching staff this spring was finding a clear backup to Justin Herbert at quarterback.

Now Oregon head coach Mario Cristobal says there is a clear-cut favorite to own the important role one week before the Oregon spring game on Saturday, April 20th.

"Tyler [Shough] right now is head and shoulders above anyone," Cristobal announced after the team's second scrimmage of the spring on Saturday, April 13th.

"The guy has a really good command of the offense. He's playing well. The ball is out quick and on the money."

Cristobal noted Shough's improved play has helped him overcome a lot of roster turnover with the second unit. Because of injuries and illness, this spring, Oregon's second unit offense has had a constant shuffle of players from the team's third and fourth units. Because of the constant change, Shough has shown his improved command of the offense and getting all the new faces on the same page.

"He's on point fixing formations, making sure we are legal," said Cristobal. "He's changing the play, flopping the protections very effectively. I've been very impressed with Tyler Shough."

Shough redshirted last season at Oregon and played three games during the 2018 season for the Ducks. He didn't attempt any passes in those three games.

During Oregon's first spring scrimmage earlier this month at Hillsboro Stadium, Shough was a standout participant. DuckTerritory.com was allowed to watch the entire scrimmage and had Shough credited with 134 yards passing on 11-of-21 passing and one touchdown and one interception. He also carried the ball four times for 27 yards.

Oregon's spring game will be held April 20th at Autzen Stadium and the game will start at 2 p.m. PT and will be broadcast on the Pac-12 Networks. More information about attending the game will be released at a later time.