EUGENE — De'Anthony Thomas isn't the only Oregon offensive player also practicing on defense this week.

Backup quarterback Bryan Bennett has taken reps in the defensive secondary and on special teams the past two days in practice — to be prepared for an "emergency" against No. 14 Stanford this week, according to a UO source.

Bennett, like Thomas, has been learning some of the defensive calls and formations in the wake of numerous injuries to the Ducks' defense.

UO coach Chip Kelly, when asked Tuesday, would not confirm that Thomas was also practicing on defense.

"We don't really talk about how we practiced," he said. "If we did, we'd let you guys (in the media) in every day. Just like injuries, we just don't talk about it."

Sophomore cornerback Dior Mathis was asked Tuesday how Thomas was faring as a defensive back.

"He's doing good," Mathis said. "He's De'Anthony. He can do anything he wants to do."

The 6-foot-3, 199-pound Bennett was a three-year starter at quarterback and defensive back at Crespi High School in Encino, Calif. According to his UO bio, he had 20 tackles, one interception and four pass breakups his senior season.

In August, Bennett, a sophomore, lost a bid become Oregon's starting quarterback, a job won by redshirt freshman Marcus Mariota. Bennett considered transferring before meeting with Kelly and opting to say with the Ducks.

"I'm here ... and I'm ready to fight for my team," Bennett said in late August.

Bennett has completed 20 of 37 passes with three touchdowns -- including one to Mariota against Arizona State -- and three interceptions this season. He has also been used in a special backfield package with tight end Colt Lyerla, typically near the goal line. Bennett has rushed 38 times for 167 yards and six touchdowns this season.

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