The Oregon defense will be anchored by star defensive tackle Jordon Scott. In the past Oregon has not much success finding a 'hole plugger' but might have struck gold with the late-signing of Jordon Scott two years ago.

This season Scott will be counted upon to put pressure on opposing offensive linemen. Scott will be needed to slow down the run and collapse the pocket for the speed on the edges to finish it off.

Jim Leavitt is back giving this defense some stability for the first time in a while. Scott spoke with media on Tuesday about his growth, the scrimmage, the defense and more.

On the scrimmage Saturday:

"We started off slow but at the end it got really competitive especially in the 2-minute period and 2-point conversion period. Slow as in the whole team. (Not just the defense) Less penalties and everyone executing the playbook and more intensity from both sides of the ball."

On the 'dog days' of Summer:

"I think you could take it that way or you could take it as time to work on technique and focus on your playbook and tightening down on things you need to. This third week is focusing hard on technique and just making sure you know every play like the back of your hand."

On Gary Baker:

"He's been doing a really good job of holding down his gap. Doing his thing. The thing I like about him is he's ready to compete. Whenever coach calling him in he's running onto the field with the 1's or the 2's or whoever. He's realized he can do something special with his talents and it's starting to hit home for him."

This Fall vs last Fall:

"This Fall has been a little easier for me because I know the plays. Now I'm just focused on my technique. Another reason I think it was a little better was the schedule. Coach Cristobal has a real tight schedule to keep everything in line and it's all about the players."

Are you in much better shape than last year?

"Yes sir. For sure. I'm ready to play more plays at a higher level. I'm going to be able to play on third downs sometimes this year."

Offensive surprises:

"Today Travis Dye was hitting holes. Hitting gaps hard. Breaking tackles, arm tackles. I think he looked real good today. I'm just excited to see which one of them is going to take that next step and be our guy. Cyrus is a hard runner and he's not afraid of contact."