You got to love the Ducks for stepping up to the plate and doing a home and home with Tennessee. But the first game in that series isn't until 2010. Let's look ahead to next year when the Ducks start the season at Fresno State and then host Oklahoma.

Like I said on the news last night the Ducks and Oklahoma will play eachother 2 of the next 3 games. I don't know if I've ever heard of a scheduling quirk quite like that.

As Matt Zaffino mentioned to me, and he's absolutely right, it may have been a blessing in disguise that Kellen Clemens got hurt when he did. Could you imagine Dennis Dixon getting his first collegiate start in Fresno ? Would have been tough. Then coming home to play Oklahoma.

Now if you're an Oregon State fan you have to wonder why the Beavs can't line up these types of games ?

I asked Bob DeCarolis that question about a month ago. He said teams just don't like to come out of their comfort zone for a non-league game.

Teams are offering OSU 2 for 1 deals. You play at their place twice and we come to your place once. DeCarolis said no deal.

Financially it's just not worth it for a big time team to come to Reser Stadium. There's also not a lot of alumni in Oregon for a national team to come here. Also, the paycheck isn't big enough.

Reser holds 43,000. Tennessee will get that crowd for its Spring game next year.

Tennessee boosters use hundred dollar bills to wipe the steak sauce from their mouths.

Maybe with some more expansion teams will come to Reser.

But for now the Ducks are lining up the big boys while the Beavs stand on the side of the road.

Ron Pivo
RPivo@kgw.com