Oregon running back coach Carlos Locklyn demands physicality from his backs. Back in fall camp, when he was asked to describe Minnesota transfer Mar’Keise ‘Bucky’ Irving, Locklyn said he’s “pure toughness.”

You saw that firsthand early against BYU.

On the Ducks’ first drive of the game, a possession that began with a 26-yard pass from Bo Nix to Kris Hutson, Irving broke free for 36 yards to set up the first score of the game.

Nix ran the ball in from 2 yards out on the very next play.

 

Irving had eight carries for 74 yards and a touchdown a week ago against Eastern Washington. He had 13 yards on five carries in the opener against Georgia.

That running back room is starting to find its rhythm, though, and it looks like Irving will have a sizeable role throughout the season. He just runs so hard, unafraid of contact or any player coming at him. The Ducks have a nice blend of skillsets in the backfield, and it looks like Irving is establishing himself as the hammer.

The Ducks and Cougars are battling on FOX.