Autzen Audibles

On paper, Oregon's coaching transition should be among the smoothest in the nation. Not only is Helfrich fluent in former boss Chip Kelly's offense, but he retained almost all of Kelly's staff. Helfrich welcomes back a standout quarterback, Marcus Mariota, and eight other offensive starters (if you unofficially include star De'Anthony Thomas). The former offensive coordinator's primary charge this spring will be ensuring that the Ducks continue to practice at a familiar breakneck pace while potentially adding some of his own wrinkles to the spread-option attack. Bigger concerns fall on defense, where coordinator Nick Aliotti must replace standouts like defensive end Dion Jordan and linebackers Kiko Alonso and Michael Clay. The Ducks were particularly deep up front last season, and spring will provide a chance for young linebackers Tyson Coleman and Rahim Cassell and injury-plagued junior-to-be Rodney Hardrick to audition for starting roles.