The spring brought plenty of exciting developments to the football field for the Oregon Ducks. Evan Stewart made his return. Dante Moore launched his Heisman campaign. Koi Perich and other transfers took the field at Autzen Stadium.
The hype train that really took off, however, was along the defensive line. No, not because of the returning veterans, but rather some of the depth that has been developing in the shadows for the past few seasons.
Aydin Breland and Matt Johnson took over the spring game, combining for five sacks and wreaking havoc in the backfield all day long. While spring game statistics should be taken with a grain of salt, it showed that the pieces are starting to fall into place for the young defensive linemen.
Breland has only added to his "tool bag" this offseason, finding new ways to be effective as a pass rusher, while anchoring down against the run. Playing behind first NFL draft picks A'Mauri Washington and Bear Alexander provides a clear example for Breland to follow, but the spring served as a solid reminder for what the former four-star recruit is capable of.
"I should be as confident in myself as I should be," Breland said at Oregon's media day. "I feel like my ability is definitely there. (The spring was) a big confidence booster."

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