EUGENE - The No. 24 Oregon Ducks don't want to roar out of the Autzen Stadium tunnel this week and trip over their own reputation.
The Ducks (1-0) play Portland State (0-1) at 11 a.m. Saturday in what looks on paper like a non-conference mismatch of biblical proportions.
The Vikings play in the FCS Big Sky Conference. They were winless last season and picked by the Big Sky coaches to finish last again this year.
But appearances can be deceiving. At least, that was the message from coaches and players Wednesday after Oregon's practice.
The Ducks swear they're taking the Vikings seriously.