A bright future began to shine for the Oregon Ducks after winning the Red Box Bowl with head coach Mario Cristobal stating his intent to stay in Eugene. With Jim Leavitt remaining, they appeared to be ready to hit the recruiting trail and grab the best athletes.
Leavitt played an essential role in both revamping Oregon’s defense but also recruiting players after being brought in by Willie Taggart to join his staff. After slithering off to Florida State, keeping Leavitt was a priority not only to keep the defense stable but continue his recruiting efforts.
His decision to mutually part ways with the team came as a surprise, putting the defense in limbo.