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Oregon announces return of 2 defensive starters for Ohio State game following Week 1 suspension
By Nick Schultz
Published:
It looks like Oregon is getting some reinforcements on defense for its matchup with Ohio State this week.
Jamal Hill and DJ James, who were suspended for Week 1 due to legal issues last month, will officially be on the depth chart for the Ducks’ Week 2 game in Columbus.
BREAKING: Mario Cristobal says Jamal Hill and DJ James will be available for Ohio State this weekend and will be listed on the depth chart.
— Matt Prehm (@MattPrehm) September 6, 2021
Hill and James were allegedly involved with an incident with airsoft guns and faced criminal charges in August. They were still able to practice and compete for starting roles, but couldn’t play in Oregon’s Week 1 victory over Fresno State.
Both players played in six games for the Ducks last season. Hill recorded 2 interceptions from the safety position.
This is welcomed news for coach Mario Cristobal’s defense, especially with the No. 4 team in the nation looming ahead. Star defensive end Kayvon Thibodeaux, who’s listed toward the top of NFL mock drafts, is still day-to-day after a foot injury suffered against Fresno State.
Oregon and Ohio State will face off on Sept. 11 at noon ET on FOX.
Nick Schultz is a columnist and breaking news writer for Saturday Tradition. A 2020 graduate of Loyola Chicago, he covered the Ramblers' 2018 Final Four run from beginning to end and has worked at NBC Sports Chicago. Follow Nick on Twitter @NickSchultz_7.