The Pacific-12 Conference media day is scheduled for July 26. Each of the teams typically brings their coach and best returning player. And I can't say I was surprised when the lineup was announced and the Ducks indicated they were not bringing their star running back, James, but rather, tight end David Paulson.
Nothing against Paulson. He's cool. But James was a Heisman Trophy candidate last season, and Oregon doesn't want the guy anywhere near a question about Lyles right now.
For Kelly, however, it's not so easy. He can't run. It's against his nature to hide. And so what we have here is another moment of truth. And as long as we're going there, I'd sure like to hear some truth from the Ducks.
Kelly can't dodge the media day. His absence would look awful. Even if Kelly bowed out and sent an assistant coach or administrator in his place, there would be piles of questions about the rules Lyles said he broke with Oregon and the $25,000 payment he received from the Ducks.
Kelly has to talk.
And he has to do it before that big media day.
