Oregon's Mariota expects Addison will play this season: 'His goal is Michigan State'

Oregon quarterback Marcus Mariota is considered one of the top Heisman candidates in the nation, though with the injury suffered by top receiving option Bralon Addison during the offseason, Mariota's receiving corps leaves a lot to be desired.

Initial reports indicated that the injury would likely keep Addison out for the season. However, Mariota seems to expect Addison, who tore his ACL back in April, to not only hit the football field again this season, but to return sooner than many expect.

“His goal is Michigan State,” Mariota said, via Sports Illustrated.

The Michigan State game is Oregon's second game of the season, a Sept. 6 home contest, and the Ducks' most difficult non-conference matchup.

Minnesota Vikings running back Adrian Peterson turned conventional wisdom on its head back in 2012, returning from an ACL tear of his own nine months after suffering the injury.

Addison's reported target return date would have him back on the field fewer than five months after suffering his injury.

Mariota noted that Addison is faring well in rehab, and recently began jogging.

“He looks good,” Mariota said. “I’m excited. Hopefully he gets ready for that second game.”