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Oregon names Vernon Adams starting quarterback

Jaime Valdez / USA TODAY Sports

Oregon has found Marcus Mariota's replacement.

The Ducks named Vernon Adams their starting quarterback for Week 1, when the team will host Eastern Washington. The game will have special meaning for Adams, as the signal-caller transferred from Eastern Washington in February.

He threw for more than 10,000 yards and 110 touchdowns in three seasons with the Eagles.

Landing the starting gig is an impressive feat considering Adams has only been practicing with the team for two weeks. He was also delayed before hitting the field, having to complete a math course before being allowed to officially join his new teammates.

That said, Oregon's offensive coordinator, Scott Frost, recently praised Adams' ability to pick up the offense so early in camp.

Adams beat out Jeff Lockie, who many felt had the edge given his experience in the Ducks' offense. Lockie has played sparingly in two seasons at Oregon, but had the luxury of learning the system behind Mariota.

In the end, Adams' athleticism won out, and he'll be tasked with keeping the Ducks in the national title conversation this season.

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