Thomas Named Starter

EUGENE – Sophomore Darron Thomas has been named the starting quarterback for the University of Oregon’s Sept. 4 season opener vs. New Mexico in Autzen Stadium, head coach Chip Kelly announced Friday.

The 6-3, 212-pound Houston native played in five games as a true freshman in 2008, completing 16 of 33 passes for 268 yards and three touchdowns. All but three completions and 58 passing yards came in a fourth-quarter comeback that fell short in a 37-32 loss to Boise State.

It will mark Thomas’ first collegiate start after he redshirted the 2009 season.

Kelly is expected to address the media following tomorrow’s workout.