Before we go any further, it’s important to note (in our opinion, shared by many) that Oregon offensive coordinator Mark Helfrich is still the favorite to replace the departed Chip Kelly.
That said, Oregon has to go through an interview process that includes speaking to a qualified minority candidate before making a hire. According to a report from CBSSports’ Bruce Feldman, the Ducks met with Stanford offensive coordinator Pep Hamilton on Friday.
Though Hamilton is African-American, he is not the first minority candidate to interview for the Ducks job, according to the Eugene Register-Guard.
But Hamilton’s qualified to at least be considered for a head coaching gig regardless of state law. He developed Cardinal quarterback Kevin Hogan into a real weapon that gave Stanford an added dimension during the final few games of the season. Hamilton is a a hot commodity who is on the radar of multiple NFL organizations right now, too. In fact, Chris Mortensen is reporting that Hamilton will be the new offensive coordinator of the Colts where he would be reunited with former Cardinal QB Andrew Luck.
Helfrich is the natural fit for Oregon and it would be an huge upset if he is not selected officially, possibly as early as today.