2000 Oregon Defense - Mike Bellotti

The 2000 Oregon Ducks defense, under head coach Mike Bellotti, played a crucial role in the team's overall success, complementing Oregon's high-scoring offense. While Bellotti was known primarily for his offensive expertise, the Ducks' defense made significant contributions, helping the team to a 9-3 season record and a victory in the Holiday Bowl against Texas.

The Ducks employed a 4-3 base defense, which consists of four defensive linemen and three linebackers. This alignment aimed to provide a balance between stopping the run and defending the pass, making the defense versatile and adaptable to various offensive styles. The 4-3 setup is generally known for its ability to create pressure on the quarterback while still being effective against the run.

While not as dominant as Oregon's offense, the 2000 defense laid the groundwork for future Ducks teams by establishing a solid foundation of speed, versatility, and playmaking ability. Mike Bellotti's leadership contributed to the team's overall balanced approach, and the defense's contributions were critical in securing victories in close games. The 2000 Oregon season helped set the stage for the program's future successes as a powerhouse in the Pac-10 and later Pac-12 conference.