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Mark Wasikowski challenges Oregon fans to 'dominate' PK Park vs. USC
TL;DR
Oregon baseball coach Mark Wasikowski urges fans to pack PK Park for a crucial series against USC. A victory could help the Ducks secure a spot to host a regional round in the NCAA Tournament.
Key points
- Mark Wasikowski challenges fans to fill PK Park
- Oregon Ducks need a series win against USC
- Victory could secure NCAA Tournament hosting rights
- USC Trojans ranked No. 8 in RPI standings
- Oregon fans are known for their passionate support
PK ParkNCAA TournamentOregon DucksUSC Trojans
Even though PK Park might not be filled to the brim throughout the regular season, when May rolls around, the stands get increasingly crowded.
The Oregon Ducks, across multiple sports, are known for their rowdy and passionate fans. Now, Oregon baseball coach Mark Wasikowski wants to take advantage of that edge in a massive series against the USC Trojans.
A regional round in Eugene could be on the line, with the Ducks firmly on the bubble to host in the first round of the NCAA Tournament. A series victory over the Trojans, who are No. 8 in the RPI rankings, could be enough to push the Ducks over.
Wasikowski wants to create a big-game environment that he knows is possible. In the fall, PK Park sits in the shadow of Autzen Stadium, where Wasikowski has seen first-hand how impactful Eugene's faithful can be on the outcome of a competitive game.
"Do what you can to be a difference at PK Park," Wasikowski said in a press conference on Wednesday. "You see it at Autzen Stadium. You see teams come into Autzen Stadium, and the fans just dominate them. The fans take it into their own hands. They make sure there are false starts, whatever the penalites are. They make a difference in the game ... That's the best thing they can do at PK Park."
The responsibilities of a crowd are a bit different around the diamond than they are on the gridiron. While Oregon fans know to get loud on third down to slow down or confuse an opposing offense, baseball is all about concentration on both offense and defense.
Q&A
Why is Mark Wasikowski asking Oregon fans to dominate PK Park against USC?
Wasikowski believes a strong fan presence can create a big-game atmosphere that could influence the outcome of the series against USC.
What is at stake for the Oregon Ducks in the series against USC?
The Ducks are aiming for a series victory that could secure their position to host a regional round in the NCAA Tournament.
How does the USC Trojans rank in the RPI standings?
The USC Trojans are currently ranked No. 8 in the RPI standings.
What impact do Oregon fans have on games at PK Park?
Oregon fans are known for their passion and can significantly influence the game's atmosphere, as seen in other sports at Autzen Stadium.
