Crowton's reunion with BYU a mixed blessing

LAS VEGAS — An hour prior to kickoff of the Las Vegas Bowl, Gary Crowton paced the field at Sam Boyd Stadium, greeting some former colleagues from BYU.

But when the game was over, it was a forgettable one for Crowton, who coached the Cougars from 2001-04. BYU whipped the Ducks, 38-8, Thursday night at Sam Boyd Stadium.

Ever a competitor, there's no doubt Crowton craved a victory against the Cougars.

"He's the same guy when it comes to any game that he plays. I'm sure he wants to win this game just as much as any game we've played," said Duck senior tight end Dante Rosario before the game. "But I think he's enjoyed seeing his old players and coaching staff that he used to be associated with."

Crowton resigned under pressure after three losing seasons in Provo but landed in Eugene.

"He's never seen a play on paper that's not going to go for a touchdown," Rosario said. "He's very optimistic. When he came into this program, that's exactly what we needed on the offensive side of the ball. He's always thinking positively, always thinking down field."

BYU quarterback John Beck enjoyed seeing his former mentor this week.

"It was great to see coach Crowton because he is a good friend of mine and he always will be," he said. "He's not only a great coach, but he's a great person. I've learned so much from him, and I'll always have a tremendous amount of respect for him as long as I live. He's always going to be someone I can go to ask things about football because he is so knowledgeable. I'm sure Oregon has learned that as they have one of the top offenses in the nation. Coach Crowton is an offensive genius. The things I've learned from him I'll always hold because it means so much to me."

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E-mail: jeffc@desnews.com