Oregon Ducks take flight, Texas-bound

The NewsChannel 21 sports crew flew out of Eugene Friday morning, and they were joined by the Oregon Ducks themselves, heading for the College Football Playoff National Championship in Arlington, Texas.

There were several fans on hand, and a special salute.

“We’ve been waiting for this for a lifetime,” said Ducks fan Cathi Busse.

“For the Ducks to be the first team in the inaugural college football championship, that’s exciting,” said Nick Byrne, another fan.

For many alumni, it’s been worth the wait.

“I used to be in the marching, band so this has been a long time coming,” Busse said.

For the players themselves, it was all about focus. They even had a practice early Friday morning before heading to the airport.

It’s that focus has got them to where they are.

“For Marcus to win the Heisman, too, and all the other exciting stuff,” Byrne said.

“Coming from the bottom to the top of the top, I can’t explain the ride, it’s just incredible,” Busse said with a smile.

Their sendoff also was special, as the local fire department wished them luck with a special water salute over the plane before takeoff.

Onlookers waved as they rode by, with a little bit of envy.

“I wish I could go — too expensive,” Byrne said.

But that won’t stop these fans for rooting on their team.

“I want to win, because I cannot stand Ohio State,” Byrne said.

In the airport, well-wishes were easy to come by.

“Best of luck — we are rooting for ya!” Busse said.