Students, Duck fans: 'I love the Ducks, however ...'

EUGENE, Ore. -- Word that Jeremiah Masoli and former wide receiver Garret Embry faced felony burglary charges spread across the University of Oregon campus Wednesday -- and by Wednesday night, students were ready to sound off.

Web commenters had started in earnest within moments of the news, first reported by KVAL News on KVAL.com.

"It's kind of a surprise to see people who worked so hard and put so much into a sport just throw it away because they felt like being dumb," said Judy Sheldon, a UO graduate student.

"I think it sheds light on what actually goes on with like athletes," said UO senior Chris Massaad. "I mean, we try to make them stars but they are still just people and they make mistakes just like us. I think it's a good thing in the end."

"Well, I think if you win, it all kind of goes away," said Sean McDevitt, a UO grad student. "That's the truth, right? If these guys get arrested and have charges against them and then they don't play, if we still win, then it,s like OK, that's alright."

Web commenters weighed in moments after KVAL.com broke the story Wednesday.

"I love the Ducks, however I think Chip Kelly should release every player who has gotten into trouble with the law," procrastinate wrote.

"Could the fact that Chip Kelly let Blount return to play after saying he would not play again make the other players think that no matter what they do it will be the same for them?" ivmaker wondered.

"Is it just me? Anyone notice how frigging long it took to charge these two? I don't watch much football but I sure watched the Ducks this year- even I could pick these two out of a line-up!" GetAGrip007 wrote.

"At least Ernie's boys in the most they acted out was shooting at a few ducks," kieranwalsh wrote, referencing Ernie Kent and three Duck basketball players caught shooting air rifles last year at real ducks. "Masoli and company are shooting the whole athletic dept."

What do you think? Start a new conversation here -- or join the robust debate in progress.