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High altitude brings different set of problems for QB Vernon Adams Jr.
Oregon players have downplayed the impact of playing at altitude against Colorado on Saturday. However, one player in particular will be closely monitored due to the lack of oxygen.
According to The Oregonian, QB Vernon Adams Jr. has a sickle cell trait, which affects his red blood cells and can cause severe cramping. With a lack of available oxygen at altitude, the likelihood of cramps only increase.
The fifth-year QB is preparing for the challenge, though he's never played at an altitude above 3,000 feet (Montana).
"That's tough. I've never been there before. I was very, still kind of, scared, you know?" Adams said to The Oregonian. "I've been hydrating a lot and hopefully I'll be all right."
Adams has been drinking lots of fluids all week and has also been wearing a high-altitude training mask that reduces the amount of oxygen he intakes during workouts.
Adams will attempt to keep his fluids high and there will be an oxygen tank ready on the sidelines. Adams will also likely take an IV before the game, as he has done for the majority of his career, according to a 2013 interview with The Easterner.
Adams, who was pulled from Oregon's 62-20 loss to Utah last week after starting 2-of-7, is also dealing with a broken right index finger. It is not known whether he or redshirt junior Jeff Lockie will start against Colorado.
(h/t The Oregonian)
