– Previously known as “Big play V.A.,” Vernon Adams played a huge role in  Thursday night’s 61-55 triple overtime victory against Arizona State. Facing fourth and goal from the nine yard line with 23 seconds left, Adams heaved a desperation throw towards the end zone that somehow found Dwayne Stanford. Adams’ heroics sent the game into overtime, one of many instances of where he eluded the Arizona State pass rush.

“Now,” Adams said with a smile, “it’s Houdini.”

– Pac-12 Commissioner Larry Scott spoke with a group of reporters at halftime of Thursday night’s game between Oregon and Arizona State. Among the topics Scott touched on were late start times to Pac-12 games and the conference’s chances of sending a team to this year’s College Football Playoff.

– Nine months after stepping away from Oregon, former Ducks defensive lineman Sam Kamp isn’t regretting his decision to retire. Kamp ended his football playing career early for health reasons. Although the move caught coaches and teammates by surprise, the move was obvious for his well-being, writes Andrew Greif of The Oregonian.

“My knees feel better, my back feels better, my neck feels better,” he said. “It hurts still, but I can still feel myself getting better.”

– When he’s not harassing opposing quarterbacks, Oregon defensive end DeForest Buckner enjoys doing art. Buckner’s work is currently featured in Art of the Athlete exhibit at the Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Art. Buckner’s focus and attention to art has earned him the nickname “Dr. DeFo.”

“It’s doing something different,” Buckner said. “It’s another way to express your feelings.”

– Going into a road match against Utah, Oregon volleyball is 10-9 overall, 4-6 in the Pac-12. Oregon’s blocking will be key against Utah and outside hitter Adora Anae, who had a career-high 27 kills against Cal on Oct. 18.

Follow Will Denner on Twitter @Will_Denner