Oregon’s David Paulson, a junior from Auburn, is one of just 22 tight ends in the country named to the John Mackey Award midseason watch list. The award recognizes the top tight end in college football.

Paulson, an Auburn High Riverside graduate, has been a key part of the Ducks’ high-flying offense this season. Oregon is averaging 54.3 points per game, best in the nation.

Paulson, a 6-foot-4, 240-pounder, is fifth on the team in receiving with 10 catches for 211 yards and two touchdowns. His longest catch went for 61 yards in a victory at Arizona State.

Twenty of Paulson’s 22 career receptions have resulted in a first down or a touchdown.

“David’s been a big target for us. He’s got great hands, and he’s always making clutch catches,” Ducks coach Chip Kelly told the Eugene Register-Guard. “That’s what I think makes us hard to defend right now: We have people at every position who can make you pay.”

In 2009, Paulson emerged as a dependable blocker and receiver. He received first-team Pac-10 Academic honors.

Oregon is ranked No. 1 in this week’s Associated Press, coaches and Harris polls, a first for the program.

The Ducks were ranked No. 2 in the season’s first Bowl Championship Series poll behind Oklahoma.

Oregon, 3-0 in the Pacific-10 Conference and 6-0 overall, plays host to UCLA at Autzen Stadium on Thursday (6 p.m., ESPN).