There are only three games this week featuring ranked teams squaring off, there’s plenty to keep fans interested.
Here are the top games to watch this Saturday:
No. 9 UCLA vs. No. 19 USC (ABC, 5 p.m.): The Bruins must win their final two games to clinch the Pac-12 South division, while USC needs a win and an Arizona State loss in the next two games. USC’s Cody Kessler and Nelson Agholor have become one of the most dangerous quarterback-wide receiver combinations in the nation. But, on the other hand, Brett Hundley and UCLA have the possibility of jumping back into the top-10 with a win.
No. 23 Nebraska vs. No. 25 Minnesota (ESPN, 9 a.m.): Minnesota controls its own destiny, and if it wins this week, it sets up a final week showdown with Wisconsin for the Leaders division crown. On the flip side, Ameer Abdullah looks to get going for the Cornhuskers and put more stock into his Heisman campaign.
No. 17 Utah vs. No. 15 Arizona (ESPN, 12:30 p.m.): Utah is all but eliminated in the Pac-12 South division, but that doesn’t mean it can’t continue to cause fits for its opponents. The Utes, behind Travis Wilson, Kaelin Clay and their talented defense, return home after beating Stanford last week, but will now face a high-octane offense with Arizona. Anu Solomon is the key for the Wildcats and if the quarterback can make smart decisions and protect the ball, Arizona will be tough to beat.
Every week, The Emerald will feature a different sports bar from the Eugene/Springfield area where students can watch the games. This week, it is Sam’s Place Tavern in Eugene.
Though it’s not very well known, Sam’s Place is arguably the number one spot to watch any Ducks sporting event if you’re not already attending it. Located five miles west of Autzen Stadium, it’s not the ideal location to be near the action, but the tavern more than makes up for its lack of proximity.
Here are the top five reasons to check out Sam’s Place Tavern this week:
1. To be a top-tier sports bars, you need TVs and Sam’s goes above and beyond. Apart from the big TVs located throughout the building, each booth has its own private TV for whatever you choose.
2. Sam’s offers a free shuttle (with the purchase of a meal/drink at the bar) to and from all Oregon football and basketball games. Drinking and driving is never an option.
3. With the cold weather, Sam’s makes a phenomenal chicken fried steak that is sure to beat mama’s home cooking and warm you up.
4. From Bingo Night to Buzztime trivia, the action is always going on and taking place. There’s never a dull moment.
5. Wine, Dine and Lights: Sam’s offers a special for $39 where you eat dinner at the bar, get a wine tasting at an exclusive wine bar/winery and then travel in a shuttle to look at Christmas lights. The holidays are officially here.
Follow Ryan Kostecka on Twitter @Ryan_Kostecka