With Friday’s Civil War game, which will determine both team’s postseason plans, the Oregon Daily Emerald’s sports staff and the sports staff at Oregon State’s Daily Barometer go head-to-head to answer 13 burning questions regarding a rivalry that dates back to 1894.
Why the Ducks will win Saturday?
If Oregon can figure out a way to stop the run, limit turnovers and inject a shot of confidence in quarterback Dennis Dixon – look out, Oregon State. Until then, viva Las Vegas, baby.
What is it about the home teams in this series winning every game since 1996?
Both Autzen Stadium and Reser Stadium present viable challenges to any visiting team. But there really have not been any upsets in this series since 1998. Since then, it’s just happened to coincide that the better team is the home team each year. And when they’re even, like when both teams were 5-5 in 2004 or 7-4 this season, having that home crowd behind you can make a world of difference.
Who has produced better NFL players?
This is really a question of quantity or quality. It’s hard to argue with “Ocho Cinco” and T.J. in Cincinnati, Steven Jackson in St. Louis or Nick Barnett in Green Bay as those guys are certifiable NFL stars. But when you talk about a consistent pipeline of players into the NFL, Oregon State is no match to Oregon.
Now, whether those players pan out or not is a different story (See: Akili Smith).
Benny or Donald?
No mascot’s appearance change has coincided as nicely with a change in its respective football program as Benny’s has. The smiling bimbo once paced the sidelines during 28 straight losing seasons. Now, he looks pissed and the Beavers are a legit threat each year. Way to go, Benny.
Stewart or Bernard?
These are two very quality, workman-like running backs who have proven they can win games. They both have tremendous power and speed. The difference? Stewart’s only a sophomore and his potential is staggering when he’s healthy. Remember, he was the highest-rated running back out of high school in 2005.
Dixon or Moore?
These two have combined to throw 37 career interceptions. Moore seems to have regrouped this season after early grumblings from Beaver Nation following a disappointing 2005 season. He has six interceptions this year and has thrown 117 passes without one, while Dixon has steadily gotten worse with 13 interceptions now on the season, including eight in his last five games. His mistakes, especially on the road, have killed Oregon this season.
Worst thing about Oregon State?
Inconsistency and off-field problems. Oregon State is not only inconsistent from year to year but in most seasons as well. How does a team lose 42-14 to WAC powerhouse Boise State and then beat a team like USC? Plus, the Beavers are a PR nightmare. It’s one thing to have a few run-ins with the law, but it’s another when they include farm animals.
Autzen or Reser?
There’s really no debate here. Reser’s upgrade notwithstanding, the Beavers’ home pales in comparison to the atmosphere on game day at Autzen Stadium.
Who has had the better season so far?
When you consider big wins, Oregon State’s monumental victory against USC and Oregon’s miraculous comeback against Oklahoma come to mind. Oregon’s win against the Sooners was marred in controversy. Take that victory away and the Ducks’ have beaten teams with a combined record of 21-34 excluding a victory against Div. I-AA Portland State.
Best selling points for Oregon recruits?
Let’s see: Nike, innovative uniforms, unparalleled facilities and a city in Eugene that lacks the traffic and smog of a large city like Los Angeles but certainly isn’t Corvallis or Pullman, either. Plus, you can watch high-definition television and play Xbox in the locker room, which makes it easier to distract yourself when the team is down at halftime.
Better coach: Riley or Bellotti?
Oregon coach Mike Bellotti is the dean of Pac-10 coaches for a reason. He is a beacon of consistency. So is Riley, but that’s consistent mediocrity.
Who has better fans?
This is very even. Oregon fans travel very well, no matter how the team is doing. Oregon State fans, like Oregon, acquired a few on the bandwagon after increased success, but the true Beaver Believers suffered through rainy days and 28 straight losing seasons at then-Parker Stadium, while Oregon fans have seen mostly quality football in the last decade. This is a tie.
If you could borrow one Oregon State football player for Oregon, who would you take and why?
This is easy … Sammie Stroughter. He’s a deadly punt returner and if you’ve followed Oregon this season, that’s a position that has caused coach Mike Bellotti to lose sleep. Take Saturday against Arizona for example. Two different returners fumbled punts deep in the Wildcats’ territory, leading Bellotti to say that he might consider having his returners fair catch every punt or not even attempt to catch them at all. The sure-handed and dangerous Stroughter would be a welcome sight.