Hercules Mata’afa / Defensive Line / Washington State
Besides having one of the best names in college football, Mata’afa is one of the best defensive linemen in college football. He leads the Pac-12 in sacks with 4.5, and he leads the conference in tackles-for-loss with 10. Mata’afa, who had one sack against the Ducks last year, will be playing a crucial role in the Cougars’ effort to stop Oregon’s running game. With quarterback Justin Herbert out, Oregon will run the ball constantly. Mata’afa’s ability to get in the backfield will be important for stopping Oregon’s potent rushing offense. Washington State hopes that he can put pressure on the Ducks’ new quarterback and force him into bad decisions.
Tyree Robinson / Safety / Oregon
This is really a statement to all of Oregon’s secondary, but Robinson’s performance at safety  will significantly help or hurt Oregon’s chances against Washington State’s notorious pass offense. Robinson was playing a quality, physical game until he got too physical and was ejected from the game for targeting. He was making open field tackles and being physical with wide receivers. Washington State loves to have multiple wide receivers on the field, so Robinson will have to match up against slot receivers and make open field tackles again.  
Taj Griffin / Wide Receiver / Oregon
Griffin made the move from running back to wide receiver this season but hasn’t seen much action due to injury. He made his return against Wyoming, where he caught a touchdown pass, but it wasn’t until the game against Cal when he unleashed his full arsenal. Oregon will need to focus on the run with Herbert out and Freeman possibly limited, so his experience as a runner is important. Since Oregon’s backup quarterbacks don’t have the arm that Herbert does, Griffin’s ability to catch bubble screens and turn them into big plays will be vital.
James Williams / Running Back / Washington State
James Williams is what Oregon hopes to make Griffin into. Williams is a running back, yet he’s tied for first in receptions per game in the Pac-12. He also leads Washington State in rushing with 47 carries, so he’s a versatile weapon that the Cougars love to use. Quarterback Luke Falk is starting to get Heisman hype with his performances, but Williams is Washington State’s hidden weapon.
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