Oregon Offense
Oregon’s offense has been in limbo over the course of the 2018 season. The only consistent receiving option is Dillon Mitchell, the run game has fluctuated and the team has stuttered out of the gates in multiple games. But at home, Oregon has been solid. The Ducks hold a 5-1 record at home and haven’t scored fewer than 30 points. With a home matchup against Arizona State, the Ducks’ offense could return to homeform. With fresh injuries to Oregon’s offensive line and running backs, the run game could fall flat against the Sun Devils, so Oregon’s passing game may need to carry the team. The Justin Herbert-Mitchell connection will be vital.

Arizona State Defense

The Sun Devils’ defense ranks 57th in the nation, according to the NCAA. For comparison, the Ducks hold the 67th best defense in the country. Like the entire team, Arizona State’s defense has been inconsistent this year. The Sun Devils might have some trouble if Mitchell gets free on the offense for Oregon, but with the Ducks’ run game stagnant for most of Pac-12 play, Arizona State can emphasize passing defense. However, the Sun Devils might not be able to cope with Herbert, who has been lethal at home this season.
Verdict

Oregon’s passing offense will be key to this matchup as the Ducks will need to rely heavily on Herbert and Mitchell. If that is successful, Oregon will score plenty of points.

Advantage: Oregon

Arizona State Offense

The Sun Devils have the third-most total yards in the Pac-12. Led by quarterback Manny Wilkins, who has completed 65 percent of his passes, Arizona State can move the ball well. His favorite target is N’Keal Harry, who has 928 receiving yards for nine touchdowns. Harry is one of the top receivers in not just the Pac-12 but all of college football. The 6-foot-4 wideout is tough to stop for any team and carries the ASU offense. The run game is the best in the country with Eno Benjamin leading the way, rushing for 1,295 yards over the season.

Oregon Defense
Arizona State’s efficient offense could cause problems for the Oregon secondary, especially against a tall receiver like Harry. Oregon’s defense struggled to contain Washington State and Arizona’s offenses. At home, Oregon was poor against Stanford receivers, who posted 327 receiving yards in the overtime win. Oregon’s run defense has surrendered plenty of yards at home this year. On the road against Utah, the Ducks run defense was weak again, as the Utes put up 232 rushing yards with their backup running back. For Oregon to beat Arizona State, it will have to slow down the Sun Devils’ run game.

Verdict

Arizona State isn’t expected to throw the ball, but Oregon has the ability to stop the Sun Devils run game. Benjamin might light up the field and Harry might prove to be too good for the Oregon defensive backs.

Advantage: Arizona State