Arizona
Defensive Tackle: PJ Johnson
In his first season with Arizona after transferring from City College of San Francisco, Johnson leads the Wildcats in sacks with three. He also has 21 tackles, including 6.5 for a loss. At 6-foot-4 and 335 pounds, Johnson is a force that causes problems for opposing offensive linemen. Oregon’s offensive line struggled with its snap count against Washington State, so expect a lot of pre-snap movement from Arizona’s offensive line.
Running Back: J.J. Taylor
Taylor is a key part of why Arizona is leading the conference in rushing yards. With quarterback Khalil Tate not 100 percent healthy, much of the offense has been in Taylor’s hands. The sophomore likes to do it all, whether it’s rushing, receiving or kick returning. Taylor averages 164.4 all-purpose yards per game, third in the Football Bowl Subdivision. Taylor is second in the conference in total rushing yards with 817.
Oregon
Wide Receiver: Jaylon Redd
Arizona’s defense is near the bottom of of the Pac-12 in nearly all major defensive statistical categories. Quarterback Justin Herbert has found Redd in the end zone for two games in a row. He’s had a touchdown in five of his last eight games, including a one foot catch on the while falling out of bounds to tie the game against Washington. Looking at his numbers, the sophomore has improved his receiving stats compared to last season. He has 238 receiving yards on 16 receptions on the season, compared to 59 yards on five receptions last season.
Linebacker: Troy Dye
The junior missed some tackles in the loss to Washington State, and was visibly upset with himself after the game. Dye, who leads Oregon in tackles with 57 this season, will be looking to bounce back. While Arizona isn’t nearly as pass heavy as Washington State, Dye and the defense will be busy keeping track of Taylor and several talented wide receivers. If Tate is able to play, that will be an even bigger challenge for Dye. The defense will look to take advantage of Arizona’s penalties. The Wildcats leads the nation with 58.
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