Oregon Offense
Oregon’s offense sputtered in the running game against Washington State. The Ducks only mustered 2.8 yards per carry, which is concerning given that the running game is head coach Mario Cristobal’s bread and butter. It was Oregon’s first full game without left tackle Penei Sewell, and the O-line didn’t fare well. But credit must be given to Washington State. The Cougars have a good defense, and simply put, Arizona does not. Even with a top-tier quarterback, the Ducks will still run the inside zone. The conservative running is counteracted with aggressive throws down the field. Quarterback Justin Herbert leads the Pac-12 in yards per completion and is not afraid to rifle the ball into tight windows.
Arizona Defense
Oregon struggled to run against Washington State, but they should have little problem against Arizona. The Wildcats have the second-worst run defense in the Pac-12, by far the worst Oregon has faced so far this season. Much like Washington State, Arizona is not afraid to jump between schemes. While they don’t pre-snap shift like Washington State, they still give an offense a lot to digest. Regardless, offenses are still able to move the ball, and Arizona has had little luck in slowing them down. Utah scored 42 on them and UCLA scored 31. They’re also allowing quarterbacks to complete 64 percent of their passes, making it hard to get off the field.
Verdict:
Oregon’s offense has showed some weakness throughout the season, but it’s still the second best in the Pac-12, and the Wildcats don’t have the skill to slow them down.
Advantage: Oregon
Arizona Offense
Arizona’s offense has been a bit of a conundrum. There have been fewer attempts to run quarterback Khalil Tate this season, and he is not a true pocket passer. He’s injured and could miss the Oregon game, so Rhett Rodriguez might play in his spot — and Rodriguez is struggling. He is completing only 51 percent of his passes and has two touchdowns to three interceptions. But the Wildcats rely on their running game to move the ball. They’re second in the Pac-12 in rushing yards per game at 195.5. Running back JJ Taylor is averaging over 100 yards per game and is one of the better running backs in the Pac-12.
Oregon Defense
The Ducks were sliced and diced by Washington State’s passing attack. Oregon’s pass defense is one of the worst in the Pac-12, but while they allow yards, they do get turnovers. They lead the conference in interceptions and defensive touchdowns scored. Deommodore Lenoir and Ugochukwu Amadi have a knack for finding the football. But Arizona’s passing offense pales in comparison to Washington State’s. Oregon’s run defense is the second best in the conference, and the Ducks have talented linebackers and defensive line depth to stop Arizona. Middle linebackers Troy Dye and Kaulana Apelu have been cleaning up what the defensive line starts. Nose guard Jordon Scott doesn’t have the stats, but his ability to win the line of scrimmage allows Dye and Apelu to fly in and tackle the running back. The Ducks did struggle to contain Cal’s running quarterbacks at times, but overall they are able to stop most rushing attacks.
Verdict:
If Tate plays, the Ducks may have a challenge, but they managed to contain him last year and he’s been worse this season. Oregon will return to containing and winning a line of scrimmage on Saturday.
Advantage: Oregon
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