They call it the “Decade of Darkness” in Washington, a streak of Oregon football wins over the Huskies that stretches back to 2004. The 11 straight wins have cut into the all-time Huskies lead of 58-44-5 in the series.
In the preseason, the narrative would have predicted that history would repeat itself. But, with Oregon reeling from a 45-38 double overtime loss to Washington State last week, the streak may finally come to an end.
Washington (3-2, 1-1 Pac-12) enters the game on the heels of a stunning 17-12 upset over No. 17 USC, a game in which its defense looked stifling. The unit held the Trojans to 346 yards of total offense, forced three turnovers and limited them to just 1-for-13 on third down conversions.
Oregon (3-3, 1-2 Pac-12) is still searching for answers after its loss to the Cougars. Large questions remain at quarterback and defensive big, while the running game continues to flourish.
Here are the matchups to watch on Saturday:
Oregon passing attack vs. Washington defensive backs
The Ducks have to find a way to get the ball to their talented receivers if they want to get back in the win column. Currently, the team ranks 83rd in the nation in passing yards, which reflects more on the quarterback situation than anything else. The deep ball isn’t an option for this team right now. Keep in mind that this is a Huskies defense that kept the potent Trojan passing attack out of the end zone, while picking off Cody Kessler twice. Oregon isn’t even close to that skilled through the air this season.
Washington running backs vs. Oregon defense
The Huskies won’t be looking to run up the score, content to grind out the clock and keep the Oregon offense off the field. They’ll turn to emerging freshman Myles Gaskin to carry the ball and try to play the field-of-possession game. He is coming off of one of his best games, running for 134 yards and one touchdown against the Trojans. Expect the Ducks to stack the box and stop the Huskies rushing attack, forcing quarterback Jake Browning to take control of the game.
Players to watch:
Oregon:
Charles Nelson
Nelson was asked to do pretty much everything against Washington State and the sophomore ended up being one of the few bright spots in the game for the home team. The wide receiver continued to play on the offensive end, but suited up as a safety for his first career appearance on defense and took the field on special teams.
Devon Allen
So far this season, Allen has been quiet, not making much of an impact since recovering from his knee injury last year. He has six receptions for 53 yards. Look for him to break out this weekend with the Huskies’ defensive focus directed towards more obvious Ducks threats.
Washington:
Budda Baker
Baker is a name Duck fans may remember as he was linked to the program in recruiting before ultimately choosing the Huskies. The sophomore defensive back returned from an injury to play against USC, collecting eight tackles in the contest. He also makes an impact on special teams, serving as a returner.
Follow Christopher Keizur on Twitter @chriskeizur
Matchups/Players to watch: Washington looks to snap “Decade of Darkness” with a stout defense
Christopher Keizur
October 13, 2015
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