Time for the first real blog (first of many) for Autzen Zoo.
The Ducks survived a scare on the road as they held on to win against a very tough Cal defense, 15 to 13. The Ducks explosive offense was held in check for the entire game, but the defense and special teams truly shined in the victory as the Ducks remain on top of the polls. Let’s look at the numbers and see what the team actually did to get the victory in Berkley.
Darron Thomas was held in check for most of the game, but still completed 15 of 29 passes for 155 yards and one touchdown. DT continues to play well and avoid costly turnovers as he leads the Ducks on the field. Credit must be given to the Cal defense that played excellent man coverage for the game and stayed disciplined in their zone gaps, not allowing the fast Oregon receivers and running backs to catch the ball in space and get up field.
The running game was held in check as well as the Cal defense truly a solid game. LaMichael James carried the ball 29 times for 91 yards and was banged up late in the game (left on crutches but should alright). Kenjon Barner continues to return from his terrible concussion, getting more carries for the Ducks, he finished the night with 8 carries for 40 yards. DT had 16 carries for only 34 yards, once again showing the Cal defense stayed at home and did not let the speed of the Ducks get outside of the zone and get more yards.
Oregon receivers had a quite night as well, but Jeff Maehl had a solid performance with 5 receptions for 84 yards and a touchdown. D.J. Davis had 4 grabs for 42 yards, Josh Huff had 2 for 12, James had 2 for 11 and Barner had 2 for 6 yards. The Cal defense tackled well against the Oregon passing game and made sure to keep everything in front of them, using man coverage. The Duck receivers were not able to catch the ball in space and in gaps and get the big yards after the catch.
Special teams were the key to the victory despite an odd off night by Beard, going 0-2 in field goals. Cliff Harris had 2 punt returns for 57 yards including the game deciding touchdown. Harris has 4 returns this season for TDs and continues to help the Ducks score and change the battle of field position.
The defense was solid again for the Ducks, keeping the Cal offense quite, the same offense that had made the Bears undefeated at home for the entire season. The defense was led by Talmadge Jackson led the way with 7 tackles, Casey Matthews had 7 tackles including one for a loss, and John Boyett had 7 tackles as well. The defense stopped the Cal running game and made the key stops when they needed, which is what the defense has done all season.
The Ducks remain atop the polls and have a bye week to rest and get ready for a home game against Arizona.