Oregon vs UCLA: Bruins Could Make Some Noise, But Will Anyone Hear It?

Before the season began Oregon Duck fans everywhere had November 7th circled on the calendar. Oregon will head down to the Farm to face Stanford in a few weeks to try to return the favor of last years loss. However first up is another talented team with a star on offense in Quarterback Brett Hundley and several stars on Defense starting with UCLA Linebacker Anthony Barr who according to some may end up moving past South Carolina’s Jadevon Clowney in the upcoming NFL Draft.

Oregon comes into the game against UCLA having played 7 games in 2013. The Bruins have one less with 6. UCLA lost last week to Stanford and are looking to rebound in the Pac 12 South with a win over Oregon. The Ducks have steamrolled through the schedule so far and show no signs of slowing down.

Oregon statistically is currently ranked 5th in the nation in passing efficiency and also 5th in total offense. Quarterback Marcus Mariota is averaging just over 363 yards per game through the air. However Oregon allows an average of 17 points per game to their opponent. UCLA gives up 19 per contest. If UCLA can keep it close with Oregon, granted the Ducks don’t hurt themselves with a costly turnover or two, this game could get pretty interesting.

One player to watch for UCLA will be Linebacker Anthony Barr, who could produce a key matchup problem with Oregon. He already has 11 tackles for a loss this season through six games. There have been several key injuries to the Bruins Offensive line as well and some young players will get starts in those positions. The question is can they grow up quick and under the National Spotlight to give their Quarterback a chance to make some plays or will Oregon’s Defense see blood in the water and strike.  Hundley has already been sacked over 60 times in the last year and half and the Ducks’ D will be coming for him.

Another player to watch is Duck Running Back De’Anthony Thomas who himself will cause matchup problems, even if he is just a decoy. As reported earlier this week he will return to the field against the Bruins.

One thing I know for sure is that several players in this game will be playing on Sunday’s, likely as early as next season.

Oregon and UCLA take the field for a 4pm PT kickoff from Autzen on Saturday afternoon.

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