Oregon Ducks Defense Steps Up vs USC Trojans

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It was the third quarter as the Oregon Ducks watched a big lead widdle down to 10 points. This team had been here once before this season, and Washington State found a way to get the game to Overtime. However, this time around the Oregon Ducks Defense that played solid the entire game stepped up on a key play that changed the momentum of the remainder of the contest on Saturday afternoon at Autzen Stadium and gave the Oregon Ducks their sixth win of the season.

There were several times in the game where USC Quarterback Cody Kessler looked uncomfortable with the snap, but this time not only would he bobble the ball but Cornerback Arrion Springs would come in for the sack, forcing the ball loose and Defensive End DeForest Buckner was there to pounce on it, giving Oregon back the ball and one play later, the Oregon Ducks had a 17 point lead back. That play changed everything. On the Day, the home team would have five sacks on Kessler and would stand tall on multiple third and fourth down Trojans possessions forcing three and outs for a punt. They did give up a Special Teams touchdown to Adoree Jackson, but were able to keep him in check most of the game.

Nov 21, 2015; Eugene, OR, USA; Oregon Ducks defensive back Arrion Springs (1) and defensive lineman Henry Mondeaux (92) tackles USC Trojans running back Justin Davis (22) at Autzen Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Scott Olmos-USA TODAY Sports

The Oregon Defense swarmed all night with five pass breakups, eight tackles for loss, and the forced fumble that turned out to be the momentum shift of the afternoon. The Ducks Defense has played considerably better than where they began this season. Last weekend against Stanford with the failed two point conversion in the end to secure the win against Stanford and today against the Trojans. While Oregon will not be playing for a National Title this season, Oregon fans can feel confident and satisfied that this team has come pretty far in the last month and a half. They took out their two biggest rivals in the Pac-12 in the toughest part of the schedule.

DeForest Buckner and Arrion Springs combined for what could be the Oregon Ducks play of the year on Defense. Springs has grown into the role of Cornerback this season and at times it has not been easy learning on the job, but he has done just that. He has the talent to play the role and had several key pass breakups against USC, several on consecutive downs that resulted in the Trojans punting the ball away.

Confidence is what this team has entering next week’s game against Oregon State where they will look to make it seven in a row. Right now, I would not want to play this team in a bowl game, regardless of where they ultimately end up.

Next: Oregon Ducks Win Sixth Straight vs Trojans

Oregon and Oregon State take the field at Autzen for the Civil War on Friday at 1pm Pacific Time on Fox Sports 1

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