Oregon Ducks vs Colorado Buffaloes: Three Things I'll Be Watching

Oregon Ducks vs Colorado Buffaloes: Three Things I’ll Be Watching

Sep 17, 2016; Ann Arbor, MI, USA; Colorado Buffaloes head coach Mike MacIntyre looks towards the official after the Colorado bench is called for a penalty in the second quarter against the Michigan Wolverines at Michigan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports /

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Sep 10, 2016; Eugene, OR, USA; Oregon Ducks quarterback Dakota Prukop (9) hands off to wide receiver Charles Nelson (6) during the second quarter against the Virginia Cavaliers at Autzen Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Cole Elsasser-USA TODAY Sports /

Tempo and Protection Win The Day

The Freshman Four on the Offensive Line should continue to improve their play against Colorado, but being able to open easy holes for a Running Back may prove to be difficult against a solid Defensive Front seven from Colorado. The Buffs may have one of the most improved Defensive fronts in the Pac-12 and possibly even the Nation so far in 2016.

Entering the game Saturday, Oregon is averaging 43 points per game, Colorado is not far behind at 42.7, including getting off to a fast start at Michigan last weekend in a very hostile environment. With depth and height at Wide Receiver another fast start at Autzen on Saturday could make it a long afternoon for the Oregon Ducks, but it depends who is taking the snaps at Quarterback.

If Colorado Quarterback Sefo Luifau is unable to play on Saturday the job for the Oregon Defense will be somewhat easier with Freshman Steven Montez in the game. Montez is still a threat and played well in a rough environment last weekend at the Big House in Michigan. He was 6 for 17 in the game.

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